Mark Gornik

Mark R. Gornik (born 1961) is an American theologian, missiologist, author, pastor, and director of City Seminary of New York. He has researched and written about urban ministry, community development, theological education, and the study of global Christianity, particularly African Christianity in New York City.

Early life and education

Gornik grew up in Baltimore, Maryland. He earned a B.A. from Covenant College (1983), an M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary (1986), and a Ph.D. from the Centre for the Study of World Christianity at the University of Edinburgh (2008) studying under Andrew Walls. His research, ministry, and writing has focused on both urban ministry and global Christianity, with an emphasis on African immigrant churches in New York City.

Ministry and work in Sandtown, Baltimore

Gornik co-founded New Song Community Church in the Sandtown neighborhood of Baltimore in 1986, alongside Susan and Allan Tibbells. Gornik and his colleagues drew on the community development work of John M. Perkins in establishing programs in a 12-block area of Baltimore.

New Song later established a health center, a school, economic-development programs, and a housing organization affiliated with Habitat for Humanity. Gornik later said that his work in Sandtown influenced his views of faith and urban ministry.

In 2003, Gornik founded City Seminary of New York, an institution dedicated to training leaders for ministry in urban and immigrant contexts. Gornik has focused on the importance of grassroots ministry and peacemaking as core principles of theological training. Gornik has said that his experience in Baltimore influenced his approach at City Seminary, particularly his emphasis on developing leadership within local communities.

Personal life

Gornik is married to Rita Aszalos, a physician, and they have two children.