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.

Through my time at Richmond Hill over the last 19 years I have come to know Janie Walker well and have worked closely with her as faculty member in The RUAH School for Spiritual Guidance and on the Council of Richmond Hill. She is a strong and deeply spiritual woman of faith with many gifts. Janie is a compassionate and caring leader of the Richmond Hill staff and community of residential members. Her knowledge and understanding of scripture comes through her powerful and profound preaching. She is well known and respected throughout the Richmond Metro area as a prayerful faith leader, as a spokesperson for racial healing, and social justice. Janie is a natural teacher particularly in regards to scripture, social justice, and the power of healing through forgiveness. It is a blessing to have worked with her over these many years. I have learned a lot from her and grown on my own spiritual journey as a result.

Rev. Walker is excellent in all she does. I have worked with her and shared in many of the situations she has shared in her description. She possesses a keen ability to work and relate with people from all backgrounds, beliefs and skills. She is very compassionate, a great listener, discerning and present with all those in need as well as all situations. She is a strong leader, visionary and implementer. I cannot fully describe the full depth and breath of her knowledge and competencies but would highly recommend her to individuals, organizations and groups.

I've known and worked with Janie in a variety of roles over the years. She is a woman of God, devoted mother and grandmother, competent leader and teacher, organized, speaks her truth, gets things done, hospitable, strong presence, yet gentle speak. It has been my honor watching her use her gifts to the Glory of God