Rev. Elise Renee Neal recently joined Presbyterian Village North as Associate Director of Spiritual Life and brings a warm, thoughtful presence to campus along with a deep passion for walking alongside others in their spiritual journeys. She recently participated in a fun Q and A to help the community get to know her better. Read more about her below.
In a few sentences, how would you introduce yourself to the community?
Greetings everyone my name is Rev. Elise Renee Neal. I go by Pastor Elise. I am a pastor, healer, frequency bear and Mystic. I have been an ordained Presbyterian minister for 16 years. I graduated from union Presbyterian School of Christian Education (PSCE) in 2007 and my undergraduate is in elementary and middle school education from Marshall University. My husband Ryan and I have been married 20 years. We have three children Kaylen (16), Knox (15) and Terryn (13). We have a miniature dachshund named Lula Bell that is 11 years old. We currently live in Lewisville, Texas on the north side of DFW.
What hobbies or interests bring you joy outside your work?
I am a certified sound healer. I enjoy doing energy and frequency work using crystals, meditation and oracle cards. I also really enjoy family outings and going to places that we’ve never been before. I am a football fan and you will often see me rooting for the West Virginia University Mountaineers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Who has been a meaningful influence in your life, and what did they teach you?
Catherine McCrarry was the most influential woman in my life. She was the educator for the Presbyterian West Virginia when I was a teenager she helped to nurture my faith and encouraged me to be the leader than I was called to be. She was a light to so many youth and had the most amazing job. I knew that I wanted to be like her someday. One of my proudest moments was when she was part of my ordination commission. I loved her dearly and was blessed to have her in my life.
What would you love for people to know about the spiritual life of older adults that they might not expect?
Our spiritual life journey is a journey of the soul learning lessons in this life to prepare us for the next. Older adults are continuing to learn and grow each and every day in their spiritual life as they experience new people in community as well as learning the ups and downs of life in general, it is a time of tremendous strength and growth that prepares them forever, everlasting life.
Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Humanity is the work of (God/Source/It) and that light shines in every single one of us through our souls purpose, and journey. It doesn’t matter what faith tradition or background you come from (God/Source/It)’s kingdom is big enough for everyone. And I invite people to engage in conversations with one another, recognizing our differences, but respecting our humanity because that is what ultimately helps our souls grow.
What’s something residents might be surprised to learn about you?
As a teen, I competed in muzzleloading rifle competitions, and I’m a pretty good shot! And as an adult, I have lived in West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, Virginia, Nebraska, Iowa and Texas, but I will forever be a Mountaineer!
