Across The Globe NEWSLETTER

The Global Methodist Church recently reached an exciting milestone on May 1, 2025: 100 individuals have now been endorsed to serve in chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, and coaching ministries. To support this growing community, 34 participants gathered in Pella, Iowa, on April 14–15, 2025, for a historic first GMC Endorsement Training Event under the theme Building Connections. Attendees included chaplains, ministry coaches, and pastoral counselors from across the country, each committed to living out the Gospel in diverse ministry settings—from hospitals, hospices, prisons, law enforcement, military, coaching, corporate offices, and counseling centers. The training event began with opening remarks and introductions by the host, Rev. Kevin Glesener, Lead Chaplain at Vermeer Corporation. The event took place at the Vermeer Global Pavilion, located at their corporate headquarters. Rev. Glesener then introduced Rev. James Parks, our Upper Midwest Conference Superintendent, who warmly welcomed attendees and offered an opening prayer of blessing. Day one featured a keynote from Rev. Mike Schafer, Connectional Operations Officer, on the growth and strength of GMC’s connectional ministry. Sessions focused on Clinical Pastoral Education, evangelical distinctives in chaplaincy, and the challenge of engaging religious pluralism in institutional contexts. Attendees also connected in affinity groups and enjoyed an evening banquet at Liberty Street Kitchen. Mike Schafer, Stephanie Sturdivant, Gary Clore, James Parks, and Leslie Tomlinson. Day two began with a stirring devotion by Rev. Dr. Paula Payne, challenging our connectional spirit in worship as we lifted the roof with our praise. Vermeer senior chaplain, Rev. Kevin Glesener, introduced the Thrive Center’s Spiritual Health Framework, which features engaging modules on vocation, ethics, relationships, and personal virtue.Returning speakers at the Vermeer Leadership Seminar, alongside GMC clergy, Dr. Jaclyn Williams and Dr. Mary Glenn of Fuller Theological Seminary, offered timely insights that stirred both hearts and minds. Participant feedback highlighted the value of small group discussions, theological grounding, and practical resources. Key Takeaways: Chaplaincy in the GMC embraces both evangelical convictions and respectful interfaith engagement. Affinity group networking provided a meaningful foundation for peer support. Attendees resonated with the Thrive model’s holistic approach to spiritual health. Looking Forward: To build on this momentum, organizers recommend: Launching a centralized digital resource portal. Offering annual training events and expanding to a second location on the East Coast. Establishing a shepherding system for new endorsees. Continuing to elevate diverse voices within the GMC endorsement network. Strongly encourage full-time endorsed ministers to be appointed by your Annual Conference. A special thanks to Rev. Mike Schafer, Dr. Jaclyn Williams, Dr. Mary Glenn, Dr. Jack Lea, Rev. Doug Stewart, Dr. John Ruiz, and all facilitators, speakers, and volunteers. Deep gratitude also goes to event coordinator Stephanie Sturdivant, site host Kevin Glesener, and the Vermeer Charitable Foundation for their leadership and hospitality. As we celebrate 100 endorsed clergy through the Global Methodist Church, we express gratitude for a growing movement characterized by courage, care, and connection as we fulfill our GMC mission and vision. For anyone interested in endorsement, please email endorsement@globalmethodist.org or call 703-795-5705.

By Dianne Burnett In a landmark moment for the Global Methodist Church, the Assembly of Bishops gathered for their inaugural meeting from December 3-5, 2024, in Dallas, Texas. This pivotal event signified a major milestone in the life of the… The post Assembly of Bishops Gather for Historic First Meeting first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

As we reflect on the many blessings of this year, we are reminded of the Apostle Paul’s call in Colossians 3:17 to live a life of gratitude. Gratitude is not bound to a particular day or culture; it is a… The post A Thanksgiving Message: Living with Gratitude first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

By Dianne Burnett The Global Methodist Church continues to embody its mission of compassion and generosity by responding decisively to recent natural disasters and global health crises. Contributions to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton relief efforts in the United States… The post Generosity in Action: Supporting Communities at Home and Abroad first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

By Morgan Howe As preachers’ kids who grew up in The United Methodist Church, Revs. Sarah and Gabe Wanck, respectively lead pastor and associate pastor at Marion Aldersgate Church, a Global Methodist congregation in the Great Lakes Annual Conference, share… The post A Family’s Shared Experience at the GMC Conference first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

In recent months, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been overwhelmed by a severe Monkeypox outbreak, affecting thousands and placing an already vulnerable population under tremendous strain. As of August 2024, over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths have been… The post Global Methodist Church Calls for Prayers and Support Amid Monkeypox Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

By Morgan Howe If you’ve ever visited The Woodlands Methodist Church in Houston, Texas, it’s evident that students play a vital role in its leadership. This is no accident; it’s part of a larger discipleship initiative called NextGen, which is… The post NextGen: Raising Kingdom-Minded Leaders at The Woodlands Methodist Church first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

The Global Methodist Church’s Global Episcopacy Committee (GEC) is pleased to announce the assignments for bishops elected by the recent convening General Conference. This appointment process, carried out with prayer and discernment, reflects a commitment to serve the church’s mission… The post Global Episcopacy Committee Announces Bishop Assignments first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church.

The post Global Methodist Church Receives Over $400,000 in Hurricane Relief Donations first appeared on Making Disciples of Jesus | The Global Methodist Church .