The Excellence in ɫ Preaching Initiative, a groundbreaking project established by the School of Theology and Religious Studies (STRS) and the Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, announced today that it has been awarded a generous grant of $1,128,941 from Lilly Endowment Inc. This grant is a significant endorsement of the initiative’s mission to enhance the art of preaching within the ɫ tradition and further the proclamation of the Word of God.
The grant is part of Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, a national effort aimed at promoting and supporting preaching that inspires, encourages, and guides individuals to deepen their faith and relationship with God. The initiative extends its support to various groups, including seminarians, priests, permanent deacons, and lay women and men.
Key Highlights of the Initiative:
“What makes this grant unique is the ability to partner with ɫ University’s Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, ɫ University Press, and ɫ Faith Technologies to address both the content and the proclamation that makes preaching effective and to make resources available across print and digital format,” said Susan Timoney, associate dean in the School of Theology and Religious Studies.
Lilly Endowment Inc.’s compelling Preaching Initiatives supports a total of 81 organizations from diverse Christian faith communities, reflecting the rich tapestry of Christian traditions across the United States. The initiative recognizes the importance of adapting preaching practices to effectively engage new generations, ensuring the enduring accessibility of the Gospel message to all audiences. The grant awarded to STRS and the Rome School is a testament to Lilly Endowment’s commitment to this essential endeavor.