Over the last 20 years of my life in ministry, I have become convinced of the importance of having a vibrant and robust interior life that grounds and … [Read more...] about Cultivating the Sound of the Genuine: Embracing Silence, Stillness, and Solitude in Ministry
About BJ Woodworth*
BJ Woodworth is passionate about creating space for individuals and communities to cultivate, nurture, and discern the Spirit’s leading for fruitful life and work in the world (John 15:4–5). He finds deep joy in accompanying people on their inner journeys and helping them discover and clarify their calling.
With more than 30 years of experience in the PCUSA, BJ has served as a campus minister, teacher, church planter, pastor, coach, consultant, and spiritual director. He is a graduate of Westminster College and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and holds a Certificate in Spiritual Transformation from the Transforming Center. BJ is also an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
BJ currently serves as Covenant Pastor for Spiritual Life, Taizé, and Transitional Ministries at East Liberty Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, PA. He previously spent 17 years as the founding and lead pastor of Open Door Presbyterian Church and has coached leaders within PCUSA 1001 New Worshipping Communities and Vital Congregations. Partnered with Katrina, BJ is the parent of four adult children and enjoys mixology, soccer, literature, and time in nature.
Consultant Q&A
What inspired you to serve as a church consultant and coach?
I love investing in people and churches and helping fuel their unique passions and visions. My background in starting new churches and ministries has shaped my ability to help leaders notice, listen, and discern God’s unfolding work in their specific contexts. Each congregation has its own ecosystem of assets and challenges, and I love coming alongside leaders as they learn how to flourish within it.
What are your primary areas of focus?
I especially enjoy coaching leaders and teams, helping churches navigate transitions, and guiding visioning and discernment processes. More recently, I’ve found meaningful work in conflict transformation as well.
Can you share a memorable success story from your work?
One particularly meaningful experience involved working with a church and its session through a retreat and strategic planning process, followed by a year of coaching the pastor. The combination of in-person discernment and ongoing coaching created a rich context for implementation and growth, even as unexpected challenges emerged along the way.
How do you integrate your personal faith with your professional work?
My interior life in Christ is the source of my energy, creativity, patience, and love. Remaining connected to the Vine is essential for producing fruit. In my work, this means going slow—listening, praying, wondering, asking questions, resting, and discerning. There is a constant ebb and flow between inner life and outward ministry.
What kinds of churches or leaders do you feel most called to work with?
I’m especially drawn to churches and leaders in seasons of transition—whether they feel stuck, are thriving, are revisioning, navigating conflict, or discerning next faithful steps.
Why does this work matter personally to you?
Church leadership can be lonely, and leaders need companions on the journey. I love helping leaders cultivate innovative, adaptive, and spiritually grounded leadership so their communities can become healthy, vibrant beacons of hope, justice, and love in their unique contexts.
Is there a guiding scripture, quote, or practice that shapes your work?
Several guide me deeply, including:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it.” — Howard Thurman
“In quietness and trust is your strength.” — Isaiah 30:15
The practice of Sabbath
What states are you available to serve?
I am available to serve churches and leaders in any state.
Endorsements:
"I met BJ to years ago, when he led a meaningful session retreat for the church I serve geared toward strategic planning and core values, and he’s been coaching me individually ever since. After each session, I walk away with deeper insight and new perspective on the work of ministry. BJ creates a valuable space for reflection that holds together general, "best practice" principles with the specific, contextual challenges and opportunities unique to my position. He also facilities clarity around my own internal processes and tendencies. He’s a patient listener who also knows how to move a conversation forward toward insight and a plan for action. Working with BJ has been a deeply worthwhile investment in my pastoral work!”
