Making disciples of Jesus Christ
and spreading scriptural holiness across the globe.

It has been nine months since the Great Lakes Annual Conference elected its delegates, alternates, and reserves for General Conference — the highest governing body of the Global Methodist Church. When it meets, delegates from around the world will represent more than 7,000 churches, including the Great Lakes Annual Conference. Although General Conference does not meet until August 30, the delegation has already begun its work on several decisions regarding the episcopacy. Episcopal Area Partnerships Delegations were asked to rank up to ten annual conferences as potential partners in sharing a bishop. The Great Lakes list, in order: Allegheny West, Oasis, Upper Midwest, MidSouth, Heartland, Ethiopia Nazrawiyan, Western Europe, Central Europe, North Georgia, and Virginia. The Global Episcopacy Committee and Area Episcopacy Committee will use these rankings to form episcopal areas of six to eight conferences, each led by a single bishop. Area Episcopacy Committee Representatives Each delegation elected one clergy and one lay member to serve on the Area Episcopacy Committee. The Great Lakes delegation elected Jen Wilson (clergy) and Mike Womack (lay). This committee will begin meeting in June to determine episcopal areas, assess what the Great Lakes Conference needs in a bishop, interview nominees, and make recommendations to the delegation. Bishop Nominations Each delegation could nominate up to one candidate from within its conference and one from outside. The Great Lakes delegation nominated Scott Pattison (Great Lakes) and Gabriella Kopas (Central Europe). Commissions, Councils, and Committees In January, the delegation invited your input to help identify potential members for various Global Methodist Church bodies. Those suggestions are under review, and the delegation plans to finalize its recommendations at its next meeting. Looking Ahead Because this is a brand-new process, these decisions have required significant discussion and prayerful consideration. All four were due March 15, and the delegation is grateful to report that it expects to meet that deadline. General Conference will meet August 30–September 5 in Johannesburg, South Africa . Four hundred twenty-two delegates will gather to confirm structural decisions, elect bishops, and elect members to the church's commissions, councils, and committees, among other legislative responsibilities. More information about the episcopal election process is available at beautyofholiness2026.org/preliminary-documents. Much challenging work remains ahead, and the delegation deeply covets your prayers. Your Great Lakes Delegation (in order of election) Clergy Delegates (9): Scott Pattison [Chair]; Samuel Padgett; Beth Ann Cook; Sarah Wanck; Chris Ritter; Chris Gadlage [Secretary]; Jeff Buck; Michael T. Sawicki; Megan Alamo Clergy Alternates (2): Stan Pegram; RC Muhlbaier Clergy Reserves (7): Matt Hook; Curtis Banker; Arun Paul; Jason Rice; Nate Cravillion; Jeanne Winter; Clifford Schroeder Lay Delegates (9): Mike Womack [Vice Chair]; Melissa Padgett; Joy Hook; Jill Davis; Daniel Buck; Ellen Harbin; Bridget Douglas; Kathleen Engelman; Lily Johnson Lay Alternates (2): John Cooper; Janice Hansen Lay Reserves (7): Patricia Sawicki; Steve Hill; Kevin Macy; Thomas Finley; David Dunn; David Doty; Kirsten Mains

Something incredible happens every year at the Great Lakes Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church—hundreds of pastors and lay leaders gather to worship, learn, and chart the course for the year ahead. But while all of that Kingdom-building work unfolds in the main sessions, there's another vital ministry happening just down the hall: our children's ministry. Every child who comes to Annual Conference deserves an experience that is safe, fun, and filled with the love of Jesus. That's where you come in. A SPECIAL INVITATION We're looking for caring, energetic, and faithful people to serve on our Annual Conference children's ministry team. Whether you love leading worship with little ones, crafting Bible stories into adventures, or simply being a steady and joyful presence in a room full of kids, there is a place for you on this team. This ministry matters more than you might think. When parents and guardians know their children are loved and cared for, they are free to be fully present in worship, business sessions, and the work God is calling our Conference to do. You are not just watching kids—you are making space for the Holy Spirit to move across our entire gathering. WHAT YOU RECEIVE As a thank-you for your service, every children's ministry team member receives complimentary meals and registration for Annual Conference. You'll have the chance to be part of the Conference experience while making a real difference in the lives of the youngest members of our community. THE SCREENING PROCESS Because the safety of every child is an absolute priority, all children's ministry team members complete a thorough screening process. Here's what to expect: Application — A brief form to help us learn about your background and experience with children's ministry. Background check — A standard screening to ensure a safe environment for every child in our care. Child protection training — Equipping you with the tools and knowledge to create the safest possible space for kids. Reference calls — A few quick conversations with people who can speak to your character and heart for ministry. We know this process takes a little time, but it reflects our deep commitment to the wellbeing of every child entrusted to us. We believe it's worth it—and we think you will too. READY TO SERVE? We would love to have you on the team. If God is stirring your heart toward this ministry, get started by filling out the Youth, Children, and Vulnerable Adult Volunteer Application linked below. Have questions? Reach out to Kathleen Engelman at kathleen.engelman@greatlakesgmc.org—she would be happy to help. Together, we can make Annual Conference a place where every generation encounters the love of Christ. God is at work in this Conference, and He is inviting you to be part of it.