Executive Director

Rev. James Poinsett, a minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA), has been chosen as the new Executive Director of Interfaith Partnership of Greater St. Louis.

Rev. Poinsett, who has served congregations in New York, Philadelphia, and St. Louis, is joining Interfaith Partnership as the organization looks to deepen its impact on the region by addressing issues of religious tolerance and interfaith understanding.

“This is a time of great cultural polarization and fear,” Poinsett said. “I took on this role to help strengthen our community by overcoming polarization and fear with understanding, engagement, and advocacy.”

Rev. Poinsett will work closely with Interfaith Partnership’s Board of Directors and community partners to lead efforts around increasing interfaith cooperation and addressing civic issues of common concern.

“In Jim, Interfaith Partnership has found a mission-focused leader who understands the kind of relationship building and bridge-building work needed to engage in solidarity and common action, who is passionate about interfaith work and demonstrates deep respect and comfort in working with people of diverse theological, faith, racial and cultural expressions” said Dr. David Oughton, Ph.D., President of Interfaith Partnership’s Board and chair of the executive search committee.

In addition to his service to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Rev. Poinsett was active with Interfaith Philadelphia, serving on the Religious Leaders Council. Rev. Poinsett begins his work in late October, succeeding Rev. Dr. David Mehl, who will retire in early November 2019.

Jim can be reached via email at jkpoinsett@interfaithstl.org or via phone at 314-918-2541 x702

Interfaith Partnership’s mission statement:

Interfaith Partnership of Greater St. Louis deepens understanding, respect, and appreciation among all persons across lines of religious difference.

Interfaith Partnership’s motto: As communities of faith, we agree to differ, promise to love and unite to serve.