Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Strain was called as General Secretary of American Baptist Churches USA by the Board of General Ministries on November 4, 2023, and her service in this role began on February 1, 2024.

Dr. Jacobs-Strain’s devotion to the Lord began in her elementary school years when she committed her life to Christ. Previously, she served as Executive Director of American Baptist Women’s Ministries (ABWM) for six years. Under her guidance, ABWM introduced the AB GIRLS program, “Building Bridges and Gateways to Girl’s Future/Hie-STEAM,” an initiative connecting AB GIRLS Christian Curriculum with local STEAM providers, empowering girls to recognize God’s creative potential within them. ABWM has also broadened its Beloved Community and Domestic Violence ministries and now offers seminars and webinars tailored for young adult women nationwide.

Dr. Jacobs-Strain has held various pastoral roles including Transitional Pastor at First Baptist Church of New Market in Piscataway, N.J., Interim Pastor at St. Paul Baptist Church in Atlantic Highlands, N.J., Associate Regional Pastor for Women in Ministry for American Baptist Churches of New Jersey (ABC-NJ), and serves as an Associate Minister of Christian Education at St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, N.J.

Rev. Jacobs-Strain has been invited as a guest preacher/lecturer at institutions such as Drew University Theological School, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, ABC-NJ Academy, and the Wellness Lounge Webcast. She also contributed to the “Testify: ABC-NJ Devotional” book, published in 2015. In 2016, she co-launched the Christian Education Workshop Series, “Leading Interactive and Engaging Bible Studies (L.I.B.S. TM)” at the ABC-NJ annual Church Officers and Leaders Conference (COAL). In 2017, she initiated a conversation series, “The Intersection of Leadership and Healing.”

Rev. Dr. Jacobs-Strain earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rutgers University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Master of Divinity degree from Drew University’s Theological School. She was also honored with the Old Testament Studies Scholar Award from the Biblical Studies Department. In 2015, she received a Certificate of Excellence from Palmer Theological Seminary & ABC-NJ Academy, and in 2017, she completed the Nehemiah-Leadership Program. In May 2020, she attained a Doctor of Ministry from Duke University. She is married to Clifton Strain, and together they have three sons. They currently reside in Morristown, N.J.

What does life look like for a child of immigrant parents? What conversations are necessary not only with each other, but also with those who are most vulnerable and least empowered—the children? This webinar will help participants shed light on the reality of life as a child of immigrant parents.

When parents and congregations help shape the spiritual lives of children together, they are shaping the spiritual landscape of the future. Responding to the challenges confronting our children and those who care for our children today and in the future will require us to seek creative ways to help parents’ faith flourish while resourcing our congregations.

Our ABCNJ Emerging Scholars will share their unique perspectives on hope, weaving together narratives of resilience, dreams, and aspirations. Each emerging scholar brings a distinct voice shaped by personal experiences and a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that define this season. Through their stories, we will gain insight into the power of hope to inspire change, foster connection, and drive progress.