Gwen Durkee, Pastor & Christian Women's Speaker on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Christian Ministry and Faith-Based Public Speaking

Gwen Durkee

Pastor & Christian Women's Speaker, Tyson Methodist Church

Versailles, IN 47042

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Anderson University Degree IU East Degree Indianapolis University Cert Certified Christian Women's Speaker

In Conversation

Gwen Durkee for Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.

Read the transcript Interview

Gwen Durkee: But when you follow your dreams and you don't listen to those negative voices, and you surround yourself with other women who lift you up and encourage you, your dreams become possible and then a reality.

What does being an Influential Woman mean to you?

Gwen Durkee: To me, being an influential woman is exciting, and it is a, a goal that I have each and every day. I take what I do very seriously, and I would never want to lead anyone astray. My desire is to inspire hope and inspiration to other women so that they can know that their dreams are possible as well. There are many people in our lives that possibly would seek to discourage us. But when you follow your dreams and you don't listen to those negative voices, and you surround yourself with other women who lift you up and encourage you, your dreams become possible and then a reality.

What's one piece advice would you give to younger women chasing their dreams?

Gwen Durkee: What one piece of advice would I give to younger women chasing their dreams? Well, I think of my granddaughters, and I've always encouraged them to follow what they're passionate about, to never give up, even if you fail. That's not a setback, because when we fail, we learn from our failures and we grow. And so I would encourage younger women to work hard, follow your dreams, be passionate about what you want to do. And then fulfill your dreams by following that passion.

Full transcript available

Her Story

About Gwen

Gwendolyn A. Durkee, known as Gwen, is a dedicated Christian speaker and pastor from Indiana, serving as the Senior Pastor at Tyson Methodist Church in Versailles, IN. Her journey to pastoral leadership has been marked by a deep commitment to faith, mentorship, and community service. Gwen has leveraged her experiences to help others find their spiritual path, particularly supporting women through her signature talk, "Walking Through the Fire with Jesus," which explores overcoming loss, betrayal, and life’s challenges through faith.

Gwen’s leadership extends beyond the pulpit. She has been actively involved in launching programs such as Bible studies for women and supports community initiatives supporting children who have experienced abuse, building on her past work as a CASA volunteer. She combines her pastoral work with a passion for music, pottery, and outdoor activities like jet skiing and kayaking, reflecting her belief in holistic personal growth alongside spiritual development.

Recently certified as a Christian Women’s Speaker, Gwen is expanding her platform to speak at women’s events beyond church settings, aiming to inspire and empower through her testimony, humor, and the power of God’s Word. Her personal journey of faith and perseverance, including finding a loving and supportive spouse after years of prayer, underscores her message of hope, resilience, and divine guidance in both personal and professional life. Gwen’s mission is to help women break barriers, overcome doubts, and grow stronger in their faith journey, sharing the healing power of Jesus Christ with all who hear her speak.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Gwen

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to faith and divine guidance from God, who has blessed me with a loving partner who shares in life’s joys, humor, and responsibilities.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Don't give up! Failing is one step closer to success!

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I would advise young women entering ministry to rely on their faith and seek out mentors who can guide and support them along the way.

04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me in my work and personal life are God, Jesus, creativity, family connection, and embracing an active, adventurous lifestyle.

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