For over thirty years Alan Neale has spoken with passion, relevance, authenticity and humor of themes that are profound and pressing; the profound he makes simple and accessible, the pressing he makes immediate and welcoming. All these years past have provided little time for Alan to write extensively and so now he begins a long-postponed desire and there are many themes waiting to be translated into books; the task is daunting and enthralling and he longs to begin in 2015
I have never known a Sunday when the appointed lessons (Old and New Testament, Psalm and Gospel) all presented a common theme – the universality of grace, the impossibility of bigotry. There is so very much to think and say and do about so-called “systemic/institutional” sin but I cannot avoid the truth of the Gospel… Continue reading
When talking with couples about the nature of their ceremony often the question of “God-talk” arises. Couples generally will define themselves as spiritual but, for various reasons, have hesitations about institutional religion (but then, who doesn’t?). Jackie and Nate chose as their central reading that was packed with spiritual significance; it was a joyful… Continue reading
The experience of “mixed feelings” is, I believe, intricately linked to the whole business of unrealistic or unconsidered expectations. But, frankly, though we “can’t live with them” neither can we “live without them” – at least, this side of eternity. So we urgently need someone to rescue us and provide a temporary pause, albeit… Continue reading
So, this sermon was preached on the day before I begin the 41st year of my ordained ministry. Plymouth, Southampton, Stanstead Abbotts UK followed by… South Dakota, Newport RI and Center City Philadelphia and back to Newport RI. Oh the joys and challenges, the quirks and oddities, the privilege and angst of parish ministry but,… Continue reading
It is a real joy to preach on Trinity Sunday, to remember that Jesus called us to follow Him not… define and understand Him. Underneath the sermon audio is the basis of the preached sermon. Trinity Church, Newport RI; Sunday June 11th (Trinity Sunday) The Reverend Alan Neale; “No Armchair Theologians” Such is the erudition… Continue reading
Below the sermon audio is the text of the sermon; well, it’s what I carried into the pulpit! Sermon preached at Trinity Church Newport RI Sunday June 4th 2017 The Reverend Alan Neale “Drink, drink, drink…” “Go forth into the streets and evangelize, proclaim the Gospel. Remember that the Church was born to go forth,… Continue reading
Below the sermon audio is the text for the sermon. I was very encouraged to hear responses that indicated a deeper understanding, reception of the doctrine/the story of the Ascension of Christ. “The man with wounds in heaven” was a metaphor (is that the word?) that seemed to strike deeply in several hearts. Sermon preached… Continue reading
Trinity Church Newport RI CREED What Christians Believe and Why? Based on CREED – Adam Hamilton #3 THE HOLY SPIRIT I believe in the Holy Spirit Re-Cap 1. Three understandings of faith – The faith, I can be trusted/faithful, I have faith (as gift) 2. “I” and “We” believe – both required 3. Our vocation… Continue reading
Sermon text below sermon audio… Trinity Church, Newport RI Sunday May 21st 2017 The Reverend Alan Neale “Pontoons for Jesus” In 2009 an American cartographer, Andy Woodruff, wrote these words: “Apparently in Maine they have a saying, “you can’t get there from here” (spoken in a Maine accent), said when giving directions as an observation… Continue reading
Sometimes I am asked how I prepare for sermons, the answer (especially irritating to those beginning their ordained ministry) is “years and years.” I say this not to irritate or befuddle but because I believe deep in the heart of God there is a divine faculty that is constantly preparing us for great things and… Continue reading