Rev. Reuben Eckels
Faith and Partnership Hub Coordinator, Church World Service
Rev. Reuben Eckels will be speaking at the EAD 2024 domestic workshop. He is a seasoned leader with a diverse background in pastoral ministry and community advocacy. Ordained in the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1993, he began his ministry at Allen Chapel AME in Salina, Kansas before answering the call to establish New Day Christian Church (NDCC) in Wichita, where he faithfully served for over 17 years.
In addition to his pastoral work, Rev. Eckels has been actively engaged in community organizing and advocacy. He served as Deputy Director of Sunflower Community Action (SCA) and previously held the role of Interfaith Advocacy Minister for Church World Service (CWS). Currently, he is transitioning into the role of Faith and Partnership Hub Coordinator within CWS, where he continues to leverage his passion for social justice and faith-based collaboration.
A native of Wichita, Kansas, Rev. Eckels graduated from Wichita Southeast High School and pursued higher education at Wichita State University, earning acclaim both academically and athletically. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Payne Theological Seminary, where he received numerous accolades for his academic and community contributions. Beyond his educational achievements, Rev. Eckels has left an indelible mark on various organizations and initiatives. He served on the Board of Examiners for the AME Church, represented as a delegate at the AME General Conference, and received recognition such as the NAACP Men of Distinction Award. He has been instrumental in community endeavors such as founding the ON-TRAC Mentoring Program and facilitating the honoring of Kansas’s first Black mayor, Robert C. Caldwell.
Rev. Eckels has also demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit, serving as President/CEO of New Day Christian Ministries and CEO of Comic/Ministries, where he produced the acclaimed comic book “Wichita Man.” Throughout his career, Rev. Eckels has remained committed to his calling as a minister, advocate, and community leader. His dedication to service and social justice continues to inspire and empower those around him, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he serves.