McKeithen book of sermons wins second award – The Virginian-Pilot

The late Rev. J. Harold McKeithen’s book of sermons, “I Love to Tell the Story,” was named runner-up in the spiritual/religions category of the 2022 New England Book Festival Awards.

It was the book’s second award this year. It also placed second (silver award) in the spiritual/religion category of the New York Book Festival Awards.

“‘I Love to tell the Story’ is a charming collection (of sermons) that will make you think, laugh and ask some important questions,” said Bruce Haring, managing director of the New England and New York Book Festivals.

The book is a selected collection of 36 sermons McKeithen preached during his nearly 60 years of ministry. It was assembled and published by the local Botetourt Press at the request of McKeithen’s three children following his death in 2019.

The book was compiled and edited by Wilford Kale, a correspondent for The Virginia Gazette.

McKeithen served as covenant pastor for congregational care at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church from 2003 until his death. Previously, he had been senior pastor at Hidenwood Presbyterian Church in Newport News from 1981 to 2003.

He also served at churches in North Carolina, Alabama, West Virginia and Louisiana.