Speakers
Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson |
The Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia A. Thompson is the General Minister and President and the Chief Executive Officer of the United Church of Christ. Rev. Thompson is the first woman and first woman of African descent to serve as leader of the denomination. She was elected at General Synod 34 in 2023. She is a writer, poet and theologian who has contributed to numerous publications.
As General Minister and President, Rev. Thompson is the spiritual leader of the denomination, representing the UCC ecumenically and speaking on behalf of the denomination. She is the leader of the denominational offices in Cleveland, overseeing the daily operations of the national offices which includes 115 staff persons and an annual budget of $22 million. Prior to this call, Rev. Thompson served in the national setting of the United Church of Christ for 14 years – two years as Minister for Racial Justice, eight years as Minister for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations, and four years as the Associate General Minister for Wider Church Ministries and Co-Executive for Global Ministries. She was elected as Associate General Minister in 2019. Her passion for justice and equity has informed her focus on justice in the global context. This passion for justice is a catalyst for her global advocacy to reduce the marginalization experienced by African descendant peoples and other communities globally. She continues to participate in global forums, bringing her leadership to address a variety of issues including global racial justice, gender justice, and human rights. |
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The Rev. Darrell L. Goodwin serves as the first Executive Conference Minister & President of the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ, leading nearly 600 congregations across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island in living out a bold, inclusive vision of the Gospel.
A passionate advocate for progressive Christianity, Rev. Goodwin challenges faith communities to become spaces of radical welcome, justice, and renewal. His ministry centers on helping people rediscover faith as a force for healing and transformation in today’s divided world. His status as the first openly LGBTQ black person to serve as an Executive Conference Minister in the United Church of Christ has made him a symbol of a version of Christianity where everyone is truly valued. Known for his compelling preaching and authentic storytelling, Rev. Goodwin often speaks about hope—hope that empowers people to face uncertainty, bridge difference, and find joy in community. His warmth, wisdom, and humor make him a popular guest on podcasts, in news interviews and on varying social media platforms. He is able to connect with audiences on topics such as inclusive faith, leadership in changing times, and the spiritual practices that sustain courage and compassion. Rev. Goodwin continues to inspire a growing movement of believers and seekers alike to see faith not as a set of limits, but as an ever-expanding invitation to love, justice, and possibility. |
Rev. Darrell L. Goodwin |