Claiming the Call to Preach by Donna Giver-Johnston

by Perkins Center for Preaching Excellence on Thursday, November 4, 2021

Must Reads, Episode 17, with Dr. Donna Giver-Johnston,

featuring her book “Claiming the Call to Preach.”

Dr. Donna Giver-Johnston is an ordained Minister of Word and Sacrament, currently serving as Pastor of Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon. 

Dr. Donna Giver-Johnston reflects on her personal call story as someone who experienced resistance from the outer world due to being a woman. Her book Claiming the Call to Preach critically examines the dominant historical narrative that overtly or covertly has exercised its power to keep women from preaching.

Another excellent book by Dr. Donna Giver-Johnston:

Grounded in a theology of incarnation and articulation and coupled with an awareness of what listeners most need and want to hear, Giver-Johnston explains how preachers can communicate more effectively--how they can write sermons for the ear, with the fewest, most impactful words to craft a memorable message. She also provides guidance on how to preach sermons by heart, without notes, to communicate a message that captures the ears and hearts of listeners.