On May 19 the General Conference recognized bishops entering new responsibilities and those retiring.
On Thursday morning Bishop Bruce Ough introduced the Council of Bishop’s Leadership Team for the next quadrennium. He also recognized bishops retiring from active service.
Bishop Deborah Lieder Kiesey was among those who came to the platform, standing beside Bishop John Innes. These two episcopal leaders were leaving active service in Michigan and Liberia. Their two Areas have enjoyed a covenant relationship that spans many years.
“These persons deserve our great thanks,” Ough said. “They now enter a season of much deserved retirement and relaxation.”
He then named those who will serve in leadership on the Council of Bishops, by his side as new President of the Council.
They are: Bishop Ken Carter (President Elect); Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey (Secretary); Bishop Michael Watson (Ecumenical Officer); Bishop Marcus Matthews (Executive Secretary) and Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr. (Past President).
Bishop Brown that shared this prayer as a blessing to all those standing before the General Conference: “Gracious and Loving God, you have called these disciples to go in your name. We ask the blessing and power of your Holy Spirit on those you have called to leadership and we thank you for the privilege of being in your service. You have walked with us through ministry thus far. Now we entrust our lives, our work and our church into your care as we go forward to the future that you have called us to. Bless us, sustain u. This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Last Updated on May 19, 2016