Before I knew I would be a United Methodist pastor, before I knew I would serve in administrative roles for over half of my ministry, God knew. It was through the leading of the Holy Spirit, my introduction to the United Methodist Church during seminary, and the trust of wise and gifted bishops that I have taken this journey.  

I am proud of the service I have given to the Northern Illinois Conference. First, as a pastor in rural, suburban, and urban settings, serving in five out of the previous six districts. Then in the role of Elgin District superintendent, entrusted to be the first assistant to the bishop in our conference and as the director of connectional ministries for a season of change in our organization. 

The work has been a blessing as I have assisted bishops in legal, ecclesial, organizational, and administrative roles. The work has also been deeply painful, as I have journeyed through the darker side of the institutional church and been reminded that we are all sinners. The work has been uplifting as I have resourced clergy, offered innovation and change to our conference Cabinet, and worked to bring integrity and accountability to the wider community.  

The words of affirmation and thanksgiving I receive many days reminds me that we need this glue that binds us on a spiritual and relational level when we are consumed by the tensions and tribulations of our society and plagued by the human dynamic.  

I have been honored to author the weekly Clergy Prayer Post, connecting active and retired clergy around the world in our joys and our sorrows. I have been awed to hold sacred the pain of victims of church violence. I have been challenged in bringing change to our institution as we struggle with racism, colonialism, elitism, and more. 

All good things must come to an end and as I reach my 39th year in ministry, it is time for Bishop Schwerin to build his own team for the work of the conference as we enter this era of a shared bishop for the Northern Illinois-Wisconsin Episcopal Area.  

I love what I do, and I will miss the engagement and the work. I have made myself available to Bishop Schwerin and others for the future and I know God will find ways to continue to use my gifts and my passion for the good of thekin-dom. Thank you all for your support and love through the years. I look forward to celebrating with many of you on Sept. 8, when we gather to remember and celebrate my ministry.