Slideshow image

Dear Friends, 

   We experienced God’s renewal and grew in grace last week at the 2025 West Virginia Annual Conference. What a meaningful and inspiring time it was!   Together, we celebrated the movement of the Holy Spirit and the faithful witness of our churches, ministries, and people. We: 

  • Licensed 11 new local pastors, commissioned 4 new provisional members, ordained 2 elders and 1 deacon, and celebrated the recognition of orders of a pastor from another denomination.
  • Welcomed dozens of youth and young adults into vocational discernment experiences and affirmed the call of future leaders preparing for ministry in West Virginia and beyond.
  • Honored 21 retiring clergy, blessing them as they step into a new season of life and witness.
    Honored 21 retiring clergy, blessing them as they step into a new season of life and witness.  

Worshiped together in services that stirred our spirits—from a powerful opening worship service with preaching from Bishop Gregory V. Palmer who also provided inspiring daily teachings, to a deeply moving memorial service 

preached by Rev. Dr. Joe Kenaston, to a stirring ordination celebration. Our time together reminded us of the power of worship and the central role of prayer and Scripture in renewing our faith.

  • Collected over $3,200 to support the ongoing work, worship and ministry of our conference youth. 
  • Celebrated incredible mission and outreach efforts across our state by our conference mission projects and hosted a Ministry Fair showcasing nearly 20 different organizations living out the gospel in word and deed. 
  • Participated in meaningful conversation and voting related to the proposed amendments to the Constitution found in The2020/2024 United Methodist Book of Discipline.
  • Launched a new initiative: Faith Communities

 ReNEWal—a reimagining of congregational vitality. This includes micro-grants to support new ministries that reach new people with Christ’s love. 

  • Raised more than $5,000 for clean water in McDowell County through the inaugural WVUMC 5K, supporting the Water Buffalo Project and showing how even an evening walk can change lives. 

   As we return to our churches, communities, and mission fields, we do so grounded in Scripture, empowered by grace, and connected in love.    Our Conference is being renewed—and you are part of that renewal!    Know how thankful I am for each of you and the ministry you offer. It is a joy and a privilege to serve as your bishop. 

Blessings, 

Debbie