(April 23, 2020) – Cecilia Williams, former executive minister of Love Mercy Do Justice, has been named the new CEO and president of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA), a prominent 30-year-old grassroots organization whose vision is to see wholistically restored communities with Christians fully engaged in the process of transformation.
During her term as Love Mercy Do Justice-xx executive minister from 2015 to 2019, Williams helped innovate and pioneer CovEnterprises, a faith-based platform for social entrepreneurship which helped churches partner with and invest in local businesses to empower communities. She also helped to establish Bezalel LLC, a national affordable housing initiative designed to lead individuals into shelter security and home ownership. Prior to being elected executive minister, Williams served as ministry initiatives director in Love Mercy Do Justice-xx.
She previously served as associate pastor for Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis. She also taught graduate courses at Bethel Theological Seminary and served as associate dean for intercultural student programs and services at Bethel University’s College of Arts and Sciences.
“We believe Rev. Williams has been uniquely prepared to lead CCDA in this critical moment for the global Church,” said Mayra Macedo-Nolan, CCDA board chair. “Her capacity to relate intergenerationally, along with her skills, experience, and leadership in the academy, the institution, and the local church create a strong foundation from which she will continue and expand CCDA’s legacy of doing biblically rooted community development and justice work.”
“I love the Lord and I love his church,” Williams said. “I am honored and deeply, deeply humbled by this call to continue serving him through serving the incredible members, partner organizations, individuals, and constituencies of Christian Community Development Association.”
Williams will begin her tenure on Monday, May 4.
