ABOUT
Meet Dr. Michael Droege
Founder of The Willow Haven Project, Michael is a scholar-practitioner with a pastor’s heart. He has served as a congregational pastor, youth ministry leader, university lecturer, and consultant for churches across traditions.
Michael’s work integrates theology, sociology, psychology, and educational theory to help leaders not only solve problems but create conditions where faith communities can flourish for generations.
Our Heart for Ministry
At The Willow Haven Project, we believe healthy ministry begins with deep roots and safe spaces.
The willow’s roots reach deep into the earth, drawing strength through every drought and storm. Its branches bend, not break, in the wind—creating a haven where new life can grow. In the same way, we help churches and leaders remain grounded in rich traditions while adapting to new realities with courage and grace.
Whether you’re navigating change, facing burnout, or longing for renewed vision, we walk with you—offering a place of reflection, a steadying presence, and a path toward flourishing.
Our Commitment to You
We don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions. We listen, we learn your story, and we work with you to design next steps that fit your unique community and calling.
With us, you’ll find:
-
Theological Depth – Rooted in tradition and informed by leading research.
-
Practical Strategies – Plans you can actually put into action.
-
Sustainable Growth – Coaching helps root projects that can weather challenges.
Services
How We Serve Churches & Leaders
Congregational Coaching
Align your mission, vision, and practice for renewed mission and clarity.
Leadership Formation
Build resilience and capacity through pastoral coaching, team training, and clergy wellness.
Courses
Create intergenerational discipleship pathways that nurture lasting faith.
Research & Speaking
Gain fresh insight through commissioned studies, keynote speaking, and workshop facilitation.
Why Choose The Willow Haven Project?
We live at the intersection of practical theology, leadership development, and congregational vitality.
With over 30 years of ministry experience, a PhD in Practical Theology, 15 years of congregational coaching and workshopping, 6 years as a seminary instructor, a vast network of some of the greatest minds across multiple disciplines, and a track record of equipping leaders across denominations, Willow Haven can bridge the gap between research and real-life ministry.
We specialize in
-
Generational faith formation strategies
-
Navigating cultural and demographic change
-
Cross-cultural ministry and community engagement
-
Long-term pastoral and congregational health
Kind Words. What people say...
TESTIMONIALS
"Being coached by Michael Droege is like apprenticing to a great chef. You know that you will be growing through the very power of the coaching relationship itself. Vibrant Faith was the recipient of three years of Michael's coaching gifts on behalf of 4 churches in our Thriving Congregations Project. We found Michael's work with his churches to be innately compassionate yet deeply fruitful for the churches he accompanied. He aided them in digging under the obvious roadblocks to find new ways of thinking and being. We were grateful for the wisdom and clarity that he brought to these churches and to the goals of the entire project."
Dr. Nancy S. Going, Vibrant Faith Director of Research and Resources.
"Michael knows church life and he knows church leaders. Over my 50 years of church ministry I have been privileged to work with a small number people that I trust to always provide the best service for a church and its leaders. Michael is one of those people. This is the highest recommendation I can give."
John Roberto, President, Lifelong Faith Associates
Blogs
I’m here to help you find the clarity, courage, and resilience you need for the road ahead.
Contact
Join our Newsletter
Get the latest when you sign up for our newsletter.