Erik Willits is passionate about being formed into the way of Jesus and helping others do that same. With a wealth of experience in ministry, nonprofit leadership, podcasting, writing, and publishing, Erik is committed to helping people find rest, renewal, and spiritual vitality. His work emphasizes spiritual formation, leadership development, and guiding others to deepen their relationship with God. Through his podcasts and publications, Erik shares insights and practical tools for navigating the challenges of life and ministry. Erik lives in Franklin TN with his wife Andrea, and their three children: Jack, Reese, and Soren. In his free time, he enjoys woodworking, BBQ, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with friends.
“I came to faith in middle school after encountering Jesus at a camp. I quickly got plugged into a small local church that embodied the love of Christ. Growing up in a single-parent, irreligious home, my local church became my family and cultivated in me a deep love for Jesus and his kingdom and a desire to serve Christ and his Church. Soon after giving my life to Christ, the Lord began to speak to me through my community about a call to full-time vocational ministry. I attended Olivet Nazarene University, both so I could discern my call to Christian ministry and so I could play tennis. Before I graduated college, I began to get a lot of opportunities to preach at churches, retreats, and camps around the country. Upon graduating, I continued my speaking ministry. I also took graduate-level classes in Bible and theology and started a nonprofit to facilitate my ministry of speaking to and mentoring young ministry leaders. To this day, my heart is to love and follow Jesus and serve his church!”
As an Anglican priest in the Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others, Erik serves with Standing Stone Ministry, providing free and confidential care to pastors, priests, and ministry leaders. He is the founder of Sacred Journey Spiritual Direction. As a spiritual director, Erik is dedicated to helping anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God. Currently, Erik is completing a certificate in spiritual direction through Leadership Transformations and the Selah School of Spiritual Direction.
In addition to his one-on-one work, Erik regularly leads retreats, speaks at camps, and preaches at churches across the country.
Erik holds a bachelor’s degree in ministry from Olivet Nazarene University and a master’s in theological studies from Nashotah Theological Seminary. He has authored three books on the liturgical calendar, and his devotional audio shorts previously aired on Nashville Christian radio. Erik co-hosted the Intersection Podcast with Bishop Todd Hunter and is the host of the forthcoming podcast, "Rediscovering the Church."
Learn more about Erik’s ministry and work at ErikWillits.com
Affiliation and Experience
Anglican Priest, The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others in The Anglican Church of North America
Standing Stone Ministries
Selah Certificate in Spiritual Direction (current)
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