VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 11/22/23)—The Board of Directors of American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Rev. Dr. Gina Jacobs-Strain who has been announced as the new General Secretary of ABCUSA!
Dr. Jacobs-Strain currently serves as executive director for American Baptist Women’s Ministries and is a member of the National Executive Council for American Baptist Churches USA. Under her direction, ABWM launched the “Building Bridges and Gateways to Girl’s Future/Hi-eSTEAM” AB GIRLS program, which links AB GIRLS Christian Curriculum with nearby STEAM providers and encourages girls to see the creative potential that God has bestowed them with. Along with expanding its Beloved Community and Domestic Violence ministries, ABWM now provides young adult women around the country with webinars and seminars on these topics.
Dr. Jacobs-Strain’s educational credentials include a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University, a Master of Divinity degree from Drew University’s Theological School, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Duke University.
Dr. Jeffrey Haggray, ABHMS’ executive director, said, “I am thrilled, along with ABHMS’ Board of Directors and staff, about the call of Dr. Gina Jacobs-Strain as our new General Secretary. Gina brings all the strengths and skills preferred for this important leadership role at this critical time in our history. In addition to being a dedicated spiritual leader, Gina will strengthen our unity amidst our diversity. She will also serve to deepen our cooperation across all regions and lead us in embracing a compelling vision for our national life. She brings extraordinary sophistication, vision, broad administrative capacity, and a powerful voice. I could not be more excited and grateful for her leadership.”
Rev. Jamie Washam, the board president, said, “How delighted we are that Dr . Gina Jacobs-Strain has been called for such a time as this! The work of the search committee has been well worth the wait. The gifts that Dr. Jacobs-Strain brings will equip her to meet the needs of our denomination and world with intellect and grace. It will be a joy to work alongside her as she answers this new call and helps lead our denomination forward. We joyfully join with the American Baptist family in surrounding her in prayers of celebration and anticipation of what is yet to come.”
The ABHMS family has the utmost confidence that Dr. Jacobs-Strain has the skills and talents necessary to advance our community’s mission to be the hands and feet of Christ and speak a prophetic word in love. The organization is looking forward to a rich partnership with the Office of the General Secretary.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.