In May, Palmer Theological Seminary welcomed Wesley A. Johnson II to its Center for Alumni Care and Seminary Engagement (CARES). Wes walks into the room with the electric enthusiasm of one ready to get to work, and for Wes, that work is relationships. “I love doing life with people,” he says with a smile. He now exudes this enthusiasm for his new role as the Assistant Director of Chaplaincy and Community Formation.
As Assistant Director, Wes will serve Palmer’s alumni community offering chaplaincy care and connection. He will also work to develop Palmer’s soon-to-launch Flourishing Leader Project, designed to come alongside, serve, and minister to all church leaders through lifelong learning and spiritual formation opportunities. The planned fall launch will include Fragrant Soul Tending: A Virtual Retreat, a series on Disability and God’s Word, and much more! The Project reflects Palmer’s recognition that Church and Academy have a synergistic relationship. “It is a role I am very excited about. I love to companion those serving in ministry.”
Wes’ passion comes from his history in pastoral ministry serving diverse congregations and as Director of Pastoral Care in the secular realm; he is ordained in the National Baptist Church and Progressive National Baptist Church. Along with that experience and insight, he brings an extensive background in non-profit community work, including multicultural reconciliation, the development of young leaders, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. He has worked with people of all ages in the US, England, and Cameroon, striving to help them lead flourishing lives. “Church leaders have some of the highest levels of depression and stress. We need to be able to support these leaders, telling them ‘You are loved. You are special. Your work matters.’”
For Wes, The Whole Gospel for the Whole World through Whole Persons says it all. He aims to carry out his role as Assistant Director of Chaplaincy and Community Formation in a manner that young leaders, established leaders, and alumni continue to bring their wholeness to their sharing of the Gospel, fostering flourishing wherever they serve. “It is humbling to have the privilege to serve in this space.”
If you see Wes around campus, introduce yourself (that is, if he doesn’t beat you to it!). He would love to listen to your story!
About the Author
Dan lives with his wife, Libby, in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Palmer Theological Seminary with his Master of Divinity in 2018. He now serves full-time as the Director of College and Young Adult Ministries with the Church of the Good Samaritan in Paoli, PA on the campuses of Eastern University and West Chester University. He also serves as a Chaplain and Seminary Storyteller for our Center for Alumni Care and Seminary Engagement.