The Rev. Phillip Wainwright begins early each December to put together his Christmas sermon to deliver to congregants at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Brentwood. He said he gets his outline ready “before things go wild” later in the month. Still, he often adds some final touches on his message in these busy days leading up to Christmas Day.
Father Wainwright is one of a number of pastors of South churches who this week are polishing their sermons. Though the topics vary, all revolve around the hope of “Peace on Earth , good will toward men” for their congregations and, of course, the world.
For many, Christmas services are an opportunity to connect with people who don’t come to church on a regular basis.
“My Christmas sermons tend to be devotional and not as intellectual. Every third or fourth year, I try to challenge those who are not there very much,” Father Wainwright said.