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 |
| Christy Suffecool | New Leaf UMC | Northern Waters | |
#BeUMC
Storyboard: Faith Witness Transformation
Episode 53 Microgrants for Ministries
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 53 “Microgrants for Ministries” features EOC Strategic Ministries director the Rev. Beth Ortiz sharing about the process of applying for microgrants that can assist in funding creative ministries with the community.
Churches looking to launch a new ministry to reach people outside the church community can apply for an EOC Board of Congregational Development microgrant up to $2,000.
“Spend some time listening to who God has placed you in the midst of already, be excited for who that is, and then begin to dream of how you can reach out to them,” Ortiz shares in the podcast episode. “Look at the community around you and rejoice in who they are and reach them as they are now.”
Microgrants are offered to encourage congregations to experiment with new ministries that reach beyond the walls of the church out into the community. It’s there, meeting people where they are at, that the Church can make a difference by introducing new people to Jesus Christ.
Apply for a microgrant.
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 is hosting a day apart in each district in the East Ohio Conference. On Thursday, February 27 the bishop welcomed clergy and laity to UMC Macedonia in the Northern Waters District and on Saturday, March 1 he hosted a day at Thoburn UMC in the South Forest District.
Days apart are scheduled for March 10 at Ashland Christ UMC in the West Plains District and March 13 at Navarre Otterbein UMC in the Central Valley District.
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 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.
Annual Conference
Annual Conference 2025 – June 12-14
This year’s Annual Conference will be hosted on the campus of the College of Wooster. The theme for the 56th session of Annual Conference is “Rise Up, Beloved: Trust in God’s Promises”. The services and sessions will be grounded in the words of Mark 5:35-43 (NIV).
AC 2025 Registration to Open April 1, Close May 16
Lay and clergy members to Annual Conference and guests will be able to register for this year’s session beginning on April 1. Again, this year, all registration will be online only, and each registrant will need their own e-mail address – one that isn’t shared by anyone else who needs to register for this year’s conference.
Lodging During Annual Conference 2025
As in past years, registrants who will not commute to Annual Conference can choose to stay in one of the local hotels with discounted AC rates. New, this year, is the opportunity during online registration to pay to stay in a residence hall room on campus. Finalized details will be published in the March 17 E-News so that you can make your plans prior to the opening of registration on April 1.
Meals During Annual Conference 2025
New, this year, to Annual Conference is the ability to pay during online registration to participate in the AC meal plan. Finalized details will be published in the March 17 E-News so that you can make your plans prior to the opening of registration on April 1.
Financial & Administrative Services
Year-end Reports are Past Due
Church year-end reports were due on February 3. If your church has not yet submitted it through the AC Stats portal, please submit it today.
The Conference office has been gracious in receiving late reports but must now look to ensure it meets GCFA deadlines for submitting information from the local church year-end reports. To accomplish this the AC Stats portal will lock at the close of business this Friday – March 7. After that date, churches will not be able to submit 2024 year-end reports.
Communications
Check Copyright Compliance Before Showing Videos
Displaying videos during worship services can add to the experience of those hearing and seeing the message in the sanctuary and online. Before showing the videos in church, be sure to check your copyright license to be sure that the song in the video is part of its catalog of covered songs. And before showing the video online be sure to check your streaming and podcasting license to be sure the song can be rebroadcast on the internet either through livestream or recording the service and posting it later.
Sometimes links to subject-relevant music videos are included in liturgical planning resources. Including the links does not grant permission to churches to use the videos. Worship planners need to check the catalog of the church copyright and streaming podcasting licenses to determine if the church can legally show the video.
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.
Special Sunday Offering
On March 30, Support United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) Sunday
The goal of United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is to assist vulnerable people affected by crisis or chronic need without regard to their nationality, race, religion or status. We believe all people have God-given worth and dignity.
On UMCOR Sunday, March 30 we seek to increase awareness and support for UMCOR. Gifts given on this special Sunday in The United Methodist Church 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.
One of the beautiful things about The United Methodist Church is that, together, we can accomplish far more than we could on our own. Our collective gifts help strengthen the ministry of UMCOR. 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:
- international disaster response,
- U.S. disaster response,
- global migration,
- environmental sustainability, and
- the Yambasu agriculture initiative.
Learn about and support UMCOR Sunday.
Download UMCOR Sunday resources.
Strategic Ministries
Training Offered for United Methodist Clergy in Transition
Change is an inevitable part of ministry, and navigating transitions with grace and confidence is essential. Whether you are moving to a new appointment, welcoming a new pastor, or supporting a congregation through change, Harmony in Transition training is designed to equip United Methodist clergy with the tools and insights needed for a smooth and faithful transition.
Join us for this important training, where we will explore best practices for leadership transitions, address common challenges, and provide practical guidance for maintaining spiritual and congregational well-being during times of change. Through thoughtful discussions, shared experiences, and expert insights, this training will help you step into your next season of ministry with clarity and confidence.
Each SPRC/leadership team, ideally including the incoming pastor, needs to attend the training on only one of the three offered dates:
- April 10 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Strongsville UMC,
- May 8 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Wooster UMC,
- May 8 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the EOC Conference Area Center in North Canton.
Learn more and register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
For questions about Strategic Ministries opportunities, please e-mail the Rev. Beth Ortiz, Connectional Ministries office Strategic Ministries director, or visit the Strategic Ministries pages on the Conference website.
Missions & Community Engagement
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 Dinner and Discussion – March 11
All In Community (EOC Advance Fund 9984) is hosting a dinner and discussion on March 11 to provide an opportunity to better understand how to navigate Ohio’s criminal justice system with loved ones, congregants, and neighbors. Guest speaker for the 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. event at Strongsville UMC will be Dr. Mike Davis, Religious Services administrator with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.
Family members, ministry servants, and pastors have an opportunity to learn how they can support people close to them who are incarcerated and returning. No family member or congregation can do it alone, so we will identify local resource partners that strengthen our supportive response as part of the reentry continuum of care. There is no cost to attend the dinner and discussion but you are asked to register your intent to attend by March 6.
Register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
Poverty Simulation Experience – April 5
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 9:30 a.m. – noon. on Saturday, April 5 at Loudonville 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 2. 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.
Green Church Training – April 23
Green Church training provides a solid foundation for moving your church toward green solutions. The training includes Biblical, Wesleyan, and United Methodist teachings on creation care, tips for forming a Green Team at your church, and plenty of ideas and suggestions for creative ways to make your church green aware. The training must be attended by at least two people from each church (either two lay or one lay, one clergy). After completing the training, churches will either create a Green Team (if they do not already have one) or complete a green project at their church.
The training will take place at Ashland First UMC on April 23 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Cost of the training is $50 for a church team of two people; additional church members are welcome to attend at $10 per person. Dinner will be provided. Please register all participants from your church at the same time. The last day to register is April 15. If you have any questions about this training, please e-mail Melanie Thomas, Connectional Ministries administrative assistant.
Register on the Events Registration page of the EOC website.
Visit the Creation Care webpages 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.
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.
“As someone who has completed the training, I highly recommend it,” shares Melanie Thomas. “The deep dive into creation care and learning practical ways to shepherd a project through my church for the benefit of the whole community has helped me to grow in my discipleship and to see the world with fresh eyes. It’s a great opportunity to learn and grow!”
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.
Higher Education
2026 Collegiate Ministry Grant Application Deadline Extended
The East Ohio Conference supports and awards grants to undergraduate campus ministries to empower them to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. March 7 is the new deadline for collegiate campus ministries with a connection to United Methodist churches to apply for a 2026 Missions and Ministries grant. In 2025, five campus ministries were awarded over $78,000 in grants. If you have questions about the grant application, please e-mail Rev. Dr. Tim Morrison, chair of the EOC Board of Higher Education and Christian Campus Ministry (BHECCM).
Collegiate Ministry Grant Details and Application
Learn about other scholarships, grants, and financial aid on the EOC website.
For questions about Higher Education ministry opportunities, please e-mail Pastor Christy Suffecool, Connectional Ministries office Young People’s Ministries co-director, or visit the Higher Education pages of the Conference website.
Camps & Retreat Ministries
Register for Camp by March 15 and Receive Early Bird Savings
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.
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. 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.
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.
Spiritual Formation & Christian Education
Spiritual Formation Network Gatherings – March 4
If you are involved in spiritual formation and Christian education, you are invited to join your friends and colleagues via Zoom for devotions, support, question-asking and -answering, and sharing ideas. Our next online gathering is March 4 at whichever time (9:00 a.m. or 7:00 p.m.) is convenient for you. Invite your friends involved in spiritual formation and Christian education ministries to join you and us for this time together.
We will continue to meet on the first Tuesday of the month thereafter at 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. so that you can join whichever time works best for you that day. April 1 is the day we will meet next month. To receive the Zoom link, please e-mail Rev. Gary Jones, Camps & Retreat Ministries / Spiritual Formation & Christian Education director in the Connectional Ministries office.
For questions about Spiritual Formation & Christian Education ministries opportunities, please e-mail the Rev. Gary Jones, Connectional Ministries office Camps & Retreat Ministries / Spiritual Formation & Christian Education director, or visit the Spiritual Formation & Christian Education pages of the Conference website.
Laity
Lay Servant Ministries Trainings in March
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, used laity to preach, conduct worship, lead studies, and visit the sick and imprisoned. Laity refers to the Greek word “laos” which means all the people of God. Laity in The United Methodist Church are empowered to serve through Lay Servant Ministries (LSM).
There are several LSM training courses offered in the East Ohio Conference in March. Taking a class will deepen your knowledge of the Church and open your eyes to opportunities to serve. Please know that taking a class does not commit you to becoming a certified lay servant or certified lay speaker.
View the trainings on the Lay Servant Ministry Training page of the EOC website.
View the list of lay servant ministries district directors.
Events: March 3 – March 16
Click to view East Ohio Conference Calendar.
- Tuesday, March 4
All In Community: Frankly Speaking with Four Friends - March 7-9
Retreat for Clergy Spouses - Saturday, March 8
Lay Servant Ministries Training - Monday, March 10
All In Community: HOPE Letters - Tuesday, March 11
All In Community Dinner and Discussion - Saturday, March 15
Lay Servant Ministries Training
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:
- James F. Wiebrecht, retired Elder, died February 5.
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
- Kitchen Manager – Gay Street UMC is Mount Vernon
To submit a classified ad please e-mail swilliams@eocumc.com.
To Subscribe
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Thursday, March 13, 2025 is the submission deadline for the next E-News. Send articles to eoccommunications@eocumc.com.
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