The Present Preacher
Passionate about Jesus. Curious about AI.
In February 2025, I set out with the aim of getting to know a bit more about AI. I was curious to see the images of Jesus that AI created in response to different prompts. AI has been inspired by human artists and it can inspire human artists. My aim is to look through the images it generates, as expressions of human creativity and faith consciousness, to encounter the divine source of all creativity.
The images AI generated were striking, so I gathered them into books (Book One) for my own devotional use. I was encouraged by a friend to make them available in case others were interested. Book One is quite raw - I showcase the images that AI gave me in response to my prompts. The prompts were all drawn from biblical titles for Jesus or events in the gospels.
In Book Two, I was more directive. I wanted to see how AI would depict Jesus in different artistic styles - from Baroque to Cubism to Post-Impressionism.
In Book Three and the related poster, I sought to find images to journey through the Scriptural Stations of the Cross.
In Book Four I wanted to explore the Joy of Jesus in the New Testament, to help people reflect on the scriptures that reveal this joy to us.
Great Resources and Gifts
I have seen the potential for AI to resource ministry. I created some colouring books for use with adults, young people or older children. I think the art books are great gifts (particularly for ordination or leaving gifts for ministers). Also, the affordable colouring books (below) are ideal for godchildren, grandchildren, and baptism and confirmation candidates.
Beautiful Faith-Inspiring Colouring Books
Welcome to The Present Preacher
Where to go from here....
There are four main areas to this site, which is currently under development (launch July 2025).
1. The Blog - The blog is the pulse of the site. Everything important is picked up in a blog. All the blog articles are completely free to access.
2. The Sermons - A collection of video sermons is available with a brief description for each. If you would like me to view and consider featuring one of your sermons then get in touch.
3. The Resources Portfolio
This is a collection of my latest creative projects that could be used in worship or devotional life. You may find yourself inspired by the ideas you find there, or you may wish to buy what I have created as an "off the peg" resource to use in your church or community.
4. The Shop
Brand New Product Launched!
Hello!
Thanks for visiting PresentPreacher.com
This site is designed to inspire, support and resource those who preach and lead creative acts of Christian worship.
As a theologian, I have written and researched in the areas of worship and preaching. Along the way I have encountered, created, and collaborated on some things that are worth sharing.
Explore the blog, discover insightful sermons, and find resources for your church ministry.
Matt Allen
Matt is a Church of England Minister and former church leader based in North West England, now working full-time for a Theological College training people for a range of lay and ordained ministries. He has been teaching homiletics since 2016. Matt's current doctoral research is in practical theology, looking at how our preaching reveals what we believe about Jesus.
This website was named after some of my research into the importance of being present as a preacher.
This research formed part of the basis of a book with I co-authored in 2021 with theologian
Liz Shercliff, titled "The Present Preacher".
(The Present Preacher is available to buy via an affiliate link by clicking on the book cover image below.)
Some other books featuring Matt's sermons. (available to buy via an affiliate link by clicking on the book cover images.)
The Canterbury Preacher's Companion 2025
The Canterbury Preacher's Companion 2026
My Portfolio
Welcome to my portfolio. Here you’ll find a selection of my work. Explore my projects to learn more about what I do.
