The Excellence in Catholic Preaching Initiative, a groundbreaking project established by the School of Theology and Religious Studies (STRS) and the Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, announced today that it has been awarded a generous grant of $1,128,941 from Lilly Endowment Inc. This grant is a significant endorsement of the initiative’s mission to enhance the art of preaching within the Catholic tradition and further the proclamation of the Word of God.

The grant is part of Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, a national effort aimed at promoting and supporting preaching that inspires, encourages, and guides individuals to deepen their faith and relationship with God. The initiative extends its support to various groups, including seminarians, priests, permanent deacons, and lay women and men.

Key Highlights of the Initiative:

1. Resource Development:The collaboration between STRS and the Rome School will develop curricula and resources in both English and Spanish. These materials will focus on homily preparation, public speaking, and delivery techniques, all rooted in the rich traditions of the Catholic Church. The primary objective is to equip clery and other speakers with the skills and knowledge to effectively engage parishioners and help them deepen their spiritual connection and Christian faith.
2. Innovative Partnerships: The grant offers a unique opportunity for collaboration with prestigious institutions such as Catholic University’s Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, Catholic University Press, and Catholic Faith Technologies. These partnerships will facilitate the development and dissemination of resources in various formats, including print and digital media, making the initiative accessible to a wider audience.
3. Certificate in Lay Preaching: An additional innovative feature of the initiative is the introduction of a certificate program in lay preaching This program is designed for lay men and women who are actively involved in teaching, offering spiritual reflections, and catechizing in church-based programs. Its purpose is to enhance the preaching and teaching skills of lay leaders, enriching their ability to inspire and guide their communities.

“What makes this grant unique is the ability to partner with Catholic University’s Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, Catholic University Press, and Catholic Faith Technologies to address both the content and the proclamation that makes preaching effective and to make resources available across print and digital format,” said Susan Timoney, associate dean in the School of Theology and Religious Studies.

Lilly Endowment Inc.’s compelling Preaching Initiatives supports a total of 81 organizations from diverse Christian faith communities, reflecting the rich tapestry of Christian traditions across the United States. The initiative recognizes the importance of adapting preaching practices to effectively engage new generations, ensuring the enduring accessibility of the Gospel message to all audiences. The grant awarded to STRS and the Rome School is a testament to Lilly Endowment’s commitment to this essential endeavor. 

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