Dr. David M. Oliver

Dr. David Oliver earned his Bachelor’s of Science degree from Syracuse University in Family and Community Services, a Master’s of Divinity from Duke University Divinity School and his Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation from Asbury Theological Seminary. He joyfully uses his spiritual gifts of teaching, pastor, administration, leadership, and apostleship to serve others.

For many years, Dr. Oliver has been a Spiritual Director for clergy and lay leaders. He is a Mentor and Coach in the Pastors of Excellence and Leaders of Excellence programs of Ashland Seminary. Dr. Oliver is an adjunct professor at the undergraduate and graduate levels at both Malone University and Ashland University in Ohio. He teaches Spiritual Formation, Biblical Studies, Missions, Theology, Pastoral Care, and other courses in practical theology. He has been a participant and leader in many spiritual renewal events.

Dr. Oliver has expertise in personality types, leadership development, team building, congregational renewal, spiritual gifts discovery, as well as conflict resolution. He is qualified to administer and interpret the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis, Prepare/Enrich and several 360º leadership assessments.

Dr. Oliver is a joint founder of Life Purpose Institute, an organization whose mission is to create people of influence through life transforming encounters. Those who wish to learn more are invited to view the web site: www.findyourplaceinlife.com.

Dr. Oliver grew up in a pastoral family and was a pastor for nearly thirty years until God called him to full time Christian Leadership Coaching and Spiritual Direction. He is a certified Christian Leadership Coach with Valwood in North Carolina and has additional coach specific training with CoachNet, an organization founded by Dr. Bob Logan, a well-known church growth consultant and coach trainer. Dr. Oliver is the author of three books – Experiments in Prayer: Personality Influenced Prayer Styles; Gifts We Bring to Honor the King and Songs for A Savior.

Dr. Oliver is very familiar with the deserts as well as the delights of ministry. He knows how to help leaders maximize their effectiveness, grow through difficulties and challenges, and is gifted in helping leaders find an oasis in their desert.