The Hopeful Church

Following the Call to Preach and Inspiring the Next Generation of Preachers: Rev. Dr. Larry T Crudup

Moench Center for Church Leadership at Belmont University — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:49:45 GMT

In this episode, Reverend Dr. Larry T. Crudup — Senior Pastor of Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Spartanburg, SC, and a part-time professor of Leadership at Anderson University and adjunct professor of New Testament at Belmont University — shares his transformative journey of preaching and leadership within the church. Drawing on his experience as a pastor, educator, and scholar of ethical and creative leadership, his story offers valuable lessons on connecting biblical exegesis with practical storytelling to enrich ministry and community engagement. If you're involved in church leadership or interested in the power of preaching, this discussion provides actionable insights on sermon design and fostering a hopeful church community.

In this episode:

How Dr. Crudup’s first sermon sparked his calling and the significance of early formative preaching
The role of the Academy of Preachers in developing diverse preaching styles and networks of young pastors
The structure of effective sermons
The importance of experimenting with different preaching styles and maintaining playfulness and imagination
The hopeful church as a community embodying love, hope, and the hands and feet of Jesus

Resources & Links:

Connect with The Moench Center for Church Leadership:

Connect with Dr. Larry Crudup:

Connect with Darrell Gwaltney:

The Hopeful Church Podcast is an initiative of the Moench Center for Church Leadership at Belmont University. To learn more about Belmont University, go to belmont.edu.

The Power of the Spoken Word and the Next Generation of Preachers: Dwight A. Moody

Moench Center for Church Leadership at Belmont University — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:52:19 GMT

This episode explores the transformative role of preaching and the spoken word in shaping lives and communities. Featuring insights from Dwight A Moody, a pioneer in preacher development through the Academy of Preachers, and Darrell Gwaltney, the conversation underscores how effective communication fuels leadership, faith, and personal legacy.

In this episode:

The origin story of the Academy of Preachers and its impact over 16 years
How the Academy fosters lifelong connections and life-changing ministry among young preachers
The importance of verbal articulation in leadership, politics, and faith
Personal stories demonstrating the power of preaching during times of crisis
The enduring significance of the Gospel and personal testimony in transforming lives
Encouragement for young believers to embrace their voice in a culture dominated by soundbites
The role of the spoken word in inspiring and mobilizing communities near and far

Resources & Links:

Connect with The Moench Center for Church Leadership:

Connect with Dwight A Moody:

Connect with Darrell Gwaltney:

This discussion reminds us that effective preaching is not just about words—it's about a mission to communicate truth, inspire action, and change lives. Whether in church, politics, or personal testimony, the power of the spoken word remains a vital force in shaping the future.

The Hopeful Church Podcast is an initiative of the Moench Center for Church Leadership at Belmont University. To learn more about Belmont University, go to belmont.edu.