Reverend Anthony Wade installed as 7th President of theGeneral Baptist State Convention of Wisconsin, Inc.

By Dr. Dessie Levy, GBSC Public Relations

The General Baptist State Convention of Wisconsin, Inc. (GBSC) proudly announces the installation of Reverend Anthony Wade as its 7th President, during a historic installation service held Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Canaan Baptist Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The installation marks a significant milestone in the Convention’s 101-year history of advancing Christian education, spiritual leadership, community outreach, and service throughout Wisconsin.

Reverend Wade, the proud pastor of Second Baptist Church in Madison, Wisconsin, succeeds Reverend Dr. Fredrick E. Jones, who faithfully served as the Convention’s 6th President for five years. Under Dr. Jones’ leadership, the Convention strengthened its statewide presence and expanded partnerships with organizations including the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging, Medical College of Wisconsin, and Horicon Bank.

A new era of faith-based leadership
President Wade brings decades of ministry, public service, and organizational leadership to his new role. A dedicated servant of God, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to Christian education, discipleship, evangelism, and strengthening families and communities.

Prior to his retirement, Reverend Wade dedicated 41 years of service to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). His professional experience, combined with his ministerial leadership, has equipped him with a unique perspective on the importance of faith, education, health, and community engagement.

As the Convention enters its second century of service, President Wade envisions building upon the strong foundation established by previous administrations while expanding opportunities for churches to collaborate in meeting the spiritual, educational, and social needs of their communities.

“His vision emphasizes LOVE in Action: Serving One Another as Christ Has Loved Us,” found in John 13:34, encouraging churches to move beyond membership toward active discipleship, evangelism, and meaningful service with love.

Honoring the legacy and embracing the future
The Convention extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Jones for his dedication to strengthening relationships among member churches, developing community partnerships, and positioning the organization for continued success.

The transition from the 6th to the 7th presidential administration reflects the Convention’s enduring commitment to unity, continuity, and faith-centered leadership.

A celebration of faith, unity, and service
The installation celebration brought together clergy, church leaders, Convention officers, family members, community partners, and supporters to commemorate this historic transition. The president elect of the Wisconsin General Baptist State Convention – Reverend James Ivy of Beloit WI extended congratulatory remarks and his commitment to work along with President Wade in strengthening our great state in the missional work of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. under the nation presidential leadership of Reverend Dr. Boise Kimber

The celebration continued with a congratulatory dinner on October 17, 2026, and a fellowship celebration at Second Baptist Church in Madison on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Governor Tony Evers extended his personal congratulations to President Wade in a written letter read to the congregations.