Nature's Symphony
Breathtaking colors of our planet
Faces of Humanity
Portraits of people from around the globe
Sands of Time
Stark beauty of desolate dunes
Beyond Boundaries
Visual odyssey across continents
By Linda Davis and Simon Mafunda
The Western States Annual Conference embodies a pioneering, mission-driven spirit across one of the largest and most geographically diverse regions in the Global Methodist Church. Stretching across nearly five million square miles, and now extending internationally into Fiji and Australia , the conference is embracing its identity as both a connectional family and a mission field where new churches, leaders, and disciples are being raised up in remarkable ways. Conference leaders describe the West as a place that requires a “ missionary mindset. ” Many congregations do not own buildings, and several church planters serve bi-vocationally while planting and leading ministries in communities where a strong Gospel witness is urgently needed. Rather than focusing on maintaining institutions, churches across the conference are prioritizing disciple-making, evangelism, multiplication, and intentional Christian community. Because of the vast distances between churches, Annual Conference gatherings have become especially important moments of worship, encouragement, training, and relationship-building. Throughout the year, the conference also hosts quarterly pop-up trainings centered on leadership development, disciple-making, multiplication, and practical ministry support. Districts are encouraged to gather in person whenever possible, reflecting the conference’s strong belief that authentic connection is essential for healthy ministry. Conference Superintendent Rev. Mark Maddox shared, “One of our strongest emphases is cultivating a culture of multiplication.” This remains one of the conference’s defining priorities across the region. He further commented, “Every local church is encouraged to engage in local mission work while also embracing the vision that every church plants.” In addition, congregations are encouraged to help launch new faith communities through prayer, financial support, mentoring, or direct planting efforts. The conference also continues to develop and expand its House Fire initiative , which is a home-based gathering of people who want to grow in faith, build real relationships, and experience the power of the Holy Spirit in an intimate, welcoming setting. House Fires are designed to make it easy for anyone to start a new faith community, similar to the concept of a house church. However, the conference is reworking this initiative as an outreach and discipleship tool for those outside the denomination seeking a deeper Christian community and intentional disciple-making environments. Leaders hope these House Fires may eventually develop into GMC churches. The conference has already identified fifty strategic locations throughout the Western United States where leaders believe new churches are needed. In addition, the conference is launching a proof-of-concept church planting initiative , seeking two people (lay or clergy) currently serving or living in other US Conferences who feel called to relocate to a specific location in the Western United States to start a new congregation as bi-vocational church planters. This initiative is about more than planting a church, it’s about making disciples in an under-reached area. Church planting momentum continues to grow. Most churches within the conference are themselves church plants, many launched through creative ministry models, parachute drops into unreached communities, or leaders willing to sacrifice comfort and security in pursuit of a clearer missional calling. The conference is partnering with organizations like River Network and Planters Field to provide training, coaching, and support for current and future church planters. The conference’s expanding international partnerships are also shaping its future. In addition to recently adding churches in Fiji and launching its first church in Australia, the conference is developing a partnership with Covenant Philippines. Leaders also expressed deep gratitude for the support they have received from conferences across the GMC connection, including West Plains, MidSouth, South Georgia, Allegheny West, and others that have come alongside the Western States Conference to strengthen ministry efforts across the West. The diversity of the conference continues to grow as well. Alongside its Fijian churches and Australian ministry, the conference is preparing to launch a new Hmong church this spring. Leaders describe the Western States Conference as one of the most culturally diverse conferences in the denomination and believe that diversity is strengthening both the conference and its witness. Conference leaders repeatedly pointed back to one central conviction: God is moving across the West. They describe watching the Holy Spirit raise up unexpected leaders, open doors for ministry, and bring together people with a passion for making disciples of Jesus Christ. Rev. Maddox reported that “one of our greatest strengths is the willingness of pastors, laity, church planters, and district leaders to sacrificially serve across enormous distances and challenging ministry environments.” One recent testimony highlighted the deep spiritual transformation taking place in local churches. A woman who entered hospice care after becoming deeply involved in her congregation shared with church members, “I never knew this is what faith was supposed to be like.” Through intentional discipleship, prayer, and authentic Christian community, she experienced peace and assurance in the final days of her life. Leaders say stories like hers remind them why discipleship matters and why churches must continue investing deeply in people. Another powerful example involved a seminary student from Wesley Biblical Seminary who initially had no denominational connection. After spending time with conference leaders in prayer and discernment, the student and his wife sensed God calling them into ministry within the Global Methodist Church. Today, he is preparing to launch a new church plant in Central California. As the conference looks toward the future, its priorities remain clear: making disciples, planting churches, developing leaders, and strengthening local congregations throughout the West and beyond. The conference acknowledges the challenges of serving such a vast region with limited resources, yet they remain deeply hopeful and energized by what they believe God is doing across the Western mission field.
PELLA, Iowa — Endorsed leaders from across the Global Methodist Church gathered in April at the Vermeer Global Pavilion in Pella, Iowa, for a two-day training and fellowship event focused on strengthening ministry, building relationships, and encouraging those called to serve Christ beyond the walls of the local church. Hosted by GMC Endorsing Ministries in partnership with Vermeer Corporation, the event centered on the theme Faithful Presence: Courage, Calling, and Care in Endorsed Ministry. Forty participants represented a broad range of ministry settings, including military chaplaincy, healthcare, corrections, counseling, coaching, corporate chaplaincy, first responder ministries, and other specialized contexts where ministry often takes place outside traditional congregational life. Rev. Gary Clore, Director of Endorsing Ministries for the Global Methodist Church, noted that the event reflected the church’s commitment to caring for and equipping endorsed leaders serving in unique ministry environments. “Many of our endorsed leaders serve in places where they are often the church’s first point of contact with people in crisis, transition, or need; they serve as a faithful presence of Christ in places many churches may never reach,” Clore said. The work of endorsed ministry reflects John Wesley’s famous conviction, “The world is my parish.” For Wesley, ministry extended beyond church buildings and traditional boundaries into the places where people lived and worked. The gathering began with an in-person meeting of the Ecclesiastical Endorsing Board before transitioning into worship, fellowship, and training sessions designed to encourage and equip participants. Highlights included presentations by: Rev. Doug Stewart — Well-Behaved Chaplains Rarely Make History Rev. Jason Fry — From Fixing to Forming: Coaching Skills for Chaplains and Caregivers Faithful Presence on the Front Lines panel discussion featuring endorsed leaders serving in a variety of ministry settings Monday evening featured a keynote message from Rev. Mike Schafer, Connectional Operations Officer for the Global Methodist Church , who challenged attendees to embrace the significance of ministries that often take place out of public view. Drawing from 2 Samuel 17:27–29 , Schafer highlighted three often-overlooked individuals— Shobi, Makir, and Barzillai —whose practical acts of support sustained David and his followers during a critical moment of crisis. Though not among Scripture’s most recognized figures, Schafer noted that their faithfulness made a profound difference. “Some of God’s most important work is carried out by people whose names may never become widely known,” he said. Schafer reflected on how many endorsed ministers serve in similar ways—quietly, faithfully, and often outside the spotlight. Military chaplains, counselors, healthcare workers, prison chaplains, and others frequently minister in unseen moments that rarely receive public attention but can profoundly shape lives. His message reminded attendees that kingdom impact is not measured by visibility, platform, or recognition, but by faithfulness. For many in attendance, the message deeply resonated with the realities of their daily ministry. Day two featured a special Chaplain Connect experience led by Rev. Dr. Alan T. “Blues” Baker , retired Rear Admiral and former Navy Chaplain, under the theme Navigating the Currents of 21st-Century Chaplaincy. Drawing from decades of ministry and leadership experience, Baker led participants through three sessions: Vessel at Sea Charting the Course Standing the Watch Using both practical wisdom and nautical imagery, Baker addressed the challenges chaplains and endorsed leaders face while emphasizing resilience, leadership, and faithful ministry amid rapidly changing ministry contexts. Participants also received copies of Baker’s Foundations of Chaplaincy as a resource for continued learning and development. As the event concluded, attendees departed renewed in their calling and strengthened by the reminder that they serve as representatives of Christ in places where ministry often unfolds quietly—but where eternal impact is made. About GMC Endorsing Ministries GMC Endorsing Ministries supports and equips endorsed leaders serving in military, healthcare, counseling, corrections, coaching, corporate, and other specialized ministry settings. Through ecclesiastical endorsement, community, training, and ongoing support, endorsed leaders are empowered to serve as faithful representatives of Christ wherever God calls them.
By Sherri Tabaka-Morrissey
With the nomination period now closed, the Global Methodist Church releases the official list of episcopal nominees for the 2026 General Conference. As of May 15, 2026, 24 individuals have accepted nomination, including five current active bishops and 19 additional nominees brought forward by Annual Conference delegations. This official list reflects the global nature of the Church, representing nominations submitted through the established process by delegates across the connection. Its release is intended to support a season of prayerful discernment for Area Committees on Episcopacy (ACE) and delegates, as we call on the entire Church to seek God’s wisdom throughout this process. The next step will take place during the ACE plenary session on May 30, 2026, when the proposed episcopal areas will be presented for consideration. As a plenary session of designated representatives, this is not a public meeting, but a focused working session for those formally assigned to this responsibility. As previously announced, eight full-time bishops will be elected and consecrated at General Conference 2026, taking place August 30 through September 5, 2026, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Those elected will serve six-year terms beginning November 5, 2026. Global Methodist bishops are traveling, apostolic leaders set apart for a ministry of visionary servant leadership, general oversight, and supervision in support of the church’s mission. They lead the temporal and spiritual life of the church, defend the faith, and deploy the clergy. According to the Book of Doctrines and Discipline, “Nominees for the episcopacy should have a strong record of effectiveness in leading the church in evangelism, discipleship, and mission.” We offer this information with gratitude for those who have said yes to being considered and with prayerful anticipation for how the Lord will guide the Church through this discernment process. OFFICIAL LIST OF NOMINEES: Bishop Leah Gregory Bishop Eduard Khegay Bishop Carolyn Moore Bishop John Pena Auta Bishop Mark Webb Andy Postell Brian Ebel Baziel Y. Yoila Danjuma Juji Forbes Matonga Gabriella Kopas Heather L. Sims Isaac Salgado Jerry Kulah Jonathan Lee Jordan McFall Lathem Postell Leo Tae Youl Park Luther Oconer Lyndol Loyd Paul Lawler Peter J. Bellini (Pete) Scott Pattison Tom Mabry To learn more about each nominee, including the Annual Conferences by which they were nominated and to read their bios, visit the Episcopal Nominee page on the General Conference website at beautyofholiness2026.org . This page will continue to be updated as additional materials are submitted and finalized. A Covenant of Unity Among Nominees In a spirit of humility, prayer, and shared commitment to the unity of the Church, the nominees have also collectively developed a covenant that is being shared with the General Church as part of this discernment process. Grounded in John 17:20–24, the covenant reflects a shared desire that the episcopal process would be marked by holiness, unity, integrity, and love for one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. The covenant serves as a reminder that this discernment process is not about personal advancement, but about faithfully seeking the Lord’s will for the future leadership of the Global Methodist Church. The full covenant can be viewed here . Updates and Honoring Bishops Following the release of the preliminary nominee list, several updates are worth noting. Bishop Kimba K. Evariste announced his decision not to seek re-election. Mbingeleli Diko of South Africa, who was included in the preliminary announcement, has since declined the nomination. Additionally, Peter J. Bellini (Pete) was added as a nominee from the West Plains Conference. Bishop Kimba K. Evariste will be honored for his faithful service alongside Bishops Scott Jones, Jeff Greenway, and Kenneth Levingston, who are also not seeking re-election. The Church looks forward to recognizing the impact and legacy of these leaders at General Conference 2026. A Season of Prayerful Discernment As the Global Methodist Church enters this important season of discernment, we invite our global connection to join in prayer for all nominees and for the work ahead. We trust that the Lord will faithfully guide this process as we seek leaders who will help carry forward the mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ and spreading scriptural holiness across the globe.
By Max Wilkins and Steve Cordle
By Bishop Leah Gregory
By Wes Griffin and Paul Lawler
From March 16-18, 2026 in Conroe, TX, the Global Methodist Church hosted its third annual 2:42 Conference for young clergy, seminary students, and those exploring a call to vocational ministry. This conference began a few years ago with the vision to help build life-giving connections among younger leaders, while also providing a space for vision casting and learning that helps invite young leaders into the vibrant DNA being formed in the GMC. Once again this gathering proved to be a powerful time in God’s presence! As our movement grows, investing in emerging leaders continues to be of vital importance. Recent statistics have confirmed that the majority of American denominations are predominantly made up of older generations, and that includes pastoral leadership. While we praise God for the incredible and faithful service of our more seasoned leaders, we also recognize that the future of the church always necessitates raising up new leadership who will take the baton. The GMC seeks to be a movement that multiplies disciples for generations to come, and that means we need deeply-formed young leaders who will continue to invest in the church for decades. Every year the 2:42 Conference demonstrates that God is continuing to stir in our younger Methodist generations and we are in good hands as we look to the future! If I were to describe the culture that I observe in this gathering of young leaders I would say it this way: They are spiritually hungry, they are deeply passionate, they long for authenticity and relationships, and they are excited to see the Methodist movement recover our early and more primitive DNA. Our youngest leaders and seminary students are not interested in polite church games or politically dominated denominations. They seem to desire the presence and power of God. They want to be connected in deep relationships with one another. And they are energized by the Spirit-filled, gospel-focused, ancient faith of our Methodist ancestors. During the 2:42 Conference we plan times of teaching and preaching, extended worship and prayer, practical learning in workshops, and lots of opportunities for intentional relationship building. On the first evening session of our gathering this year the planning team decided to have extended worship and prayer, rather than another plenary speaker. Both on that night, and throughout the time, it was so beautiful to see young leaders caught up in worship, seeking the face of God, and delighted to just spend time in his presence. Bishop Leah Gregory captured this reality so beautifully in a social media post shortly after the event. She said: At the 242 Conference, surrounded by young adults sensing a call to ministry along with pastors under 35, I encountered something unfamiliar. Or perhaps… something very old. An hour into worship, we were still singing. Still praying. No sermon yet. This Gen X pastor instinctively checked her watch. But when I looked up, I saw something that stopped me cold—hands raised, tears falling, hearts fully open to God. And no one under 40 seemed concerned about the time. They were not operating in chronos—clock time. They were living in kairos—God’s time… That night, the only ones checking watches were those of us trained to manage time. But the younger generation? They were being captured by eternity. In other poignant moments during the conference young leaders gathered into small groups to meet new friends and respond to questions about how they sensed God meeting them during the sessions. These groups stayed together over the course of the three days. It was so beautiful to see the new relationships that were formed. By the final day, as I walked around the host church, I saw young leaders sharing tears and heartfelt prayers for one another as they prayed over each other before leaving. Some who entered the conference as strangers, left as new friends. In fact, that has been one of the most rewarding parts of this experience for me as someone helping to plan and facilitate the time. After three years I now see young leaders who have become dear friends, likely to support each other in ministry for years to come, and they met for the first time at one of the 2:42 Conferences. We also continue to hear testimonies of people gaining clarity in their calling to ministry at 2:42. One young woman shared this year during the gathering that last year’s conference was when God called her into ministry. She was a young GMC church member who came out of curiosity, and left with confidence that the Lord had called her into pastoral ministry. Others have shared with me that they were still discerning if the GMC was the right fit for them, but after 2:42 they left with confidence that this was their spiritual home. God continues to bring amazing fruit through this set apart time! To all who helped invest in this conference, including the host church, planning team, our bishops, annual conference leaders who sent young leaders, and more, thank you! Your investment in this emerging generation of leaders will bear fruit for generations to come. And for those who are unsure about who might be leading the GMC in the coming years… know you are in good hands! God is raising up incredible young leaders who will carry the holy fire of early Methodism for a new day. Matt Reynolds is the President and Founder of Spirit & Truth , a Wesleyan-minded renewal and equipping ministry working with local congregations around the United States and globally. He is an elder in the GMC from the Allegheny West Annual Conference and leads the planning team for the 2:42 Conference.
Some gatherings are important events on a calendar; others become turning points. March 17-19, leaders from across the Global Methodist Church gathered in Orlando for Exponential Global 2026, the world’s largest gathering of church‑planting and multiplication leaders. The conference’s theme, “Multiplier: How Healthy Leaders Create Lasting Impact,” was more than a slogan; it was a summons to intentional development. With more than five thousand pastors, planters and practitioners in attendance, Exponential offered five main sessions, four rounds of workshops and seven additional hours of pre‑conference equipping. The GMC did not just show up; we showed up as a partner and participant with a clear conviction: every congregation must begin preparing for future multiplication. Why This Matters Now The Kingdom Advancement Commission gathered ahead of Exponential to pray, share updates, and strategize before joining the wider Exponential gathering. On Tuesday morning, pastors and leaders from across the connection joined the first‑ever GMC Pre‑Conference Rally where Patrick O’Connell, Director of Practice for Exponential, challenged those present to think beyond maintenance toward movement. A panel of Global Methodist planters and multipliers shared hard‑won insights, and roundtable discussions sparked relationships and cross-pollination of ideas across our young denomination. On Wednesday a GMC luncheon brought seventy‑five pastors and leaders together to hear about the continued development of the denomination across the globe. Max Wilkins, Team Leader for Church Multiplication for the Kingdom Advancement Commission (KAC), reminded us of our identity: “We are disciples who make disciples who make disciples and spread scriptural holiness across the globe.” These moments embodied the energy and momentum God is stirring among us. As Paul Lawler, senior pastor of Christ Methodist Church in Memphis, TN and vice-chair of the Commission, put it: “This is the time for white‑hot vision casting!” Why the urgency? Research suggests denominations must start new churches at a rate of roughly three percent of their congregations every year just to stave off decline. The KAC has therefore set a goal: planting 3,700 congregations globally by 2033. When we look at our heritage we learn that for a number of years early Methodists were planting on average 700 new churches per year; not from a desire to preserve the past or build an institution, rather they multiplied disciples in order to advance the mission. Our emerging church must rediscover that zeal. Multiplication will not happen by default; it requires intentional preparation in every congregation now, while the concrete of our structures is still wet. Exponential’s theme underscored this truth: healthy leaders create lasting impact. We reproduce who we are; if our congregations prioritize prayer, disciple making and sending, we will multiply those values across the globe. The rally and luncheon were not about hype; they were about returning to our roots as a connectional people called to save souls and spread scriptural holiness. Our multiplication efforts must therefore be grounded in prayer, gospel zeal and the means of grace. A Vision of What Could Be Participation at Exponential signaled that the GMC is serious about becoming a multiplication movement. Being listed among the conference sponsors placed us alongside networks and ministries committed to reproduction. Our table presence allowed hundreds of leaders to learn about the GMC’s mission. The pre‑conference rally and luncheon demonstrated that we are not content to observe from the sidelines; we are committed to equipping pastors and laity to lead the way. Action Steps for your Church and Annual Conference Preparation for multiplication is not just for denominational leaders. It begins in every local church. Here are concrete steps congregations can take now: Pray intentionally for laborers. Jesus’ first command regarding the harvest was to pray (Luke 10:2). Form prayer teams that ask God to raise up planters, disciplers and missionaries from within your congregation - and put out that call regularly. Identify and develop emerging leaders. Create intentional pathways for apprenticeships. Encourage laypersons with gifting and character to lead small groups, teach classes and shadow pastors. For those who sense a calling to take an intentional step into something new, consider participating in the GMC Multipliers Learning Community with Exponential to equip leaders to make paradigm shifts and mobilize their group or congregation. (The GMC has reserved 25 spots in the upcoming MLC. Learn more here: GMC MLC) Start disciple‑making groups that multiply. Strengthen your congregation’s class and band meetings so that deep discipleship and accountability flow out with a zeal to connect the lost and wandering. Teach simple methods of evangelism and discipleship that anyone can use, and shift your scorecard to measure success by reproduction, not retention. Prepare to plant. Begin praying about where God might be calling your church to send a planting team. Contact your Annual Conference or the KAC for coaching. Form partnerships with other GMC congregations to plant together. Research shows new churches reach more unchurched people. Commit to attend Exponential. Bring teams of pastors and leaders to Exponential 2027 or regional conferences. Learning alongside thousands of like‑minded believers will stir faith and sharpen strategy. Consider bringing a team from your Annual Conference and/or church. Rallying Cry Exponential Global 2026 was not the culmination of our multiplication journey; it was a catalyst. The Kingdom Advancement Commission’s time of prayer and planning, and our growing presence at gatherings like Exponential, signal that the Holy Spirit is weaving together a movement of multiplication within the Global Methodist Church. Yet, the early days of movements are fragile. If we fail to act now - if we assume multiplication will happen automatically - we will drift into maintenance. As Wes Griffin, chair of the Kingdom Advancement Commission, observed, “Exponential isn’t just a gathering of leaders; it’s a catalyst that provides a common language and helps us think differently about how we might advance the Kingdom of God.” The future of the GMC will be shaped not by the size of our gatherings but by the faithfulness of our sending. Let us prepare now for that future. Let each pastor, layperson, and congregation take up the call to pray, develop leaders, and plant new communities. Let us join hands across Conferences and continents, trusting that the God who empowered the early Methodists will reignite our missional zeal once again. Zach Kingery is an elder in the Global Methodist Church and serves as Kingdom Advancement's GMC Multiplication Coordinator for North America and Multiplication Team Leader for the Upper Midwest Conference. He is also the GMC representative for Dirt Roads Network. Zach provided key leadership for the GMC at Exponential 2026.
Welcome to the
Global Methodist Church
The Global Methodist Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ and spread scriptural holiness across the globe.
Our Beliefs
Please click below to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we serve. We are looking forward to knowing you.
Our Churches
No matter where you live, there is a great chance we have a church near you. Use our church locator button below to find us. We can't wait to see you!
OUR CONNECTIONS
Explore our annual conferences, councils, and commissions to learn more about the impactful work happening across the globe.
GROUPS + COACHES + MORE
Our MISSION
The Global Methodist Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ
and spread scriptural holiness across the globe.
At the heart of the Global Methodist Church is a deep desire to surrender fully to the one true God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—and to live out a passionate devotion to what matters most to Him.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we envision a worldwide movement of disciples who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly. Jesus calls us to love God wholeheartedly and our neighbors as ourselves, and we strive to embody His extravagant love in all we do.
We are entrusted with a lifesaving, transforming message and are committed to sharing the whole counsel of God with all peoples—boldly, fearlessly, and with unwavering faith.
Rooted in Scripture and led by the Spirit, we seek to advance God’s Kingdom in every culture and community. As a global church, we value the gifts of every member, walking together in mutual love, humility, and service—especially toward the vulnerable—as we partner in God’s mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ and transform the world.
Recent News
Stay in touch and up to date with all our important news and articles.
By Linda Davis and Simon Mafunda
The Western States Annual Conference embodies a pioneering, mission-driven spirit across one of the largest and most geographically diverse regions in the Global Methodist Church. Stretching across nearly five million square miles, and now extending internationally into Fiji and Australia , the conference is embracing its identity as both a connectional family and a mission field where new churches, leaders, and disciples are being raised up in remarkable ways. Conference leaders describe the West as a place that requires a “ missionary mindset. ” Many congregations do not own buildings, and several church planters serve bi-vocationally while planting and leading ministries in communities where a strong Gospel witness is urgently needed. Rather than focusing on maintaining institutions, churches across the conference are prioritizing disciple-making, evangelism, multiplication, and intentional Christian community. Because of the vast distances between churches, Annual Conference gatherings have become especially important moments of worship, encouragement, training, and relationship-building. Throughout the year, the conference also hosts quarterly pop-up trainings centered on leadership development, disciple-making, multiplication, and practical ministry support. Districts are encouraged to gather in person whenever possible, reflecting the conference’s strong belief that authentic connection is essential for healthy ministry. Conference Superintendent Rev. Mark Maddox shared, “One of our strongest emphases is cultivating a culture of multiplication.” This remains one of the conference’s defining priorities across the region. He further commented, “Every local church is encouraged to engage in local mission work while also embracing the vision that every church plants.” In addition, congregations are encouraged to help launch new faith communities through prayer, financial support, mentoring, or direct planting efforts. The conference also continues to develop and expand its House Fire initiative , which is a home-based gathering of people who want to grow in faith, build real relationships, and experience the power of the Holy Spirit in an intimate, welcoming setting. House Fires are designed to make it easy for anyone to start a new faith community, similar to the concept of a house church. However, the conference is reworking this initiative as an outreach and discipleship tool for those outside the denomination seeking a deeper Christian community and intentional disciple-making environments. Leaders hope these House Fires may eventually develop into GMC churches. The conference has already identified fifty strategic locations throughout the Western United States where leaders believe new churches are needed. In addition, the conference is launching a proof-of-concept church planting initiative , seeking two people (lay or clergy) currently serving or living in other US Conferences who feel called to relocate to a specific location in the Western United States to start a new congregation as bi-vocational church planters. This initiative is about more than planting a church, it’s about making disciples in an under-reached area. Church planting momentum continues to grow. Most churches within the conference are themselves church plants, many launched through creative ministry models, parachute drops into unreached communities, or leaders willing to sacrifice comfort and security in pursuit of a clearer missional calling. The conference is partnering with organizations like River Network and Planters Field to provide training, coaching, and support for current and future church planters. The conference’s expanding international partnerships are also shaping its future. In addition to recently adding churches in Fiji and launching its first church in Australia, the conference is developing a partnership with Covenant Philippines. Leaders also expressed deep gratitude for the support they have received from conferences across the GMC connection, including West Plains, MidSouth, South Georgia, Allegheny West, and others that have come alongside the Western States Conference to strengthen ministry efforts across the West. The diversity of the conference continues to grow as well. Alongside its Fijian churches and Australian ministry, the conference is preparing to launch a new Hmong church this spring. Leaders describe the Western States Conference as one of the most culturally diverse conferences in the denomination and believe that diversity is strengthening both the conference and its witness. Conference leaders repeatedly pointed back to one central conviction: God is moving across the West. They describe watching the Holy Spirit raise up unexpected leaders, open doors for ministry, and bring together people with a passion for making disciples of Jesus Christ. Rev. Maddox reported that “one of our greatest strengths is the willingness of pastors, laity, church planters, and district leaders to sacrificially serve across enormous distances and challenging ministry environments.” One recent testimony highlighted the deep spiritual transformation taking place in local churches. A woman who entered hospice care after becoming deeply involved in her congregation shared with church members, “I never knew this is what faith was supposed to be like.” Through intentional discipleship, prayer, and authentic Christian community, she experienced peace and assurance in the final days of her life. Leaders say stories like hers remind them why discipleship matters and why churches must continue investing deeply in people. Another powerful example involved a seminary student from Wesley Biblical Seminary who initially had no denominational connection. After spending time with conference leaders in prayer and discernment, the student and his wife sensed God calling them into ministry within the Global Methodist Church. Today, he is preparing to launch a new church plant in Central California. As the conference looks toward the future, its priorities remain clear: making disciples, planting churches, developing leaders, and strengthening local congregations throughout the West and beyond. The conference acknowledges the challenges of serving such a vast region with limited resources, yet they remain deeply hopeful and energized by what they believe God is doing across the Western mission field.
PELLA, Iowa — Endorsed leaders from across the Global Methodist Church gathered in April at the Vermeer Global Pavilion in Pella, Iowa, for a two-day training and fellowship event focused on strengthening ministry, building relationships, and encouraging those called to serve Christ beyond the walls of the local church. Hosted by GMC Endorsing Ministries in partnership with Vermeer Corporation, the event centered on the theme Faithful Presence: Courage, Calling, and Care in Endorsed Ministry. Forty participants represented a broad range of ministry settings, including military chaplaincy, healthcare, corrections, counseling, coaching, corporate chaplaincy, first responder ministries, and other specialized contexts where ministry often takes place outside traditional congregational life. Rev. Gary Clore, Director of Endorsing Ministries for the Global Methodist Church, noted that the event reflected the church’s commitment to caring for and equipping endorsed leaders serving in unique ministry environments. “Many of our endorsed leaders serve in places where they are often the church’s first point of contact with people in crisis, transition, or need; they serve as a faithful presence of Christ in places many churches may never reach,” Clore said. The work of endorsed ministry reflects John Wesley’s famous conviction, “The world is my parish.” For Wesley, ministry extended beyond church buildings and traditional boundaries into the places where people lived and worked. The gathering began with an in-person meeting of the Ecclesiastical Endorsing Board before transitioning into worship, fellowship, and training sessions designed to encourage and equip participants. Highlights included presentations by: Rev. Doug Stewart — Well-Behaved Chaplains Rarely Make History Rev. Jason Fry — From Fixing to Forming: Coaching Skills for Chaplains and Caregivers Faithful Presence on the Front Lines panel discussion featuring endorsed leaders serving in a variety of ministry settings Monday evening featured a keynote message from Rev. Mike Schafer, Connectional Operations Officer for the Global Methodist Church , who challenged attendees to embrace the significance of ministries that often take place out of public view. Drawing from 2 Samuel 17:27–29 , Schafer highlighted three often-overlooked individuals— Shobi, Makir, and Barzillai —whose practical acts of support sustained David and his followers during a critical moment of crisis. Though not among Scripture’s most recognized figures, Schafer noted that their faithfulness made a profound difference. “Some of God’s most important work is carried out by people whose names may never become widely known,” he said. Schafer reflected on how many endorsed ministers serve in similar ways—quietly, faithfully, and often outside the spotlight. Military chaplains, counselors, healthcare workers, prison chaplains, and others frequently minister in unseen moments that rarely receive public attention but can profoundly shape lives. His message reminded attendees that kingdom impact is not measured by visibility, platform, or recognition, but by faithfulness. For many in attendance, the message deeply resonated with the realities of their daily ministry. Day two featured a special Chaplain Connect experience led by Rev. Dr. Alan T. “Blues” Baker , retired Rear Admiral and former Navy Chaplain, under the theme Navigating the Currents of 21st-Century Chaplaincy. Drawing from decades of ministry and leadership experience, Baker led participants through three sessions: Vessel at Sea Charting the Course Standing the Watch Using both practical wisdom and nautical imagery, Baker addressed the challenges chaplains and endorsed leaders face while emphasizing resilience, leadership, and faithful ministry amid rapidly changing ministry contexts. Participants also received copies of Baker’s Foundations of Chaplaincy as a resource for continued learning and development. As the event concluded, attendees departed renewed in their calling and strengthened by the reminder that they serve as representatives of Christ in places where ministry often unfolds quietly—but where eternal impact is made. About GMC Endorsing Ministries GMC Endorsing Ministries supports and equips endorsed leaders serving in military, healthcare, counseling, corrections, coaching, corporate, and other specialized ministry settings. Through ecclesiastical endorsement, community, training, and ongoing support, endorsed leaders are empowered to serve as faithful representatives of Christ wherever God calls them.
