VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 2/28/23)—Frank Christine, Jr., 91, died February 3, 2023, at the Good Life Oasis Board and Care Home in West Hills, Calif. Christine served as President of American Baptist Churches USA for the 2010-2011 biennium.
In addition to his service as President, Christine also served as Past President for the 2012-2013 biennium, and as Vice President for the 2008-2009 biennium.
Christine served on the General Board as a nationally nominated representative for two terms. During that first term of service, he served on the Task Force for the Alive in Mission Fund Raising Campaign, the Biennial Program Committee, and as President of International Ministries. He also served as Chair of the ABCUSA Statements of Concern Committee, and on the Review Commission on Denominational Structure and Process. He returned to service on the General Board as a Regional Representative for the American Baptist Churches of Los Angeles for two terms through 2007, and during that period of service, Christine also served as the General Board Parliamentarian.
When serving as Past President of American Baptist Churches USA, Christine addressed the board saying, “I know first-hand about the many good things we are doing as a denomination. I just want to give testimony to the privilege of participating in the powerful work that the Holy Spirit is engaged in all around us. Because I gave of my time, I was able to become a co-worker with not only [General Secretary] Roy Medley and the wonderful staff of ABCUSA, but also a co-worker of the Almighty God. Because I give regularly of my financial resources, I am able to make a difference in the world, as together we work to allow God’s kingdom to come on earth, as it is in heaven. For me, this is not a duty or an obligation, but a joy and a privilege that I will always treasure.”
Regionally Christine served as President of the American Baptist Churches of Los Angeles. He was a trustee on the Board of Atherton Baptist Homes, and served terms as a trustee on the Board of the American Baptist ‘Seminary of the West.
He received a bachelor of science degree in Engineering from UCLA, and later become a California Registered Civil Engineer. He worked for many years at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
Christine was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Enither Christine, who died on April 20, 2020. In their later years, Frank and Enither became active members and worshipers at Shepherd Church in Porter Ranch, Calif. There they enjoyed spending time as part of the Vintage Group, a ministry for members blessed with achieving their 80th birthday milestone.
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.