Bishop Peggy Johnson announced the retirement of the Rev. Anita Powell as Eastern PA Conference Director of Connectional Ministries (DCM) and the appointment of the Rev. Dawn Taylor-Storm as her successor, effective July 1, 2020. Taylor-Storm is currently Superintendent of the South District and was recently Dean of the Cabinet.
Bishop Johnson praised Powell’s service and accomplishments as DCM the past two years. She was previously Superintendent of the former Central District in 2011-2017, after planting Church of the Open Door as a new church start in Kennett Square in 2001.
“Dr. Powell has built successful relationships across this annual conference, our jurisdiction and the general church during her tenure,” she said. “She has encouraged cooperation and communication among the ministries under her charge and demonstrated humility coupled with mindful problem-solving in all her work. We wish her and her dear husband, Marvin, the very best.”
“God has truly blessed me with the privilege of serving the church and conference as a pastor, district superintendent and Director of Connectional Ministries,” said Powell. ” Being in ministry with clergy, congregations, Conference staff, and committees has been a highlight in my life , stretching and challenging me, while also bringing me much meaning and joy. I will especially remember the relationships I have formed, and the many situations which have informed and formed me. To all of you, I am deeply grateful.”
Taylor-Storm became Superintendent of the former Southeast District in 2014, after serving as pastor of St. Matthew’s UMC of Valley Forge. She previously served White Haven UMC. Her introduction to ministry was as a Global Ministries Mission Intern serving at a community center in San Marcos, Texas.
“Rev. Taylor-Storm has demonstrated the power of the connection through her work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the South District raised funds to build and develop a pediatric clinic, an eye clinic and a life skills program,” wrote Bishop Johnson in her announcement. “She looks forward to bringing a missional focus to the work of the DCM and seeks to encourage churches to join together in rebuilding communities, making disciples and offering the hope of the Gospel.”
“I have seen firsthand the reason why the connectional church matters and what the body of Christ is capable of when we serve in mission together,” Taylor-Storm wrote in an acknowledgment letter to her district, as she recalled the ministry strides made during her five-year tenure. “Together, we have worked to seek God’s vision for abundant life for all people, from here on the South District, to the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
Bishop Johnson invites recommendations of eligible clergy to consider for the position of Superintendent of the South District, effective July 1, 2020. Suggestions should be e-mailed only to newdsepa@gmail.com.