Rev Ryan is a father, husband, and pastor who is passionate about Jesus, Justice, and Joy. He enjoys meeting people where they are over a drink or a meal, sharing stories, and learning how people can better be with God, the earth, and one another.
He has served churches in the UK and the US, was an organiser with the Industrial Areas Foundation where he worked with other leaders to found Anne Arundel Connecting Together (ACT), and is a former officer in the US Navy. He is an active associate member of the Iona Community.
Rev Ryan enjoys hiking, meeting with people, studying scripture together, and is a very amateur surfer. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
Hi, I’m Tony Noppen, the Pioneer Chaplain at St James’s. My role is all about creating, building, and being church in fresh, diverse ways—whether that’s through new community spaces, creative expressions of faith, or just meeting people where they are. With a background in chaplaincy and hospitality, I’m passionate about fostering inclusive spaces where people can explore their faith and identity safely. Whilst not originally from the North-East, I’ve now lived here longer than anywhere else. I love the coastline, the commitment to straight-talking, and the history embedded in the stones around us. I live with my family (my partner, 2 kids and 2 cats) in sight of the sea, in a colourful, often chaotic house, and I take an unusual amount of pride in washing up!
I’m also a bit of a geek, with a love for board games, table-top gaming, and diving into fantasy or sci-fi books. I’m looking forward to connecting and working together to bring our shared ideas to life
Alvin is a passionate Gen Z poet, budding novelist, editor, storyteller and digital wizard with an MA in Creative Writing from Northumbria University. Currently, he serves as the Digital Ministry Associate at St James Church, Newcastle, where he juggles social media, newsletters, and all things content creation. When not crafting catchy reels or publishing church blogs, you can find him exploring new ways to bring people together online (or maybe just recharging with a good book). Let’s connect—virtually or in person!
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Hello there! Alan here...
I do exactly what it says on the tin (perhaps a bit more!) to serve St James's and you too!
I have quite a varied professional background: Hospitality, financial services, photography, more hospitality(!), motor industry, DJ-ing, estate management, consultancy, to name just a few. (Phew!)
However, my role here is my first not-for-profit, making it a really nice change and very gratifying.
You'll most likely be coming across me with your requirements for the hire and use of our three main spaces: The Hall, The Meeting Room and The Sanctuary (main church). Whether it be for events, meetings, classes, presentations, weddings, etc., I'll be there with support and collaboration to make it happen.
Going back in time, my parents were from Hong Kong, I was born in Liverpool and then brought up in Newcastle from 5 years old. The accent is very much Geordie!
Looking forward to hearing from you.