The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” Ministry coaches are conversation partners who listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, make reflective observations, and help church leaders develop a plan of action.
Clergy and congregational leaders may schedule a 45-minute Coaching on Demand session using the link below. Sessions may be scheduled up to three weeks in advance. Daytime, evening and weekend times are available, though you may need to check availability of several coaches to find your preferred time.
When you schedule, you will receive a confirmation email from your coach with contact information. Coaches will connect with their clients via video conferencing or phone.
Each coach has their own style, but most will begin by asking what you wish to talk about during the session, and then guide the conversation by asking questions, making observations, and guiding the client toward an action plan to address the stated need.
Coaching on Demand sessions are being offered at no cost to WPAUMC clergy and congregational leaders. At this time, to extend our availability to as many people as possible, we ask that an individual schedule no more than two Coaching on Demand sessions with a specific coach.
If you wish to develop an ongoing coaching relationship – with monthly or biweekly coaching sessions – please discuss entering a coaching contract with your preferred coach. Most of our coaches offer ongoing coaching contracts in addition to Coaching on Demand, and will be happy to provide information and costs. You may use a clergy accountable reimbursement account or continuing education funds to offset the cost of coaching contracts.
To schedule a coaching session, email the coach directly.
Questions about Coaching on Demand or coaching in general?
Contact Rob Wilson Click to email
Alyce Weaver Dunn is a trained in Co-Active coaching through the Holmes Coaching Group and is completing requirements for ICF (International Coaching Federation) accreditation. She serves on the faculty of the Artful Academy for Leadership through Holmes Coaching, Inc. She has also received training for coaching in Cross Racial/Cross Cultural appointments. Alyce has served for 34 years in ministry in Western PA including 22 years at local churches, 8 years as a District Superintendent, and is currently serving as the WPA Director of Connectional Ministries. She is available to coach clergy and laity who want to grow in leadership and faith.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Sandra Marsh-McClain retired from full-time ministry in 2018, serving 25 years in small, medium and large congregations and as part-time consultant for WPAUMC. She continues pulpit supply and interim pastor appointments, and offers workshops and strategic planning for congregations. Sandra received coaching training and uses these skills in her current role at Pennsylvania Women Work. In addition to theological education, Sandra earned a Master of Science in Human Resources Management with concentration in Organizational Development, Learning and Change.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
William brings many years of life coaching experience in addition to completing the ICF training. His Clinical Pastoral Skills called him to coach in many life situations. He served as full-time chaplain at the Veterans Hospital. Pastors serving cross-culturally and those who have planted new churches experienced fruitful coaching sessions with him; he gleaned significant learnings from them in the process. He listens deeply to a client before offering paths of potential growth. His broad base of international travel and study enrich his ability to relate to a wide variety of cultures and customs. This strengthens his commitment to understand a client's context. He has served multiple congregations that were diverse racially, culturally, and economically.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Amanda Mitchell is a trained and certified ministry coach. She serves as the Conference Coordinator of Young People’s Ministry for WPAUMC. Amanda has experience coaching young people and other individuals to think about leadership in a different way and experience fulfillment in their lives.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Rev. Alan J Morrison is a trained coach completing requirements to seek ICF (International Coaching Federation) accreditation. He has 30 years experience as a United Methodist pastor including eight years on GCFA staff facilitating church business administrators. Coaching topics include discipleship, ministry practice, life issues, leadership, administrative matters, and financial practices. He has received training for coaching in Cross Racial/Cross Cultural appointments.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Rev. Dr. Ed Saxman is an Associated Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), Lead Pastor at Grace UMC in Grove City, Pa., and founder of Kiln-Fired Coaching. Ed has 31 year of pastoral ministry in a variety of church settings and sizes. Ed's coaching of individuals and groups includes exploring values, establishing a path, enhancing growth, and experiencing success in the many facets of life and ministry. He has received training for coaching in Cross Racial/Cross Cultural appointments.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Rev. Bill Saxman is a coach in training, completing requirements to seek ICF (International Coaching Federation) accreditation. Bill has been a pastor for over 50 years and has served small to medium sized charges. He has a deep love for the local church and understands his calling in retirement to be coaching pastors, especially first appointment pastors, in the art of leading a local church.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Heather Shoffstall has received her training and certification as a coach from the National Association of Youth Ministry. Heather is the Director of Student Ministry at Dutilh Church in Cranberry Twp. and serves as a volunteer with the Western PA United Methodist Conference Youth Ministry Team. She has been active in youth ministry for over 15 years. Heather wants youth leaders and people to live to their full potential and be their best for those they lead.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email
Rev. Amy Wagner is a trained leadership coach currently completing requirements to seek ICF (International Coaching Federation) accreditation. She currently serves as Senior Pastor at St. Paul's UMC in Allison Park. Amy coaches both individuals and groups in ministry practice, leadership, revitalization, and innovation.
coaching contract inquiries: Click to email