Will Willimon on God Said, "Light!"
In an interview from June 2018, Bishop William Willimon reflects on the sermon he preached the Sunday after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. On September 16, 2001, Duke Chapel was filled with fear and grief. What does a preacher say on such a day?
Listen to Bishop Willimon’s sermon, God Said, "Light!", (September 16, 2001) and watch the interview below.
It's scandalous to be hopeful in a hopeless time.
William Willimon
For Discussion
- What fears and emotions do you imagine in the Chapel on this particular Sunday? In listening to Willimon’s sermon, how do you see him responding to these feelings? Consider his choice of text, his illustrations, core proclamation and pastoral presence.
- How does Willimon's sermon challenge the listeners and how does it comfort them?
- What does Willimon’s response communicate about this understanding of God and the gospel?
- Willimon describes a sermon preached by Bishop Kenneth Carder several weeks after his own (9:03). You can listen to that sermon here: Finding Peace in Enemy Territory,” October 14, 2001. How is Carder’s sermonic response to September 11th similar to Willimon’s, and how does it differ?
- In a world of continuing violence and pandemic, fear is an ongoing struggle for congregations. What do you see in Willimon’s approach that would be useful in addressing your congregation’s contemporary fears? How might you respond differently in your context?
- In his reflections, Willimon speaks of the “risk” involved in preaching hope during a fearful season (6:15). What does his sermon risk? What would the risk of hope look like for you – in your preaching and in your ministry?