For more than twenty years, Rev. Benjamin “B. J.” Barlow has walked alongside churches through seasons of growth, challenge, and renewal. Along the way, he has served in music ministry, directed camp and international cultural immersion programs, guided congregations through revitalization and crisis, and created spaces where faith communities can deepen their commitment to justice and inclusion.
B. J. is ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and holds partnership standing with the United Church of Christ. He has served in local congregations, regional leadership, and national ministry settings. Over the years, his ministry has been recognized with multiple awards for promoting peace and inclusion. He is also trained to lead clergy antiracism workshops and healthy boundaries training, equipping both clergy and congregations to live healthier, more faithful relationships. A lifelong learner with a deep curiosity about faith and leadership, B. J. holds a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, as well as additional training in executive leadership, non-profit management, and spiritual entrepreneurship. These experiences have given him tools to help congregations not only face change with courage but also discover new possibilities for thriving together.
Outside of ministry, B. J. enjoys creative outlets like working in his pottery studio and performing in community theater. He also loves watching movies, fishing, and learning Spanish. B. J. and his wife of 20 years, Megan, share their home with two cats, Emmet and Ellie, who keep life lively and full of surprises.
Rev. Barlow is excited to get to know First Congregational Church of Janesville, to listen for how God’s Spirit is moving here, and to share in the work of writing the next chapter of this congregation’s story together.
