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Based on the real-world success of St. Gregory of Nyssa in San Francisco's creative interactive church community, this unique formation program reimagines the traditional sermon as an intergenerational, participatory experience. Adhering to the Revised Common Lectionary, it transforms the Liturgy of the Word into a communal exploration of scripture, which uses tactile storytelling materials, open-ended wondering questions and facilitator-guided conversations to invite participants of all ages to co-create the sermon. The book serves as a foundational theological guide with step-by-step instructions on how to implement collaborative sermons in any congregation to foster deep spiritual belonging across generations and reflect Christ’s radical hospitality.
“In Collaborative Sermons, Levenstrong offers everything needed to begin practicing Living Stories: a clear description of the method, a thoughtful exploration of what it means to trust Scripture, one another, and the Holy Spirit, and an invitation to recognize those marginalized by traditional preaching as vital sources of insight, and practical guidance for adapting Living Stories within a variety of ministry contexts. This comprehensive, provocative, and practical book is sure to expand the homiletical imaginations of preachers and faith communities alike.”
"Of the many ways collaborative preaching is practiced, this is by far the most genuinely intergenerational approach I’ve seen. Nurtured by a theology of play and grounded in trust, preaching becomes an imaginative ‘wondering' space for discerning how scripture connects meaningfully with sermon-participants."
"Levenstrong keeps the ‘why' of a community-created sermon grounded in Gospel discoveries. This, as he notes, is what Jesus did: 'ask a real question, and trust the people in front of him with the answer.' More than just a sermon method, Collaborative Sermons genuinely welcomes readers into a surprising, effective, and holy experiment in the living, heart-opening, generous practice of 'hearing God’s word revealed through our shared act of listening, speaking and wondering.’"