-
Talks and Personal Witness Skills
A talk can be given in a variety of different formats. It may be a short, personal witness on how one event in the speaker’s life has impacted what they believe, understand or feel about a particular aspect of the Christian faith. It may also be a lengthier presentation on a topic related to the Christian faith journey, given by someone knowledgeable on the theological aspects of the particular subject.
Whether or not a talk contains a theological teaching element, its primary purpose should be to inspire, encourage or perhaps simply affirm retreatants in similar struggles and experiences on their faith journeys. While talks frequently focus on a personal sharing from the speaker’s life, they always contain contemporary, concrete examples of living as a Christian in today’s world. By bringing the message home to those hearing the talk, in their regular lives of school, work, family and friends, a talk becomes a living, breathing vision of our journeys as followers of Christ.
A talk often utilizes a passage from Scripture to help present the aspect of our faith being referred to in the personal sharing. This can help make Scripture come alive for those hearing by bringing the truth of our faith into present experience. It may also stand alone without explicit reference to Scripture. Most importantly, a talk needs to be honest and grounded in a living faith.Note: handouts and materials are taken from The Archdioce of Cincinnati, St. Mary Press and Youth works
Take time to download the following documents:
1. Developing and Giving Your Witness Talk
2. Presenting the Gospel Message
3. Storytelling Strategies
4. Tips for effective Storytelling
PRE-TASK
Take time to listen to the videos below:
Mohammed Qahtani - Public Speaking Tips -
-
-
Recommended full talk of Mohammed Qahtani on "The Power of Words" https://youtu.be/Iqq1roF4C8s
Everyone is unique when it comes to sharing the Gospel or sharing their witness talk (personal testimony). Always be yourself but you can always learn from other presenters. Here are some that you might want to look at:
Listen to the first 5 minutes and 5 last minutes
1. Paul J. Kim - https://youtu.be/VonZwCuswqQ
2. Leah Darrow - https://youtu.be/KIy9Wmu_Q7g
3. Rocco Fortunato - https://youtu.be/_K6w_iJaNQg
4. Dcn. Burke Sivers - https://youtu.be/NwD7qlj71Hs