Abiade joins GBHEM staff

The appointment, effective July 1, has been approved by Abiade’s bishop, Jonathan Keaton, episcopal leader of the West Michigan Annual Conference.

Abiade, who will report to the Rev. Mary Ann Moman, DOM associate general secretary, will assist Moman in administering the work of the Commission on Theological Education and work with the commission to increase the effectiveness of partnerships with non-United Methodist seminaries.

“We are very pleased to have Dr. Abiade join our staff. He brings a wealth of experience and passion for his work to GBHEM. We are looking forward to the contributions he will make to The United Methodist Church in his role at the Board,” Moman said.

He will manage the certification program for specialized ministry and develop relationships with seminaries and Boards of Ordained Ministries to establish and maintain standards for certification, review the educational credentials for those seeking certification, and make recommendations to annual conferences regarding fulfillment of requirements. He will work with bishops to establish a partnership with GBHEM, seminaries, and the Council of Bishops regarding educational processes in order to provide consistent and effective leadership for Boards of Ordained Ministry in their work of assessing qualifications for ordained and licensed ministry.

Abiade will participate in national organizations related to certification/approval processes and build networks of support and interpretation. He will also have assignments related to the implementation of the GBHEM Strategic Plan.

For the past six years, Abiade has served as district superintendent in the West Michigan Conference. Prior to his tenure as district superintendent, he pastored several United Methodist churches. Abiade, who lives in Kalamazoo, Mich., also served as adjunct faculty at Bethel College, Western Michigan University, Jordan College, and Mason Bible College. He believes his work with people entering certification programs, continuing education, and seminary has given him a better understanding for the continued need for well-organized curricula.

Abiade received a B.S. from Wayne State University in 1991, and an M.Div. from Interdenominational Theological Center in 1995. He holds doctorates in ministry from both Chicago Theological Seminary and Trinity College and Seminary.