When BGAV launched the Empower Coaching Network in 2016, it began as a simple idea with a deep purpose: to help pastors and ministry leaders discover the God-given answers already present within their churches. That vision took shape under the leadership of Ken Kessler and is now transitioning to another thoughtful leader, Michael Pumphrey.

As Ken retires, the role of Director of Coaching formally passes to Michael Pumphrey, who currently serves as Assistant Director of Coaching and has been involved in BGAV life for many years. Their transition marks both the celebration of a strong foundation and an exciting new chapter ahead.

Building a Culture of Listening

Ken’s passion for coaching grew out of more than 12 years of previous personal coaching experience. Having witnessed fractures in relationships across Baptist life—often caused by theological tensions or social issues—he saw coaching as a pathway to rebuild trust and cooperation.

“As a denominational leader, I see the need to listen more than we talk,” Ken reflected. “Our pastors and leaders are experts in their own settings. Coaching helps bring out the best in them.”

Pumphrey Will Build on Rich Legacy

From small beginnings, the coaching ministry has grown significantly. Since 2016, more than 230 coaches have been

trained, and coaching practices have been incorporated into BGAV initiatives such as Kairos, Uptick, Impact, and Fresh Expressions. Coaching has helped staff and pastors find renewed focus, clarity, and courage to take action.

The program’s influence extends beyond Virginia. With international professional credentials in both coaching and Christian coaching, Ken trained coaches around the world, modeling the very practices he was taught: deep listening, thoughtful questions, and steady encouragement.

One of Ken’s most meaningful coaching memories comes from a pastor who felt stuck and discouraged. As they talked, the pastor realized he had been pushing his congregation too hard without listening to their stories and the Spirit’s movement. That simple shift led to slow but steady renewal. “Sometimes we push so hard for change,” Ken says, “that we miss what God is already doing.”

Preparing for a Thoughtful Transition

The transition to new leadership began last summer. Executive Director Wayne Faison wanted to ensure a smooth transition in leadership, so he invited Michael to work alongside Ken for several months.

Michael served as assistant director for the past year and has been actively involved in developing the next phase of coaching initiatives. Their collaboration has focused on expanding the vision, strengthening the coaching culture, and preparing new training pathways.

This transition shows illustrates how BGAV’s commitment to coaching is deepening. “We want our churches to know that we are here to listen, ask deeper questions, and help them live into the potential God has given them,” Ken explains.

Meet Michael Pumphrey: New Director of Coaching

Michael’s passion for coaching comes from a unique blend of ministry experience, engineering training, and two decades of church planting and interim leadership. Before stepping into ministry, he worked in structural engineering, where he learned systems thinking, careful design, and strategic planning. Those skills now shape his coaching approach, helping churches understand how their structure, culture, and calling work together.

A longtime Virginia Beach resident—and Cleveland sports fan—Michael and his wife, Connie, have raised their four children near the water while keeping strong ties to their Ohio roots. Since first planting a BGAV-affiliated church almost 20 years ago, Michael has been deeply connected to BGAV life. He later joined the BGAV staff to lead Mid-Atlantic church planting, recruitment, and coaching efforts. His experience has given him a realistic and hopeful understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges facing churches today.

As he steps into this new leadership role, Michael is looking ahead with energy and clarity. He plans to launch congregational clarity cohorts that help churches understand how they are positioned for the future. These cohorts will blend assessments, workshops, and coaching conversations that build emotional and organizational awareness within congregations.

“I love helping pastors and congregations grow to their fullest capacity in Christ,” Michael says. “I want to see the Church become a place where good things run wild.”

Why Coaching Matters Now

Churches across the commonwealth are facing a rapidly changing world. Many feel unprepared for the shifts happening around them, yet BGAV believes God has already given congregations the wisdom and calling they need for this moment.

Coaching fits this vision. It reinforces the belief that God speaks through people he has placed in each community. BGAV coaches help leaders listen for the Spirit, ask better questions, and take meaningful action.

Looking Ahead: An Invitation to Virginia Baptists

As the ministry grows under Michael’s leadership, new opportunities will open for both individuals and congregations. BGAV will continue offering training in coaching conversations, leadership development experiences, and cohorts that help churches discover their next faithful steps.

Pastors and church leaders are invited to explore how coaching might help them listen more deeply, gain clearer focus, and respond boldly to God’s call. Those interested can join future training events or request a free introductory coaching conversation to see how the process might serve their church’s mission.

The transition from Ken to Michael marks not just the end of one season, but the beginning of another rich chapter. It is a moment to look with hope toward a future where BGAV churches continue to listen well, ask faithfully, and follow God’s leading with courage.

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