Preaching Institute

Our Approach

Rooted in the 4 C’s
Calling, Character, Craft & Context

Our Preaching Institute, is rooted in the '4 Cs'—Calling, Character, Craft, and Context.
In Module 1, we focus on cultivating your Calling and Character, exploring your unique purpose and virtues as a preacher.
Module 2, The Power, delves into the Craft of preaching, unlocking the transformative power of biblical text and cultural relevance.
Finally, Module 3, The Art and Science, expands on the Context of preaching, equipping you to communicate broadly, create new content for new audiences, and ensure your language and illustrations are applicable and relevant.

Preaching Pie chart orange & blue

Our Approach To Learning

As part of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Institute, the Preaching Institute has created a curriculum combining theology, academic excellence, the essential building blocks of a great talk, seasoned preachers as coaches, regular feedback, and what a sermon requires—to be both hospitable and compelling.

Comprehensive Development of Preaching through…

  • Ongoing Coaching and Mentorship provided by highly skilled exemplar preachers. Participants receive personalized, insightful feedback tailored to refine preaching practice and elevate communication skills.
  • Feeback loop where participants receive insight, suggestions, and constructive criticism on delivered sermons. 
  • Preaching labs serve as invaluable tools for preachers to develop skills, experiment with new ideas, collaborate with peers, and gain practical experience— all of which contribute to growth and effectiveness as communicators.  

Cohort-based learning where preachers embark on a journey of growth, collaboration, and transformation in a supportive environment of encouragement and accountability. 

  • 1-year long cohort (9 months)
  • 10-12 participants
  • 9 (2 hour) monthly sessions via Zoom
  • Coaching by our exemplar pastors, educators, and communicators
  • Participants will have the opportunity to learn from various leaders across our leadership team of exemplar preachers in addition to their coach. 

Preaching Institute Cohort Coaches Fall 2025 - 2026

 

Pastor Jamal Johnson Executive Pastor 

Progressive Baptist Church Chicago

 

Pastor David Swanson Founding pastor

New Community Covenant Church | Chicago

 

Rev. Steve Carter   Senior Pastor 

Christ Church of Oakbrook Oakbrook, IL

 

Rev.  Shaun Marshall Leadership Strategist

Founder of Manifest Network, author and consultant | Chicagoland

Cohort Interest form...