Interpretation A Journal of Bible and Theology· 2026Q1
Mentored by Lament: Preaching Towards Imagination in Divisive and Overwhelming Times
- 0citations
- Q1SCImago
- 2026year
Short summary
Preachers can use the ancient practice of lament to help communities navigate division and trauma, fostering collective witness and reigniting imagination for future possibilities.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Key points
- Communities facing trauma and division often struggle with suppressed imagination.
- The ancient practice of lament can serve as a guide for preachers.
- Lament-shaped proclamation can help gather emotions and foster collective witness.
- This approach can unite communities and reignite imagination for redemptive possibilities.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
In the midst of ongoing traumatic local and national realities, communities may find themselves overwhelmed and divided on how to respond or feel. Even more, communities may struggle with suppressed imagination, struggling to conceive of a future. And yet, preachers and public proclaimers are called upon to “offer a Word” of God’s redemptive possibilities in the midst of these communities. While events may feel novel or unprecedented, preachers and proclaimers may find a guide and mentor in the ancient practice of lament. Proclamation that is shaped by lament might allow preachers to gather disparate emotions and responses in the community, summon people to collective witness, unite the lamenting community around a shared conviction, and ultimately (re)ignite holy imagination.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Interpretation A Journal of Bible and Theology, 2026 · DOI ↗
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Field: Religious studies
Religious studiesArts and Humanities