Meet The Pastor

Rev. J. Kabamba Kiboko,Ph.D

Called by God for the purpose of fostering relationships, was appointed to serve as Lead Pastor of Forest Chapel United Methodist Church in 2013.

A Musanga, born into the Basanga people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Dr. Kabamba embodies the meaning of who she is—a Musanga--which signifies a connector or gatherer of people. Since arriving in this community in 2013, she has facilitated numerous connections, initiating partnerships with entities like Primary North Elementary School (now The Early Childhood Central Campus), as well as forging alliances with the Police and Fire Departments, the Winton Woods School District, and the City Council.

Dr. Kabamba's ministry extends beyond the church walls, as she welcomed the Bhutanese Community of Cincinnati into Forest Chapel UMC to provide Nepali language classes for their children in 2015, and aiding in citizenship test preparation and driver's license acquisition in 2017. Her current initiative, the Do-Good Program in partnership with John Wesley UMC, aims to provide ESOL classes for newcomers (Mauritanians, Senegalese, Guineans, Congolese), under the banner "Jesus Cares for You."

Beyond her pastoral and educational efforts, Dr. Kabamba is a fervent supporter and contributor to the Forest Park WeTHRIVE! Team, focusing on the creation and implementation of health-oriented programs and resources for the community. Her vision is to cultivate an environment of mutual uplift and support, facilitating a collective journey through life's challenges and triumphs.

In addition to her church and educational outreach, Dr. Kabamba is actively involved in Forest Park, working closely with city council members and community leaders on initiatives like the Produce Pop-Up program and the Forest Park Kids Club. Her ultimate goal is to foster a sense of community where individuals can uplift and support each other through life's journey.

Dr. Kabamba's academic background includes a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) from Denver University & Iliff School of Theology, an M.Div. from Iliff School of Theology, an M.Th. from Perkins School of Theology, a BA from Drake University, and a Graduée en Théologie from the Institut Supérieur de Théologie, Démocratique République of Congo.