Reverend Dr. Mashona Walston created a neuropath in 2017 during her doctoral research in prayer and the brain. In her work, she found that certain forms of prayer significantly impacted brain and body health. Today, in Dr. Walston’s practice, this research informs her ministries: spiritual direction, life coaching, and pastoral care for widows and divorced persons.
Dr. Walston has over three decades of ministerial experience in both congregation and clinical settings. Now, her focus is not limited by geography or the walls of any institution. Dr. Walston loves providing spiritual support in a nontraditional way. Yes, Dr. Walston is still personally breaking barriers as she is the first woman and nonwhite male to serve as senior minister of one of the oldest religious institutions in America.
Dr. Walston received a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude from Adelphi University; a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from New Brunswick Theological Seminary. She has also earned 5 units of clinical pastoral education, including a chaplain residency at a level I trauma center.
A proponent of neuroscience and prayer to foster resilience, Rev. Dr. Walston’s research combines psychology, brain science, and theology. Dr. Walston is particularly gifted in creating safe and sacred spaces for women of color and different voices from the margin. Her quote, “When the path we walk is not welcoming, it helps to know how to transform a trail of tears into a blaze of glory.”
Rev. Dr. Walston is a popular speaker, presenter, and retreat facilitator. Dr. Walston works with individuals, faith groups, and community partners for more robust and positive relationships in the local, national, and global community.
Watch a clip of Dr. Walston hosting NY States 2023 tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In her free time, Rev. Dr. Mashona Walston enjoys music, reading, and participating in local theater. She lives with her son Chance and their dog Wonder.
Contact for consultation:
Calendly.com/mashonawalston
Spiritual Direction for divorced and widowed
(WOC Coaching) Coaching for Women of Color in business, faith, and service.
Officiant for funerals, memorials, and end of life coaching that focuses on clerical directives and creation of brief life narratives for family and friends.