His plan was to become a comedian and make people laugh, but God called Winston McNiel to preach shortly after he was saved while watching a “Billy Graham Crusade” on television in September 1963. He answered the call and has preached faithfully for many years.
But after 17 years, McNiel retired as pastor of Springdale Baptist Church, Birmingham, on July 31. His sons planned a retirement program to celebrate the occasion.
McNiel received his master of theology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and first served as a pastor at Philadelphia Baptist Church, Peterman. He then served on the missions field in Colombia with his wife, the late Pat McNiel.
McNiel held pastorates in Florida before moving to Springdale Baptist in 1994.
“My greatest memories (in ministry) are all the people that I’ve had a part in their lives and leading them to Christ and the joy of being a pastor. The greatest joy is just being a part of the family of God,” he said.
McNiel said he is looking forward to continuing that fellowship and continuing to preach at revivals or as a supply preacher. He can be contacted at 205-305-2192.
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