Shari Prestemon elected to serve full term as Associate General Minister and Co-Executive of Global Ministries

published on Aug 4, 2025

*Rev. Shari Prestemon speaks after her election as AGM, Co-Exec. of Global Ministries on Monday, July 14 in Kansas City, MO. Photo by C.L. ‘Curly’ Stumb*

On July 14, delegates of General Synod 35 overwhelmingly elected The Rev. Shari Prestemon as Associate General Minister and Co-Executive of Global Ministries, a shared witness of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. Prestemon had faithfully served in this role in an acting capacity for 18 months prior to her election.

The vote took place in the early hours of the morning, yet the energy in the room was palpable. Delegates, some still settling into their seats, were already abuzz with anticipation. The moment marked a spiritual crossroads—one grounded in discernment, trust, and a shared sense of call. As Prestemon’s name was placed into nomination, it was clear the gathered body stood ready to affirm a leader deeply rooted in the mission and vision of the UCC and Global Ministries.

Two days earlier, Prestemon addressed the Synod with powerful nomination remarks that resonated throughout the assembly. That momentum carried forward. When voting concluded, she received a resounding 642 votes in favor, with only 20 opposed and 7 abstentions—surpassing the required 60% with overwhelming affirmation.

When the final tally was announced, the room erupted into a standing ovation. The applause echoed not only for the leader elected but for the Spirit’s movement among the people. With deep emotion and humility, Prestemon stepped to the microphone and simply said, “Thank you. Thank you for the trust.”

Shari Prestemon (center) with UCC GMP Karen Georgia Thompson, Peter Makari, and leadership of the Evangelische Kirche in Deutschland (EKD) at General Synod 35.

Reflecting later, she shared: “I was unable to sort out all of my feelings, but I went back to the mantra I’ve been using all week. I am feeling joy, amazement, and gratitude. Mostly, I feel gratitude.”

Global Ministries is the common global witness of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), grounded in partnership, mutuality, and justice. Prestemon’s leadership will continue alongside Rev. Dr. Marco Cable, President of Disciples Overseas Ministries and her co-executive counterpart from the Disciples. Together, they embody the collaborative spirit of this shared ministry, which spans nearly 250 global partnerships in more than 90 countries.

Prestemon was appointed acting Co-Executive by the UCC Board of Directors and UCC General Minister and President/CEO, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, in January 2024 following her own election to national leadership at General Synod 34. Prior to this national role, Prestemon served as Conference Minister for the Minnesota Conference of the UCC for a decade. She has also led as Executive Director at Back Bay Mission and pastored local churches with a passion for justice, compassion, and global solidarity.

The election of Rev. Prestemon marks a new and hopeful chapter in the leadership of the UCC and Global Ministries. She brings a deep well of experience, a heart for the global Church, and a clear commitment to shared mission—serving as a faithful partner with Rev. Dr. Cable and the entire Global Ministries team.