With the deep human needs shown by recent news of hurricanes and gun violence, the time is now for the Council of Churches to come alive in supporting New Hampshire’s congregations to love God and love their neighbors in everyday life.
On August 24th, the NH Council of Churches (NHCC) Board of Directors voted unanimously to issue a call to the Rev Jason Wells to serve as our new full time Executive Director. In 1945, New Hampshire Christian denominations formed the New Hampshire Council of Churches as a non-profit to promote Christian Unity, ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, and prayers. Starting this week, he’ll be the first full time Executive Director the NHCC has ever had.
“Jason brings with him a strong background not only as a former pastor, but also as one who is highly trusted and respected in both the ecumenical and interfaith communities of New Hampshire,” said the Rev. Dr. Lou George, outgoing Transitional Executive Director & former Board President. “The NHCC is indeed fortunate to have such an enthusiastic and highly qualified person to lead them into the future as Jason.”
For the previous 10 years, Jason has served as the Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Concord, and a total of 13 years at NH Episcopal Churches. Ordained in 2004, Jason received a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and also holds bachelor degrees in computer science and mathematics from Southern Methodist University.
Jason has been a constant figure in the Granite State for the Gospel message of Social Justice and interfaith cooperation in the Granite State. He is currently a board member of the ACLU-NH. He is a former president of the Greater Concord Interfaith Council, leading the response to local incidents of xenophobia by launching the LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR campaign. Jason has also served on the Episcopal Church’s committee on ecumenical and interfaith relationships. By appointment of Bishop Peter Libasci, Jason also serves on the Catholic Diocese of Manchester’s Diocesan Review Board. He lives in Pembroke with his wife Courtney and their daughter Lydia.
Concerning his appointment, Jason said, “With the deep human needs shown by recent news of hurricanes and gun violence, the time is now for the Council of Churches to come alive in supporting New Hampshire’s congregations to love God and love their neighbors in everyday life.”
The NHCC promotes local ecumnical cooperation and provides leadership in strengthening Christian values in society, emphasizing spiritual growth and social justice. The NHCC traces its history back to the New Hampshire Sunday School Association, formed in 1909, and to earlier 19th century efforts. NHCC also sponsors the Ecumenical Chaplaincy at the New Hampshire State Women’s Prison.