Princeton NJ Places of Worship Press Releases

First Baptist Church of Princeton Welcomes Rev. Maureen Gerald as New Lead Pastor

Rev. Maureen Gerald Becomes Second Woman to Lead the Historic Congregation

Princeton, New Jersey – February 16, 2025 – The First Baptist Church of Princeton joyfully and unanimously announces the election of Rev. Maureen Gerald as its new Lead Pastor. This historic appointment marks a significant moment in the church’s 139-year history, as Rev. Gerald becomes only the second woman to hold this esteemed position.

With a deep commitment to faith, community, and social justice, Rev. Gerald—a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary—brings extensive pastoral and professional experience. Following in the pastoral footsteps of her mother, Johanna Artis Reed, who dedicated her life to shepherding God’s people, Rev. Gerald will deliver her first sermon as Pastor-Elect at First Baptist Church of Princeton on March 2 at 10:30 AM. She intentionally chose this date to honor Women’s History Month, celebrating the work, wonder, and impact of women.

            “In consideration of our national political climate, this is a sobering moment for me. I am humbled and deeply honored to serve as the next pastor of First Baptist Church of Princeton,” said Rev. Gerald. “This congregation has a rich history of faith and fervor for God, and I look forward to walking alongside them as we continue to share God’s love in Princeton and beyond.”

Rev. Gerald serves as a Spiritual Director at the Center for Contemplative Leadership at Princeton Theological Seminary and is the founder and owner of Momentum Counseling Services, LLC. A long-standing advocate for spiritual wellness and inclusivity in the church, she has also served as a founding ministry leader who helped plant Kingdom Church (Ewing, NJ); and Executive Pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church (Trenton, NJ). She brings a wealth of experience with a deep commitment to transformative leadership.

At First Baptist Church of Princeton, Rev. Gerald envisions expanding outreach initiatives, deepening discipleship, and creating a hospitable space where all can find belonging, safety, and connection through Christ.

The congregation invites the community to join us on March 2 at 10:30 AM for this historic occasion as we welcome our new pastor, Rev. Maureen Gerald, alongside special guests who will help us celebrate.

An installation service for Rev. Gerald is forthcoming. Stay tuned for details and plan to join us for this momentous occasion.

For more information, please visit First Baptist Church of Princeton Website or contact Cheryl Sistrunk, Church Office, at (609) 924-0877.

Contact the Pastor at pastor@firstbaptistchurchprinceton.org.

About First Baptist Church of Princeton

Founded in 1885 and renamed in 1929, First Baptist Church of Princeton has been a beacon of faith and service for generations. With a strong commitment to worship, discipleship, and community outreach, the church continues to be a place where hearts are healed, souls are saved, and God is praised!