Using the five-milestone formula in the process of preparing homilies and sermons

Abstract

KULTURA – MEDIA – TEOLOGIA 41/2020 ABSTRACT The text concerns the possibilities and methods of using the five-milestone formula for persuasive public speaking developed by Lidia Buksak, a persuasive speaking coach, in the process of preparing homilies and sermons. The author – having in mind the context of theological science – discusses particular preparation stages that make an appealing and effective speech which will influence the thoughts and actions of the audience. In the process the author brings to light these elements which may contribute to improving the quality of homilies. The reader’s attention is drawn to the four milestones or stops on the circumference of the circle which are to guide the reader on the road towards an effective message. The questions relevant to these four milestones concern the objective of a speech, the person of a speaker, the profile of an audience and the benefits for the listeners. The fifth, and the last one, of the milestones is the message itself. Without prejudice to the position of the Church on the contents which should be included in a homily, the author indicates how to use the output of communication science for homiletic purposes, which will result in ensuring the appropriate organisation of a message, being, in this case, a piece of homiletic speech.