Born on November 20, 1969, in Kopal, Mangu LGA of Plateau State, Ven. Dr. Ephraim J. Gongden is the second of seven children from Pastor Joel and the late Mrs. Phoebe Gongden.
Educational Background
Ven. Gongden began his education at LGEA Kopal in 1981 and graduated from Government Secondary School, Mbar, in 1986. He pursued further studies at the College of Education Gindiri (1987-1990) and the University of Jos (1991-1995). He returned to the University of Jos for additional studies (1997-1999) and graduated from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, in 2015. His academic qualifications include:
- First School Leaving Certificate (FLSC)
- West African School Certificate (WASC)
- Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Biology/Chemistry
- Bachelor of Science Education (B.Sc) with Second Class Upper Division
- Certificate in Computer Applications
- Master of Education (M.Ed) in Science Education
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Science Education
Ministry Calling
In January 1998, while teaching at St. John’s College, Jos, Ven. Gongden felt called to ministry. To prepare for this path, he studied at the Christian Institute, Jos, and Jos ECWA Theological Seminary. He also attended Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary in Abeokuta, earning various theological certificates, including:
- Certificate in Theology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Theology (PGD)
- Master of Divinity (M.Div)
- Doctor of Ministry (D.Min)
Ministry and Leadership Roles
Ven. Gongden has served in several roles:
- Catechist and Chaplain at St. Benedict’s Seminary, Pankshin
- Principal at St. Benedict’s Junior Seminary
- Vice Principal at St. John’s College, Jos
- Vicar at St. Piran’s Church, Jos, and Emmanuel Anglican Church, Rock Haven
- Acting Principal at St. John’s College, Jos
He has received the Diocese of Jos Merit Award and the Diocese of Pankshin Award for his contributions to the gospel.
Academic and Professional Career
Beginning his teaching career in 1991, Ven. Gongden became an Associate Professor in Chemistry Education at the University of Jos, supervising numerous undergraduate and postgraduate students. He has published over thirty works in academic journals.
Service at Provincial and National Levels
At the provincial level, he served as Provincial Secretary and Provincial Clergy Coordinator. Nationally, he has held several positions, including:
- National PRO and Secretary General of the Anglican Children’s Ministry (ACM)
- Member of various committees, including the Church of Nigeria Devotional Committee and Scholarship Board
Family Life
Ven. Gongden was first married to the late Miss Nanre Batur in 2001, with whom he had two sons. He later married Esther Godiya Yakubu in 2013, and they have two additional sons, bringing his total to four children.
Mrs. Esther Gongden holds multiple qualifications, including a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science Education.
His hobbies include reading, singing hymns, meeting new people, and mentoring young people in their faith.
