This thesis contends that a preacher, through preaching, can effect change in a congregation towards personal and corporate health when the preacher addresses congregational dynamics in light of family systems theory. This involves: I) examining the health of a church and its membership, including the pastor; 2) analyzing the congregation as an emotional system; and, 3) re-casting the role of the pastor-and preaching-within the system. The act of preaching is the major vehicle of theological reflection, interpretation of scripture and practical application of God's call in the life of a community of faith. As such, the preaching moment can serve as a catalyst for change. However, to do so, the preacher too must change. While one can only change oneself, systems theory purports that change in one part of a system will affect the entire system. Thus, intentional internal, emotional, spiritual, mental reflection and transformation in the pastor will inevitably have an impact upon the entire congregation. Such transformation also means a change of homiletic towards greater boldness in telling truth, greater vulnerability to model new dynamics, and greater trust in naming and facing both individual and corporate fears.
