The combination of pastoral and business experience has led GNJ to name Rev. Hector Burgos as its next Director of Connectional Ministries.
Burgos was named to the position after a team of conference leaders interviewed several strong candidates. Burgos had been a part of the connectional team as the Director of Worship since last summer. Before that Burgos had grown churches as a pastor in the conference for the last 11 years. “Hector comes to this position with a background in ministry and business,” Bishop John Schol said. “He worked in public relations and information technology and impressed the interview committee with his leadership skills and his vision.”
Burgos will now lead a six-member connectional ministries team. He will be responsible for ensuring the GNJ ministry plan continues on track and ultimately grows more vital congregations who connect with their communities to make new disciples and engage in life changing mission. The team he will lead is responsible for developing and integrating resources for the five markers of vitality – growing worship, new disciples, small groups, mission engagement and giving.
“It’s an honor to be chosen as the leader of such a quality group of people,” Burgos said. “They have a great heart and desire for their roles as well as for all of the people in our conference.” The rest of the connectional ministries team includes Director of Stewardship Rev. Rich Hendrickson, Director of Mission Nicole Caldwell-Gross, Director of Small Groups Ministry Rev. Beth Caulfield and Director of Professions of Faith Rev. Matthew Na.
Schol said the selection process for the new director was a difficult one. “We had outstanding candidates and the interview process was thorough,” he said. “I’m thankful to the candidates who came forward and the team of conference leaders who helped in the decision-making process.”
Burgos started in worship ministry at age 15, leading his church in worship when asked by his pastor. After accepting the call to full-time ministry, Burgos pastored at churches in West Creek, Tuckerton and Pleasantville in New Jersey. He also has been a leader in various conference and denominational organizations, most notably MARCHA, the Hispanic-American caucus of the United Methodist Church.