VALLEY FORGE, PA (2/3/22)—The American Baptist Churches of the Dakotas has announced the retirement of Rev. Randy Rasmussen as Executive Minister, effective September 30, 2022. Rasmussen has served in the role since September 2013.

American Baptist Churches USA General Secretary Dr. C. Jeff Woods said, “Randy has provided exemplary leadership to both the region and to the Regional Executive Ministers Council. He served the REMC in several capacities, including his current service as Vice-President of the REMC. He provided wisdom, insights, and vision and was sought out by many of his colleagues as a source of encouragement and strength. We will miss Randy in this role, and we will continue to look forward to his contributions to the American Baptist family.”

The region noted a letter to its churches announcing his retirement, “ABC of the Dakotas has been tremendously blessed with the gifts, leadership and dedication of Rev. Rasmussen. Our region has been fortunate for his service during these difficult times. His expertise in handling both the financial and the spiritual needs of the region has been a great asset. Randy is a servant who demonstrated excellent rapport with the pastors, the congregations and the staff….The churches and pastors of the Dakotas will greatly miss his leadership.”

During his tenure with the region, Rasmussen had a strong interest in both American Baptist Camps in the region, Camp Bentley in Drake, N.D., and Camp Judson in Keystone, S.D. He led annual pastor retreats, visited all churches in the region, and had an open door policy for pastors. He has excelled at conflict resolution, encouraging the clergy, and continues to be a great supporter of women in ministry. Prior to his service with ABC of the Dakotas, Rasmussen served in the United States Air Force at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota and pastored three churches in South Dakota.

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.