
Issues, Etc. Preparing for Sunday Morning – Dr. Carl Fickenscher, 11/6/25 (3102)
Nov 6, 2025
Dr. Carl Fickenscher, a Professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, shares his insights on preparing for Sunday worship. He discusses the significance of the lectionary in ensuring congregations receive a full biblical diet. Fickenscher explores how a structured church calendar enriches spiritual life and unity among congregations. He explains the roles of various scripture readings, the introit, collect, and hymns in shaping services. With practical tips for pastors and congregations, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration in sermon preparation.
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Lectionary Preserves Full Counsel Of God
- A lectionary is a church schedule of readings that ensures congregations hear the full counsel of God over time.
- It prevents pastors from repeatedly preaching personal 'hobby horse' topics and keeps Christ central.
Use The Lectionary To Simplify Prep
- Use the lectionary to save sermon prep time and ensure your preaching covers Scripture broadly.
- Rely on assigned readings as valid, valuable starting points rather than starting from scratch.
Three-Year Cycle Covers The Gospels
- The three-year lectionary cycles Gospels so congregations hear most of the New Testament over time.
- Years A, B, C focus on Matthew, Mark, and Luke respectively, with John interwoven.

