New appointment announcements will be posted here every Sunday by 1:00 p.m.
Click here to view appointments in the GNJ Conference.
April 21, 2024
Tanya Huff will be appointed to Belfast: Wesley UMC in addition to Bushkill UMC
Tanya Huff is a half time local licensed pastor. She also works as an accounting clerk and HR generalist for Servpro. She received her calling to ministry after the loss of her son while attending First Oxford Presbyterian Church. Tanya returned to the United Methodist Church and graduated from Drew University School of Theology with a Master of Divinity Degree. Her first appointment was to Bushkill United Methodist Church. Tanya is following in the footsteps of her great-grandfather who was a Methodist minister and both of her parents served as lay leaders of the United Methodist Church. She is married and has a son and two-step daughters. She enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren.
April 14, 2024
Hedwidge Mutwale to Rothsville – Salem | Brownstown – Emmanuel | Neffsville – Long Memorial
Hedwige Mutwale Mukalay is passionate to bring hope and positivity into the lives of others with compassion and love. As a mother of two young children, Eliel (5) and Anaelle (3), juggling full-time student and employee responsibilities, she has learned the importance of putting hope into action even in the face of adversity. Throughout my ministerial leadership journey, she has led young women’s ministries in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, assuming diverse responsibilities within and outside local North-Katanga conference and churches. She aims to engage in further ministry work to positively inspire individuals’ lives through prayers, devotional practices, and community outreach initiatives. She firmly believes in translating our Christian beliefs into tangible actions by actively engaging in acts of kindness and community service within and beyond the local community.
April 7, 2024
Christina Keller to Langhorne UMC
Rev. Chris Keller is an Elder, ordained in 2008. She has a Bachelors degree from Arcadia University, and a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. She retired in 2023, but after finding some rest, decided that she missed leading worship and serving the Lord in a church setting. Her skills lie in administration and leading others in mission. The mission field was her first calling to ministry, but she found peace in working in the church. The grace of God and the sacrifice of Jesus are too wonderful not to want others to experience the joy and peace they bring to one’s life. Chris is married to her kindergarten boyfriend, George Schick and they share two cats. She has served Morrisville UMC, Eddystone UMC, Covenant UMC in Klecknersville, and Immanuel UMC of Cleona.
Chris Eden to Otterbein UMC
After moving from Wichita, Kansas, to Lancaster in 2008 for seminary, Pastor Chris Eden went on to serve Covenant UMC Lancaster (seminary intern), Boehms UMC Willow Street, and Memorial UMC Quarryville. In 2022 he joined affordable housing nonprofit Impact Missions as operations director while continuing to work for his wife Amanda’s public relations and marketing agency, eventually taking a full-time role as the business grew. Today he eagerly anticipates bivocational ministry with Otterbein UMC. Chris and Amanda – along with their children Rowan, Lucia, Anya, and Sebastian – enjoy weaving together family, ministry and business in downtown Lancaster.
Lisa Rhoads to Nuremberg: Bethany UMC
Lisa Rhoads has been an esteemed member of the Aurand Memorial UMC for over two decades. Her spiritual journey intensified in 1981 when she faced a life-altering cancer diagnosis, stemming from a fortuitously conducted medical test that, if delayed by the initially planned eight months, might have resulted in a very different outcome. Rhoads credits this timely diagnosis as a divine intervention, feeling a profound sense of God’s protective presence in her life.
At that pivotal time, she was affiliated with Mt. Zion Lutheran Church in Zion Grove, where her dedication to her faith community began to manifest in earnest. She took on significant roles, including serving as a Sunday School teacher and later as the superintendent of Sunday school, demonstrating her commitment to spiritual education and leadership within her religious community. Upon joining Aurand Memorial UMC, Rhoads’s involvement deepened and diversified. She has contributed her talents in various capacities, including serving as the treasurer, lay leader, and delegate to the annual conference. Since 2004, she has also embraced the role of a CSM, indicating her ongoing commitment to lay ministry and leadership within the church. Rhoads’s contributions extend beyond administrative and leadership roles; she has been a vital member of numerous committees, assisting both past and present pastors in enhancing church services and overall ministry effectiveness. Her dedication is further exemplified by her annual participation in the Bible School, where she supports the summer program’s success. Her journey is a testament to the strength and guidance she draws from her faith, affirming her belief in God’s unwavering support wherever her path may lead.
Jason Bell to Jenkintown UMC
Jason Gary Bell is a Philadelphia native passionate about spreading the word of Christ and has been actively teaching and preaching the Bible since 2012. He founded the Ascension Young Adult Ministry in 2020 and has over a decade of experience working with young adults and men. Jason holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh and a master’s in public health from Drexel University. He works as a county program planning manager for the New Jersey State government, managing alcohol and drug planning for each county. He currently serves as part of the ministry team at Tindley Temple UMC.
Marcus Simmons to Trevose: St. Matthew’s UMC
Dr. Marcus Simmons is a father, husband, musician, educator, Eagle Scout and minister who was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. A life-long member of Tindley Temple United Methodist Church, he began preaching as a youth under the direction and tutelage of Rev. Dr. William B McClain. Dr. Simmons is a proud product of the School District of Philadelphia and has served churches from the Mid-Atlantic to the Upper Midwest as a Youth Pastor and as Minister of Music. He has also served the United Methodist Church at the conference, jurisdictional, and general level. Dr. Simmons has taught, performed, and preached in venues around the world and is humbled by the opportunities God presents to continue to serve Him and His people.
Reggie Monte to Ambler: Calvary UMC
Reverend Monte was born and raised in Philadelphia Pa. and grew up in the Baptist church. He worked at S.E.P.T.A. for 38 years operating trolleys, buses and trains, with over 30 years operating the Broad Street Subway. He became a member of the United Methodist Church while earning his master’s degree at Lutheran Theological Seminary. He became assistant to Pastor John Lewis of Haven Peniel U.M. Church in 2003. In March of 2004 he became pastor of Midtown Parish U.M. Church where our worship services were held in a neighborhood recreation center. In 10 years, we raised enough money for the church to purchase a modular building for worship. In 2014 he was appointed pastor of Mt Zion in Philadelphia and has ministered in the North Philadelphia section of the city for over 30 years. Rev. Monte started a café’ during Sunday school and the church has a thriving bible study every week. ManCave Monday on Zoom originated during Covid because of the need for men to fellowship and continues to grow. While at Mt Zion the congregation has made numerous improvements and upgrades to the physical plant as well as their spiritual souls. Reggie is married to Lisa who is also a minister, and they have 3 grown children and two grandchildren.
Robert “Bob” Garvey to Strasburg UMC in addition to West Willow UMC
“Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.”― Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
Pastor Bob Garvey is simply astounded at the grace, love, and joy God pours into his life each day. He is like one who “dreams”. (Psalm 126:1) Bob started his ministerial journey with the wonderful people of West Willow UMC, whom he credits for showing him “the love of Jesus”. He shares this adventure called life with his beautiful wife Kimberly, three children Bobby, Jack, and Maggie, two grandchildren Colton Duke and Nova, and his trusting labradoodle Cooper. When Pastor Bob is not working at the church, he enjoys both jiu jitsu and rugby to help balance the stresses of ministry life.
One last note… be careful when spending time with Pastor Bob. He is absolutely certain he is going to spontaneously combust with joy at any moment!
Yohan Oh to Annville UMC in addition to Cleona: Immanuel UMC
Pastor Yohan Oh was born in South Korea and raised in a faithful Christian home where his father was a pastor of the Korean Methodist Church. He could learn how to love and serve God from his parents, who have taught him the Christian faith by example. Yohan received his call to ministry in his twenties and was ordained as an Elder Pastor at the Seoul Annual Conference of the Korean Methodist Church in 2011. He obtained a Master of Theology at the Graduate School of Mokwon University and a Master of Arts in Christian Education at Dallas Baptist University. He has begun to serve two UMC congregations in the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference since 2023. His pastoral vision is making Jesus’ disciples who walk with Him faithfully. Yohan has been married to his wife, Geun Young Bok, for sixteen years, and they have three children: Esther, Daniel, and David. In his free time, he likes singing with the acoustic guitar and the piano, cooking, and spending with his family.
Dale Oplinger to Nesquehoning: Meed’s Memorial UMC in addition to Ebenezer UMC in Lehighton
Dale Oplinger, he is a Licensed Local Pastor since 2013. Serving First Meed’s Memorial UMC before being Licensed starting July 1, 2012, then July 1, 2014 moved to Ebenezer UMC in Leighton where he currently serves. He has retired from TE Connectivity as a Technical sales specialist. He was with TE for 44 years. He has a degree from Evangelical Seminary in Lay Ministry, with 36 credits and graduated May 10, 2018. He has also completed 13 credits in the UMC course of study. He is married to his wife Fran for 23 years now with three sons, Christopher, Joshua, and stepson Marty. We have three grandchildren Kai, Caleb, and Julia. He looks forward to spending more time in ministry serving the Lord.
Ron Gurka to Summit Hill UMC and Ebenezer UMC in Quakake
Ron is 66 years old and will soon complete the requirements for being a Christ Servant Minister. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Penn State University and a law degree from George Washinton University in Washington, DC. He was employed for over 34 years as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Labor in Arlington, Virginia and can no longer avoid the Lord’s gentle yet persistent call to more fully use the blessings he has been given to serve and share with God’s people and His church. Ron was born and raised in Lansford, PA, where, since the passing of both of his parents, he has spent increasing amounts of time at his family home. He continues to maintain his law license in the state of Maryland, although he has not worked on any active cases or legal matters other than serving as a member of the EPA Human Resources committee for the past few years. He expects to continue utilizing his legal training and courtroom skills to serve as an advocate for Christ and increase his understanding of God’s Word. Although he allowed his church membership to lapse while away at school and focusing on his legal career, Ron maintained the Christian faith and values that had been instilled in him from his childhood in Lansford. When his parents became ill, he began spending almost every weekend caring for them in their home in Lansford and renewing connections with old and new friends in the area. After his father died in 2016, Ron began worshiping at Summit Hill UMC, and was soon asked to read the Scripture lessons and prayers at Sunday services. He was warmly welcomed as a member of Summit Hill UMC and was promptly asked to serve on the Administrative Board and as lay member of Annual Conference. In addition to Summit Hill UMC, Ron supports various projects at nearby Meed’s Memorial UMC, such as their monthly food pantry and free community dinners, twice yearly rummage sales, and joint Bible studies with Summit Hill and Quakake Ebeneezer United Methodist Churches. He has also volunteered in various service missions throughout the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference, such as flood recovery projects in Crisfield, Maryland, and Gilberton, PA, and he has committed to a homebuilding mission project at Bethel Hill UMC in Lansdale in early April. Ron sincerely strives to faithfully apply the Word of God in everything he believes and does. He is eagerly looking forward to continuing his journey following the Lord and serving His people and church wherever He may lead.
Richard Sivers to Fox Chase UMC
I grew up a Methodist in Oswego, New York on the shores of Lake Ontario. Participation in the Church was ongoing until college when I left all church activities. After several years following college, a comment to the pastor of my church resulted in putting me on the road to ministry. Seminary opened me to the need of an ecumenical and interfaith ministry, something I have maintained throughout my ministry. The other key component has been the partnership of religion and the arts. I believe in the role of the arts, especially in worship, to help us better understand our faith. Always the aim has been to bring people closer to God and enhance an individual’s sense of spirituality. I have done this throughout my 40 plus years of ministry in the Upper NY Conference and here in PA where I have been involved in a local church.
March 24, 2024
Alfred Kerrick To Blakeslee UMC
Alfred (Al) Kerrick has been on his journey into Ministry for several years. His decision was heavily influenced by his father George Kerrick, Pastor Joe Healey, Pastor Steve Morton and Judy Ehninger. With their influence and guidance and my personal commitment to my Lord, I have decided to take this step of Faith. Al is a retired Tobyhanna Township Police Officer, served on the Tobyhanna Township Board of Supervisors, was instrumental in forming the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department, served on the Pocono Mountain School Board and is a partner in George E Kerrick & Son Construction along with his son Kevin and Grandson Hunter. Al enjoys baseball and has been an umpire for many years. Al is married to his high school sweetheart, Marlies for 54 years. Al and Marlies have three married sons and six grandchildren.
Debbie Rakos to Bristol First UMC
Debbie Rakos grew up in Levittown and Charleroi PA, and now lives in Levittown PA with her husband Rod. She received her Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (now Palmer) in 2004 and was licensed to preach the gospel that same year. She has continued to preach and lead in various roles and capacities in a variety of churches as she supported her family working as a mechanical engineer. She has a love of preaching the gospel through storytelling and teaching, and is excited see what the Lord has called her to in this next adventure with Him!
Maurice Delgado to White Haven UMC
As Maurice Delgado embarks on this step of his faith in Christ, he is excited about what God is preparing in and through him as he testifies to his reliance on God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit in communion with the Body of Christ. Maurice was born in Bogotá, Colombia, in South America. He arrived in the United States, attended public elementary school, and then transitioned into private Catholic elementary and high school. As a veteran, he served in the United States Navy Submarine Force aboard the USS Portsmouth SSN-707, receiving the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and an Honorable Discharge. He holds a Bachelor of Science Undergraduate Degree in Business Administration General Management and a Bachelor of Arts Undergraduate Degree in Political Science from Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, New Jersey; a Master of Arts in Religious Studies from Southern California Seminary. Maurice is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity as well as a Master of Christian Counseling from Southern California Seminary, scheduled to graduate in the summer of 2025. He is fluent in English and Spanish and has studied and completed Hebrew and New Testament Greek in Seminary. Maurice strongly believes in utilizing the foundational tools and benefits of 12-Step Intervention and mutual Medical and Psychiatric Support programs for Recovery in assisting individuals and families in our communities to reclaim their lives, avenues essential to be led to Christ. His passion is to continuously train and serve to be the best Pastor he can be as he follows and grows in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Maurice’s experiences in life and his testimony have prepared and motivated his willingness and desire to love and serve.
March 17, 2024
Richard Ramos to Coatesville: Olivet UMC
Rev. Ramos-Diaz was raised in Puerto Rico and answered God’s call for ministry as a young adult. He has been in ministry for over 40 years as a pastor, school teacher, college and seminary professor, missionary, and mentor. He has served in three Christian denominations: Worldwide Missionary Movement, Christian Church- (Disciples of Christ), and UMC.
Rev. Ramos-Diaz earned a BA in Education in Puerto Rico, M. Div, and D. Min from Drew University Theological School. Since 2000, he has been appointed to serve in GNJ urban and rural churches and communities in cross-cultural and cross-racial settings. He also served as a missionary in several South American countries. Most recently served in Bolivia as GBGM-UMC missionary (2015-2019).
Rev. Ramos-Diaz serves in Delaware Bay District -GNJ in a two-point charge appointment: 1st and Trinity UMC, Bridgeton. Currently, he leads the congregations into a more profound commitment to make disciples of Jesus Christ from all people and to end the sin of racism. He is passionate about social outreach ministries: putting our faith into action. One of my favorite quotes by John Wesley is, “God grant that I may never live to be useless!”
He enjoys fishing, cooking, exercising, watching documentaries, listening to jazz, classical, and gospel music, and walking with his family and two dogs, Aloe and Charlie.
Steve Pittman to Phil: Janes Memorial UMC in addition to his current appointment of Phila: Grace UMC
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Steven Michael Pittman, Sr. was ordained as Elder in 2020. He began his ministry as a part-time local pastor in July 2009 at Green Lane UMC and has been serving at Grace UMC in Philadelphia since July 2017. Rev. Pittman is a graduate of Albright College, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. After graduating from Albright, Rev. Pittman attended the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH and received M.Div. in June 2008. In addition to ministering to the local community, Rev. Pittman previously worked in Behavioral Health for 18 years.
Rev. Pittman serves as an Assisting Elder and a Pathways Facilitator in the East District. He also serves on various committees, including the East District Committee on Ministry, the Urban/Congregational Development Team, and the EPA Episcopacy Committee. Rev. Pittman is married to Kabrene Yvette Pittman and has a daughter Stephanie Rene and a son Steven, Jr. Overall, he continues to live his life in accordance with his favorite scripture: Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Steward Warner to Warrington: St. Paul UMC
Steward Warner has served as a pastor for 38 years plus another two years in seminary. He has served on numerous Annual Conference, District, and National committees, and has been a board member for a number of non-profit organizations. He also served on the EPA Camp and Retreat Board for close to 20 years. He has also been a camp director and volunteer counselor for several camps over the years. He has been extremely active in the communities in which he served as pastor. He founded the Non-Violence Awareness week while serving as pastor in Reading, PA. In Lansdale, they organized a Gun Violence Awareness walk that consisted of eight congregations from various denominations with 250 people participating on the walk. He started a Mission Central Hub during his time at Holy Cross UMC in Reading, PA. He also began a summer day camp at Holy Cross UMC and reached more than 100 children from the community in partnership with Gretna Glen Camp & Retreat Center. He is a graduate of both Leadership Berks and Leadership Lebanon County. He is the proud father of two grown daughters and Abuelo, grandfather, to 6 grandchildren with one more due in April of this year.
John Mylecraine to Black Creek UMC
Pastor John Mylecraine is a humble servant of God, blessed to accept the undeserved Grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He answered a long-deferred call to ministry in 2020 and has had the honor of serving the Lord with wonderful and loving congregations in Nesquehoning, Summit Hill, and Quakake. He is on the tail end of a career in public education, having spent a couple of decades as a special education teacher and a school administrator. He is blessed to serve the Lord alongside his wife, Sheena, who herself has answered God’s Call to Ministry. He has two sons, Henry (13) and Jack (10), who bring joy to everyone they meet, but who couldn’t be more different. He also has a poorly behaved dog named Daisy. Pastor John has a passion for sharing the Word and guiding others on their walks with Jesus Christ.
Ken Klingborg to Chapman Quarries UMC
Rev. Ken Klingborg is an Elder, ordained in 1990. He has a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological Seminary. He has served Salem UMC in Bangor, Chapman Quarries/Bushkill UMC’s, and Annville UMC. He retired in 2014. He currently serves North Raleigh UMC in North Carolina as Pastor Emeritus, assisting in worship and ministering primarily to seniors and homebound persons. Ken’s wife and love Charlotte passed on in 2012. Ken has two daughters and seven grandchildren. Ken is the proud descendant of some of the original German Immigrants from 1754 who became the “Pennsylvania Dutch” and loves sharing their history and culture! Ken is also a history buff, loves music, reading and cooking. Ken is a man of deep faith and strong compassion. He is humbled and honored to be called to serve Christ and His Church and to be able to bring the word and sacraments to God’s people. He is truly blessed to be able to serve the special people of Chapman Quarries UMC and the EPAUMC once again! Praise Be To God.
Sheena Mylecraine to Conyngham UMC
Sheena Mylecraine is passionate to follow as her Lord and Savior leads her, and she is passionate to share the love of Christ with all she meets. Sheena has been serving as a laity supply pastor and is currently working towards becoming a licensed local pastor. She is anticipating her licensing in May of this year. She is blessed to be in ministry with her husband, Pastor John, and together they have been serving the faithful and loving congregations in Quakake, Nesquehoning, and Summit Hill. She is also a musician and highly values how music can enhance worship and bring people closer to God. Sheena is a grateful mom of two sons, Henry who is 13, and Jack who is 10. She also has a dog and a rabbit who she is happy to spoil. She is excited to continue her education in ministry, as she always seeks to learn and grow.
Ralph Chubbuck to Wooddale UMC
Ralph Chubbuck has been a member of Faith UMC, Stroudsburg for the past ten years. During this time he has taken on many responsibilities. Ralph earned his Pastoral License in 2019 and served the Tobyhanna UMC until he retired in 2022 to set up care for his wife Mary. Ralph has always had a heart to serve the Lord and now has chosen to continue this journey to share God’s word and love. Ralph’s biggest passion in life is riding his bicycle hard and fast. Ralph and Mary have five grown children eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ralph has a heart to share God’s Love and grace wherever he ventures.
Riquy Martinez to Casa Del Rey UMC
Riquy Martinez was born on January 8, 1964, in Santurce, Puerto Rico. His childhood was spent in Caguas, PR, where he pursued his education, culminating in a high school diploma in his fourth year from the Jose G. Benitez school. For over 18 years, Riquy was an active member of the MI Pentecostal Church of God. In 1985, he relocated to Pennsylvania, where he continued to engage in secular employment while dedicating himself to his spiritual calling. Riquy joined the staff at The ARC of Lehigh, assisting individuals with disabilities and autism. He is also an integral part of CASA DEL REY UMC in Allentown, PA, serving as a lay leader and a Christ Servant Minister under the guidance of Pastor Manfredo Martinez Luna. Furthermore, Riquy contributes to a faith community in the western part of Allentown alongside his pastor. Heeding the call to pastoral ministry, Riquy is currently undertaking academic preparations for this vocation. Passionate about community service, he enjoys organizing community activities and offering assistance to the homeless.
Jong Nam Song to Bethlehem UMC of Korean
Rev. Jong Nam Song was ordained as an elder within the Korean Methodist Church, following his academic achievements at the Methodist Theological Seminary in Seoul, including both his initial theological studies and subsequent graduate education. In 1995, Rev. Song moved to the United States to further his education, earning both a Master of Arts and a Doctor of Ministry from the Claremont School of Theology in California. In 2003, he was officially received into full connection as an elder by the New Mexico Conference. His rich pastoral experience includes roles as an Associate Pastor at the Los Angeles UMC, and later, leadership positions as Senior Pastor at the Albuquerque Korean UMC in New Mexico, St. Luke’s UMC in Texas, and most recently, a 14-year tenure at the Delaware Korean UMC. Rev. Song is set to retire from his current role within the Peninsula-Delaware Conference later this year. Reverend Song’s family, comprising his wife, a fellow alumna of the Seoul Methodist Theological Seminary, and their two daughters, has been a cornerstone of his life. His ministry has been deeply committed to the development and nurturing of congregations into devout disciples of Christ, a mission in which he has found considerable success and fulfillment. Rev. Song firmly believes in the continual presence and guidance of the Lord throughout his ministry and looks forward to engaging with the divine work with renewed joy and dedication in the next chapter of his spiritual journey.
Walt Unterberger to Ephrata: First UMC
It’s been a strange and wonderful ride for Pastor Walt so far. For one thing, he received Christ 16 years after his bar mitzvah. It came as a huge surprise to him and to all who knew him. He spent much of his adult life working as a professional musician in all sorts of venues…bars, nightclubs, casino showrooms, Broadway theater productions, Carnegie Hall, recordings, TV shows, etc. Along with playing music, he operated a one-person sales and marketing consultancy. But he has always loved pastoring far more than any of these other occupations. He received his MDiv at Asbury Theological Seminary.
Pastor Walt is married to a wonderful woman, Karen, who has demonstrated tremendous gifting in the unique ministry of being a pastor’s spouse. They have great joy in doing ministry together.
He is convinced to his core that we serve a God who can and does do miracles even today. He’s seen too many miracles to ever be convinced otherwise.
March 10, 2024
Jeffrey Engroff to Ironville and Newtown
Jeff Engroff currently serves two UMC congregations as director of children and youth/young adult ministries. He has been active in youth ministry leadership in various contexts since 1984. Jeff also served as an instructor and coach for the youth ministry certification school and the First Third of Life in a Congregational Setting Certificate course at United Lutheran Seminary from 2008 to 2020. Jeff was also a part time seminary student at ULS from 2018-2020. Jeff has received his pastoral training through the UMC’s Licensing School.
Jeff owned a small drywall company for 19 years before entering full-time ministry. He finds joy in building trusting relationships with both adults and students. In his leisure time, he enjoys riding his bike on various local rail trails, gardening, landscaping, and traveling with his wife (anywhere).
Jeff is married to his best friend, Anita, and together they share five adult children and four grandchildren.
March 3, 2024
Heather Hammel to Mt. Joy – Glossbrenner
Pastor Heather grew up in Ohio and moved to Pennsylvania after marrying Matthew (from Lancaster). They have two sons, James (18) and Michael (15), and reside in Hallam, PA. Heather was a Christ Servant Minister and Certified Lay Speaker before responding to God’s call into pastoral ministry in 2016. Her undergraduate studies were at Ohio Wesleyan University in Theatre and English Education. She earned her Master of Divinity from Evangelical Theological Seminary in May 2021. Heather believes that as disciples of Christ, individuals are called to more than worship and study; they are called to serve others. She advocates for intergenerational ministry and aims to see the church become a beacon of light in the community. She has served as a pastor at Hempfield UMC and Annville UMC.
Jakov “DJ” Choi to West Grove
Rev. Jakov “DJ” Choi was born into a pastoral family and raised in South Korea. After graduating from high school in 1990, he moved to the United States and lived in California, Arizona, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania. He received his Call to Ministry in 2000 and pursued his Master of Divinity at Wesley Theological Seminary. His previous appointments include serving as a youth pastor at Bensalem Korean UMC, as well as roles at Johnson Memorial UMC, West Lawn UMC (Associate Pastor), and Norwood UMC. Currently, he serves at the First UMC of Ephrata. Rev. Choi is married to EunJung and they have two children, Joseph and Deborah, who are studying in college. He is passionate about sharing the Gospel through preaching in worship, teaching Bible study, nurturing congregations, and reaching out to the poor and needy for transformation of lives. In his leisure time, he enjoys hiking, traveling, and supporting the Phillies and the Eagles.
Rodney Weaver to Phil – Mt. Zion
Pastor Rodney C. Weaver, Jr. is a dynamic, jubilant, approachable, and vibrant man of God. Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, he received his call to ministry as a youth in his home church and was ordained in 2001. Pastor Weaver is the loving father of Rodney C. Weaver III (4). He worked as a hospice chaplain in Pennsylvania and South Carolina for over a decade, providing pastoral care and leadership to the Holland Village Senior Living Community. Currently, he is completing his Master of Divinity. Pastor Weaver finds motivation in the words of Colossians 2:9-10: “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.”
February 25, 2024
William Graham Truscott to Quakertown
Graham Truscott is a life-long Methodist. Much of his ministry experience prior to pastoral ministry was in summer camp ministry. He loves the outdoors and connecting with God in nature. He received his calling to pastoral ministry as a teenager. He graduated from Messiah College with a BA in Biblical and Religious studies in 2017 and from Duke Divinity School with his MDiv in 2020. Many people affectionately know him as a ‘Bible nerd. He has recently received approval from the Board of Ordained Ministry to become an elder. He anticipates his ordination to take place in May, during the Annual Conference. Graham has continued to serve Conyngham UMC as his first appoint since 2020. He loves developing small groups, leading the church into service and fellowship in the community, and building up the church to be disciples for the transformation of the world.
Kunwoo Park to Broomall: St. Marks
Kunwoo Park grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and is preparing to return stateside after spending the last ten years in Korea. Ordained in the Korean Methodist Church, he earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley, where campus ministry ignited his call to ministry. He then pursued his M.Div at Methodist Theological University in Korea, where he met his wife. Together, they have one toddler and are expecting another girl next month. Kunwoo enjoys following the NBA and cherishing fatherhood. He desires Christ’s name to be the banner over our lives, thoughts, and hearts.
Larry Kipp to Oxford
Pastor Larry is a sinner saved by grace, sent to love, and serve all in Jesus’ name.
Larry is the husband of Laniesh Kipp and the father of three sons: Justice (21), Hayden (19), and Dylan (16). Larry is a 1992 Graduate of Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. He is an enthusiastic music fan, a history and antique buff, and proudly self identifies as a Jersey Boy although he has lived in Pennsylvania for over 25years.
Pastor Larry and Laniesh have been active in hospitality ministry for close to twenty years. Larry has served as pastor at Emmanuel UMC, Brownstown since 2013 and Salem UMC, Rothsville since 2019.
February 18, 2024
Julia Singleton to Lehman Memorial
Julia Singleton was ordained an elder in 2020. She graduated from Drew Theological School in 2012 with a Master of Divinity. She then went on to receive a graduate certificate in Spiritual Direction and Formation from Neumann University. Her appointments have included Philadelphia: UMC of the Redeemer, Middletown: Christ, and Philadelphia: Fox Chase. Her passion is to companion others on their journeys and encourage abundance, love, peace, and joy. She is a life-long learner and enjoys reading and dancing. She is married and has two children.
Marleah Doyle to Lansdale: First UMC
Rev. Marleah Doyle grew up in Pennsylvania and joined the United Methodist denomination in 2002 at Bethany, Wescosville, where she currently serves at the Pastor of Family Ministry. She graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a bachelor’s degree in special education, Lehigh University with a Master’s degree in Behavioral disorders, and worked in Behavioral Health as a Licensed Behavioral Specialist for children with Autism for 20+ years.
Marleah experienced a call to full-time ministry in 2018 and graduated from the Course of Study, Wesley Theological Seminary, in July 2023.
Marleah is married to her husband, Wayne, and together they have five children ages 8 to 24. In her free time, she loves to kayak, camp, cook and read. She is passionate about people experiencing their identity in Christ and inter-generational ministries.
Marikay Greene to Willow Grove
Marikay Green is a life-long United Methodist. She has been a licensed bi-vocational pastor since 2007. She received her M.Div. from Palmer Theological Seminary. Marikay recently retired from the Salem County Office on Aging and Disabilities after 30+ years of service. Preaching and collaborating with congregations to grow in their faith with God and be Jesus’ hands and feet in the world where we have been planted by loving the people the Holy Spirit places in our path is one of her joys. Marikay is the mother of one adult child, Eilisse, residing in California. and pet-mom to Marci.
Todd Lattig to East Bangor UMC
Rev. Todd R. Lattig is a pastor, a writer, an artist and a musician. He is married to Bernadette and together they have two daughters, Katie and Lorien (pronounced Lor-ee-en). As an ordained Elder in the Greater NJ Conference of the UMC, he serves as the chair of the Skylands District Committee on Superintendency and as vice-chair on the Commission on Archives and History of the Greater NJ Conference. Todd is passionate about liturgy, worship, mission and community building and has a profound interest in Christian history, as well as dynamic Christian education. Todd is a dedicated vegan.
Richard Brown to Allentown – Asbury Associate
Richard “Rick” Brown II was ordained an Elder in 2017. Prior to entering ministry, he worked as support staff in an Adult Outpatient Drug and Alcohol unit as well as a Child and Adolescent Mental Health unit. Rick received his call to ministry in high school while taking part in worship at Prospect UMC. Rick earned a Master of Divinity degree from Palmer Theological Seminary in 2012. His appointments included Hellertown: St. Paul (9 years) and Quakertown UMC (2021-Present). Rick enjoys preaching and finding practical ways to live out our faith. His hobbies include running and various games. He is married to his wife, Kim, and has two daughters.
Andrea Haldeman to Mt. Gretna
Andrea M. Haldeman received her call to ministry as a youth in her home church at Covenant UMC in Lebanon and was ordained in 2017. She graduated from Evangelical Theological Seminary with an MDiv, concentrating in Marriage and Family Counseling. Her pastoral appointments include Bethany UMC and Salem-Berne UMC in Hamburg, West Lawn UMC, and Long Memorial UMC in Neffsville. Most recently, she has also served as chaplain at Lebanon Valley College.
She is blessed in journeying with people to know Christ better and to share that head and heart knowledge with those around them through their words, but more importantly, through their loving and compassionate actions. Andrea treasures spending time with her husband, Dale, and their children – Gray and Rachel, especially enjoying God’s beautiful creation.
February 11, 2024
Jonette Gay to Lima UMC
Rev. Gay grew up in Texas and was a member of a United Methodist Church in the Texas Conference. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1985 with an Elementary Education degree. After teaching school for 3 years, she attended Asbury Theological Seminary graduating with a Master of Divinity in 1992. She began ministry in Texas and served churches in Northwest Texas and New Mexico. She became a chaplain in the Clinical Pastoral Education residency program at Albert Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia for a year training in 2008. She served as a hospice and hospital chaplain for 2 years in Texas before returning to the local church ministry.
She was approached by the Bishop in 2015 to ask if she would relocate from Texas to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She served as pastor at Otterbein United Methodist Church in Lancaster, PA from January 2016 until presently. While in Lancaster she received her doctor of ministry degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary in 2019. She completed the Kairos spiritual direction training with the Parish Resource Center in 2021.
Jared Stolzfus to Mount Joy – St. Marks
Jared was born and raised in Chester County, PA. He experienced his call to ministry in high school. He has a BA in Theology from Eastern University and an MDiv from Eastern Mennonite Seminary. After completing his MDiv Jared served in youth ministry for six years before being appointed quarter-time in 2017.
While serving quarter-time, Jared also worked for Jubilee Ministries, a non-profit based in Lebanon PA that served those affected by incarceration. He held various leadership positions in their thrift and ministry operations. He worked there until 2022 when he was appointed full-time appointment in the local church.
Jared has been married to his wife Elizabeth for fourteen years and they live in Lancaster County. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outside, reading, cheering on Penn State Football, and tending to their small zoo (two dogs, four cats, and a guinea pig).
February 4, 2024
Lorelei Toombs as Associate Superintendent, North West Region for Leadership Development and Community Engagement
Lorelei Krall Toombs was commissioned by the Eastern PA UMC Conference in 2004 and ordained an Elder in 2007. She was born and raised in Philadelphia, the daughter and granddaughter of active UMC clergy. She attended Temple University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW, 1998), and then attended Duke Divinity School (MDiv, 2003). Lorelei received her call to ministry gradually over many occasions, culminating in a transcendent experience while studying abroad in London during college. She returned committed to growing in her own faith through intentional theological study. In her nearly 20 years of ministry, she has been blessed to serve three EPA congregations: Conyngham UMC, First UMC of Germantown (FUMCOG), and Willow Grove UMC. Her greatest joys are her family, meeting and connecting with new people, traveling, and the arts. Lorelei is married to Steve and the proud mama of Will and Emma.
Michael Remel to Cedarville
Pastor Mike Remel is a graduate of Pen Argyl High School, has an undergraduate degree from East Stroudsburg University, and a Master of Divinity Degree from Palmer Theological Seminary. He has one son: Shawn, age 23. Mike has been in the ministry for 26 years and has served churches in Northeast and Central Pennsylvania. One of his strongest gifts for ministry is connecting churches with their community. Other strengths include a compassion for others and the ability to engage folks in ways that will lead to faith in Christ, as well as equip them for giving leadership to some aspect of ministry in the local church. Mike has a love for history and the outdoors. He especially likes hiking and spending time with his son at their family farm in Northampton County.
Dorry Newcomer to Jarrettown UMC
Dorry Newcomer received her call to ministry as a young mom while a member of Lansdale First UMC. She expected to return to working in accounting once her children started school but found a joy and satisfaction at church that couldn’t be matched. After graduating from Eastern (now Palmer) Seminary, she served Harriman UMC in Bristol, Rolling Hills UMC in Pipersville, Newtown (Bucks County) UMC and Lima UMC. Dorry and her husband Phil are on a quest to visit all 30 major league baseball stadiums and are excited to become grandparents soon.
Scott Kuhnle to Effort UMC
Pastor Scott Kuhnle grew up at Hopewell UMC, in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, before attending Palm Beach Atlantic University, in West Palm Beach, Florida. He graduated with an Undergraduate Degree in Biblical Studies, and a minor in Youth Ministry. From 2009 – 2021, Scott was the Director of Student Ministries at East Stroudsburg United Methodist Church, and became the Pastor of Family Ministries in January 2020. Scott is a Full Time Licensed Local Pastor and in July 2021, was appointed as the Pastor of Black Creek UMC, in Sugarloaf, PA. Over the past three years, the congregation at Black Creek invested their time, energy, and finances into wonderful community outreach and saw their weekly worship attendance nearly double. Scott and his wife Sarah are blessed with two children: Charleigh and Gil. Pastor Scott’s strengths include preaching, teaching, and a passion for outreach ministries.
January 28, 2024
Noé Gabriel López, South East Region as Associate Superintendent with Focus on Urban Ministry
Noé Gabriel (Gabe) López, a native of Philadelphia, was born to Guatemalan immigrant parents and spent his formative years in the city. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology from Malone University and went on to complete his Master of Divinity at Duke University. Following his academic achievements, Gabe embarked on a career as an Associate Pastor at a multicultural church in Henderson, NC. With a profound commitment to working with immigrants and minoritized groups, Gabe has accumulated extensive experience and demonstrated a deep passion for serving marginalized communities. He further contributed to the spiritual leadership in Eastern Pennsylvania as one of the pastors at The First United Methodist Church of Germantown. Beyond his professional endeavors, Gabe finds joy in various hobbies, including traveling, playing soccer, avidly following sports, and delving into thought-provoking books on contextual theology.
Cyndi Stouffer to West Chester: UMC West Chester
Cyndi Stouffer has deep roots within the UMC. She is a graduate of Drew Theological Seminary and has served congregations in Rockland County, NY, as well as New Brunswick, NJ, where she has ministered for the last 6+ years. Cyndi has a passion for ministry that centers on our identity as God’s beloved, while calling us to grow deeper into that identity as we seek to embody Christ’s love in tangible ways within our communities. Her husband, Steve, is a retired music teacher. They have two adult sons (Sean and Mark) and share a love for music and spending time with family.