Lois Watkins, certified coach

[From Wesleyan Coaching Network website]

Current position:

Certified Coach in The Wesleyan Church

Coaching/Ministry Experience:

An ordained minister since 1990, Lois was introduced to the unique and powerful ministry of coaching through On Purpose Ministry sponsored by then Evangelism and Church Growth. In 2012 she became a Certified Coach through the Wesleyan Coaching Network. Her years of ministry include 16 years as co-pastor, then lead pastor at LaOtto Wesleyan Church and solo pastor at a Friends Church. She has also served with Marketplace Chaplains and remains on-call for them.

As a member of the Indiana North District Board of Ministerial Development, she uses the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis to give feedback to licensed ministers and spouses. She has had leadership roles in Wesleyan Women In Ministry, Wesleyan Holiness Women Clergy, Inc. and Come to the Water conference. Her early ministry experiences were working along side her husband, Jim, during his years as youth and children pastor, then full-time travelling youth and children's evangelist. Each experience has enhanced her understanding of various ministries, as well as an appreciation for those who faithfully serve in ministry. She feels God's pleasure and presence in the coaching relationships. Being able to celebrate with leaders, whether clergy or laity, as they partner with the Holy Spirit in accomplishing God-directed goals, is a joy.

Education:

1989 MDiv degree in Pastoral Counseling from Anderson School of Theology; 1975 BS degree in Social Sciences (psychology and sociology) from Southern University of Indiana (three years at IWU). Innumerable related conferences and workshops provide continuing education.

Personal:

Lois and Jim (a Wesleyan-ordaiined author and speaker), have two children Faith and Paul (Amy), plus eight fascinating and entertaining grandchildren. She gives direct support to adults, who do life with varying degrees of physical, mental, emotional and social challenges. When able, she volunteers for Hospice, plus working crossword puzzles and playing Free Cell for relaxation.