coaching

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Empowering Leaders. Strengthening Congregations. Growing in Faith.

At the East Central Synod of Wisconsin (ECSW), we believe in the power of curiosity, courage, and Christ-centered community. Coaching provides a confidential and courageous space where deep listening and curious questions create room for the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Whether you are a congregation discerning your next faithful step or a ministry leader seeking renewal and direction, coaching helps you:

  • Be Curious – Explore new possibilities and listen for God’s movement

  • Be Courageous – Step boldly into change and transformation

  • Be Christ Together – Grow in faith, leadership, and collaborative ministry

Coaching is a transformative process that helps individuals and congregations discern where God is leading them and take meaningful steps forward. At the East Central Synod of Wisconsin (ECSW), we offer coaching for congregations and ministry leaders to help navigate challenges, embrace new opportunities, and deepen their impact.

Coaching is a confidential and courageous place to be seen and heard—where deep listening and curious questions create space for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Our coaches accompany congregations and leaders with curious questions, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Our trained and certified coaches accompany congregations and leaders with Holy Spirit-guided questions, walking alongside them in times of transition, challenge, and renewal. ECSW Coaches follow the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Code of Ethics and Confidentiality, ensuring a trustworthy and transformative experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM Coaching

When you engage in coaching, you can expect:

  • A Brave & Confidential Space – Coaching sessions are a judgment-free zone where you can explore ideas, challenges, and possibilities openly.

  • Holy Listening & Powerful Questions – Your coach will listen deeply and ask thought-provoking questions to help you discover insights and solutions.

  • Actionable Steps & Accountability – Coaching isn’t just about conversation; it’s about movement. You’ll leave each session with clear, manageable actionable next steps that make sense for you.

  • A Spirit-Led Process – Coaching is rooted in faith, helping you discern how God is calling you to lead and serve.

  • Encouragement & Support – Whether you’re navigating change, seeking clarity, or reimagining ministry, your coach will walk alongside you as a trusted partner.

Coaching is a journey—not a quick fix. But through regular conversations, you’ll gain confidence, clarity, and direction for your leadership and ministry.

COACHING for Congregations

Supporting Churches in Mission & Ministry

Every congregation faces seasons of change, challenge, and growth. Whether your church is exploring a new mission, navigating leadership transitions, or seeking to strengthen its ministries, coaching can provide the guidance and encouragement needed to move forward with confidence.

How Congregational Coaching Helps:

  • Holy Conversations – Engage in deep listening and Spirit-led discernment around shared ministry, collaboration, renewal, and holy closure

  • Vision & Mission Clarity – Discern where God is leading your church

  • Leadership Development – Strengthen lay and pastoral leadership

  • Conflict Resolution & Communication – Improve team dynamics and decision-making

  • Missional Innovation – Move beyond programming tweaks to reimagine how church can be church, listening to your community, experimenting with new models, and responding to God’s movement in the world

  • Navigating Change – Work through transitions with faith and strategy

Coaching is available for church councils, leadership teams, and entire congregations. Whether you need short-term guidance or ongoing support, our trained coaches are here to walk with you.

Interested in Congregational Coaching? Contact at coaching@ecsw.org. You can also complete our coaching intake form if you’re ready for the next steps.

COACHING for Ministry Leaders

Strengthening Leaders for Faithful Ministry

Ministry can be rewarding, but it also comes with challenges. Whether you're a rostered leader, lay leader, or council member, coaching provides a brave space to reflect, grow, and lead with renewed energy and vision.

Who Coaching is For:

  • Ministry Leaders (Pastors, Deacons, SAMs) – Support for personal growth, leadership challenges, and congregational health

  • Lay Leaders – Guidance for those serving in various ministry roles

  • Council Members – Helping elected leaders serve effectively and faithfully

How Ministry Leader Coaching Helps:

  • Avoid Burnout & Sustain Passion – Find balance in ministry life

  • Improve Leadership Skills – Lead with confidence and clarity

  • Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving – Navigate challenges effectively

  • Faith-Based Decision Making – Discern God’s call in leadership

  • Process Grief & Loss – Navigate personal and professional loss with resilience and hope

  • Discern Retirement & Next Steps – Plan for life beyond active ministry with clarity and purpose

  • Accountability & Encouragement – Stay on track with goals and priorities

🔹 Interested in Ministry Leader Coaching or Congregational Coaching? Contact at coaching@ecsw.org.

Meet our Coaches

Our trained and certified coaches come from diverse ministry backgrounds and are passionate about helping others grow in faith and leadership.

Want to connect with a coach? Meet our coaching team!

Rev. Andrea Fluegel
Coaching Coordinator

Email: coaching@ecsw.org

Rev. Kimberly Sotwell
Coaching Coordinator

Email: coaching@ecsw.org

Rev. Dara Clifford

Congregational Coaching Questions

Email: dara.clifford@ecsw.org

FREQUENTLY ASKED Questions

  • Coaching is a structured, goal-oriented process that helps individuals and groups move forward in their faith and leadership journey. It’s different from mentoring or consulting—coaches don’t give answers but instead help you discover them.

  • No, coaching focuses on growth and forward movement, while counseling addresses emotional and psychological healing. Coaching is for those ready to take action toward their goals.

  • It depends on your needs! Some coaching relationships are short-term (1-3 months), while others last longer (6+ months). Sessions typically happen monthly and last about 60 minutes.

  • We strive to make coaching accessible to all. Reach out to learn more about cost and scholarship options.

get started with Coaching

Ready to take the next step? Whether you're a congregation or an individual leader, we’re here to help you move forward in faith.