The Right Reverend E. Mark Stevenson has called Mr. Tyler Henderson to serve as the Pathways to Prayer and Practice Grant Director, managing the five-year ministry project to create and evaluate innovative approaches to incorporating children into worship in meaningful and authentic ways. Tyler will begin his ministry on February 24, 2025.
Bishop Stevenson said of Tyler,
“The Pathways to Prayer and Practice ministry is an important element in how we will live into our shared mission to love Jesus, embody justice, and be disciples. Tyler Henderson’s impressive background with managing complex projects and engaging diverse stakeholder networks will be a great asset to the diocese as we collaboratively re-imagine intergenerational worship.”
Mr. Henderson said,
“I am honored to take on this role and look forward to applying a data-driven approach to help children and their families deepen their relationship with God. This opportunity allows me to combine my background in research and strategic planning with a faith-based mission, creating lasting, meaningful engagement for young people in worship. I believe that fostering faith formation early in life not only strengthens individual families but also nurtures stronger, more connected communities.”
Bishop Harris stated further,
“Tyler Henderson leads with humility, curiosity, and intelligence. He recognizes the value in developing networks to reveal the innovative ministries for children and families that are already thriving, so that all faith communities in the diocese can benefit.”
Interim Canon for Discipleship Heidi Kim added,
“Tyler has deep experience with research and program design, collaborating with diverse stakeholder groups, and evaluating the success of complex programs. Most importantly, he brings a passion for listening and learning; his ability to ask creative and provocative questions about how we will be the church together will be a tremendous asset to this ministry.”
Tyler Henderson was born in Richmond, Virginia, and raised in Chesterfield County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Leadership Studies from Christopher Newport University and pursued graduate studies in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at the University of South Florida, where his research focused on the psychological foundations and potential societal benefits of mindfulness.
Throughout his career, Tyler has blended research, planning, and strategic development to create meaningful, community-focused initiatives. He has worked as a Research Project Manager for the Virginia Education Association, a User Experience Researcher at JB Hunt and Thermo Fisher Scientific, and most recently as a Regional Planner with the Commonwealth Regional Council, where he helped localities develop long-term strategic plans.
Tyler is honored to step into faith-based work, continuing a family legacy of service. His mother, Kim Henderson, worked for the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia, the Church Schools of Virginia, and most recently for Trustees of the Funds. He looks forward to applying his expertise in research, process improvement, and strategic planning to enrich faith formation for children and families, helping shape meaningful, lifelong spiritual engagement for young people.
Tyler currently lives in rural Buckingham County, Virginia, with plans to relocate to the Richmond area in the near future. He and his wife, Isabelle, have two daughters, Frida (5) and Antonia (2), and are expecting their third child this summer. Their home wouldn’t be complete without their dog and a few outdoor cats they care for. He has a lifelong love of sports and enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, riding bikes, exploring state parks, and celebrating their faith together through music, prayer, and time in nature.