Rev. Bertina J. H. Westley

The Reverend Bertina J. H. Westley came to Stephens City UMC in September 2021.  She was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Illinois and drinks from a White Sox cup every day, despite not having seen a baseball game in years.

Earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Justice Systems from Truman State University, Bertina has served in both civilian and sworn jobs in the law enforcement field (police dispatcher, alarm coordinator, and police officer). While serving as a police officer in Kansas City, Missouri, Pastor Bertina answered God’s call to a vocation in ministry. She attended Saint Paul School of Theology and graduated with a Master of Divinity degree.

Pastor Bertina was licensed, then commissioned for ministry in the Virginia Conference. Prior to being appointed to SCUMC, she served congregations in the York River and Eastern Shore Districts.  She enjoys being in ministry within the community and cherishes the teaching of 1 John 3:18, “Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.” (NRSV)

Bertina is married to Vince and has two wonderful sons. In her spare time, she enjoys reading mysteries, and movies, and listening to a variety of podcasts.  She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.