New Minister Of Reconciliation To Start In July

(May 14, 2008 – DNS – Indianapolis) - April G. Johnson has accepted the call to be the new Minister of Reconciliation for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Johnson most recently served as Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Diversity Services for Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill.  While at Augustana, she led students on several international cross-cultural learning opportunities and instituted diversity and inclusion training for the college’s staff and administration.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with our general units, regions and congregations as we live into our vision ‘to be a faithful, growing church with a commitment to true community, deep Christian spirituality,  and a passion for justice,’ ”said Johnson. “Each of the manifestations of this great church offer unique gifts that contribute to our realizing that vision.  Through commitment and accountability to the pro-reconciliation/anti-racism initiative, our collective efforts will allow this church to truly be reconciled one to another and all to Christ.”

Johnson, an ordained Disciples minister, stated that she feels encouraged that “this Church/Communion is uniquely poised to lead the charge for unity in the family of God.”

As Minister of Reconciliation, Johnson will oversee Reconciliation Ministry, a special mission of the Church that works toward the elimination of the primary causes of racism in North America.  Her work will include developing educational, promotional and training resources that further the Church’s pro-reconciliation/anti-racism priority.  She will also be responsible for developing a collaborative network with regional anti-racism teams and reconciliation programs, creating an ongoing communication strategy with the wider church and identifying multiple models for addressing systemic racism.

“Through the work of the Reconciliation Commission as well as the dedication of former staff, the pieces are now in place for this ministry,” said General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins, who is a member of the commission.  “Through the General Assembly resolution last summer the Church has recommitted to Reconciliation Ministry.  Funding issues have been addressed and anti-racism teams and many congregations are ready to move forward.  April Johnson brings the gifts and graces to give direction to this important ministry at this critical time.”

Johnson, a native of Chicago, Ill., received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois-Champaign/Urbana and her Masters of Divinity degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C.  .  She was ordained to Christian ministry at National City Christian Church in Washington, D.C.

She currently serves as a member of the Illinois and Wisconsin region’s Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation Team and its Visioning Team.  Johnson enjoys golf, reading and warm weather. Prior to serving at Augustana, she spent 16 years in telecommunications networking, sales and business process improvement.

Johnson is expected to start her new position in early July.  She will work from the General Office in Indianapolis.

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