

Msgr. Michael Heintz joins Larry Chapp to discuss his program for improved homiletics
May 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Michael Heintz, a priest and visiting director of the Martin Program in Homiletics and Liturgics at Notre Dame, explores the art of preaching in the Catholic Church. He delves into the emotional weight of a papal conclave and its significance for Catholic identity. Heintz emphasizes the importance of preparation and personal storytelling to connect with congregations. Strategies for impactful homilies and the role of scripture engagement are also highlighted, showcasing the endeavor to enrich the spiritual experience through effective preaching.
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Prioritize Early Homily Preparation
- Priests should allocate intentional time weekly to pray and study scripture for homily preparation.
- Starting homily prep only Saturday afternoon is inadequate and risks poor quality preaching.
Monsignor Quinn’s Remote Preparation
- Monsignor John Quinn prepared remotely over years, enabling quick homily delivery when needed.
- Deep, ongoing preparation supports effective, flexible preaching even under time pressure.
Read Broadly for Homiletic Depth
- Priests should read broadly, including novels and poetry, to deepen empathy and enrich preaching.
- Constant reading feeds both prayer and homiletic content, preventing stagnant sermons.