Joe Waresak has been named the new president of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, according to a news release from the organization.
Waresak will take the place of Dobson, who founded Focus on the Family and later the Family Research Council in 1980.
In 2003, Dobson stepped down from his top role as president and CEO of Focus on the Family. He then founded the JDFI non-profit organization, which produces his radio program, “Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk.”
Waresak, meanwhile, has worked with JDFI since 2013. He was most recently the chief operating officer, ChurchLeaders.com reports.
“I am very pleased to have appointed Joe Waresak to this key leadership position. The JDFI board of directors and I have witnessed firsthand his ability to lead, his love for the Lord, and his commitment to our mission,” Dobson said in a statement. “He will continue to work with the board and me as we carry out the vital ministry work of JDFI. This move also allows me to focus my full attention on addressing the urgent ministry matters that are impacting our faith, families and our nation.”
Waresake has a Master of Ministry from Grace Theological Seminary and has been involved in various family-related ministries for the past 17 years. He and his wife, Sherry, have five children and three grandchildren.
Dobson also said he would “remain actively involved in the ministry efforts of JDFI” and continue to host his radio broadcast.
According to its website, JDFI is a non-profit ministry “devoted to preserving and promoting the institution of the family and biblical principles.”
“The ministry seeks to introduce as many people as possible to the gospel of Jesus Christ and to promote the sanctity of human life, God-honoring sexuality, religious freedom, respect for the founding of America, and righteousness in the culture,” the site says.
Photo courtesy: ©Getty Images/Brian A. Jackson
Amanda Casanova is a writer living in Dallas, Texas. She has covered news for ChristianHeadlines.com since 2014. She has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, U.S. News and World Report and IBelieve.com. She blogs at The Migraine Runner.
