FEBRUARY 29, 2016; LANSING MI: Today, Bishop Deborah Lieder Kiesey announced that the Rev. John Hice will serve as the new District Superintendent for the Crossroads District, effective July 1, 2016.
Rev. Hice currently is the pastor at Royal Oak First United Methodist Church in Royal Oak, MI, a part of the Detroit Annual Conference. Rev. Hice follows Rev. Dr. Tara Sutton, who has requested temporary medical leave.
“I am thrilled that John has agreed to accept this important position as the Superintendent of the Crossroads District.” Bishop Deb said, “John brings the proven gifts of leadership, management, strategic thinking, and deep faith that are needed as this district deals not only with the Flint water crisis, but also the effort to move Crossroads churches forward in mission and ministry.” Bishop Deb also expressed her appreciation for the Rev. Dr. Sutton, “We continue to keep Tara in our prayers and pray for her return to full health. She has been a blessing to the churches of the Crossroads District and her faithful and thoughtful approach will be greatly missed on our cabinet.”
Reverend Hice has served as Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Royal Oak, Michigan since 2008. Previously he served as Senior Pastor at First United Methodist Church of Northville, Michigan (2000 – 2008); Grand Rapids District Superintendent of the West Michigan Conference (1995-2000); Pastor of Asbury United Methodist Church in Traverse City, Michigan (1987 – 1995); Hartford United Methodist Church, Hartford, Michigan (1979 – 1987); and Associate Pastor of Milwood United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan (1977 – 1979). Rev. Hice is an Ordained Elder of the Detroit Annual Conference. He is a proven strong leader who has held a wide range of district and conference leadership positions in both Michigan Area Conferences.
The Michigan Area of The United Methodist Church is comprised of the Detroit Annual Conference and the West Michigan Annual Conference. Together, they comprise nearly 1,000 United Methodist churches across Michigan and represent nearly 150,000 members. The Michigan Area Office is located in Lansing, Michigan and is led by Bishop Deborah Lieder Kiesey. Bishop Deb has led the Michigan Area since September 2012.
Last Updated on February 29, 2016