The Global Christian Forum has appointed Pentecostal ecumenist Josiah Baker as its Director of Operations and Research in anticipation of the Fourth Global Gathering (GG4) next year in Accra, Ghana. Baker joins the GCF Secretariat having served the past five years as part of the Southern California Christian Forum and its Commission on Faith and Order. He brings with him his research career in ecumenical methodology, having completed his PhD in systematic theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.
The creation of the Director position furthers the GCF’s work in preparing for Accra, the fourth such Global Gathering for the international ecumenical forum. Baker will assist in offering programmatic and theological guidance in planning GG4 as he draws on his research on the practices and goals of the ecumenical movement. He also recently served as a Steward at the Karlsruhe Assembly of the World Council of Churches in 2022 within the Communications Team. His role will strengthen and clarify the work of the GCF as it commemorates its 25th anniversary.
Baker’s academic experience in ecumenics led him to serve as the Secretary of the North American Academy of Ecumenists and to contribute previously to the National Workshop on Christian Unity. The appointment of Baker will bolster the GCF’s ability to serve as a platform for Christian encounter and critical reflection.
GCF Secretary Casely Essamuah rejoices in the appointment of Baker and celebrates all that God would do through him as he serves the global church through GCF. “Josiah comes to us as an answer to prayer.”
GCF US Foundation President Wes Granberg-Michaelson, writes:
“Joey Baker’s ecumenical knowledge and Pentecostal tradition make him an ideal person to further the work of the Global Christian Forum as we prepare for our Fourth Global Gathering next year. We are grateful he can join our mission. “
