The Rev. Mark Koenig has been selected as the new director of Presbyterian ministry at the United Nations. Koenig brings 30 years of experience in ministry, serving congregations, the Presbytery of the Western Reserve, and the General Assembly Mission Council. He has been on the staff of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, since 2002, and has served as its coordinator since 2007.
"Mark brings many gifts to this ministry," said Sara Lisherness, director of Compassion Peace and Justice for the General Assembly Mission Council. "He is deeply committed to a ministry of presence in the church, connecting with and listening to the church. He values Presbyterian polity and works faithfully to interpret and implement the social witness policies adopted by the General Assembly. He is a pastor, an educator and most of all a faithful servant to the ministry of Jesus Christ."
Called to inspire, equip and connect God's people as faithful disciples in the global community, the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations provides individuals, congregations, middle governing bodies and theological institutions with educational opportunities that encourage commitment to work for justice, compassion and peace. This ministry also serves as a witness to the nations of the world that "God sends the church in the power of the Holy Spirit to share with Christ in establishing God's just, peaceable, and loving rule in the world." (Book of Order, G-3.0300)
In his work with the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, Koenig strengthened the communications and educational resources of the program, through networking, e-mail newsletters, and blogs. He has also made it a priority to connect with the church through visits, participation in national and middle governing body events, and preaching in congregations and middle governing bodies.
"This call is an honor and privilege," said Koenig. "The Presbyterian Church has a long history of significant ministry in the name of Jesus Christ at the United Nations. I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the church to identify and implement new ways of living as disciples in the global community. I look forward to working with individuals, congregations, middle governing bodies, and networks and helping them make connections between their ministries and the work of the United Nations in ways that enhance their witness to Christ's love and open the possibilities for God to work transformation."
Koenig will transition to this position in mid-October. A search for an interim coordinator for the Peacemaking Program will begin immediately.