New appointments to be announced on Sundays at 1PM.
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April 13, 2025
Fortunate Danje to Elysburg UMC and Oak Grove UMC
Fortunate Danje is a graduating Master of Divinity student at Drew University, focusing on United Methodist ministry. She has also studied at United Theological Seminary, the Catholic University in Zimbabwe, and Zimbabwe Open University. Fortunate is deeply passionate about nurturing spiritual growth, equipping others, and facilitating transformation through the Holy Spirit. She has served in United Methodist high schools for over ten years, dedicating herself to teaching and mentoring young adults. Additionally, she has engaged in mission work with various organizations, advocating for justice for the girl child and vulnerable women. Currently, Fortunate serves at Covenant United Methodist Church in New Jersey, where she finds great joy in preaching, teaching, and evangelizing through social media. She is deeply committed to outreach, community engagement, spiritual education, and is especially concerned about youth ministry. Her internship experience further ignited her passion for ministry and confirmed her call to enter into the sacred covenant of service. Fortunate is the mother of two grown children, an athletic trainer, a music writer, and a scholar. She also enjoys traveling and gardening.
Steven Whitehead to Emmanuel UMC in Allentown
Stephen was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and moved to the US in 2019. He lives in Upper Bucks County with his wife Katlyn and son Sebastian. He studied Philosophy at the University of Dundee, where he was active in the Dundee University Christian Union’s campus evangelism efforts as well as being a speaker and Community Links Co-Ordinator for the local Christians Against Poverty Debt Center. After having preached occasionally during that time at the encouragement of a local Church of Scotland minister, he felt God’s calling him to pastoral ministry during the Covid lockdowns and is currently in the final semester of his M. Div studies at Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem.
Conner Felty to New Holland – Friendship and New Holland: Rancks
Connor Felty is currently finishing up the last semester of his Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia. He has focused his studies on biblical interpretation, religious education, and congregational leadership and administration. While in school, he has served as the Director of Adult Discipleship at North Decatur United Methodist Church, where he developed new small group ministries and a monthly book club for congregants. Connor grew up and has spent most of his life in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Both churches are in New Holland. Ranck’s is a historic, rural church just outside of town, and Friendship (recently birthed out of a recent merger) is located in the borough of New Holland. Both congregations have vibrant faith communities where members find meaningful connection, spiritual growth, and opportunities to live out their faith in action. Connor’s background and his spiritual gifts of teaching, wisdom, hospitality, and faith will be a blessing to Ranck’s, Friendship, and the community of New Holland.
Kris Pursel to Hope UMC in Ephrata and Wiest in Schoeneck
Kris Pursel first responded to a call to church-appointed ministry in 2021, when he became a Certified Lay Minister and began serving Ranck’s Church.
Rev. Pursel’s gifts will be a blessing to these congregations and the surrounding community. Hope UMC is a community-minded congregation, spiritually-led small groups, and strong music programs, motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the furtherance of God’s Kingdom in all their interactions. Weist Memorial UMC, serving the village of Schoeneck since 1904, actively reaches out through various community ministries including their food distribution partnership with Blessings of Hope and seasonal community events.
Kris is supported in his ministry by his wife, Sara, and together they are raising two wonderful children, Aaron (6) and Eliza (3). As a family, they love spending time outdoors—whether it’s a trip to the beach, biking through a trail, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying the beauty of God’s creation.
April 6, 2025
Lori Reyes to Crescentville UMC
Rev. Lori L. Reyes was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised on the north coast of the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. Mother of two adult men.
Rev. Lori has served as a Local Pastor at Bridesburg United Methodist Church in Philadelphia County and Emilie United Methodist Church in Bucks County. She has participated in EPA Safe Sanctuary Committee and currently participates as an active member of the Latino Commission; Crossroads Walk to Emmaus Community of EPA and her last two appointments has been a Cross Cultural/Cross Racial appointments.
Her mission is to apply the gifts that God has given her through her ministry of the local Church. The focus will be on the role of developing and equipping the spiritual formation of the local church, laypeople, and leadership. Her hopes are that through her contagious enthusiasm and love for the Gospel and the Church, she may inspire and lead others to Christ. Crescentville UMC is a vibrant, multicultural, multi-generational congregation mirroring the community in its leadership. Pastor Reyes’s love for all people will prove to be a wonderful match for this congregation and community.
Debra Rogers to Calvary Evangelical UMC in Lewistown, in addition to her current appointment to Bethany UMC in Barnesville
Pastor Debra Rogers resides in Tamaqua, PA, with her husband of 12 years and their two foster daughters, ages 2½ and 1½, whom they are joyfully adopting this year.
She currently serves at Bethany United Methodist Church in Barnesville, her hometown, and brings a deep love for the community and a heart for ministry. Pastor Debra was ordained in 2009 after studying at Gateway Seminary and Crossroads Bible Institute. Raised in the United Church of Christ, she was first invited as a guest speaker at Bethany UMC, where she later became pastor. She also teaches Sunday school for the past 20 years at Grier City Union in Barnesville and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in ministry at Lancaster Bible College. Alongside ministry, she works as a tailor and seamstress. Pastor Debra is passionate about making disciples and is guided by 2 Timothy 1:9—called not because of our works, but because of His purpose and grace. We joyfully welcome her to this new appointment.
William P. Wolf Jr. to Neola UMC
William P. Wolf Jr., who goes be Will is a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, with a deep desire to live out and proclaim the truth of the Gospel. He is committed to being an imitator of Christ and using his gifts to support and uplift the community. Will describes his calling to ministry as a response to the grace he has experienced— seeing God’s light in the day and His works in the night. He believes wholeheartedly in the power of redemption and the promise of revival through Christ’s resurrection. With humility, he shares, “I’m a little man in a little town with a little family—and the biggest news to proclaim: Salvation is freely given.” Will brings a spirit of faith, hope, and unity to his ministry, seeking to honor the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer.
March 30, 2025
Debbie Rakos to Harriman UMC in Bristol, in addition to her current appointment to First UMC in Bristol
Rev. Debbie Rakos lives in Levittown PA with her husband Rod.
While at a Baptist Student Retreat she realized that God had placed on her life, on her heart and stamped in red letters on her soul – the call to preach truth – His Truth – with love, grace and presence.
She received her Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (now Palmer) in 2004 and was licensed to preach the gospel at the Monumental Baptist Church in Philadelphia that same year. She continued to preach and lead in various roles and capacities in a variety of churches while she supported her family by working full-time as a mechanical engineer. In 2023 she felt led to offer her calling to the United Methodist church as a pulpit supply preacher and discovered that her seminary friends were right after all, and she was called to be a United Methodist Pastor. She is currently pursuing her Licensed Local Pastor certification.
Pastor Debbie currently serves as a Supply Pastor at the First United Methodist Church of Bristol in Bristol, PA. She sees her role at Bristol-First as an opportunity to help God’s people identify and follow their gifts and calling into ministry to the church and community in which they worship. Pastor Debbie knows the community and will be an asset to Bristol: Harriman UMC as both congregations dream to impact the community through collaborative efforts. Pastor Debbie’s love of the gospel and her love for people will be a true gift to this community.
Ricky A. Ney Jr. to Trevorton UMC and Irish Valley UMC
A lifelong admirer of God’s Word and deeds, Ricky A. Ney Jr. found early joy in Sunday worship and service. With a background as a paramedic and EMS educator spanning over two decades, Ricky brings a heart for care, leadership, and spiritual connection. Through personal challenges and seasons of prayer, Ricky has experienced God’s presence deeply and feels a renewed call to pastoral ministry—particularly in offering spiritual leadership, developing Christian character, and building meaningful relationships. His connection to Tremont UMC began years ago during community response efforts as mayor, and he now feels led to serve the congregation more fully. He is supported by his wife Christy and their two sons, Derick and Drew. With gratitude and faith, Ricky looks forward to continuing his journey of ministry and discipleship in the Tremont community.
March 16, 2025
Emily Wilton as Content Coordinator for EPA&GNJ
Emily has served as the Breakthrough Coordinator for GNJ, where she has played a key role in developing and implementing worship series that help churches revitalize their ministries. In her new, full-time role on the communications team, she will continue to oversee Breakthrough while also managing the EPA&GNJ editorial calendar and expanding her content writing responsibilities.
Emily has been a local licensed pastor since 2020 and was approved for provisional membership this year. She has a background in academic theology, holding an MTS and an MA in Theology from the University of Western Ontario and an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary. Her deep theological insight, writing expertise, and ability to collaborate with a diversity of writers will strengthen the communications ministry across both conferences. Emily loves music, reading, experimenting with new recipes alongside her wife, and enjoying her 9-month-old daughter, Audrey.
Scott Dorn to Norwood UMC
Scott Dorn grew up in Telford, PA, surrounded by a large family and a passion for music. After serving as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army, he pursued ministry, graduating summa cum laude from Valley Forge Christian College. In 2013, he earned a Master of Divinity from Palmer Theological Seminary, and in 2017, he was ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church. He is blessed with his wife, Nicole, and two children, Owen and Mia, and has a deep love for teaching and serving others.
Libby Hickcock to First UMC in Shamokin and St. John UMC
Elizabeth (Libby) Hickok is a lifelong Methodist who grew up in Fredericksburg in Lebanon County, PA. She has been commissioned as a provisional elder this year. She graduated from Eastern University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies. Libby is in the last semester of her M.Div. program at Princeton Seminary and currently serves as the Education Coordinator at the First UMC of Delran.
Libby is passionate about building relationships in communities, worship, and Bible study. She loves the opportunity the church gives to share life together in God’s love. Libby enjoys spending time outside, playing piano, and volunteering at camp. She lives with her cat, Boots, who she adopted in 2023.
St. John UMC and First UMC share a commitment to worship, discipleship, and outreach in the Shamokin area. St. John UMC blends traditional and contemporary worship, emphasizing small groups and mission work, while First UMC offers vibrant worship, youth programs, and a strong music ministry, prioritizing prayer and community partnerships.
As their pastor, Libby Hickok will bring a passion for building relationships, worship, and outreach. She will lead Bible studies, nurture small groups, and strengthen faith formation, helping both congregations grow spiritually and deepen their community engagement.
Jack Orr to White Haven UMC and Audenried-Jeanesville UMC
Rev. Jack Orr is a retiring elder in GNJ. Jack worked with children and youth in camps, communities and Lutheran churches early on, but his heart was strangely warmed when he met his wife Debi who introduced him to Methodism while he taught youth at Ranch Hope. After seminary Jack served in GNJ: Sea Isle (1996-2000), Florence (2000-2007), and Shamong (2007-2025). A gifted preacher and teacher Jack is a Spiritual Director in Walk to Emmaus and serves on the board of South Seaville Camp Meeting where he teaches and preaches. Debi is a Nurse Practitioner and their adult son, Greg, is auto technician. Their cat Lady Katie is adorable.
Thomas Wiley to Conyngham UMC
Having served Conyngham UMC for the past four years as church pianist, Thomas is honored to be able to continue his service to the church in the role of bi-vocational lay supply pastor. God has been preparing him for this task through years of theological study, church involvement, and promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Thomas grew up as a United Methodist preacher’s kid and missionary kid. He studied Literature in college and works in Christian publishing. He enjoys listening to and performing music; reading theology, history, philosophy, and most genres of fiction; and learning new languages. He and his wife, Carrie, have been married for nineteen years; they have two sons.
Emile Andre Stanton to Grace UMC in Philadelphia
Rev. Emile A. Stanton has served as an Ordained Minister across various religious denominations in the Philadelphia area for over 30 years. He spent 16 years as a pastor at The Revelation Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Rev. Stanton joined the United Methodist Church in the fall of 2024 and currently is a member of the historic Tindley Temple UMC in South Philadelphia. He is recognized for his remarkable abilities as a preacher, teacher, and singer, with notable strengths in the areas of prayer, praise, and worship.
Rev. Stanton possesses extensive experience in church leadership, church growth, spiritual development, community engagement, and partnerships. He excels in aiding congregations to enhance organizational structure, strategic planning, financial literacy, and outreach opportunities.
His service with Grace United Methodist Church’s vision for growth through diversity and continued ecumenical partnerships promises future opportunities for evangelizing the community with creativity and a fresh perspective, fostering discipleship for years to come. Rev. Emile’s unwavering commitment to the Will of God, and his love and dedication to serving all people, make this union strong for the kingdom ministry that lies ahead.
Chantay Love Mason to Janes Memorial UMC
Chantay Love – Mason, Co-Founder and President of EMIR Healing Center is an innovative leader healing communities one family at a time. Chantay was raised in the Abbotsford Projects where most of her exposure to violence occurred. She is a survivor of incest and witness to domestic violence. On March 26, 1997, Chantay’s only brother Emir Peter Greene was shot seven times in the back. The trauma from her loss, and exposure to violence became Chantay’s blueprint for her tireless work to save her city. EMIR Healing Center with the visions of Chantay, has created models for schools, families, and communities to support them with their healing and to uncover their trauma with the goal to break the cycle of future violence.
Chantay has a master’s in human services administration from Lincoln University. She is a Certified Crisis Response and Restorative Justice Trainer. She is a Christ Servant Minister for Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of United Methodist Church. Chantay is appointed to the Governor Homicide Review Team and American Affairs. EMIR Healing Center’s three publications, EMIR Healing Center Curriculum on Trauma Informed Healing, Trauma Informed Policing, and Walk In My Shoes have been registered with the United States Copyright Office. She is also the Coordinator of the Philadelphia Caucus of the Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR). Chantay is married to her best friend, Chuck.
March 2, 2025
Rev. Scott M. Stevenson appointed to Coventryville UMC
Rev. Scott M. Stevenson Pastor Stevenson is an ecumenical bridge-builder who seeks to connect and unite people to Christ and his kingdom. Holding an M.Div. from Eastern Baptist (Palmer) Theological Seminary, and ordination in the American Baptist Churches, he has served as senior pastor and interim pastor assignments in New Hampshire, New York and Pennsylvania for more than 30 years. He recently completed a 17-year pastorate at Altalaha Lutheran Church in Rehrersburg, PA and is excited to serve at Coventryville UMC. Scott’s passions are integrating scripture, theology, pastoral care and counseling. His theological expertise is on the atonement of Jesus Christ. He is also a C.S. Lewis scholar who has presented “An Evening with C.S. Lewis” at local churches, libraries and Barnes & Noble. Scott’s wife, Ruthann, is a spiritual director. Their home would not be complete without their two adorable cats.
Rev. Scott Stevenson believes in working in partnership with the laity, and Coventryville UMC has a strong and faithful lay leadership. They need a pastor who is willing to build bridges within the church and within the community, and that is one of Rev. Stevenson’s gifts. Coventryville is a community that is ready and thirsting for a new way of living, a new hope and new vision. Together with Rev. Stevenson, Coventryville UMC can offer a new life in Jesus Christ. They can teach Christian beliefs and help the community to see the value of all people created by the one same God.
Stacey Jones Anderson to Emilie UMC in Levittown
Rev. Stacey Jones-Anderson has a passion for healing and reconciliation ministry. She grew up in Chester County and holds a BA in History from Cheyney University, a MPA from Penn State University and a M.DIV from Palmer Theological Seminary.
Pastor Stacey has served Bethany African Methodist Episcopal Church Parksburg, First United Methodist Church Bristol, Coventryville United Methodist Church, Janes Memorial and Servants of Christ United Methodist Churches. She currently serves as a Co-Ordinator of Cross Cultural/Cross Racial Ministry and a Co-Chairperson for the Commission on Race and Religion. Rev. Stacey is a retired federal employee with over 30 years of experience. She is the mother of two adult daughters, and she enjoys the arts.
Levittown: Emilie United Methodist Church is a congregation in a season of growth and are excited to welcome Pastor Stacey’s passion for reconciliation ministry, community outreach and a genuine love of all of God’s people. Pastor Stacey’s shepherd’s heart, pastoral care and her gift of administration will align well with this growing congregation’s needs. During consultation, Emilie’s SPRC indicated they desired a cross-racial cross-cultural appointment to meet the needs of the church and changing community, Pastor Stacey’s pastoral experience having served in cross-racial cross-cultural appointments and her pastoral gifts will clearly be an asset to the Levittown community.
Sean Lee as the Assistant to the Bishop for EPA&GNJ
Rev. Seunghyun Sean Lee has served at Willow and Union Grove UMC, as Associate Pastor to First Korean Cherry Hill, Lead Pastor at Cross Keys UMC, and currently serves as the Associate Superintendent to the Coastal Plains Region. He has been instrumental in working and resourcing local congregations with both Pathways and The Journey of Hope. Sean is a gifted administrator, strategic thinker, and bridge builder. He brings joy and devotion that exemplify his call and passion for the work of the church.
Sean is married to Joohee and they have two beautiful children.
Beginning July 1, GNJ’s current Assistant to the Bishop, Nicola Mulligan, will step into a new leadership role as Director of Administrative Services, joining the extended cabinet.
Sarah Borgstrom Lee as Director of Communications for EPA&GNJ,
Rev. Sarah Borgstrom Lee has served as the EPA&GNJ Content Writer for the past year, demonstrating strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex communications challenges. She has built strong relationships across both conferences and understands the unique structures, workflows, and needs of our connection. Prior to her work in communications, Sarah served as a pastor in Greater New Jersey since 2014. She holds a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arcadia University.
The communications team of EPA&GNJ plays a vital role in equipping churches and leaders to share the good news effectively. Sarah’s experience in pastoral leadership, storytelling, and content creation, along with her deep understanding of the mission and culture of both conferences, make her well-suited to lead this work. Her promotion ensures a smooth transition and continued excellence in communications. The Director of Communications role will continue to serve on both EPA and GNJ extended cabinets.
Sarah is married to Josh, and they have two young children, Jeremiah and Jonathan. She enjoys good coffee, engaging conversations, and watching Korean dramas.
February 9, 2025
Rev. Kyeong Su Jung appointed to Covenant UMC in Moore Twp
Rev. KyeongSu Jung is a devoted servant of Christ with a deep passion for worship and ministry. He holds a Master of Sacred Theology from Drew University and pursued a Ph.D. in Church History through a joint program with Iliff School of Theology and the University of Denver.
He has faithfully served churches in Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah, bringing gifts in scripture-based preaching, visionary leadership, pastoral care, and social holiness. Excited for this new chapter, he looks forward to serving the congregation and community of Moore Township. KyeongSu is married to Clara, and they have three children.
Covenant United Methodist Church is a mission-driven, evangelical congregation dedicated to community outreach, Bible study, and pastoral care. Known for its generosity and commitment to local and global missions, Covenant seeks a pastor with strong leadership and a non-legalistic evangelical approach.
Rev. Jung’s theological depth, pastoral experience, and passion for mission align well with Covenant UMC’s vision. His strengths in preaching, pastoral care, and community engagement make him an excellent fit to lead and serve this vibrant congregation.
Jason David Rios Ramos to First UMC in Lancaster
Rev. Jason D. Ríos (he/him) is an Ordained Elder in Full Connection. He is from Puerto Rico. Jason graduated from El Seminario Evangelico de Puerto Rico with a Master of Divinity Degree and has served as a Pastor for 18 years in Puerto Rico and Greater New Jersey, with his most recent appointment to First UMC Tuckerton.
First UMC in Lancaster is a vibrant church in the heart of the city. They are committed to mission, and live out that commitment through their own ministry and strong partnerships with organizations and missionaries in the city and around the world.
Jason enjoys preaching and leading congregations to serve and grow, and his gifts for connecting church and community in mission will be a blessing to the church and to the city. He is married to Yaya, and together, they have a 5-year-old son named Jayden and two pets.
February 2, 2025
Arturo Andres L. Bautista, Jr. to First UMC in Frackville
Rev. Arturo Bautista is a dedicated servant leader with a deep passion for ministry and discipleship. Growing up in a Methodist family in the Philippines, he was inspired by his faith and community to pursue a life of service. Pastor Arturo began his ministry as a mission pastor and later served as a district superintendent. He holds a Political Science degree from Philippine Christian University, a Master of Divinity (cum laude) from Union Theological Seminary, and a Master of Sacred Theology from Drew University.
Pastor Arturo brings strong preaching and teaching abilities, honed through years of ministry, along with a relational approach and a deep commitment to pastoral care. He will empower lay leadership, foster creative worship, and nurture intergenerational relationships. With a heart for community engagement and a vision for mission outreach, Pastor Arturo is committed to guiding First UMC in fulfilling its mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Arturo and Normie, his wife of thirty-six years, have two grown children, Melissa Claire and Arthur Andrew.
January 26, 2025
Sophia Driscoll Gamber to Bensalem UMC
Rev. Sophia Gamber (she/they) is a deep listener, strategic visionary, and a builder of people. She has a heart of a shepherd and has served previously as an Assistant Pastor and an Intern Youth & Outreach Minister, in addition to holding various social service and advocacy roles. Sophia has demonstrated their pastoral heart as a chaplain in hospice, oncology, and pediatric healthcare settings. Sophia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Sociology & Anthropology from Ursinus College as well as a Master of Divinity from Yale University School of Divinity. Pastor Sophia coupled with Bensalem UMC’s desire to grow and thrive through diversity and continued ecumenical partnerships providing more opportunities to evangelize the community with creativity and a fresh approach will yield discipleship for years to come. Pastor Sophia’s passion for meeting people where they are exactly what makes this a good ministry match.
January 19, 2025
Timothy Duchesne to Downingtown UMC
Rev. Dr. Timonth Duchesne has served mostly in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference but also in Peninsula Delaware and currently in the Mississippi Conference. He is a transitional, intentional interim pastor, as well as a spiritual director, coach and consultant. He specializes in church growth, creative ministries, and community engagement. Tim has extensive experience in helping congregations develop strategic plans and discern their unique gifts and graces for ministry. He is committed to embracing diversity and equity and answering God’s call to make disciples of all people for the transformation of the world.
These gifts will be invaluable as Rev. Duchesne serves the Downingtown congregation and community, which seeks to grow and move forward in new ways to impact the lives of children, youth, and all people.
Rev. Dr. Timothy Duchesne is married to Rev. Dr. Suzanne Duchesne.
January 12, 2025
Steven Pittman as Superintendent of the South District, effective July 1, 2025
Rev. Pittman has faithfully served in the Eastern PA Conference as a pastor in urban and suburban churches as well as cross-racial cross-cultural contexts. He is focused on serving God and humanity to bring God’s love and wholistic wellbeing, shalom, to all humanity.
Steve has a passion for ministry, nurturing spiritual growth, supporting clergy, and making disciples for the transformation of the world. He stresses the importance of developing strategic plans for congregations and promotes the necessity of effective communication. He is dedicated to building bridges and relationships to bring about unity in diversity fostering inclusivity and equity.
Steve has a background in psychology and counseling. He is a professional coach with training in Outward Mindset, a mentor, advisor, and deep listener. He is also an assisting elder, serves on the East District Committee on Ministry, has completed the Financial Leadership Academy, and the Normalizing Next Cohort.
All of these gifts will serve him well in his new role as Superintendent in the South District. The 96 churches of the South District are primarily in suburban and urban settings. Many of the congregations have expressed a desire to grow in their discipleship by finding ways to more faithfully address the needs of the communities around them. They have expressed a desire to build bridges to the diverse communities in their midst. Some congregations are also seeking ways to faithfully fund their ministries even as they try to do more to reach out beyond their walls.
Steve has demonstrated that he has the gifts and the grace to meet these challenges and to continue to develop the strengths of the churches and ministries in the South District. There are churches of all sizes in the South District with strong, committed clergy and laity who are ready to journey forward together with Steve as the next District Superintendent. The potential is great, the possibilities are endless, and the power belongs to God.
Steve is a non-anxious presence, serving in humility with a deep commitment to God and his family. He is married to Kabrene Pittman, and they have two children.