Preaching, as a communication event, includes the management of at least three important elements: source characteristics, message effects, and respondent concerns (see the seminal work of Carl I. Hovland, Irving L. Janis, and Harold H. Kelley, Communication and Persuasion, Yale University Press, 1953). This is already a complicated and formidable prospect even among homogeneous audiences. The process becomes even more challenging, however, with the cultural and generational diversity that exists in most churches. This paper will propose a model for connecting to disparate populations within our churches, with a particular focus on source credibility (trust), and its impact on message design, and perceived relevance. This model will be outlined using Kraft’s four elements of Person, Goal, Motivation, and Means (Charles Kraft, Communication Theory for Christian Witness, 1883), informed by communication research on generational culture, credibility, and persuasion.