2019 Laity Delegate Nominations

Current church membership: Trinity UMC- Clayton
How long have you been a member of this church? 6
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
St. John’s UMC- Turnersville, NJ
West Grove UMC- Neptune, NJ
New Egypt UMC- New Egypt, NJ
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 13
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Rules Committee- 2018- present
Conference Youth and Young Adult Ministry Team- 2007-2016
CF&A- 2008
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Division on Ministries with Young People- 2016-present
General Board of Church and Society Social Principles Rewrite Team- 2017
Legislative Committee Chairwoman- Church and Society A- 2016
UMW Program Advisory Group- 2012-2016
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? Yes
If yes, what years? 2012 2016
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2008 2016
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: The United Methodist Church has been part of my life from the time I can remember. Being a third generation United Methodist is part of my identity that I am super proud to claim. My hope for the church would be a denomination where we continue to embrace love, do justice, and walk humbly with God. I pray that we continue to be change makers and leaders in the areas of disaster response and global health. I also pray that we find a way to be in ministry together as a unified denomination.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hope would be for healing and looking toward the future- growing vital and relevant United Methodist churches. It is my hope that we will be able to find new ways of working with finite resources, be creative in our approach to ministry, and continue to be a voice for the voiceless. I hope that we will continue to take stands on vital social issues. I hope that we will have the opportunity to share stories of how we are and will continue to be in ministry with all in the coming quadrennium.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? I believe that a bishop needs to be a servant leader with a transformational vision for the future of the local church and the denomination at large. They need to be an effective administrator that can balance all the responsibilities of being a bishop as well as maintain a heart for the local church, mission, service, the global connection, and social justice. The episcopal candidate also needs to be fair and be able to maintain a calm presence under immense pressure
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? It would be my honor to again represent the GNJAC at the 2020 General Conference and use my leadership gifts. This General Conference will be especially important for healing and progress after the Special Session in 2019.

Current church membership: United Methodist Church at New Brunswick
How long have you been a member of this church? 21
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
Hightstown United Methodist Church
First United Methodist Church in New Haven, Connecticut
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 3
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Member of the Council on Finance and Administration
A Future With Hope, Board of Trustees
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
I have not held official positions within the denomination. However, I have gained denominational leadership insights from helping my father Rev. Gilbert Caldwell when he was the Director of the Commission on Religion and Race and active in BMCR.
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: I hope the Church can move beyond the current division to come together in the name of Jesus Christ. We were able to work through division around race and, with God’s help, we can work through the current division. 1 Peter 3:8 reads: Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. I pray that our church leaders demonstrate the unity, sympathy, love, tenderness and humility necessary to fully open the doors of the UMC.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: This is an extremely important time in the life of the UMC. The only way to heal the current division is for the entire Church to realize that since God is the one and only judge, we should refrain from imperfect human judgement and accept all people equally. My hope for the 2020 General Conference is that it will recognize that we are all part of one equal family of Christian believers regardless of race, nationality or gender identity.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? A Bishop should have a thorough knowledge of the history of the Bible, an intimate understanding of Scripture and its true intent, an exceptional sense of empathy, an inclusive vision to enhance and grow a diverse Church, a passion for active listening, a commitment to increase involvement of the laity, an understanding of the relationship between church growth and financial growth and the ability to inspire other Methodists to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? As an African American At Large Member of the GNJAC named for Bishop Dale White; a CLM; a business executive; a Father; and, the son of Civil Rights Leader Rev. Gil Caldwell, I will bring a unique and diverse perspective to the Delegation.

Current church membership: Frankford Plains UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? 15 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: Sparta UMC
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 15
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? I served as Skylands District Lay Leader for 8 years. I taught the district’s Basic Lay Speaking Course for 6 years. While I was district lay leader I served on the conference Vision Team, Nominations Committee and Laity Board.
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination? I’ve been a Local Church Leader (20yrs), Admin Chair (2yrs) and Men’s Walk to Emmaus Lay Director. I’ve taught Senior High Sunday School and lead youth service missions including Project Rise (6yrs) and Redbird (2yrs) and Certified Lay speaker.
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: My hopes include a unity of purpose within the United Methodist Church; Disciples of Christ all pulling in God’s direction. Though distance and issues my separate us, the closer we all come to God then we will all come closer to each other. I pray that our denomination can reverse the trend of falling worship attendance in the USA while continuing to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ across the globe. I hope that the UMC will continue to spread the message of God’s love where it is needed most.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: I sincerely pray that the presence of the Holy Spirit shall be recognized by all that participate in the Conference. We will work hard, pray hard, sing and worship together. May we find faith that God is present and will work all things to good for those who love Him. I pray that at the closing of our conference that our denomination will be more unified, healthy and stronger than at the opening.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? An incoming bishop should have a strong record of effective congregational leadership. A bishop must recruit, train, and deploy pastors to start congregations, mobilize mission and lead people to active faith in Jesus Christ. A bishop must have an unwavering focus on the mission of the church. A bishop will manage a large organization comprised of a number of agencies, hundreds of churches and thousands of people, therefore a bishop should have significant organizational skills and experience.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? Being a delegate will be demanding work. If elected, I will carry out all responsibilities to the absolute best of my ability. I will be open minded, a faithful disciple of Christ, open to the presence of the Holy Spirit, and bearer of God’s Love.

Current church membership: Community United Methodist Church, Kenilworth, NJ
How long have you been a member of this church? more than 11 years (previous church Springfield UMC merged with CUMC on December, 2017)
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
– Springfield Emanuel UMC (merged with Community UMC –Dec. 2017)
– First Filipino-American UMC in Jersey City
– Faith Filipino Mission UMC
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 11
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
-Co-chair CF&A & Chair Budget Committee (2017-present)
-Board of Laity Member (2016-present)
-Board of Director, United Methodist Communities & Chair Operations Committee (2014-present)
-Lay Leader Gateway North District (2014-present)
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
-Board of Director General Commission on Finance & Administration (GCFA) & elected secretary of the
Board (2016-present)
-Board of Director CF&A Northeast Jurisdiction (2016-present)
-Advisory & Strategy Team Member Path 1 Strategy of the GBOD
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? Yes
If yes, what years? 2016
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2016
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: I have been in earnest prayer to what God is yet to do through his Church. The UMC is God’s representation to the world to share his redemptive love to all people. I am hopeful that the UMC will continue to live up to its calling to be in ministry to all, respecting the diversity and sacred worth of all God’s creation, and be the positive influence of peace and justice in the world. I am hopeful that a renewed church emerges through the work of the Holy Spirit as we seek God’s will in our midst!
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: I am hopeful that the 2020 General Conference will be a renewal time for the church, celebrating who we are in ministry together to all the world. I hope for a graceful, respectful and focused deliberations and conversations on changes that we need to continue to explore and embrace in order to be more effective and efficient in our ministry work together. I hope that the experience of worship and prayer together as the global church will continue to transform our lives, and deepen our service.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop?
-A Spiritual Leader with deep faith & character; faithful servant of God.
-A Visionary & Transformational Leader, positive change agent, influencing his followers with encouragement and kind words.
– Embraces diversity as a strength in the church, inclusive, and respectful of all perspectives, and welcoming to all people.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? It is truly a privilege and honor to serve the Church in which I have been nurtured, loved and accepted. I am grateful for this opportunity to serve and offer my God given gifts through this process. Not to me, but to God only be the glory!

Current church membership: Haddonfield UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? 22 years
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 6
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? IGNITE planning team, board of discipleship
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination? Lay servant within local church.
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: God’s grace is abundant, but only in so much as we share it. Our denomination will need to shift to adapt to the changing world. I pray for a UMC that is strong, solid, and relevant in the lives of people allover the world. I hope the UMC will continue to be a voice of Justice in a political climate fraught with partisanship. In the future, I hope that there will truly be a place at the table for everyone, as the UMC transforms the world.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: As the denomination moves past just envisioning “a way forward”, we are callled to move into action. General Conference 2020 will be critical to the future of our denomination. It is my hope that meaningful dialogue will occur to move past schism, divisiveness, and apprehension. We will emerge with a clear, aligned vision, and the resolve to achieve it.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? The Bishop is the Shepard to our flock in Greater New Jersey; as such they will lead and care for clergy and layity alike. He/She should bring vision and energy to propel us onward. With the diverse population in GNJ, and the proximity to metro areas, we have a unique calling to social justice; a Bishop should have a heart for justice and mission.

Current church membership: Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church
How long have you been a member of this church? 10 Years
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 9
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Youth Council
Young Adult Council
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: I hope that the UMC continues doing amazing work in the world, inspired by our social principles that have our shaped and defined our denomination. That we embrace and celebrate these understandings of God and the church, that we pool our ideas, ministries and resources to transform the world. That we do this by embracing the diversity and gifts of all and inviting them into discipleship. The church that I hope for ensures that all know that they are loved unconditionally by God.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hope is that God does God’s work at the conference, and that all are heard equally. I hope that young people will have a booming voice, and a seat at every single table. That the conference offers reconciliation, repair, and restoration to the church. I believe in the power of resurrection, and the power of redemption for our church body. I know that this cannot be done without demonstrating the love and acceptance of all that Jesus modeled for us.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? An incoming bishop should have an open, curious and passionate approach for the vitality, vision and unity of the church. Leadership should be grounded in the Theological Task of the church as critical, constructive, contextual, incarnational and ultimately practical. Bishops must be courageous in their prophetic leadership for social justice and holiness in the church and in the world. Churches need support to understand their context and respond to the deep need for Christ’s redemptive grace.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? There is beauty in the diversity of New Jersey that can serve as a testament to the global church about working together amidst difference with love and mutual understanding. I firmly believe in this ideal and would be honored to represent it.

Current church membership: Haddonfield United Methodist Church
How long have you been a member of this church? 15 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
I formerly attended St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church growing up.
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? No
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
2012-2016 Disability Task Force Chair- Haddonfield United Methodist Church
-planned speakers, social events, & inclusive Christian Education
2014- present- Facilitator of our Support Group for Parents of Differently Abled Children”
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: My hope is that we live out our goal to be a church with open hearts, open minds, and open doors. Showing Christ’s love for all people regardless of ethnicity, socioeconomic class, ability, or theological understanding is vital to our continued growth. Our denomination can show God’s love to a hurting world by our relationships to each other as well as reaching out beyond our churches. We can make disciples for the transformation of the world through Worldwide worship and mission.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: I hope that all participants can recognize God’s presence in worship, conversation, and voting during General Conference. Learning to love one another and the rich diversity within our denomination is important. I hope that we can find a way to exist together or create something new while remaining mission partners.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? A bishop should have the ability to listen to all viewpoints. They should demonstrate love for the entire church, even those they disagree with. A bishop should show that there is hope despite conflict and despair. They should be able to provide needed support to congregations so that they can be fruitful in their ministry. This includes strategically placing clergy in churches while taking into account the differing needs of each congregation.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? It is a passion of mine to minister to those on the margins. I have learned so much about being open to what people of all abilities can teach us. This comes from my role as a mother of a child with Autism as well as my understanding of scripture.

Current church membership: St. Andrew UMC Toms River
How long have you been a member of this church? 8 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: First United Methodist Church of Toms River
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 5
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
District Superintendency Committee. 2015-present
Youth and young Adult Representative to Annual Conference. 2015-present
Conference Committee on Youth and Young Adults. 2016-present
Youth representative to Jurisdictional Conference 2016
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
N/A
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2016
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: My hope for the United Methodist Church is that we would stay united in our common mission which is to make disciples of Jesus Christ to transform the world. We as a denomination can do so much more together then we can do apart. If elected, I will continue to ensure that our witness as a church continues to be strong and vibrant.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hope for the 2020 General Conference is that regardless of our positions on certain issues we would continue to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. And we would love our neighbor as ourselves. We are a multi issue church and we cannot and should not let one issue tear us apart. I stand firm in what Paul tells us. “Those members we think are less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect.”
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? I believe that incoming bishops should first and foremost be a follower of Jesus Christ. Bishops should also have a pastors heart. Along with having a great administrative record bishops are pastors that need to care about people. Bishops should also have a strong Wesleyan foundation. These is just a few things I will look for in future bishops.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? As a 22 year old young person, it is time for the church to be the church we say we are. My generation is often called the future of the church, but we are the church of today. It would be my privilege to serve as one of your delegates.

Current church membership: Haddonfield United Methodist Church
How long have you been a member of this church? 4 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: St. John United Methodist Church of Harrisonville
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 3
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Youth Delegate (2016-2018)
Young Adult Delegate (2018-now)
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Youth Advisory Council for Youth19 – 2016 to 2018
Mission of Peace Cuba Participant – 2018
Global Young People’s Convocation Alternate Delegate – 2018
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: My hopes for the United Methodist Church are to fully embrace the phrase, “Open Hearts, Open Minds & Open Doors”, love, and the healing of broken hearts. We are a church that relies on many different types of people creating new disciples to transform the world. Because we are a church that is able to spread God’s love, we are also a church that can and has caused a great amount of pain. We are a church that deals with current times but also looks toward the future; I hope we stay united.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hopes for the 2020 General Conference are for people to believe in “Open Hearts, Open Minds & Open Doors”. I would hope that at General Conference people show an open heart by allowing themselves to show empathy and trying to understand others. Having an open mind by being listening to differing opinions, listening to people who you might not come to contact with on a regular basis, and then ultimately absorbing and actively reflecting on what is being said to try to have open doors.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? The qualifications required for an incoming bishop are to be an ordained elder and consecrated to the council of bishops. The characteristics I believe are needed are self-awareness, authenticity, and commitment. Self-awareness because it means someone understands their effect on people. Authenticity should be required because it pairs hand in hand with being genuine. Bishops should be committed and motivated to complete tasks and goals. To lead is one thing but to do it effectively is different

Current church membership: Wesley UMC – Belleville
How long have you been a member of this church? 3 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: Fairfield UMC
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 31
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Committee on Native American Ministries 2013 to present
Committee on Investigation of a Diaconal Minister 2016 to present
Committee on Church and Society, 2005-2012
Committee on Ethnic Ministry 2008-2011
BOOM 2008-2010
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Inter Ethnic Strategy Development Group, Secretary 2018 to present
Native American International Caucus, Chair 2008-present
NEJ Native American Ministries Comte, Chair, 2009-present
Connectional Table member 2009-present
NEJ Vision Table, 2016-presen
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2012
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: We as the UMC are a diverse family. That is what makes us keep in constant movement. Our faith is in Jesus Christ and in God who made all of us, therefore makes us brothers and sisters. As I have worked within the denomination, I have seen the resources and talent that has and continues to make a world of difference. I see this continue in the future.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: I am excited about the 2020 General Conference. I see it as an opportunity for the church to continue in its movement of change. New ideas are coming forth to strengthen our denomination especially with the strength of our young people. I see an opportunity for people from different backgrounds coming together to work on ways for our domination to be that beacon of hope for the world.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? A Bishop needs to be a person that leads by action. They must have knowledge of the Word of God and be able to share it so that it relates to the World, their communities and their congregations. They need to know how to encourage and engage people and to hear the needs and concerns of people and know how to bring people together.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? I was not born into the UMC. I was adopted. I saw the UMC as a parents that had resources and talents that helped me so in return I helped the Church. It would be an honor for me to represent this conference.

Current church membership: Haddonfield UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? 1 year
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
Stratford United Methodist Church 1980-2017
Westwood United Methodist Church 1958-1980
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 3
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Board of Ordained Ministry, Secretary (2016-present)
Commission on Christian Unity & Interreligious Relationships (2016-present)
Board of Church and Society (2003-2007)
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
GWS DCOM Registrar (2011-present)
GWS DCOS (2001-present)
Certified Lay Servant (1990-present)
SNJAC Board of Church & Society (1985-1992, Chair 1997-2000)
SNJAC Commission on Christian Unity (1993-1996)
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: I hope for a church that honors all people as beloved children of God, made in God’s image. A church where all people can share their gifts as God calls them to transform the world. A church that hears the cry of the poor, the oppressed, and the forgotten, advocating for justice and inclusion on their behalf. A church that demonstrates love and grace in its relationships with other Christians, with other people of faith, or of no faith, respecting all and working to build God’s Kin-dom.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: The 2019 Special Session was heartbreaking. The world saw our denomination portrayed as mistrustful, acrimonious, schismatic and possibly dishonest. I hope for a time of lament and confession for our actions in St. Louis, followed by genuine Holy Conferencing and prophetic discernment of a way that our church can continue its decades-long ministry together while truly welcoming all people to share the love and grace of God we claim is found within our Open Hearts, Open Minds and Open Doors.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? An incoming bishop will be respected by both clergy and laity. S/He will be a person of unquestionable integrity and moral character. S/He will be a wise teacher, making disciples of Jesus, who make more disciples. S/He will be a bold and prophetic witness to the faith, yet loving and compassionate toward all people. S/He will be a visionary, fruitful, transformational and apostolic leader with a servant’s heart; accepting all challenges and learning from them; courageous, yet grace-filled.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination?
Church Council and Committee on Nominations and Leadership Development – Haddonfield UMC
UM Ecumenical & Interreligious Training/Nat’l Workshop on Christian Unity 2017, 2018, 2019
Member, Jewish Christian Muslim Dialogue of Southern NJ

Current church membership: Morristown UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? 34 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
Emmanuel UMC, Oaklyn, NJ
McKendree UMC, Nashville, TN (affiliate)
Church of the Village UMC, New York, NY (affiliate)
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 30
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Leadership roles in the former NNJAC:
Chair, Conference Council on Ministries (1992-6)
Member, Task Force on Sexual Harassment Policy
Chair, Delaware District COM (1988-92)
Member, Conference Committee on the Status and Role of Women (1985-88)
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
General Secretary/CEO, United Methodist Women (2012-present)
DGS, Women’s Div, GBGM (2007-12)
VP, Editorial Director, UMC Book Editor, United Methodist Publishing House (1996-2007)
Member, Board of Directors, General Board of Discipleship (1988-96
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? Yes
If yes, what years? 1988 1992 1996
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 1988 1992 1996
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: I hope the UMC will be a place that more and more people find a community that invites and welcomes them to a deep journey of faith. We can be a place where people find their hope in Jesus Christ, find healing and support for themselves and their families, and find companions as they live out the good news in the world. I hope that we will be a church that launches and supports disciples in faithful service and passionate advocacy for persons who are marginalized, and for creation care.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: Legislation on plans for how we go forward will have to be considered in 2020, but we much not allow a replay of the 2019 session. We must find ways to treat each other with honor and respect, not just ways for our “side” to “win.” If we must develop a degree of separation (either within the denomination or as separate denominations) let us do so with charity and with an eye to building thriving expressions of Methodism in which all of us can grow in faith, in outreach and in service.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? Passionate faith
Sees Administration as a way of doing ministry
Includes and thrives on sharing leadership with others (lay and clergy)
Flourishes in settings with gender, racial, language and class diversity
Financially literate
Inspires and supports strategic thinking and prophetic action
Able to make independent decisions after consultation and at the right time
Sees local work in connection with the national and global church
Uses, values and supports denominational resources
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? I am committed to helping The United Methodist Church choose a strong future. Having both loved and lamented this church for a long time, I believe that God is at work, even in our upheaval and hurt. It would be an honor to represent the GNJAC.

Current church membership: Asbury UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? All of my life
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: N/A
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 30
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Laity Board 2012 to present
Board of Ordained Ministry 2013- present
Cape Atlantic District Lay Leader 2017- present
Cape Atlantic DCOM 2016 – present
2019-2023 Strategic Planning Committee
Nominations 2016-present
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
GNJ Black Methodists for Church Renewal -On-going BMCR
NEJ Black Methodists for Church Renewal Representative to National BMCR- 2015-present
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2016
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: My hope for the United Methodist Church is that the Holy Spirit will rest upon the Church in every space and every place. Without the presence of the Holy Spirit, confusion will reign and Church ministry purpose will suffer. The United Methodist Church and its people must remain one with Christ and one with each other in order to continue making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. My hope continues to abide in the Church’s motto- Open Hearts, Open Minds and Open Doors.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hope for General Conference is that we find common ground in order to prayerfully address the relevant issues for the work of the Church. Every level of the United Methodist Church is connected to another, and so, when one level is weakened it pulls strength from the others. To structure policies, make legislative decisions, or modify sections of the Book Of Discipline, delegates must employ clear thinking. Therefore, my hope is that we remind ourselves, “United we stand, divided we fall”.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? I believe the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop are to be a God-fearing, truthful, visionary with a compassionate heart for all people. A bishop must learn the dynamics of the area to which he/she shall be assigned, in addition to appreciating the uniqueness of all cultures with which he/she will serve.  Bishops must be skilled in budgetary matters, moving churches out of their comfort zones in order to advance the vision and mission of the Church.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? No at this time.

Current church membership: West Side UMC, Millville
How long have you been a member of this church? 51 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: none
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 16
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Co-Director of Lay Servant Ministries for Delaware Bay
District Superintendency Committee
Commission on Camps, Conferences and Retreats Vice-President
Council on Finance and Administration Vice-President
participated in # of ad hoc task forces
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference 2008 to present
Education Committee Resource Member, Association of Directors for Lay Servant Ministries 2019-currently
NEJ Rules Committee Vice-Chair 2008 to 2012
NEJ Nominations Committee Member 2008
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 10
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church:
–500 characters is shorter than two tweets!
–restore the balance that John Wesley sought between the Great Commission and the Great Commandment
–recognize that we need to focus on outcomes
–recognize the good that only Christians can do and focus on that
–keep the best of our unique expression of global Christianity (grace open to all, connectionalism, democratically elected General Conference) and work to modify those aspects that aren’t working as well: unequal burdens, free riders
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference:
–that we come together to focus on resourcing local churches to make disciples
–that we provide accountability for the $130 million that local churches send to the General Church each year
–that we work out ways for as many as possible to move forward together
–that we “right-size” our structure
–be willing to ask and answer the hard questions for a global denomination in the 21st century
–create an identity where we are known for our vision and deeds rather than our disagreements
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop?
–understand that resourcing local churches where ministry happens is the most important function of an annual conference
–be judicious with the power they possess
–respect the views and opinions even of those they disagree with (being “tolerant” only of those you already agree with is not truly being “tolerant’)
–have a vision for us to move forward that they are willing to share and balances striving to move forward with being realistic about where we currently are
–servant leadership
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination?
–will share my GC votes/reasoning with you
–250 characters is less than a tweet(!) so feel free to call me at 609/774-0634 or email at creed.pogue@gmail.com if you would like to share your thoughts (even if you think I might disagree with you!)

Current church membership: Elmer UMC, Elmer, NJ
How long have you been a member of this church?
50 years
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 20
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? None – my missionary service beyond the GNJ boundaries limits my availability to work with conference agencies. However, I volunteer with the Video Crew during annual conference sessions and serve on the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association board.
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination? GBGM missionary for nearly 40 years. Positions held while working as a UM missionary:
-Pilot/mechanic in Nigeria and the DR Congo
-Aviation Coordinator – UM Aviation Ministries
-V.P. Field Services – Aviation Safety
-Jurisdiction Mission Advocate
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? Yes No
If yes, what years? 2016
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? Yes
If yes, what years? 2016
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: Count me among the world’s 12.5 million United Methodists who believe we have to get past our impasse over human sexuality and move forward in ministry. As Jesus pointed out, “A house divided against itself cannot stand”, but we have spent 45 years trying to prove Him wrong. My prayer is that whatever is decided in St. Louis will free our disparate members to do ministry together in spirit, even if they accomplish it apart in practice. The need for us to be Christ for the world continues.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: Regardless of which Plan (if any) is approved in February, there will be plenty of legislative work to be done to implement it during the 2020 General Conference. The spirit of open and honest dialog demonstrated by the members of the Commission on a Way Forward provide a clear and compelling model for us on how to work together despite our differences. My goal would be to carry that spirit into our gathering in Minneapolis as we lay the foundation for a fruitful and faithful UMC of the future.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? I Timothy 3 would a good place to start for a list of episcopal qualifications and characteristics. I would personally add that a bishop should be someone who is deeply spiritual, loves ministry more than politics, and has spent a significant amount of time in successful local church ministry.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? 40 years of missionary service has given me perspective, understanding and insight into working with the ever-growing international part of the UMC. I was the first lay alternate to the 2016 General Conf. and an active part of the GNJ delegation.

Current church membership: Sparta UMC
How long have you been a member of this church? 2 years, 5 months
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
Metropolitan Community church of the Lehigh Valley, Allentown Pa.
Salvation Army, Port Richmond Corps, Staten Island New York
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 1
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Lay Delegate to Annual Conference
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Co- Chair Church and Society Committee, Sparta UMC, 1/1/18-12/31/18
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: At its best, the UMC has born witness to the, albeit challenging, possibility of holding together various theological emphasis in tension. As the UMC now appears to be at a cross roads, my hope for the church is that we not only embrace this unique calling once more, but that we do so in discerning conjunction, with attentively listening to what the Spirit is declaring in respect to the nucleus of our shared faith and life together – the all-encompassing love of God in Christ for all persons, wh
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: My hope is that we, as a body, more clearly define the future possibilities for our church with an emphasis on viable, structural, systemic, resolved conflict; as well as fostering renewed, forward thinking, ecumenical possibilities.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? In addition to providing critical ethical pastoral care to those engaged in “front line” ministry (during this emotionally demanding time in the life of the church), a primary characteristic needed is decisiveness. This should be demonstrably evidenced by a clear articulation of, and practical vision for, the future direction of not only the GNJ Conference, but the denomination as a whole.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? If elected, it would be an honor and privilege to bring my lifetime of Social Services advocacy, my seminary education, and the insights of my personal Christian journey together in service to the church, in whatever capacity may be of use.

Current church membership: Tenafly United Methodist Church
How long have you been a member of this church? 17 yrs
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: Arcola United Methodist Church
Arcola Korean United Methodist Church
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 15
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
A member of the Conference Rules of Order Committee.
A member of the Conference Board of Global Ministries.
A member of the Conference Disaster Response Committee.
District Coordinator of Disaster Response Committee of the Palisades District.
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination? N/A
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: The United Methodist Church is for all people; the marginalized, under-privileged, oppressed, sinners and saints, the righteous and wicked. All of God’s children can come close to Christ through the prevenient grace that he shows us. And, when transformed to disciples of Christ, we are called to tell others where they can find Christ, all are welcomed to the United Methodist Church and all are experiencing the presence of Christ.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: Refocusing the United Methodist Church to the mission of the church, carrying out the Gospel of Christ to others and making them disciples of Christ.
The realization of having a General Conference outside the USA.
Proactive in considering how our ministry and mission needs to continue, whatever decision the 2019 Special General Conference makes on the issue of the human sexuality. The mission and ministry of the United Methodist Church will keep going on at all levels.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? Spiritual leadership- A Bishop leads pastors and local churches to enhance and encourage the presence of Christ spiritually and faithfully. Missional leadership- A Bishop should look at the bigger picture of the mission of the church that challenges, encourages and leads the local churches in the annual conference in the mission.
Administrative leadership- A bishop should demonstrate one’s ability and willingness to lead the conference according to rules and regulations of the BOD.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? Serving the community as a member of the Board of Education for 7 yeas, an EMT, Hazmat Technician, Heavy rescuer and firefighter for 15 years. Full time volunteer marshal at the 2016 General Conference and 2019 Special General Conference.

Current church membership: First United Methodist Church Union City
How long have you been a member of this church? 1 month
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member: West New York United Presbyterian Methodist Church, member for 14 years
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 3
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference?
Lay member Board of Ordained Ministries – 3 years
Lay member Gateway North District Committee on Ordained Ministry – 3 years
Gateway North DCOM Secretary – 2 years
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Lay missionary with the Hispanic/Latino Plan
Member of MARCHA, National Hispanic/Latino Caucus within the UMC
West New York United Presbyterian Methodist Church SPR Chair – 9 years
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: To be the embodiment of God’s love authentically and inclusively so that we reflect God’s grace with all in words and deeds.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference.
To find a way to keep our denomination united in mission amid our differences.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? A spiritual leader with enduring love for Christ and the church, encourage diverse theological faith expressions, passionate about the mission of the church, with strategic planning/implementation and conflict resolutions skills to lead the conference in these challenging times.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? I am a retired engineer serving the church with devotion and passion.

Current church membership: Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church
How long have you been a member of this church? 19 years
Please list, if any, past churches where you have been a member:
Martinsville Baptist Tabernacle, Indiana
Edmonds United Methodist Church, Washington
Westfield United Methodist Church, New Jersey
Are you a member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? Yes
How many years have you been a member of the Annual Conference? 6
What leadership positions have you held with agencies of Greater New Jersey Annual Conference? In 2013 I started working with A Future With Hope as a case manager and have continued to lead more recently as a Hope Center Developer. I taught the GNJAC study at the UMW’s Mission U in 2018 and will be teaching at Mission U again this year.
What leadership positions have you held within the denomination?
Morrow UMC-
Chair, Church Council 2018- present
Lay Leader 2014-2017
Sunday School Superintendent 2003-2005
Small Group Leader 2013, 2018
Committees: Membership
Global Mission and Outreach ’12
Finance ’14
Staff Parish Relations ’13
Education ’03
Have you been a delegate to the General Conference previously? No
Have you been a delegate to the Jurisdictional Conference? No
Please share your hopes for the United Methodist Church: Through my work across our conference and with Puerto Rico, Haiti, and Sierra Leone I have witnessed the uniting principle of mission. I have seen first hand how effective the UMC is in changing lives. My hope is that the UMC continues to be a witness of Christian love throughout the world. It is important that we maintain dialogue with our local and international partners, living into the truth that everyone is our neighbor and we are all part of the family of God.
Please share your hopes for the 2020 General Conference: Our UMC is in the midst of turmoil, and at the 2020 conference my hope is that we can conduct the Church’s business with love and not engage in hurtful and divisive rhetoric. My hope at this conference, through submitted legislation and prayerful consideration, is that we can shape the future of the Church towards full inclusion and justice locally and abroad. My hope is our focus on mission throughout the world remains resolute.
What do you believe are the qualifications and characteristics required for an incoming bishop? A bishop must be a disciple of Christ with integrity to the values that Jesus modeled. A bishop needs to be a servant leader who through engagement, relationship building and delegation will steer the conference to develop a shared long-term vision for the Church. An effective bishop leads with humility and transparency to build trust and unity behind the shared vision. A bishop must have prophetic leadership to guide us through this period of transition and into our future ministry.
Is there any other information you would like to share about your nomination? I know how amazing the UMC is and can be, and I will keep fighting for the Church to include all people, without exception, sharing the love of God in mission and making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.