CHICAGO — The Rev. Dr. David Gregg, a prominent and compassionate figure in Chicago’s religious community, passed away on June 26 at the age of 58, according to the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago. His death marks a significant loss for countless churches, community members, and organizations that benefited from his decades of advocacy, scholarship, and inclusive leadership.
A Scholar, Pastor, and Champion for All
Rev. Gregg served as the executive regional minister of the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago for seven years. The organization described him as a “devoted pastor, scholar, and advocate for inclusive ministry.”
Born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Gregg’s academic journey took him to Harvard University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, followed by a Master’s in English from the University of Michigan. He then pursued theological studies at the University of Chicago Divinity School, where he also later completed his Ph.D. in 2020.
A Lasting Impact on Chicago’s Faith Community
During the 1990s and 2000s, Gregg served for a decade as minister of congregational life at Lake Street Church in Evanston, where he led cherished “moment as children” lessons during Sunday service and mentored youth in the church’s teen group. He also held interim pastorates at several area congregations, including:
-
Community Church of Wilmette
-
South Church of Mount Prospect
-
North Shore Baptist Church in Edgewater
-
United Church of Hyde Park
A Voice for Inclusion and Creativity
Rev. Gregg, who was openly gay, was known for championing LGBTQ+ inclusion in religious life. He previously chaired the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, a network advocating for full acceptance of people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
In his theological work, Gregg explored complex ideas like process theology and the philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead. His doctoral dissertation emphasized how divine presence exists within — and is impacted by — the physical world, applying those principles to performance, art, and the works of Samuel Beckett.
Reflections on Mortality and the Church
In March 2024, Rev. Gregg authored a deeply personal essay for Sympara, a nonprofit that supports reimagining underused church properties. In it, he candidly wrote about battling cancer and the emotional weight of returning home after a hospital stay — drawing a powerful connection between physical space and spiritual identity.
“Indeed, our spaces define so much about our lives, literally giving them shape,” Gregg wrote. “They proclaim our values… Want to know who someone is? Visit them at home.”
His reflections extended to congregations facing tough decisions about downsizing or relocating — an issue faced by many faith communities across Chicago as attendance and funding shrink.
Remembered as a Guiding Light
Throughout his leadership, Rev. Gregg also contributed to religious education, notably editing the most recent edition of “A Baptist Manual of Polity and Practice”, used in seminarian training. Colleagues described him as a “thoughtful leader” whose legacy lives on in the churches and people he helped shape.
In a statement, the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago said:
“We give thanks for the life and witness of Rev. Dr. David Gregg — a faithful servant, thoughtful leader, and compassionate presence in the lives of many.”
Details on memorial arrangements will be shared by the association as they become available.
Have you been personally impacted by Rev. Gregg’s work in Chicago? Share your stories or memories in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — your voice matters.
