by Rev. Fr. Martin A. Linebach
My introduction to the Academy of Preachers came about from what I might call a “lucky lunch.” I am the Ecumenical/Inter-religious Officer for the Archdiocese of Louisville and I was participating in a Kentucky Council of Churches luncheon meeting in Lexington, Kentucky seven years ago. It just so happened that a certain Dr. Dwight Moody sat next to me. I had not met Dr. Moody before and he shared with the group that he had come to the meeting to learn about what was happening locally with ecumenism. During the lunch, I overheard him mention a new project that he was organizing and was being funded by the Lilly Foundation. He mentioned the name, “Academy of Preachers.” He got my attention. I have always worked with drive, dedication and discipline in my preaching in the Catholic tradition. And I am aware that excellent preaching is not always prevalent in Catholic parishes. I knew I could benefit from such a unique project and so could a host of others in the Catholic Church. I asked Dr. Moody to tell me more and that the Academy may be something that I would be interested in … and that opened the door to my participation in this great organization born out of God’s grace intermingled with human adventure.
Dr. Moody invited me to attend one of the first organizational meetings held at Saint Matthews Baptist Church in Louisville. I was eager to become a member of the original Board of Advisors. It has also been a joy for me to garner the support of the Archdiocese of Louisville in general and Archbishop Joseph Kurtz in particular. All in all, the greatest gift I have received from my involvement in the Academy has been my friendship with Dr. Moody. He is a brother and friend. And I believe that becoming both is the grass-roots goal of ecumenism. We can dialogue about doctrine and partner in pastoral ministry but to become friends in Christ is what I believe God intended when Christ spoke to His disciples, “May they be one.”
The National Festivals began in Louisville and two have been hosted by the Cathedral of the Assumption. The Cathedral is the “mother church” of the Archdiocese of Louisville. I am very grateful for that history. The Festivals are so important because it is the only ecumenical endeavor that I participate in that nearly all the various Christian communities come together under one roof. We listen to awesome preaching. We sing together. We spend time together. We have fun. We enjoy great food. We experience wonderful cities. And most of all, we become friends in Christ.
Over seven years ago, I realize that it is the work of the Holy Spirit that a zealous, passionate Baptist preacher sat next to me at lunch in Lexington, Kentucky. It has been an honor for me to be a part of the Academy of Preachers. The experience has simply made me better. I am grateful. And I can’t wait for the next Festival! See you there!