Sermons On The Second Readings
Series II, Cycle C
John T. Ball, Richard Gribble, John B. Jamison, Clayton A. Lord, Jr., Donna Schaper

Paul and the other writers of the epistles were entrepreneurs for early Christianity -- and not only did they tirelessly spread the good news, but their pastoral letters are also a marvelous guidebook full of practical wisdom. Because their writers were called on to assist the early faith communities in coping with a variety of problems, the New Testament epistles are chock-full of timeless lessons on living the Christian faith. In this extensive anthology of enlightening sermons based on the Second Readings from Cycle C of the Revised Common Lectionary, five eminent preachers from diverse denominations apply the nourishing teachings of the epistles to today's complex challenges. With messages included for every Sunday and major celebration throughout the entire church year, there's a wealth of ideas and illustrative stories helpful for preaching, teaching, and meditation. These biblically grounded sermons shine the light of Christ on our often confusing world and proclaim the richness of God's truth, offering readers comfort and hope while challenging them to a more intense faith relationship with the almighty.

This essential resource is useful for:
• Fresh homiletical approaches to the lectionary texts
• Inspiring preaching illustrations and sermon starters
• Understanding scripture passages
• Adult study and discussion groups
• Personal devotions and Bible study

John T. Ball has served numerous United Methodist congregations throughout western Ohio. A graduate of Ohio State University and Boston University School of Theology, he has had articles published in Circuit Rider, Christian Ministry, and Emphasis. Ball is the author of Barefoot In The Palace (CSS).

Richard E. Gribble, CSC is an associate professor in the department of religious studies at Stonehill College in North Easton, Massachusetts. The author of more than a dozen books and over 175 articles, Father Gribble is the former rector/superior of Moreau Seminary at the University of Notre Dame. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and served for five years on nuclear submarines before entering the priesthood. Gribble earned his Ph.D. from The Catholic University of America, and has also earned degrees from the University of Southern California and the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley. Among Gribble's previous CSS publications is a three-volume series on The Parables Of Jesus. 

John B. Jamison spent more than two decades as a full-time pastor of United Methodist congregations in Illinois. He has a deep interest in how technology and the new culture of "digital learners" is changing our lives, reflected in his current role as director of the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning at Colorado Mountain College in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Jamison maintains his connection to the church by serving as an interim pastor for Presbyterian congregations. The author of Time's Up! (CSS), Jamison has participated in the United Methodist Academy for Preaching, and he has created a variety of print, television, and radio material.

Clayton A. Lord Jr. recently celebrated his 20th anniversary as the pastor of First Baptist Church in Norwich, Connecticut. A graduate of the University of Connecticut and Andover Newton Theological School, Lord is very active in both denominational work and community ministry. He is the author of The Church Newsletter Handbook (Judson Press).

Donna Schaper has had a varied career as a writer, pastor, denominational executive, college chaplain, and community organizer. She is currently the senior minister of historic Judson Memorial Church in New York City. Prior to that, she served as senior pastor of Coral Gables Congregational Church in Coral Gables, Florida. Schaper is the author of numerous books, including When a Parent Dies and The Art of Spiritual Rock Gardening, and her articles and meditations frequently appear in a variety of publications, including the New York Times. She is a graduate of Gettysburg College, Gettysburg Seminary, and the University of Chicago. To learn more, visit her website at donnaschaper.org.