Julie Pennington-Russell

Julie Pennington-Russell has served since January of 2016 as senior pastor of The First Baptist Church of the City of Washington, DC. She previously led churches in Decatur, Georgia; Waco, Texas; and San Francisco, California. A pilgrim on the contemplative path, Reverend Julie co-leads the Clergy Spiritual Life and Leadership program for the Shalem Institute. Her messages have been featured on television and radio shows including 30 Good Minutes and Day 1, and at the national Festival of Homiletics.

Pennington-Russell is a graduate of the University of Central Florida and Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. She is married to Tim Pennington-Russell, a techie, poet, and bass player. They are the parents of two young adults, Taylor and Lucy. Their pony-sized Great Dane, Charlie, completes the family.

Last Updated: 07/17/2023