In this video, Bishop Ward talks with Steve Taylor about his new role as Director of Connectional Ministries.
Bishop Ward: Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ. This last week in June is a time of transition in some of our local churches as well as here in our annual conference. We do pray for every pastor who’ll be moving this week and for every congregation who will receive a new pastor. We celebrate a new Director of Connectional Ministries. Steve Taylor assumes this role this week. Welcome, Steve.
Steve Taylor: Thank you Bishop Hope. It is my joy to be moving into this position from the Outreach Team Coordinator. What is especially joyful is being able to lead such a great group of folks and staff that we have resourcing us across our annual conference; in leadership, in outreach, in spiritual formation. And, I very much look forward to the opportunity and I’m very grateful to be serving in this way.
Bishop Ward: The annual conference is really our family; it’s the basic unit in the disciplinary language of The United Methodist Church. We’re reminded always that in our churches and in our communities that we are connected with other United Methodist people. The Connectional Ministries team helps us fulfill our mission as an annual conference of making disciples in every place.
Steve Taylor: I think it’s one of the great strengths of our church that we have Connectional Ministries. I think it acts as the hands that hold the mission across both our North Carolina Conference and the world. So, as we seek to work both connectionally, globally, we also are resources to local churches to extend your ministry of vitality into your local neighborhoods. We have a world of resources available for you and about sixty years of ministry experience with our staff.
Bishop Ward: Thank you for all that you have done, leading the particular mission focus of our annual conference and as you step into this role, may God’s blessings be upon you. We give thanks for a seamless transition, giving thanks for Carol Goehring’s seven years as Director of Connectional Ministries and, as you take the baton, our prayers are with you.
Steve Taylor: Carol has done a phenomenal job and it is my blessing to follow her. Thank you so much.
Bishop Ward: May Christ be with each of you wherever you find yourself this day.