Proverbs 31:26, She opens her mouth with wisdom, And on her tongue is the law of kindness. I have journeyed together with Janie for about 15 years. For me she has been a teacher, preacher and counselor but what has touched me the most is the times she was just my friend during the due seasons in my life. Without fail when she greets me she will says,”Hello my dear how are you”. If I respond , I’m good she would say glad to hear that. If I was to respond , “I am not good”, then she would ask me if I want to talk about it and we would find a quiet spot and talk. She has ALWAYS made time for me if I needed her. I Thank God for leading our paths together as we journey this life. Her calming and sweet spirit has helped calm my inner storms over the years. I pray God's Blessings over your life and may the Holy Spirit continue to fill you, lead you and surround you with Peace, Wisdom and Knowledge.

Janie Walker has been a trusted spiritual leader in Richmond for many years. When her name is spoken it is usually coupled with words like "powerful preacher, trusted spiritual director, wise mentor, community leader, thoughtful organizer and respected minister". Janie has been invaluable to me as a spiritual director and mentor, and I have witnessed her leadership in community and in worship. Janie brings people together with honesty, compassion and clarity. Anyone who calls upon her gifts in ministry will be blessed indeed.

Rev. Walker has been a trusted mentor, pastoral confidant, counselor, and friend to me over my years in Richmond. As a young white woman desiring to follow God into the work of racial healing in our community, Rev. Walker was a needed authority, guide, and counsel to me. I love her even confidence, her deep love, her steady perspective, and her strength. She is a leader through and through and one that has brought people together during dividing times.

When I think of Janie, the first phrase that rises up in my spirit is "a strong woman of God." She truly embodies the grace, dignity, determination, fearlessness, and wisdom that expression evokes. Living in community with her offers me the opportunity to experience her presence in various roles. She serves broadly as a Pastor to all connected with Richmond Hill. Within this work, she expresses her gifts as a highly skilled and attentive administrator, a prudent counselor, mentor, and spiritual director, a gentle and knowledgeable teacher and preacher, and an aide to all in need wherever needed. Those who encounter her are blessed by her anointing to the glory of God. Amen.

I have known Janie Walker since 2008. She and I worked together when I was shifting my faith-based non-profit toward a community development focus. Janie helped develop our leadership training materials and also launched a worship service for some of our community residents. It was Janie's wise council that helped shape the vision and mission of Embrace Richmond during one of the most crucial times in our history.

When Janie left our team, she continued as my spiritual director. As an Executive Director, I often feel overwhelmed and alone. Janie has helped me gain perspective and refocus my energy in a way that is most life giving to me personally and to my organization. Her still, calm presence helps me to slow down, listen to the spirit, and discern with greater clarity how to move forward during both difficult and promising times.

I highly recommend Janie as a spiritual director, teacher, preacher or speaker.