Appointments
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung announces the following clergy appointments and/or changes of status which, unless otherwise noted, are effective July 1, 2025.
| 2025 Appointments | |||
| Pastor | Appointment | District | Effective |
| Joseph Burkhardt | Garfield Memorial UMC – Executive Pastor | Northern Waters | |
| Lindsey Funtik | Strongsville UMC – Associate Pastor | Northern Waters | |
| Leslie Mahaney | Fostoria Circuit | Maumee River (West Ohio) | |
#BeUMC
Storyboard: Faith Witness Transformation
Episode 52 Living Black History Every Day
Storyboard: Faith Witness Transformation is a podcast highlighting ministries across the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church that are transforming lives locally, nationally, and globally. Produced twice-a-month by EOC Communications, each podcast episode focuses on one of the core values of the #BeUMC campaign: Disciple Making; Belonging & Inclusion; Influence, Connection & Impact; and Experience of God through The United Methodist Church.
Episode 52 “Living Black History Every Day” features a conversation with clergy from the East Ohio and West Ohio Conferences of The United Methodist Church discussing the importance of learning from our history while creating a legacy for future generations.
“There is a biblical narrative as well as a social narrative that is in the Black experience that is important for all churches to see and to uplift and to spotlight not just in Black History Month but throughout the calendar year,” said Rev. Gerald Cameron, of Celebration UMC in Euclid.
“Black history to me is not just a month, it’s my existence. It goes from January 1 to December 31,” said Rev. Leo Cunningham, of St. Paul UMC in Toledo. “It’s an opportunity to look at where we have been to understand where we’re going but in the climate we are living in right now we are making Black history, we’re in Black history. One hundred years from now they’re going to ask, ‘what were Black people doing during this time in American history?’”
Listen to previous Storyboard podcast episodes.
View clergy and laity sharing their #BeUMC stories.
For questions about Communications ministries such as the #BeUMC campaign, live-streaming, licensing, social media and more, please e-mail Rick Wolcott, executive director of Communications, or visit the Communications pages of the Conference website.
Bishop’s Office
Bishop Jung Days in the Districts
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung will spend a day in each district in the coming months.
- February 27 | UMC of Macedonia (Northern Waters)
- March 1 | Thoburn UMC (South Forest)
- March 10 | Ashland Christ UMC (West Plains)
- March 13 | Navarre Otterbein UMC (Central Valley)
On each of these days, clergy of the district are invited to join Bishop Jung beginning at 9:30 a.m. for a morning of worship and Bible study, followed by lunch, a session on district strategy and visioning, conversation with the bishop, and a closing worship service at 3:00 p.m. with communion. Laity of the district are invited to join Bishop Jung on these days at 5:00 p.m. for dinner followed by a worship service, Bible study, and a conversation on vision and ministry.
Learn more and register to attend a District Day Apart with Bishop Jung.
Living the Dream
Service to Celebrate Legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – February 23
The East and West Ohio Conferences of The United Methodist Church are coming together to honor the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a joint worship service on Sunday, February 23 at Garfield Memorial United Methodist Church in Pepper Pike.
The theme of the day hosted by Bishop Hee-Soo Jung is “Living the Dream: Bold Faith, Hopeful Future”. The 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. service will focus on building Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community rooted in justice, love, and hope.
The keynote speaker will be Bishop Julius C. Trimble, General Secretary of the General Board of Church & Society of The United Methodist Church. The service and the bishop’s message will inspire participants to carry forward Dr. King’s God-given vision of unity and hope. An informal reception offering light refreshments and opportunities for fellowship and conversation will follow the service.
The service will be live-streamed on the East Ohio Conference website to allow broader access for those unable to attend in-person.
Learn more about the February 23 service.
Special Sunday Offering
UMCOR Sunday – March 30
United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) Sunday on March 30 seeks to increase awareness and support for United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). Gifts given on UMCOR Sunday play a vital role in enhancing the Church’s global humanitarian response because these funds cover UMCOR’s administrative costs. This support ensures that 100% of donations given to UMCOR throughout the year can be directed toward on-the-ground relief and recovery efforts, allowing UMCOR to effectively respond to crises and provide assistance where it’s needed most.
By investing in UMCOR’s operations, we empower the church to mobilize resources quickly and efficiently, making a meaningful impact in communities affected by disaster and hardship around the world. Last year, your generosity delivered almost $2 million in support of UMCOR’s work to alleviate human suffering and advance hope and healing through these ministries.
Donate to support UMCOR Sunday.
Download UMCOR Sunday digital resources for use in your church.
Church & Society
Solidarity with the Sojourner Webinar
On February 10 leaders from across The United Methodist Church gathered online to participate in a webinar titled “Solidarity with the Sojourner: Understanding U.S. Immigration and Our Call to Respond”.
“This webinar provided an in-depth overview of the current U.S. immigration landscape and explored the challenges immigrant communities face and the policies shaping their lives,” said Rev. Kendal McBroom, director of Civil Human Rights with the General Board of Church and Society.
Missions & Community Engagement
Lift Her Up Empowers Africa University Female Students
The Lift Her Up ministry empowers female students at Africa University by raising money to provide scholarships so that women living in a refugee camp who have been accepted to the Pan-African United Methodist institution will have the resources to enroll at AU.
Through the generosity of pastors, congregations, and faith communities the East Ohio Conference currently supports four students who began classes at Africa University last semester. Visit the Lift Her Up page of the Conference website to meet these students.
Meet the students and support Lift Her Up.
All In Community
All In Community (AIC) is a joint ministry of the East Ohio and West Ohio Conferences of The United Methodist Church, and a conference Advance mission partner (EOC Fund 9984). Its purpose is to engage individuals, churches, criminal justice professionals, and community leaders at the local level to restore hope and to support healing in the lives of those involved in the criminal justice system. If you would like to receive email updates on the ministry’s work, please e-mail Melanie Thomas, administrative assistant in the Connectional Ministries office, and she will add you to the mailing list.
Learn about and support All In Community ministry.
All In Community Online Meeting – February 19
You are invited to an online informational meeting from 11:00 a.m. until noon to talk about how your church could partner with other houses of worship in your community to do ministry with justice involved people. If you have questions about this opportunity, please e-mail Rev. Kathy Dickriede, Connectional Ministries office Missions & Community Engagement director.
Register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
UMVIM Team Leader Training – March 1
Those who have previously led United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM) teams and those who have not but would like to do so are invited to participate in team leader training on March 1. The course will be online from 10:00 a.m. until noon. A follow-up will be planned to fill in the parts not covered in this refresher.
Poverty Simulation Experience – March 2
Poverty is a reality for many individuals and families but unless you’ve experienced poverty, it’s difficult to truly understand. The Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 2 at Akron First UMC will move participants from misconceptions to understanding about poverty. CAPS is an interactive, immersive experience that sensitizes community participants to the realities of poverty. This is a simulation, not a game. The event is free, but you must register online by February 27. This event needs at least 30 people registered to be successful. Ages 13 and older are welcome, so this would be a great activity for youth groups.
Register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
Poverty Simulation Experience – April 26
Poverty is a reality for many individuals and families but unless you’ve experienced poverty, it’s difficult to truly understand. The Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 at Mentor UMC will move participants from misconceptions to understanding about poverty. CAPS is an interactive, immersive experience that sensitizes community participants to the realities of poverty. This is a simulation, not a game. The event is free, but you must register online by April 24. This event needs at least 30 people registered to be successful. Ages 13 and older are welcome, so this would be a great activity for youth groups.
Register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
Mental Health First-Aid Training – April 29
You are invited to participate in metal health first-aid training at the East Ohio Area Center (8800 Cleveland Ave. NW in North Canton) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29. Come learn how to help people in trauma, suffering with substance abuse, and experiencing mental health issues. When equipped with information and insight, churches and faith-based organizations can play a significant role in helping people seek treatment from a trained mental health professional.
There is no cost to attend, and lunch will be provided, but you do need to register in advance. We need a minimum number registered to move forward with the training and no-shows may receive an invoice from the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Collaborative. Upon successful completion of the training, you will be certified/re-certified by MHFA. If you have any questions about the training, please e-mail certified MHFA trainer Meghan DeGregory of Thrive 10:10.
EarthKeepers Online Training – May 2-17
Global Ministries EarthKeepers is a training and incubator program that provides a collaborative space for United Methodists to develop and grow environmental projects in their communities. Topics include eco-theology, antiracism, community organizing, and project planning. All participants plan a project during the training. The last day to apply is March 14.
Farmer to Farmer Liberia Mission Journey – July 15-28
You’re invited to build relationships with the Harrisburg, Liberia community. Be immersed in the tropical climate and the Independence Day celebrations, visit the capital, and work on furthering development of ideas for the farm and school. Attend Sunday service at Saint John UMC and meet with The Girls of Promise. The cost is approximately $3,000 plus fees for your passport, travel visa, travel clinic, and required immunizations. Helpful skills for trip participants include education, farming, basic first-aid, and being a devotions leader and/or musician. If you have questions or are interested in participating on the team, please e-mail Sally Ruth, trip leader.
For questions about Missions & Community Engagement ministries and opportunities, please e-mail the Rev. Kathy Dickriede, Connectional Ministries office Missions & Community Engagement director, or visit the Missions & Community Engagement pages of the Conference website.
Multicultural Ministries
Black History Month Week 2 Focus: The General Commission on Religion & Race (GCORR)
The United Methodist Church has a long history of both racial struggle and racial justice work. A significant milestone came in 1968, when the newly formed UMC abolished the Central Jurisdiction, the segregated structure that had excluded Black churches and clergy from full participation in the life of the denomination.
Recognizing that true racial equity required more than structural change, the General Conference established the General Commission on Religion & Race (GCORR). The agency exists to challenge, lead, and equip The United Methodist Church to become a more equitable, inclusive, and anti-racist church. Responsibilities of GCORR include intercultural competency, ensuring institutional equity, facilitating vital conversations about religion, race, and culture, and standing against racism.
Racism is part of our history – and our present. As it has done for the past 50 years, GCORR continues to lead the charge in equipping The United Methodist Church to have honest conversations about race, challenge bias, and build authentic relationships across cultures. We are each called to join the work of leading in justice and reconciliation by equipping people to recognize, name, and dismantle systems of racial injustice.
Learn about GCORR.
Visit the EOC Black History Month resource page.
Black History Month Week 3 Focus: Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR)
Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR) was established in response to the merger of The Methodist Church and The Evangelical United Brethren Church in 1968. While the newly formed UMC abolished the racially segregated Central Jurisdiction, many Black Methodists feared that their voice and leadership would be diluted within the new denominational structure. BMCR was created to ensure that Black clergy and laity had a platform for advocacy, leadership development, and racial justice work within the Church.
Since its founding, BMCR has been at the forefront of advocating for Black leadership, empowerment, and justice within The United Methodist Church. Formed during a time of civil rights activism and denominational restructuring, BMCR emerged as a prophetic voice calling for full inclusion, equity, and representation of Black Methodists in the life of the Church.
As one of several recognized racial ethnic caucuses, BMCR plays an important role in the church today. In October, the North Central Jurisdiction BMCR hosted its annual meeting in East Ohio along with workshops to resource and equip the Black church. All are invited to participate in events hosted throughout the year by the East Ohio Conference chapter of BMCR.
Learn about Black Methodists for Church Renewal.
Visit the EOC Black History Month resource page.
For questions about Multicultural Ministries opportunities, please e-mail Will Fenton-Jones, Connectional Ministries office Multicultural Ministries director, or visit the Multicultural Ministries pages of the Conference website.
Camps & Retreat Ministries
Summer Camp 2025
Summer camp has always offered campers of all ages the chance to enjoy fun in the sun! Children, youth, and adults come together to learn new skills, experience new adventures, and make lasting friendships, all under the care of our trained, creative, and compassionate staff. We look forward to partnering with your congregation as you make Summer Camp a key part of the spiritual growth for your children and youth. If you have questions about camp and/or would like to request a brochure, please e-mail the Camps office or call us at (330) 499-3972 ext. 139.
Learn about and register for Summer Camp.
March 15 is the Deadline to Receive Early Bird Savings
Register campers by March 15 to receive $35 off your registration. Encourage kids from your congregation to sign up today and make Camp a part of their 2025 summer adventure.
For questions about Camps & Retreat Ministries opportunities, please e-mail the Rev. Gary Jones, Connectional Ministries office Camps & Retreat Ministries / Spiritual Formation & Christian Education director, or visit the Camps & Retreat Ministries pages of the Conference website.
United Women in Faith
Submit a Workshop Proposal for the 2026 Assembly
“Dream it, Believe it, Do it!” is the theme of the 2026 United Women in Faith Assembly to be held May 15-17, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Workshop proposals for one of the following three categories must be submitted by March 3, 2025:
- inspire workshops deepen spiritual awareness and enrich the soul,
- influence workshops focus on personal and professional development,
- impact workshops emphasize service, action, and advocacy.
If you have questions about submitting a workshop proposal, please e-mail Jessica Tulloch, Assembly workshop producer.
Learn more and create a profile to submit a workshop proposal.
Events: February 17 – March 2
Click to view East Ohio Conference Calendar.
- Tuesday, February 18
Free Community Meal - Wednesday, February 26
All In Community: Wellness Wednesdays
To submit your event to the East Ohio calendar use this form. (The East Ohio Conference only accepts East Ohio United Methodist local church, conference and general UM events for listing on the Conference calendar.)
Celebrations of Life
Please pray for the families of:
- Pauline Bender, clergy spouse, died February 5.
- Orion R. Aubihl, retired Elder, died February 2.
- Sonja G. Bender, retired Elder, died January 19.
View obituaries.
To submit the obituary of an EOC clergy, a clergy spouse, a child of a clergy person, or a surviving spouse, family should contact Melissa McGee, executive secretary to the Bishop, by phone at (330) 499-3972 ext. 112 or via e-mail.
Classifieds
Details of listings may be found here.
Positions Available
- Custodian – The United Methodist Church of Kent
- Director of Adult Choirs – Faith UMC in North Canton
- Kitchen Manager – Gay Street UMC is Mount Vernon
- Office Administrator – Avon UMC
To submit a classified ad please e-mail swilliams@eocumc.com.
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