Content

You are encouraged to avoid subjects and language that are belligerent and divisive. The National Festival is not a soapbox for any political or social agenda; it is a celebration of Gospel preaching and a venue for encouraging young people who wish to preach. The ecumenical nature of this gathering requires all of us to be particularly attentive to this matter.

Length

You are allotted 15 minutes for your sermon. If you choose to read scripture or pray as part of your sermon, it must be done within the allotted 15 minutes. You may preach for less than 15 minutes. It is your responsibility to adhere to this guideline and the responsibility of the convener of each preaching session to ensure that preaching remain on schedule.

Style

You are encouraged to preach in a style with which you are familiar and in which you are most at ease. The presence of family and friends will help you feel at home and preach more effectively. Remember to preach to and for those present in the room.

Attire

You are free to dress as you deem appropriate; your dress may reflect the ministry situation in which you are most likely to preach, whether that calls for liturgical robes or shorts and sandals. Do not wear clothing with provocative or political text.

Venues

There are will be four Preaching Venues at the 2014 National Festival. Details regarding your assigned venue will be provided at a later date.

Preaching Circles

You will be assigned to a Preaching Circle during the National Festival of Young Preachers. These groups are designed to build community and foster friendships. Details for Preaching Circle meetings are included on the National Festival Schedule, and additional details will be made available at a later date.

Videography

Where possible, the Academy of Preachers will film and post sermons preached at National, Regional, and Campus Festivals of Young Preachers to our YouTube Channel. This service is done at no expense to the Young Preacher. DVD copies of Festival sermons are available for purchase. If, for any reason, you prefer not to be filmed during the delivery of your sermon, please notify the Academy of Preachers beforehand.