P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™
for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders in an
Ever-Changing World
Supporting skills refinement and enlightenment through continuing education
Ordained Ministers and Spiritual Leaders carry profound responsibilities. They listen to people’s struggle, offer guidance, and often walk beside individuals through life’s most difficult moments.
Yet many leaders notice something frustrating. The same conversations return again and again, and despite sincere care and wise counsel, deeper change does not always occur.
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute introduces coaching skills that help ministers guide conversations in a different way – conversations that foster awareness, clarity, responsibility, and meaningful forward movement.
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P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™
We invite you to explore our website and workshop offerings to unlock the power of coaching to enrich Minister’s and Spiritual Leader’s personal-professional development in their spiritual leadership journey.
What is the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™?
Get to know the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™—a unique non-denominational, continuing education (CE) training institute designed to help Ministers and Spiritual Leaders develop and refine their coaching skills. This section outlines the Institute’s philosophy, structure, and objectives, providing a compelling case for why this program is a perfect fit for spiritual leaders seeking to expand their capabilities.
How can the history of coaching be viewed through a spiritual lens?
Understanding the roots of coaching and its evolution within a spiritual context can be enlightening. This section explores the historical journey of coaching and its connections to spiritual traditions, offering insights into how coaching has been used to empower and guide others.
Why Coaching Skills for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders?
In this section, we delve into the unique challenges that spiritual leaders face and explain why coaching skills are an invaluable asset. Learn how coaching complements traditional approaches and enhances your personal development and abilities to connect with and support your community.
What are the personal benefits of developing coaching skills?
Discover the tangible benefits of coaching for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders. From improved communication and conflict resolution to increased self-awareness and empowerment, this section highlights how coaching can transform your ministry and strengthen your leadership.
How does coaching align with Spiritual Teachings and Traditions?
Explore the connections between coaching principles and spirituality and traditions. This section illuminates how coaching aligns with ancient wisdom and can be a powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth.
What training is offered by the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ ?
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute’s™ workshops. This section gives you a taste of what to expect, from interactive sessions and peer learning to basic and advanced coaching techniques and specialized coaching topics in pastoral care.
How will the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ help me continue my education?
In this section, we bring everything together, emphasizing the transformative potential of incorporating coaching into spiritual leadership. We encourage you to take the leap and explore the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ as your next steps in your growth and leadership journey.
Will there be opportunities for further growth in the future?
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ provides a sample of future offerings where participants engage in personalized learning that supports Ministers and Spiritual Leaders in mastering communication, conflict resolution through coaching skills.
Who is the Founder of the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ and what have others experienced in her workshops?
This section highlights Dr. Holder’s distinguished background, her mission to support those who serve others, her extensive experience in workshop training and coaching, and the positive feedback from past participants on her delivery and impact.
What are your Frequently Ask Questions?
Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section addresses common inquiries about our workshop offerings. Here, you’ll find information on, the registration process, who is eligible, prerequisites, refund policies, and much more.
What is the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™?
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ is a dynamic continuing education platform for personal and professional development tailored for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders who wish to develop, refine, sharpen, and/or advance their coaching skills. The Institute provides a holistic pathway for growth, offering a range of workshops from beginner to advanced levels. Participants engage in personal development, interactive activities, peer learning, professional enhancement and mentorship, all designed to deepen coaching competencies with a focus on enhancing self-awareness and effectiveness in supporting congregation members’ personal and spiritual growth.
Through these workshops, Ministers and Spiritual Leaders not only develop coaching skills but also gain insights into themselves and their roles within their communities. The Institute creates a space for ongoing training, workshop seminars addressing basic and advanced coaching techniques, and specialized topics related to coaching in pastoral care, and emerging trends in spiritual leadership.
Dr. Holder initially explored coaching skills development for healthcare physicians, educators, and researchers working in high stressed and pressured environments. In these fast-paced settings, where problem-solving and crisis management are the norm, Dr. Holder recognized the need for a shift in perspective—which was to see each of these situations as an opportunity for growth, not just another task to complete or a problem to be solved, although each has its place in the healthcare professionals’ repertoire of skills. In 2018, Dr. Holder designed a coaching workshop, now given annually for selected Duke University Medical Center faculty, that encouraged healthcare professionals to focus on understanding their approach, asking open-ended questions and the P.A.C.E. approach, using coaching skills to model and create mutually win-win situations as leaders in their work spheres of influence.
After seven years of successfully facilitating the P.A.C.E. coaching workshops in the healthcare sector, Dr. Holder decided to combine her deep understanding of human behavior and development, coaching skills, and her spiritual background in applied spirituality (see autobiography) to create the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™. The Institute is dedicated to supporting Ministers and Spiritual Leaders, recognizing that their work often requires them to be both spiritual guides and practical problem-solvers. By combining coaching skills with a spiritual perspective, the Institute™ aims to equip Ministers and Spiritual Leaders with the tools and coaching skills help to serve their communities even more effectively.
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ is more than a skills training program; it is a journey in transformation that empowers Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to lead with wisdom, empathy, and a profound understanding of their role in fostering spiritual growth within their congregations and communities (…and within themselves) through a coaching approach.
Many ministers discover that the difference between a draining conversation and a transformative one often lies in the questions being asked. The P.A.C.E. approach introduces ministers to a structured coaching framework that helps guide conversations toward deeper awareness, insight, and responsible action.
The details of the P.A.C.E. framework are explored during the Information Session and subsequent coach training.
How Can the History of Coaching be Viewed Through a Spiritual Lens?
Coaching, as a concept, traces its roots back to Greece, where the philosopher Socrates engaged in dialogues to help his students gain deeper insights into themselves and their lives. However, the modern practice of coaching began to take shape in the late 20th century. Initially emerging in the sports realm, coaching soon expanded into various other domains, including business, education, and personal development.
Consequently, the evolution of coaching as a profession has traversed diverse landscapes, and yet its intersection with ministry has been both nuanced and profound. While coaching, as we know it today, primarily emerged from secular contexts such as sports and business, its principles and practices have long resonated with the essence of spiritual leadership and pastoral care.
In fact, throughout history, Ministers and Spiritual Leaders have played pivotal roles in guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys, offering wisdom, support, and encouragement along the way. From the spiritual directors of ancient monastic traditions to the revered teachers of mystical wisdom, the essence of coaching – facilitating growth, empowering individuals, and fostering transformation – has been woven into the fabric of spiritual leadership.
However, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that coaching began to crystalize into a distinct profession with formalized methodologies and practices. Initially embraced by corporate executives and life enthusiasts seeking personal growth, coaching gradually found its place within the realm of ministry as well.
As Ministers and Spiritual Leaders grappled with the complexities of contemporary congregational life, they recognized the need for innovative approaches to pastoral care and leadership development. Coaching offers a fresh paradigm – a collaborative partnership focused on empowering individuals to clarify their goals, overcome obstacles, and thrive in alignment with their values and purpose. Today, Ministers and Spiritual Leaders have an opportunity across denominations and traditions to embrace coaching as a transformative tool for both personal and professional growth, thereby recognizing its capacity to deepen their impact and enrich those who seek assistance within their congregations and communities.
Overall, while the language of coaching may be modern, the deeper principle is not new. Spiritual leaders throughout history have helped individuals discover truth through reflection, discernment, and thoughtful questioning. Coaching simply offers a structured way to guide those conversations today.
Why Coaching Skills for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders?
Many Ministers and Spiritual Leaders notice that some conversations leave them energized while others feel draining. Often the difference is not the situation itself, but how the conversation unfolds.
When ministers learn coaching skills, conversations begin to shift. Instead of repeatedly offering advice, the leader helps indviduals recognize patterns, clarify choices and discover their own next step forward.
Ministers and Spiritual Leaders hold profound responsibilities within their communities. They are entrusted with guiding individuals through life’s challenges, offering support during times of need, and fostering spiritual growth and development.
For Ministers and Spiritual Leaders who are committed to their congregation’s well-being, personal and professional growth isn’t just a desire – it’s a sacred duty. Engaging in coaching offers a transformative journey that enriches both their soul’s growth and their service to congregational members.
By gaining skills in coaching, the Ministers and Spiritual Leaders can (personally and professionally) gain:
- Deepened Self-Awareness. Coaching serves as a mirror, reflecting the inner landscapes of Ministers and Spiritual Leaders. Through experiential learning, probing questions and introspective exercises, a new level of authenticity is fostered personally and professionally, providing a solid foundation for guiding others on their spiritual paths.
- Greater Impact. By helping spiritual leaders first to use coaching to clarify their vision, goals, and priorities, they learn the strategies to use a similar lens to help those who come to them for support. The impact on the one becomes the impact for the many.
- Cultivated Resilience. Ministry often entails navigating turbulent waters, from consoling grieving families to addressing contentious issues within the community. In the face of adversity, resilience becomes an invaluable asset. Learning about the conservation of energy in P.A.C.E allows for greater flexibility and awareness in the modulation of energy.
- Heightened Spiritual Connection. Amidst the demands of leading in their communities, it’s easy for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to lose sight of their own spiritual nourishment, as they nourish others. The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ offers a sacred space for reconnecting with the divine, deepening their spiritual practices and replenishing their spiritual wellsprings. Hence, by nurturing their own spiritual vitality, Ministers and Spiritual Leaders can more authentically guide others on their spiritual journeys.
“As you expand your knowledge, your soul grows, fostering a more profound alignment with your inner self and those around you.” Dr. Judith
What Are the Personal Benefits of Developing Coaching Skills?
As ministers develop coaching skills, many experience a noticeable internal shift. Conversations become less about carrying the burden of others and more about guiding meaningful discovery.
Leaders often report feeling more attentive, more discerning and more confident in helping individuals move forward.
Learning coaching skills offers spiritual leaders a myriad of benefits for both their professional and personal development. Some of these benefits include:
- Enhanced Self-awareness: Through reflective exercises and insightful questioning, coaching helps Ministers and Spiritual Leaders gain deeper insights into their values, strengths, and areas for growth.
- Improved Leadership Skills: The role of a spiritual leader is multifaceted, demanding a blend of empathy, vision, and strategic acumen. Coaching acts as a strategic complement, honing interpersonal and leadership skills tailored to the unique challenges of ministry. From mastering the art of compassionate communication to navigating complex organizational dynamics, coaching equips leaders with the tools to inspire, empower, and unite their congregations, allowing them to better lead in their communities with confidence and authenticity.
- Heightened Spiritual Attunement: During difficulties, requests and unexpected demands on one’s energy, it is easy to feel out of sorts, disconnected and stressed. Engaging in coaching skills and strategies offers something that can be used to help self and others feel balanced, in alignment and centered. Ministers and Spiritual Leaders learn to become focused on what really matters as they sort through how they might help others on their spiritual journeys.
- Increased Resilience: Coaching equips spiritual leaders with tools and techniques to navigate the challenges and pressures inherent in their roles, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.
- Expanded Impact: By clarifying their vision, goals, and priorities, coaching enables Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to align their actions with their values, maximizing their impact and effectiveness within their communities.
How Does Coaching Align with Spiritual Teachings and Traditions?
The Teachings of the Ascended Masters, for example and other spiritual traditions, encompasses a vast body of spiritual wisdom and guidance that addresses various aspects of ministry, counseling, and service. While interpretations may vary among different spiritual traditions and teachings, here are some common themes and principles that are universal and integrated into P.A.C.E. model coaching approach, and workshops:
- Empowerment and Self-Responsibility. Coaching can provide strategies for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to support individuals in accessing their inner wisdom, strengths, and resources, empowering them to make conscious choices and create positive change in their lives.
- Compassionate Understanding. Coaching becomes another way to support Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to listen deeply without judgment and to offer support through coaching strategies with love, kindness, and discernment.
- Divine Guidance and Intuition. Coaching as a skill set can encourage Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to embrace a deep connection with the Divine Presence within themselves and to attune to their inner guidance and inspiration in their work with others.
- Inner Healing and Transformation. Through coaching, Ministers and Spiritual Leaders embark on a journey of using proactive ways of creating forward movement for individuals as they identify and release limiting beliefs and negative patterns, allowing them to align more fully with their divine potential.
- Transcendence of a Closed Mindset. Coaching emphasizes the importance of flexibility, transcending weaknesses through understanding blind spots and perceptions that may hinder growth and self-realization. Coaching is a framework for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to shift their and their worshippers’ perspectives from fear to love, from separation to unity, and from limitations to possibilities.
- Service to Others. Coaching offers another lens by which to look at servant leadership for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders engaging in activities that embrace the qualities of humility, grace, compassion, and generosity in their service to humanity, inspiring others to do the same.
At the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ the emphasis is on continuing education, helping the Ministers and Spiritual Leaders inclusive of minister, pastors, and lay ministers continue to grow on their spiritual path while simultaneously providing the skills that will refine their skill set(s) in working in the community.
In this way, coaching becomes more than a conversational technique. It becomes a way of supporting spiritual growth while honoring each individual’s responsibility for their own path forward.
What Training is Offered By the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™?
Lead with Presence. Listen with Intention. Empower Without Carrying It All.
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute equips ministers and spiritual leaders with practical coaching skills that deepen connection, reduce burnout, and empower others to grow without dependency.
This progressive series of workshops is designed for ordained ministers and spiritual leaders who want to strengthen their effectiveness in conversations that matter most—pastoral care, leadership development, conflict navigation, and spiritual discernment. Each level builds on the previous one, moving you from foundational understanding to confident application and sustained practice.
Why Coaching Skills Matter in Ministry
Most ministers were trained to teach, counsel, advise, and care. Very few were trained to coach—yet coaching is often the missing skill that makes everything else more effective.
Coaching skills help you:
- Empower people to discover their own answers rather than rely on you for solutions
- Reduce emotional fatigue by shifting from fixing to facilitating
- Navigate complex, emotionally charged conversations with greater clarity
- Strengthen trust, accountability, and engagement within your community
- Complement counseling, teaching, and pastoral care without replacing them
Participants often discover that small shifts in how questions are asked can completely change the direction of a conversation. This is where coaching begins to transform ministry interactions.
P.A.C.E. coaching is not about doing more. It’s about leading with greater intention, presence, and impact.
YOUR P.A.C.E. LEARNING PATH
Information Session –> Level 1 (Empowerment) –> Level II (Refinement) –> Level III (Fellowship)
Each level builds practical skill, confidence, and depth of application. Participants who complete the Information Session, Levels I, II, and III receive a Certificate of Completion.
Ministers describe the P.A.C.E. approach as the missing structure they had been searching for – one that honors both spiritual wisdom and the realities of human growth.
P.A.C.E. INFORMATION SESSION
Stepping into the World of Coaching: Your gateway into the P.A.C.E. approach
The complimentary Information Session offers an opportunity to see how coaching shifts ministry conversations and to learn how the P.A.C.E. coaching approach supports both spiritual leadership and personal growth
The session helps you understand how coaching fits alongside counseling, mentoring, teaching, and ministering. It is designed to bring clarity, not overwhelm.
What You Will Walk Away With
- Clear distinctions between coaching, counseling, mentoring, teaching, and ministering
- A practical overview of the P.A.C.E. coaching model
- An experiential introduction to coaching conversations
- Seven reasons why coaching significantly amplifies ministerial effectiveness
- A preview of Levels I and II so you can decide your next step with confidence
Format: Virtual (Zoom) | 75 minutes
Investment: Complimentary
Note: Registration required. Cameras on and full participation expected.
Start here. No cost. High value. Limited seats.
P.A.C.E. LEVEL I
Empowerment: Build the foundation that changes your conversations
Level I is the essential first step in integrating coaching skills into your ministry. This highly interactive training moves beyond theory and into real practice, helping you develop the core skills needed to coach with confidence and clarity.
What You Will Walk Away With
- A deep understanding of the P.A.C.E. coaching model and how to apply it in ministry contexts
- Enhanced listening skills grounded in the neuroscience of communication
- Awareness of four common communication blind spots
- Hands-on coaching practice in dyads and triads with real-time feedback
- Tools to foster empowerment, ownership, and growth in others
After Level I, you will approach conversations differently— listening more deeply, asking better questions, and creating space for meaningful insight and action.
Format: Virtual (Zoom) | Two half-day sessions
Workbook: Included
Seats: Limited to 12 participants
Note: Each participant has to have a computer and camera to participate in the interactive activities (i.e., no sharing of computers/cameras). Similar for participants in Level’s II and Level’s III coach training.
This is where coaching becomes real.
P.A.C.E. LEVEL II
Refinement: Confident coaching in complex conversations
Level II builds on the foundation established in Level I and focuses on refinement, discernment, and real-world application. This workshop equips you to coach effectively when conversations become emotionally charged, nuanced, or spiritually sensitive.
What You Will Walk Away With
- Advanced tools for navigating complex coaching conversations
- Increased emotional intelligence and relational awareness
- Greater clarity in distinguishing soul-level and personality-level sensitivities
- Stronger perspective-taking skills for thoughtful, effective interventions
- Practical approaches to goal setting, accountability, and sustained growth
Level II strengthens both skill and confidence, helping you integrate coaching naturally into your leadership and pastoral practice.
Format: Virtual (Zoom) | One full-day session
Workbook: Included
Seats: Limited to 9 participants
Move from basic competence to confident application.
P.A.C.E. LEVEL III
Fellowship: Connecting Through Shared Wisdom
Where skills are embodied and sustained
The P.A.C.E. Fellowship is designed for ordained ministers and spiritual leaders who want to deepen their coaching expertise through ongoing practice, reflection, and peer learning. This intimate, collaborative environment supports long-term integration of coaching skills into real ministry contexts.
What You Will Gain
- Monthly facilitated fellowship sessions with a trusted peer cohort
- Personalized feedback and insight from Dr. Judith
- Advanced coaching techniques and applied learning
- Shared wisdom from real-world ministry experiences
- Increased confidence, clarity, and consistency in coaching practice
Each participant also receives a 20-minute personalized session with Dr. Judith to clarify goals and intentions for the Fellowship experience.
Format: Virtual (Zoom) | Four monthly sessions
Seats: Limited to 9 participants
This is not another course. It’s a community of practice.
REGISTER below. We look forward to seeing you.
Ready to Begin?
Start with the PACE Information Session and step into a coaching approach that strengthens your ministry, supports your well-being, and empowers those you serve.
Limited seats are available at every level. Early registration is encouraged.
Join the Waiting List for Future P.A.C.E. Training and Workshops!
If you’re interested in our upcoming P.A.C.E. Training and Continuing Education Workshop Offerings, sign up on the waiting list by providing your name, and email address. You’ll be notified about future offerings and as soon as registration opens for the courses.
P.A.C.E. APPROACH INFORMATION
Information Session Dates and Times:
- Thursday, January 15, 2026 (12:00PM, EDT)
Friday, January 16, 2026 (10AM EDT) - Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
- Price: Complimentary
Reminder: This is open to all ordained ministers and spiritual leaders. You are required to register for this session and have your cameras on and present for the entire session. - Registration closes January 12, 2026, 11:59pm (EDT)
Note About Signing Up: Session #1 (Thursday, 1/15 @12:00PM, EDT) – 9 spots available and Session #2 (Friday, 1/16 @10:00AM, EDT) – 9 spots available. Both sessions are 75-minutes. Please select one time/day that best fits your schedule
P.A.C.E. APPROACH LEVEL I
- Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 (Day 1) and Thursday, January 29, 2026 (Day 2,)
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (EDT) [Note: Both Days]
- Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Investment:
- Regular Price: Part 1 and Part 2 (1/28 and 1/29): $379.00
- Early Bird Special: $189.50 which is 50% off with coupon code PACE1-50% if registration is completed by Monday, January 19, 2026, 11:59 PM (EDT)
- Note: Payment in full due at time of registration; no partial payments are accepted
- Registration closes on Friday, January 23, 2026 11:59 (EDT).
Only 9 spots are available.
P.A.C.E. APPROACH LEVEL II
- Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Time: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM (EDT)
- Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Investment:
- Regular Price: $197.00
- Early Bird Special: $98.50 is 50% off with coupon code PACE2-50% if registration is completed by Monday, February 2, 2026, 11:59 PM (EDT)
Payment Options:
- Payment in full at registration; no partial payments are accepted
- Registration closes on Friday, February 6, 2026
Note: Pre-requisite is Level I.
Only six spots are available.
P.A.C.E. APPROACH LEVEL III
- Date: On Wednesdays: March 4th, March 25th, April 22nd, and May 20th
- Time: 4:00 PM – 5:15 PM (EDT) [75 minutes]
- Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Investment:
- Regular Price: $ 239.00
- Early Bird Special: $119.50, which is 50% off with coupon code PACE3-50% if registration is completed by Monday, February 16, 2026, 11:59 PM (EDT)
Payment Options:
- Payment in full at registration; no partial payments are accepted.
- Registration closes Thursday, February 19th, 11:59pm for the Fellowship Circle.
Note: Pre-requisite is Level I and Level II
Limited to 6 participants
Note to Participants: All trainings and workshops designed for ordained Ministers and Spiritual Leaders are focused on coaching skills and techniques. Workshops are not counseling or therapy or training in either of these areas. Here are some key points helpful to understand:
- Not Therapy or Counseling: Workshop content does not include therapy, counseling, or mental health treatment. If you have emotional or psychological concerns, you should seek professional therapy from a licensed counselor or psychologist.
- Coaching Focus: Workshop content aims to develop coaching skills that can be used to guide others, enhance leadership abilities, and achieve personal and professional development goals.
- Future-Oriented: Workshop content is about growth and progress; it does not deal with diagnosing or treating mental health disorders.
By participating in these workshops, you acknowledge and agree that:
- The facilitator(s) are not providing therapy, counseling, or psychological training or treatment.
- Each workshop is for educational purposes only, focused on coaching skills, professional and personal development.
- Any information shared during the workshop is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If needed for self or others, seek mental health consultation or professional therapy from a licensed counselor or psychologist.
- Audio or video recording and taking photographs during the session are not permitted. This ensures a respectful and focused environment for all participants. The only exception is for recordings made by the trainer to refine and enhance the coaching program and course content. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
- All sessions require participants to have their cameras on and to be fully engaged and present. It is mandatory for participants to have their individual computer and camera to participate in interactive activities.
If you have any questions about the scope of the workshops, contact P.A.C.E. Institute at in**@******si.com.
Look forward to supporting you in one of our continuing education trainings and workshops at the Institute!
How Will the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ Help Me Continue My Education?
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ is a nondenominational, continuing education platform to support ordained Ministers and Spiritual Leaders in their transformative journey. The workshops are designed to elevate skills, deepen spiritual insights, and foster more meaningful connections with congregations and communities. Through a series of comprehensive workshops, engaging group discussions, and personalized learning experiences, attendees gain the tools to become more effective, empathetic, and impactful spiritual leaders.
By embracing P.A.C.E., participants learn to navigate the complex dynamics of spiritual practice with confidence and compassion. From understanding the nuances of coaching to mastering the art of communication, these workshops offer a holistic framework for growth and refinement. As participants progress through the levels, they gain valuable skills and cultivate a greater awareness of themselves and those they serve.
The Institute invites ordained Ministers and Spiritual Leaders to join the journey of lifelong learning through our continuing education offerings. Together, we will explore new perspectives, address challenges with grace, and strengthen bonds within yourself and your spiritual communities. With each workshop, participants move closer to becoming the leaders they aspire to be—ones who lead with wisdom, authenticity, and a heart attuned to the needs of others.
The P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ and Dr. Holder look forward to welcoming participants to sessions and witnessing the profound impact emerging coaching skills have on one’s spiritual practice and growth. We invite you to take a look at our future offerings as you think about the multi-facet impact of coaching.
“By broadening your understanding through continuing education, you nurture your soul and the souls of those you minister, allowing for a greater attunement with mind, heart and what truly matters.”
Dr. Holder
Will There Be Opportunities for Further Growth in the Future?
As a lifelong learner, periodically revisit this space to learn about upcoming workshops and emerging topics for discussion designed to advance your skills and deepen your understanding as a part of your continuing education journey. As Ministers and Spiritual Leaders, ongoing learning not only enhances your effectiveness but also enriches your soul.
Ministerial Personal Styles: Understanding Self and Others as Ministers and Spiritual Leaders
To effectively lead others, you must first understand yourself. This topic explores the importance of self-awareness and empathy with candor in serving others. Discover techniques to broaden your perspective and connect with others on a deeper level, leading to more meaningful relationships, and a stronger spiritual community.
A Deeper Dive into the Neuroscience of Communication for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders
Discover the science behind how we communicate and why certain interactions feel more effective than others. This topic will give you insights and tools into how the brain processes information and emotions, allowing you to communicate interpersonally with your congregation and peers in a more empathetic and impactful way.
The Art of Giving Clear Feedback in Ministering to Members
Providing feedback is a delicate art. Learn how to offer constructive guidance without alienating those you interact with or lead. This session explores the best practices for giving feedback that inspires growth and fosters a positive environment within your spiritual community.
Know Your Style: Managing Conflict as Ministers and Spiritual Leaders
Conflicts are inevitable, but your approach to resolving them can make a difference in the outcome. Uncover your interpersonal style and gain tools to navigate disagreements with grace and wisdom. Let us help you turn challenging situations into opportunities for growth and unity.
We would Love for YOU to Keep Growing through Future Learning Opportunities for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders
Periodically revisit our website to learn about upcoming workshops and topics designed to advance your skills, deepen your understanding, and earn continuing education hours. As a minister, ongoing learning not only enhances your effectiveness, but also enriches your soul.
As you continue to grow and evolve as Ministers and Spiritual Leaders remember that learning is a journey, not a destination. Each new topic offers an opportunity to expand your knowledge and heart, allowing you to serve your community members with greater insight and compassion.
If you would like to be on our mailing list and have topics you wish the Institute to provide, please complete the form here.
About the Founder
Dr. Judith C. Holder, MS, PhD, PCC, BCC is the executive director of the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™ focused on continuing education for Ministers and spiritual leaders. With over 40 years of service, Dr. Holder is a well-established executive, leadership, interpersonal and communication coach with extensive certifications and a profound commitment to spiritual growth and evolution. As a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and Board-Certified Coach (BCC), Dr. Holder brings a wealth of experience to her coaching clients, focusing on personal, professional, executive, leadership, physician, communication, performance and team coaching. Her diverse credentials include certification as a Physician Development Coach™, Certified Team Coach™, Certified Conversational Intelligence™ Coach, Certified Positive Intelligence Coach©, Certified Neuroscience of Coaching Practitioner©, reflecting her comprehensive understanding of coaching dynamics and interpersonal, communication effectiveness.
In addition to her work with the P.A.C.E. Coaching Skills Institute™, Dr. Holder is the founder and executive director of Unique Pathways Coaching and Consulting Services (uniquepathwayscoaching.com), a boutique coaching and consulting practice serving executives, leaders, managers and professionals in healthcare, business, and nonprofit organizations. As a coach-psychologist, she integrates her clinical training and extensive human services background into her coaching work, bringing depth, discernment, and practical insights to her client engagements. Over many years of working across healthcare, business, and nonprofit environments, she has designed a distinctive coaching approach that is both strategic and relational. Dr. Holder consults with leaders and managers on interpersonal effectiveness in their interactions with colleagues, direct reports, and superiors, helping them navigate complex workplace dynamics with clarity and confidence. She is known for her straightforward style, grounded presence and her ability to use humor thoughtfully to support learning, growth, and connection.
Beyond her coaching expertise, Judith has a deep and ongoing passion for spiritual growth and soul evolution. This stems from her client interests, and continuous contemplative exploration of spirituality for over five decades. Specifically, her dedication is to integrating spiritual principles into everyday living. Dr. Holder collaborates with individuals and provides workshops to help participants understand how to maintain their connection to their soul self, Christ-like values, and the Creator and wishes to bring this knowledge of P.A.C.E. Coaching to Ministers and Spiritual Leaders and their members as they move through the various challenges life presents. She emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being and its impact on personal and professional success.
Dr. Holder has authored insightful books, “Mastering Life’s Adventures On the Beam: Essential Insights for Growth and Self-Mastery” (2012), and an e-book, “Opening Up to Your Divinity: Practical Strategies and Practices for Soul Growth” (2020) and recently released new e-books. In 2022, she launched her educational podcast, “Mastering Life’s Adventures: Being Your Best Self Through Soul Evolution,” where she explores the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and wellness. Through solo episodes and guest interviews, Dr. Holder shares her knowledge and experiences to inspire and guide listeners on their spiritual-soul journeys. Her Facebook page is Mastering Life’s Adventures with Dr. Judith in addition to her YouTube channel, Mastering Life’s Adventures with Dr. Judith – YouTube (@drjudithmla) and Instagram page (@drjudithmla22) allowing her to connect with a broader audience.
Dr. Judith is the owner and content creator with her team of a faceless YouTube Channel, entitled, “The Power of Y.O.U.-Uniqueness (2023)” dedicated to providing high-quality educational content covering a wide range of subjects, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. As stated on her channel, We empower you to be your best self through content on a) personal growth, b) professional and leadership development, c) interpersonal effectiveness at work, in relationships and at home and d) applied spirituality and psychology in everyday living content, found at The Power of Y.O.U.-Uniqueness – YouTube.
Dr. Holder’s academic background is as impressive as her coaching and spiritual credentials. She earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in stress management from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and holds a master’s degree in Systems Dynamics (Marriage and Family Therapy and Community Development and Prevention) from the University of Maryland-College Park. As a former American Psychological Association and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health fellow, she is one of the few psychologists clinically trained as an Occupational Health Psychologist in the United States. She has over 40 years of working in settings such as academic medicine, employee assistance programs, community mental health, corporate business and nonprofits providing counseling, workshops, trainings, coaching, consultation and facilitation on topics related to personal and professional development.
Dr. Holder’s unique combination of coaching certifications, spiritual insights, and extensive academic and clinical training makes her a highly sought-after expert in personal and professional development. She continues to inspire and guide individuals and workshop participants on their journeys toward holistic growth, self-mastery, and spiritual evolution.
Book Releases by Dr. Judith – For New and Seasoned Spiritual Explorers
Dr. Judith’s books provide invaluable insights and practical guidance for those seeking to master life’s adventures through a spiritual lens. Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or looking to deepen your path, these e-books offer powerful practical tools for personal and spiritual growth.
Released in 2022
Opening Up to Your Divinity: Practical Strategies & Practices for SOUL
Growth (2022)
Dive deeper into the sacred connection between your soul and the divine. This book offers transformative practices to awaken and expand your spiritual essence, empowering you to live in harmony with your highest self.
Click to purchase: books2read.com/u/mlw1vq
December 2024 Release
Laying the Foundation: BUILDING CLARITY AND MASTERY IN YOUR LIFE’S JOURNEY
Start building a solid foundation for your personal and spiritual growth with this transformative guide. Learn to overcome mental and emotional barriers, creating lasting clarity and mastery in your life’s journey.
Click to purchase: books2read.com/u/mqkR9O
New Release (Coming in 2026)
Barriers & Roadblocks: PART 1 – WHAT GETS IN YOUR WAY IN YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY?
Uncover the hidden obstacles blocking your spiritual path. This insightful book delves into the common challenges we face on our soul’s journey and offers practical reflections to help identify what stands between you and your fullest potential.
Future Release
Barriers & Roadblocks: PART 2 – ESSENTIAL KEYS AND STRATEGIES FOR SOUL OVERCOMING
Learn to overcome the barriers holding you back. Packed with practical tools, strategies, and transformative wisdom, this book provides the essential steps to rise above challenges and continue your journey with newfound strength and confidence.
Future Release
Breaking New Ground: HELPFUL TIPS FOR UNDERSTANDING YOUR SOUL
Explore the depths of your soul and its unique purpose in the world. This book serves as your roadmap to understanding your spiritual identity, uncovering the truths about who you are, and stepping into your soul’s purpose with clarity and confidence.
Testimonials
Sample of Testimonials from Workshop Participants
Very clear communication. Good amount of repetition and explanation to elucidate concepts and improve learning | Excellent speaking skills, neat in appearance, very informative| Well informed. Professional. Her passion for what she does was evident. I learned so much | Dr. Holder did a phenomenal job condensing a day-long workshop into a shorter period without sacrificing quality | I would recommend this session to other groups. AWESOME!
Dr. Holder is excellent in expressing her knowledge and passing it along | She’s really good at what she does. I want her to be my coach | Encouraging, insightful and manages discussion well | Like the exercises and practical advice | Clear, thoughtful, and smart | Organized, utilizes adult learning methods, has concrete examples and provided useful take home points | An effective communicator, very good with synthesizing and summarizing group thoughts and reframing them | Extremely knowledgeable | Dr. Holder has the ability to provide critical techniques that can not only be applied to my professional life, but also to my personal life as well | Excellent workshop!
Excellent session. Engaging and very useful information | Very effective speaker I learned a lot | Thorough subject knowledge, great insight | Expertise regarding the topic and very insightful | Dr. Holder is amazing and thought-provoking. A real asset to this program | Dr. Holder is fluent and dexterous in presenting the material for difficult conversations. I enjoyed how she allows us to express ourselves and promotes discussion.
Patient & very helpful | She was very good with facilitating & moving across the different sections | Awesome energy | Very easy to listen to & converse with | Very thorough despite limited time | This was engaging and very useful in developing strategies for communication, glad we ended on time too.
Participant Comments Regarding Dr. Holder’s Presentation Style
- Easy to talk to. Gives us more tools to move forward.
- Calm presence. Personal, articulate, welcoming, thoughtful feedback.
- Fantastic! Facilitated great discussion, chimed in when needed.
- Amazing facilitator of discussion and enjoyable, able to distill the mood or commentary into words.
- Guided discussion well, encouraged participation.
- Thank you! Your warmth and demeanor was very inviting.
- She is very present; carried the conversation and made it a safe space.
- Fantastic!
- Allowed the session to be led by participants and not assumed anything.
Ready to get started?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to enroll in these workshops?
Intentionally, these workshops are tailored for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders who have a degree from an educational institution or academy that focuses on theological and religious studies. Ideal participants are those seeking additional training or continuing education in coaching to enhance their ability to guide and support their congregations and communities more effectively.
How do I register for a workshop?
To register for our workshops, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the “Workshops” section.
- Select the one you’re interested in.
- Click on the workshop title to view details and ensure it meets your needs.
- Click the “Register” button and fill out the required information.
- Complete the payment process.
- You will receive a confirmation email with further details.
What is the difference between the Introduction Session, Level 1 Session, and Level II Session?
The Introduction Workshop is a 1-hour session that provides a basic overview of coaching principles and techniques. The Level 1 is two half-day sessions (Part I and Part II) that offers P.A.C.E. training in the context of some of the core coaching competencies, suitable for beginners. The Level II is a half-day session and focuses on advanced coaching methodologies and is ideal for those who have completed the Introductory and Level 1 sessions.
Do I need any prior coaching experience to attend these workshops?
No prior coaching experience is required for the Introduction Workshop. However, for the Level 1 Workshop, the perquisite is the Introductory Workshop. The Level II Workshop is designed for those who have completed the Level 1 Workshop. These coaching workshops build on each other (Introduction, Level 1, Level II), which allows the participant to fully engage in our final offering, the Fellowship Groups, which meet twice a month for two months.
Where are the workshops held?
Our training workshops convene virtually through ZOOM. You will receive detailed information upon registration. You are responsible for ensuring that you have checked for time zone differences and converted your calendar entry to the appropriate time zone.
What are the technical requirements to attend the workshop via ZOOM?
It will be your responsibility to have a stable internet connection and the most recently updated version of ZOOM. You will need a computer or tablet with internet access, a webcam, and a microphone. We recommend using headphones for better audio quality and minimizing background noise.
Note: All workshop participants are required to have a computer or laptop that has a working camera.
What should I do if I experience technical difficulties during the online workshop?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds for technical issues on the participant’s end. If you have technical problems, please contact the ZOOM directly for assistance.
Can I get a recording of the workshop if I cannot attend live?
We do not provide recordings of the workshops, but you will have access to course materials. Recording of the workshops is prohibited.
How should I manage background noise and distractions during the workshop?
To ensure a productive and respectful learning environment, please participate from a quiet location, free of distractions. Keep your microphone muted when not speaking to minimize background noise.
What materials do I receive with each workshop?
Twenty-four hours before the workshop, participants will receive digital course materials and access to online resources relevant to each workshop. A list of additional resources will be provided, and participants may wish to purchase these to deepen their learning between workshops.
Are there any follow-up assignments or homework after the workshops?
While there are no mandatory assignments, we provide optional exercises and resources to help you continue developing your coaching skills after the workshop.
Will there be any follow-up support after the workshops?
Yes, we offer ongoing support through our Fellowship Group, meeting for four sessions, and follow-up one-on-one coaching sessions are available to help you implement what you’ve learned. Ask Dr. Holder about the coaching rate for Ministers and Spiritual Leaders.
What should I bring to the workshop?
You should bring a notebook, pen, and any questions on specific coaching-related issues you’d like to address during the workshop (Level 1 and Level II). All other materials will be provided.
How do I enroll in a workshop?
You can enroll by clicking Enroll Now or Registration buttons on our website for the respective workshop, which will guide you through the registration process. Note: you must register at least 4 days prior to the workshop. Registration ends 4 days before the workshop.
Are there any discounts available?
We offer early bird discounts and group discounts of four or more from the same organization. Early bird discounts and group discounts cannot be used simultaneously. Please check our website for current promotions or contact us.
What is the refund policy?
We offer a full refund if you cancel your registration at least 7 days before the workshop date. Cancellations made within 7 days of the workshop will receive a 50% refund. However, no refunds are available for cancellations made two days before the workshop.
Can I get a refund if my ZOOM is having technical problems?
No. Please ensure prior to joining each workshop session that your ZOOM and computer are working, and you have audio and video connectivity. Note: computer cameras should be set to be on.
Can I switch to a different workshop date after registering?
Yes, you can switch one time to a different date for the same workshop if space is available. Please contact us as soon as possible to arrange this. However, for P.A.C.E. approach training series (Information, Level I, Level II, Level III sessions) NO switching is permitted.
Is there a certification provided after completing the workshops?
Yes, participants who collectively complete the Introduction Session, and Level 1 and Level II Workshops will receive a certificate of completion.
Is there a dress code for the workshops?
For online workshops, we recommend business casual attire to help create a professional learning environment. For in-person workshops, if offered, please dress comfortably and appropriately.
How can I network with other participants during the workshop?
We encourage networking through breakout sessions, and group activities. Participants will have the option to approve the release of their email address to other workshop participants.
Will you offer in-person training workshops?
Most of our training workshops are conducted online through ZOOM. However, we do offer in-person workshops based on demand and group size. These in-person sessions are arranged by the sponsoring host, who is responsible for securing the location, providing travel expenses and accommodation for the facilitator, ensuring AV support is available, covering the facilitator fee, and providing administrative support. All arrangements, including location setup and technical requirements, will be coordinated with input from the workshop facilitator to ensure a smooth and effective training experience.
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