KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (ABNS 10/15/25) — After careful deliberation, the Board of Ministries for the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island (ABCORI) recently announced the calling of Rev. Joan Friesen as Interim Executive Minister of the region, beginning her service on a part-time basis starting November 1, 2025. Friesen will assist the board in overseeing the region’s operations as the region embarks on the search for a permanent Executive Minister.
Rev. Friesen brings a wealth of experience garnered from her career. Most recently, she served as the Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches of Greater Indianapolis from 2009 until her retirement in 2023. Her leadership in Indianapolis saw the region’s membership grow from 31 to 42 churches, with increased outreach to refugee and immigrant communities. Her work with the region included developing mission and vision strategies, guiding pastoral search processes, and supporting clergy and church leaders.
Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Strain, General Secretary of American Baptist Churches USA, said, “Rev. Joan Freisen brings rich experiences to the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island, having served as a regional executive minister for the American Baptist Churches of Greater Indianapolis. She has continued in ministry through the Burma Advocacy Group, dedication to our denomination, and devotion to sharing the gospel. I believe her presence and participation in this time of transition will serve the region well. I continue to be prayerful for the wonderful ways God will bless ABCORI as they prayerfully collaborate and trust God for new beginnings and new opportunities in this season.”
“We look to [Rev. Friesen] help us to make healthy decisions, deepen spiritual and relational vitality in the churches, and help bring us back to a more unified organization. Welcome, Rev. Friesen, to Rhode Island,” wrote the region in an announcement.
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.
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