Dear Friends,
If you’re like me, the season of Advent is not complete without the familiar hymns and carols that always set the right tone for the season. Go Tell It on the Mountain is among my personal favorites; mainly because of its upbeat rhythm and clear call to share the Good News that Jesus Christ is born! What a fitting declaration in this joyful Advent season and in the season of growth and vitality we’re experiencing as a family of churches in Eastern Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
How exciting it’s been to witness the formation of our Christ-centered ministry in the Trinity Conference develop during the last 24 months. Just as a songwriter carefully chooses a progression of notes to form a beautiful tune, God has placed us all in a unique arrangement of roles and responsibilities to advance His Kingdom here on earth. It’s in this context of God’s dynamic giftings that I want to share some important news with you.
With Jim’s Welch’s retirement and my preparation to assume the role of Conference Superintendent on January 1, I have identified some emerging opportunities to re-develop our executive leadership team. While our new organizational chart will look slightly different, I believe the new structure will enhance our ability to equip local churches for fruitful ministry.
First, I am pleased to share that Rev. Vivian Kinnear to assume the role of Director of Missional Development. Beginning January 1, Vivian will begin work on a three-phased, multi-year effort equip our local churches for strategic growth. Working closely with our Area Presiding Elders, Vivian will assess needs and develop long-range ministry development frameworks for our existing congregations, multi-cultural / multi-lingual churches, and our new church starts in the Trinity Conference.
I thank Vivian for her exceptional organizational and administrative contributions, and I know these skills will serve her well in her new role.
Following Vivian in the role of Operations Officer will be Rev. Ben McGehee, who will begin his work on February 1 of next year. Ben brings a wealth of proven leadership experience. From his days as Louisiana’s WCA President to his roles as Senior Pastor at Lea Joyner Methodist Church in Monroe, Louisiana, to Area Presiding Elder — Ben has shown strong ability to affect change and build consensus. He has a Holy Spirit-led sensibility for both people and details, which he has used with great success in his roles and a member of our Trinity Conference Board of Ministry, and as clergy delegate and Chair of the Connectional Organization legislative Committee at General Conference.
Friends, I know you will join me in thanking, congratulating, and encouraging Vivian and Ben as the transition into their new roles on the Conference Executive Team. We are so blessed with their talents and servant hearts.
As we navigate these and other changes within our shared ministries this Advent, I pray continually that we lean on the Lord to give us voice for His vision — and that we may indeed Go Tell It on the Mountain. Let our collective chorus rise in this Advent season and always: Jesus Christ is born!
Peace!
Jason
