Speech Observation

This is an observation of a sermon given by a guest Pastor at a local community church. The Pastor was introduced as his stepped into the center of the church's stage wearing black slacks with a white short sleeve shirt under a gray vest sweater. The visible tattoos on the Pastor's arms may give people the impression that he was a former gang member. He had a mustache that accentuated certain facial features that gave the impression of a tough or mean man. From this visual analysis, one might expect a lesson on "tough love" that would pound the need for Jesus into your brain.

The church members seemed familiar with his technique and welcomed it. When he stepped onto the stage everyone clapped with elation and called out his name in a motivating chant. As the Pastor was standing in the center of the stage, listening to this ovation, he had a big smile and waived his hands welcoming the cheers. After a few moments he gestured for silence, and the congregation quieted. The Past...