Wesley Rowell

Denomination: The Episcopal Church (TEC)
Organization: Virginia Theological Seminary, Alexandria, VA

Wesley Rowell is (as of Dec 2024,) a postulant for holy orders in The Episcopal Church, currently pursuing a Diploma in Anglican Studies at Virginia Theological Seminary. A graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity in 2023, Wesley was recognized with the Edward Howell Roberts Scholarship in Preaching and the Mary Long Greir-Hugh Davies Award in Preaching. His academic focus included Black Church Studies and Theology, Women & Gender.

Raised in the AME Zion Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Wesley’s spiritual journey reflects a deep commitment to justice, race, and theology. After two decades in New York City as a professional musician, Wesley discerned a call to ministry, influenced by his upbringing as the grandson of a pastor and his experiences as a lay pastoral associate at Trinity Episcopal Church in Princeton, N.J.

Wesley’s unique perspective blends his artistic background—he holds a Bachelor of Music from Methodist College and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Illinois—with a passion for preaching that uplifts and transforms. He is inspired by John 1:14: "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us."

A gifted communicator, Wesley speaks to themes of joy, resilience, and community. His sermon on Day1, "Keeping Joy by Giving It Away," draws from Luke 3:7-18 and offers listeners an Advent message of transformation and hope.

Outside of ministry, Wesley enjoys singing karaoke, dancing, and exploring diverse musical genres—from Bach to Beyoncé.