What Makes This Day Different?: Preaching Grace on Special Occasions

Schlafer looks at the preacher’s task at the “high times” of the church and the secular year, those occasions on which expectations run high and emotions can be intense. He explores the temptations and pitfalls of preaching at weddings and funerals; baptisms and ordinations; civic holidays like Memorial Day and Thanksgiving; and the high holy days of Christmas and Easter. He also discusses preaching at times of tension and conflict in the church, the responsibilities of a guest preacher, and how to handle preaching missions and retreats. Included in each chapter are helpful summaries of what to include and avoid in sermon preparation, as well as excerpts of sermons illustrating the principles he outlines.

In his newest book Schlafer looks at the preacher's task at the high times of the church and the secular year, those occasions on which expectations run high and emotions can be intense.

DAVID SCHLAFER is an Episcopal priest who has taught preaching at Nashotah House, Seabury-Western, the University of the South, Virginia Theological Seminary, and the College of Preachers. His books include Surviving the Sermon, Your Way with God’s Word, and Playing with Fire.Schlafer conducts seminars and workshops on homiletics in the United States, Canada, and England.