Our Pastor
A proud native of Miami, Florida, Jamel Javon Flag, known by most as "JJ," has committed his life and work to seeing the Church be a place of welcome to and for all. Motivated by the conviction that ministry is a lifestyle of service to others, he's worked diligently to be well equipped in this work, both in skill and knowledge. Pastor JJ earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Religion, minoring in Church Ministries, before graduating with a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, and is an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ.
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Pastor JJ's spiritual journey has exposed him to various communities of faith and denominations within Christianity. As a result, he has served in several ministerial capacities and different ministry settings over the last decade. Before coming to Emmanuel, he was engaged in chaplaincy work on a university campus and within a multi-site hospital system. This work allowed him to be present and journey with others as they celebrated the highs and navigated life's lows. Each role, Pastor JJ believes, has strengthened his resolve to be an advocate for others.
Born with a disability, advocating for those with disabilities is an integral part of living out his call. In pursuit of bringing greater awareness to the intersections of theology and disability and its impact on the Church's mission and ministry, he earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University Theological School and is also a member of the United Church of Christ's Disabilities Ministries Board of Directors. While the work of disabilities justice is a significant part of his ministry, it does not end there, as he believes there's room for everyone at the table. The Rev. Dr. Flag firmly believes that one's age, race, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and abilities should never be obstacles to welcome and inclusion. Pastor JJ's greatest joy and responsibility are to his wife and children. When he's not wearing his "collar," you can find him at home with his family searching for something to stream together. |