The Kerusso – September/October | 2026 Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
How Can We Sing, So Far Away From Home? Max Edwards “Beside the rivers of Babylon, we sat and wept as we thought of Jerusalem. We put away our harps, hanging them on the branches of the willow trees. For there our captors demanded a song of us. Our tormentors requested a joyful hymn; ‘Sing us one of those songs of Jerusalem!’ But how can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land?” Psalm 137:1-4 “There’s no place like home! There’s no place like home!” That’s what Dorothy kept repeating while clutching her little dog Toto and clicking her heals together in Frank Baum’s story, “The Wizard of Oz.” But it is much more than just a line in some fictional story. We each know it to be profoundly true. Things are just not right when we are not at home. And for most of us, home is where we find our rest, and anywhere other than home is where we find our stress! The frequency of travel in the superintendency reminds me of this all the time! I never rest as well as I do in my own bed … my own room … with my own pillows! But my temporary woes are nothing compared to the fact that many of our Myanmar brothers and sisters have been forced to flee as refugees to neighboring countries to escape the war-torn environment in their home regions, and possible conscription into the military to serve the wicked military junta. Their struggle is like the deep pain felt by the Jews formerly of the Southern Kingdom of Judah around 600 years before Christ. Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar had taken them captive, and many were forced to leave their homes and journey hundreds of miles to the East as slaves. The poetic lines of Psalm 137 are a melancholy expression of the fact that they found it very difficult or impossible to sing when facing circumstances that were less than desirable. They hung their musical instruments up in the trees, for there was no need nor desire for music when their hearts longed for Jerusalem – for HOME. But consider this - - in reality, all of us Christians are, in a sense, longing for a distant home. We who have chosen to commit our lives to Jesus Christ and have been born again through the power and promise of God through His Holy Spirit are actually strangers here. Our citizenship has been transferred to Heaven. Like the patriarch Abraham who considered himself a stranger and a foreigner, looking for a ‘city whose builder and maker is God,’ we too wander about through our existence here, waiting for our journey home. In the meantime, all will not be pleasant. We will not always want to sing, or worship, or make music. We even dislike it sometimes when others seem to be so joyful, because for the most part, we struggle to find any joy. We hang up our music and sit down in despair. But that is not what God desires us to do. And being depressed and feeling sorry for ourselves will never make us better. God wants His sons and daughters to rejoice! He knows what we struggle with while away from “home.” King David wrote a song that includes the line, “I will be glad and rejoice in Your mercy, for you have considered my trouble …” (Psalm 31:7) Peter may have said it best when he encouraged the church to “… greatly rejoice, though now for a little while … you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7) Yes, things are less than pleasant sometimes. And yes, we have a much better existence awaiting us one day – back home. But in the meantime, we mustn’t give up. We mustn’t forsake our music … our singing … our rejoicing. We can rejoice knowing that God is in control, and each day that passes just brings us closer to heaven - - to HOME.
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
From the Desk of the General Secretary/Treasurer Rev. Brian Hammond
I am deeply grateful and humbled that the General Conference reelected me this past July to serve as General Secretary for the next quadrennium. Thank you for the confidence you have placed in me and for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support for Tammy and me. It remains a privilege to serve alongside the faithful pastors, churches, and leaders of the Evangelical Methodist Church, and I look forward to what God has in store for us in the years ahead. As we begin this new General Conference cycle, I want to recommend two resources to you from our auditing firm and highlight two important items for our churches and ministers. •
Non-Profit Newsletter and Resources Our auditing firm, CRI Capin Crouse, offers many free resources on its website and a regular newsletter designed specifically for churches, non-profits, and their leaders. You can sign up for it and check out their other resources here: Insights | Carr, Riggs & Ingram
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Free Webinar CRI Capin Crouse is offering a free webinar on October 6 th entitled The Rules of Giving: Navigating Charitable Contributions and Compliance. “Charitable giving has become more complex, requiring nonprofit organizations and their advisors to manage evolving federal tax rules governing donor deductions, gift substantiation, and charitable acknowledgments.” Interested? Click here to register: Register
2026 EMC Discipline Available The newly revised 2026 Edition of the EMC Discipline is now available for purchase. Copies may be ordered for individual use or for church leaders, staff members, and Boards of Stewards. Two binding styles are available: •
Perfect Bound Edition: $12.00 per copy (1-4 copies), plus shipping or $9.80 per copy (5 or more), plus shipping.
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Spiral Bound Edition (limited quantities): $15.00 per copy, plus shipping. The spiral-bound version lays flat when opened, making it ideal for reference. Order either online here: 2026 EMC Discipline
Ministerial Code of Ethics Reaffirmation Discipline ¶852 requires all EMC credentialed ministers to reaffirm the Ministerial Code of Ethics following each General Conference. This includes Deacons, Local Preachers, Admission on Trial Ministers, and Elders. Conference Superintendents will have physical copies available during their visits and will ask ministers to sign two copies, one for personal records and one for the minister's personnel file at EMC Headquarters. Ministers may also complete their reaffirmation online here: Code of Ethics Reaffirmation Form Thank you for your continued partnership in advancing the Kingdom of God through the Evangelical Methodist Church. Please continue to pray for our churches, pastors, and denominational leaders as we seek to serve Christ faithfully together.
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Resolutions Affirmed by General Conferences Over the Years For 80 years now, the EMC has faithfully declared the gospel of Christ despite the headwinds of liberalism, compromise, and godlessness. The denomination has been unwavering in its affirmation of the inspiration, authority, and inerrancy of God’s Holy Word. And frequently the assembled conferences have passed resolutions that address matters of morality, theology, or cultural significance. Conference resolutions have addressed issues of deep importance, such as: Abortion, Human Trafficking, Open Theism, and Sexual Ethics. In this way, we have boldly addressed issues that may or may not have been clarified by other groups and that have been hotly debated in the culture and the church. In 1990, the conference passed a resolution concerning abortion. In it, the EMC affirmed that “… The Holy Scriptures clearly teach that life begins at conception and that the taking of that life is clearly repugnant to God. The Evangelical Methodist Church does not sanction nor condone abortion. We encourage our churches to help women in problem pregnancies by providing understanding, forgiveness, and counseling in a spirit of love …” In that same conference in 1990, the assembly addressed homosexuality head-on, declaring: “… The biblical record clearly condemns homosexual activity: (1) Leviticus 18:22: God reveals homosexual practice to be an abomination in His sight. (2) Romans 1:26 and 27 declare that homosexual activity is a lust of the flesh which is unnatural, degrading, and totally contrary to God’s will …” In 2002, the 28th General Conference encouraged congregations to remember to pray for the persecuted church around the world. The resolution encouraged a monthly prayer remembrance: “… Evangelical Methodist congregations [are encouraged to] observe an International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church on the 15th of each month.” In 2006, the heretical subject of “Open Theism” was addressed: “… Open theology rejects or redefines the classical doctrine of God’s omniscience. Its proponents declare that God is “open” to the future, meaning He does not fully know all events and is bound by time.” The resolution declared the EMC’s rejection of such false teaching, affirming that we stand “… With the classical formulation of God’s omniscience, as it has historically been understood. God knows all details of the past, present and future.” In 2010, the tragedy of Human Trafficking was strongly repudiated. “The Evangelical Methodist Church abhors the profoundly evil personal and social sin of human trafficking …” The resolution proceeds to encourage all EMC’ers to pray, raise awareness, and advocate for the end to this modern form of human slavery. A cooperative relationship with the Global Wesleyan Alliance was affirmed in 2014, clearing the way for “… Mutual recognition of ministerial credentials” with other like-minded Wesleyan denominations and organizations. In 2014 and again in 2018, the 31st and 32nd General Conferences strongly addressed issues of Human Sexuality. “… The Evangelical Methodist Church holds that sexuality is a gift from God and basic to human identity as well as a matter of behavioral expression. We hold that the full behavioral expression of sexuality is to take place within the context of a marriage covenant between a man and a woman and that individuals remain celibate outside of the bond of marriage. Therefore, we seek to cultivate a community in which sexuality is embraced as God-given and good and where biblical standards of sexual behavior are upheld …” At the 34th General Conference in July 2026, the EMC passed two resolutions that speak to very relevant issues in the church world. The issue of Gender Identity and Transgenderism has become an incredibly important topic for parents, churches, and pastors, and the resolution passed addresses the issue with great compassion, great wisdom, and a firm Biblical stance. The entire resolution is provided on page 11 of this Kerusso issue. Two excepts from the resolution: “We deny that gender is merely a social construct or that adopting a transgender self-conception aligns with God's purposes in creation and redemption. Biological sex is an essential, Godordained reality, and men and women are called to live in accordance with their birth sex.” “We welcome all who experience gender dysphoria into the fellowship of the church as sinners redeemable by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Desires or temptations are not sin in themselves but must be brought under the lordship of Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, sanctification transforms disordered desires, enabling obedience and joyful discipleship—whether in biblical marriage or celibacy. Sexual fulfillment is not essential for human flourishing; ultimate joy is found in union with God. The EMC’s historic stance affirming men and women in every level of ministerial service was clarified in the other resolution. “… The Church affirms the eligibility of men and women to serve in all credentialed positions and ministerial offices of the Church, including Local Preacher, Admission on Trial, Elder, and Deacon, in accordance with the Church’s established processes for discernment, examination, and credentialing …” The entire resolution is provided on page 12 of this Kerusso issue.
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Newly Elected Officers, Boards, Committees, & Departments September will be a transitional month for our newly elected officers and superintendents. We’re sending you the complete list of officers, board personnel, and other team leaders so that you can keep them in prayer and know who will be serving in what capacity even if you weren’t able to be at Conference. Some position changes were effective immediately while others have a specified transition time, but everyone will be in their new role by October 1st. All our current General Board Chairpersons were elected to continue to serve: General Board of Christian Education: Rev. Dr. Joshua Strunk General Board of Discipline Revision: Rev. Sean Scribner General Board of Evangelism: Rev. Russ Cochran General Board of Finance: Rev. Dr. Fred Guidi *(Rev. Guidi has stepped down from this position since conference) General Board of Ministerial Education: Rev. Dr. Brian Donley General Board of Ministerial Relations: Rev. John Phillips, III General Board of Trustees: Mr. Henry “Butch” Hayes General Board of World Missions: Revs. Bill & Lisa Walker* (As co-chairs, the Walkers occupy one seat on General Council) General Board of Youth and Children’s Ministry: Rev. Brian Gordon Department Leaders: Department of Chaplains: Rev. Marc Massie Department of Prayer: Mrs. Judy Edwards Department of Publications: Rev. Brian Hammond Department of Stewardship and Development: Rev. Mark Bailey
Auxiliary Presidents: Evangelical Methodist Women: Mrs. Samantha Wilson Evangelical Methodist Men: Position currently vacant
General Conference Lay Leader: Mr. Rickie Garner The 9 board chairs, 2 auxiliary leaders, and one lay leader all serve on the General Council with the General Secretary and elected Superintendents. Each of them, as well as the department heads covet your prayers. Their responsibilities are significant – The EMC Discipline ¶1102 (1) explains: “All Boards, Committees, and Departments are amenable and accountable to the General Conference and between General Conference sessions, to the General Council.” Discipline ¶608 sets forth the basic duties of the Council: 1. Giving direction to the church by presenting creative and practical programs to the General Conference 2. Filling vacancies in the General Conference during the quadrennium 3. Implementing and coordinating General Conference legislation and programs 4. Performing all the normative duties of an executive body 5. Ensuring that our local churches receive minutes of the Council meetings 6. Approving EMC Home Mission Churches and ministries 7. Reviewing and maintaining operational rules and procedures for the Boards, Committees, Departments, and the Cabinet of Superintendents. These are the binding rules for all of these boards and teams. And ¶610 adds that: “The General Council acts on behalf of the General Conference between sessions …” Here’s some biographical information about the elected officers and the headquarters staff: Rev. Max Edwards, International General Superintendent Max was ordained an Elder in the EMC in the year 2000. He as his wife Judy served the Elizabeth City EMC congregation for 15 years before Max began serving as a Conference Superintendent in 2012. Max was elected to serve as International General Superintendent for the first time in 2018 and again in 2022 and 2026. Max and Judy were married on May 15th, 1982. Their birthdays are: Max – 9/28, and Judy 11/6. Their emails are: medwards@emchurch.org, and jedwards@emchurch.org The Edwards’ mailing address is: 9309 Hemingway Dr., Indianapolis, IN 46239 Rev. Kevin Brouillette, Assistant International General Superintendent Kevin grew up in the EMC and was ordained in 1988. He enjoys preaching the gospel and the message of holiness across the EMC and around the world. Kevin is a proud dad to four grown children: Kevin, Hannah, Jacob and Sarah. Hannah is married to Josh Ellis and they pastor an EMC church in North Carolina. In addition to new responsibilities as assistant IGS, Kevin will continue serving churches directly in a few southern US churches. Kevin’s birthday is 10/26. His email is: kbrouillette@emchurch.org Superintendent Brouillette’s mailing address is: 11329 Padgett Switch Rd, Irvington, AL 36544
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Newly Elected Officers, Boards, Committees, & Departments (continued) Rev. Brian Hammond was elected to continue serving as General Conference Secretary. Brian was ordained as an Elder in the EMC in 2000. He and his wife Tammy have successfully served two growing EMC congregations before he was elected as Conference Superintendent for the first time in 2010, and then again in 2014 and 2018. Tammy served previously for many years as EMW President, and vocationally works for Cleveland Brothers, a Caterpillar dealership. Brian and Tammy’s anniversary is March 22nd, and their birthdays are: Brian – 5/24; Tammy – 2/18. Brian’s email addresses are: generalsecretary@emchurch.org; and bhammond@emchurch.org The Hammond’s home mailing address is: 4030 Ellwood Road, New Castle, PA 16101 Revs. Aaron Withrow and Colin Conner were elected to serve as USA Conference Superintendents: Rev. Aaron Withrow Aaron and Annette have long been in ministry in the Evangelical Methodist Church. Aaron was ordained in 2004. Aaron’s bride and partner in ministry, Annette, is a homemaker. She is passionate about studying God’s word and helping others grow in their relationship to God, especially their marvelous children. She also serves on the General Board of Youth Activities and the General Conference Nominating Committee. She also keeps us current on Facebook. Aaron and Annette’s anniversary is January 24th, and their birthdays are: Aaron – 3/24; Annette – 8/20. Aaron’s email is: awithrow@emchurch.org. The Withrow’s home address is: 408 N Main St., Hoisington, KS 67544 Rev. Colin Conner is a third-generation EMC minister. He was ordained in 1996 at the 50th anniversary celebration in Indianapolis, following in the footsteps of his father, Rev. Jack Conner, and his grandfather, Brother “Lu” Smith. Colin has served the EMC in Iowa, Illinois, Tennessee, Texas, and Mexico as youth pastor, senior pastor, evangelism pastor, and missionary/teacher. Colin and his wife, Dana, have been married since 1998 and have three adult children who love the Lord and serve him faithfully—Zack, Zoey, and Zada. Zack and his wife, Shelby, are expecting Colin and Dana’s first grandchild in January of 2027. The EMC has played an important role in Dana’s life too. She came to Christ through the youth ministry while in high school. Today, she uses her administrative gifting as she serves alongside Colin, leading their church’s preschool and managing the church office. Colin & Dana’s anniversary is 5/23, and their birthdays are: Colin – 11/9; Dana – 8/8. Colin’s email is: cconner@emchurch.org The Conner’s home mailing address is: 224 Dunmore Ct., Keller, TX 76248. The General Headquarters staff: Rev. Jim Coulston, Bookkeeper (part-time) Jim, and his wife Grace, have been a part of the EMC for many years. Jim’s grandfathers were the founding pastor and lay leader of the Shelbyville, Indiana, EMC in 1947. Jim was born in Shelbyville and Grace in Miami, FL. They met at Trevecca Nazarene College. Jim and Grace were married in 1977. They have two grown sons, Aaron and Stephen, and two grandsons. Karen Parsons, Headquarters Administrative Assistant (part-time) Karen continues to serve as the Administrative Assistant to the General Conference Secretary, working primarily remotely from her home in North Carolina. She travels to Indianapolis as needed, helping to coordinate special events, such as General Council and other gatherings at headquarters. She maintains our database and software systems, as well as assisting in the registration process for special events and our annual Journey meetings around the country. Karen was the Children’s Ministries Coordinator at Elizabeth City EMC for 15 years. She is a devoted servant of Christ who loves people and enjoys equipping others in various ministry roles. She will also be supporting the Conference Superintendents in their functions that interface our database and electronic systems. Karen and her husband Steve were married in 1983. Judy Edwards, IGS Administrative Assistant (part-time) Judy serves as the IGS Administrative Assistant. She will be assisting both Max and Kevin in the coordination of leadership events, as well as helping with routine communication and correspondence, and in working with the Boards, Committees, and Global Superintendents. Judy has filled a variety of volunteer roles over the years in local church, and para-church work. In local churches, she has capably served in youth and children’s ministry, women’s ministries, and a host of other responsibilities. She is passionate about God’s truth being preached and taught, and about the primary importance of the local church. She and Max have two grown children and four delightful grandchildren. Marissa McCrary, Headquarters Office Assistant (part-time) Marissa lives in the Indianapolis area and is an ordained Elder in the Church of the Nazarene. She is on staff at her local church and is pursuing God’s call to vocational ministry. She will continue working for the General Secretary to assist in mailings, office communications, special event hosting, and other routine clerical work. Please add all of these folks to your prayer lists as they serve Christ and our denomination. Pray for wisdom, energy, focus, and for Christlikeness in leadership and commitment.
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Personal Reflections About Conference The International General Conference was an amazing experience! I loved every second of it. I am the Youth Pastor at Riverside EMC, and I was blessed to be able to spend the majority of the time with the youth at the conference. Being there with the YLI was great and helping guide them to become leaders themselves, was amazing. The praise and worship and the speakers were excellent. I left feeling recharged and excited for everything God has planned for us as a church! I would give it 10 out of 10 stars, if that was an option! Justin Reed | Salem, VA
I came to the conference this year expecting the usual (which is really good) but what I got was a worship experience! It was especially rewarding to be able to worship with our global brothers and sisters as well as connecting with brothers and sisters we have come to love over the years. And what great encouragement from the speakers! I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve in a Christ-centered church! Ben Wilkins | Memphis, TN
Deciding to bring our kids to the conference this year felt like a leap of faith since we knew little about the youth programming. Because everything and everyone was brand new to them, I was genuinely anxious that they wouldn't enjoy themselves and that the week would be a struggle. I couldn't have been more wrong. I was completely blown away by the incredible staff, engaging activities, and thoughtful programs. My youngest attended Kids Kamp. Not only did he eagerly bound into his classroom every session, but he also made a host of new friends, reciting their names over dinner and pointing them out in the hallways. He still looks back on that week with so much joy. Meanwhile, my two older boys joined the youth group for trips to Topgolf, the Indianapolis Zoo, and a local service project. They connected so deeply with their peers that they constantly asked to stay with the group past the scheduled times. As a parent, this was an extraordinary blessing. Instead of worrying, I had complete peace of mind knowing our children were happy and well-cared for. That freedom allowed me to fully immerse myself in the conference, enjoy every session, and get the most out of the experience. Rebecca Freiburghaus| Nampa, ID
The 2026 EMC General Conference had a beautifully restorative, positive ambience that brought healing to our souls, spirits and minds. We are grateful to our leadership for all their hard work, prayers, and personal sacrifice that made it such a success. Starting with Holy Communion, the atmosphere of the entire conference was that of a loving and supportive family, where care and compassion were evident. The worship services were wonderful, full of passionate holiness preaching, inspirational music, and powerful prayer! The zeal and commitment of our global family in the face of adversity and opposition, humbled us. The light of Christ shining from their faces was exciting and encouraging and reminded us that the only way this world will ever find true unity is in Jesus Christ. In Jesus, regardless of one’s ethnicity, cultural background, gender, socio-economic status, or education, we are one! Although we exercised our healthy rights to have differing opinions at conference, we felt there was an overriding attitude of humbleness and respect. The conference was full of hands-on skill development and ministry expanding education. We both felt we went away having learned new biblical ideas for pastoral ministry. It was such a gift to receive innovative tools to help grow our members towards a closer walk with Jesus, and to draw new people to our church. The meals were nutritious and delicious. Friendship and love dominated the conversation and fellowship over every plate of food and in every experience. The Holy Spirit was with us at the 2026 General Conference. It was the best we have ever attended. We loved it! Tad and Gina Stinson | Moses Lake, WA
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
More Personal Reflections About General Conference General Conference was a great learning experience for those of us in the Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI) that were able to attend. It was really cool being able to see the denomination work on a global scale in one location. While there, we also had the awesome opportunity as part of the YLI, to watch a large group of leaders work together for the good of the larger denomination. Being able to connect with others in the YLI during that time was also a wonderful highlight of the week. When not serving during the conference sessions, the YLI were also able to hang out with the other youth at General Conference. It was really fun being able to both see other young people that we knew and meet some we didn’t know. We also had the wonderful opportunity to go on the outings that the youth went on. The first outing was to Topgolf on Tuesday. The next day we went to EMC International Headquarters for a service project and spruced up the flowerbeds where the flags are located. On Thursday the teens had the opportunity to go to the Indianapolis Zoo. General Conference was a great time of being able to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. Isaac Withrow | Hoisington, KS
I attended my very first EMC General Conference when I was less than three months old, so you could say the EMC runs in my veins! I am deeply grateful to belong to a denomination with such a rich history and a strong commitment to biblical holiness. This year’s General Conference was an amazing and informative experience. I especially enjoyed collaborating, worshiping, and fellowshipping with people from EMC churches across the world. A few things about me are I love Jesus and the local church, and I desire to help women grow in their love for Christ and become equipped to share the gospel with others. As President of the Evangelical Methodist Women, one of my goals is to strengthen the connections among women throughout the EMC through social media, Zoom gatherings, shared Bible-reading plans, and other opportunities for discipleship and fellowship. Samantha Wilson| Copperas Cove, TX
Samantha shares this upcoming EMW Focus Invite… One unifying upcoming opportunity for the EMC is “Wear Blue Day” – Oct. 11. We are inviting everyone throughout the EMC to wear blue as we stand alongside A21 to raise awareness about human trafficking and sexual exploitation. This is a simple but meaningful way for our churches and communities to start conversations, pray for victims and survivors, and demonstrate that we are committed to pursuing freedom, justice, and hope for those affected by trafficking. Together, we can use our voices to shine Christ’s light into the darkness and help others understand that every person is valuable and worthy of freedom.
My wife and I recently had the privilege of attending the EMC’s General Conference in Indianapolis and it was a truly meaningful and blessed experience for both of us. This was my second conference as a guest and my first as a voting delegate, while it was my wife's first opportunity to attend. I was once again privileged to serve as part of the worship team, alongside other musicians and vocalists from various parts of the US. It was a wonderful blessing to worship together and to witness what we believe was the moving of the Holy Spirit through the ministry of music. For my wife, the conference provided an opportunity to experience the joy of worship, encouraging messages and fellowship. One of the greatest blessings for both of us was meeting EMC brothers and sisters from around the world and from many different cultures and backgrounds, while also reconnecting with old friends. The fellowship truly felt like a family reunion as we shared together in worship, prayer, conversation, and meals. We were especially moved by the 40 days of prayer leading up to the conference, knowing that believers throughout the EMC were praying with a common purpose. My wife was also especially blessed by the Women's Luncheon, where she learned more about the college scholarship ministry and was encouraged to see so many young women actively serving in ministry alongside those in leadership. The business of the conference was conducted in a professional and orderly manner, giving each voting delegate an opportunity to participate meaningfully through discussion and voting. We were also blessed by the speakers, lectures and presentations, which were informative, educational, and spiritually uplifting, and it was a privilege to witness the transition of leadership from the outgoing superintendents to those who will carry that responsibility forward. We returned home grateful for the opportunity to be part of the larger EMC family, encouraged by the unity of God's people, and excited to see what God continues to do through His Church around the world. Donald & Cindy Grantham| Elizabeth City, NC
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Missions Day at General Conference If you were at the 34th EMC General Conference, you know it was probably the best we’ve had in a long time! We were thrilled to host delegates from 3 of our 4 Global Conferences: Mexico, Asia Pacific, and South Africa. We heard the report from our Myanmar General Superintendent on pre-recorded video. We are excited about GRIAC, which will apply to the EMC to become a new global partner later this year. Several representatives from G.R.I.A.C., which means “International Group of Christ’s Friends” in French—attended the Conference.
to join
During the gathering, Rev. Edwards consecrated Rev. Henri Kadima of Apex, NC, already an EMC Elder, as the GRIAC General Superintendent/Bishop.
Multilingual worship: We all worshipped Jesus in English, Spanish, French, and Tagalog during Thursday morning’s missions emphasis session, led by EMC’ers from different backgrounds: siblings Jason and Theresa Mpetembe from Divine Peace Church in Montreal, Canada (GRIAC), Luis Peralta from EMC Scio, NY; Anabel Valencia from River of Life EMC in Roseville, CA; and Elva Mares, wife of the Mexico General Superintendent. The morning session culminated in a time of prayer as we collectively cried out to God for our brothers and sisters in our Global Conferences, by gathering around the flags representing these nations where EMC has ministry. Thank you for visiting our interactive missions display! We relished sharing treats and souvenirs with the delegates and guests at the conference: tea leaf salad and hot Royal Tea from Myanmar, cajeta and spicy tamarind from Mexico, garlic chips from the Philippines, and jerky and nuts from South Africa. We hope you enjoyed these tastes from the EMC around the world and took home some of the free souvenirs! Above all, we desired for you to have a chance to interact with the delegates from our Global Conferences. The Walkers Thank You!
Bill and Lisa are deeply grateful for the renewed opportunity and affirmation by the Conference to continue serving as your EMC missionaries and co-Chairs of the Board of World Missions. We are also excited to have new Board members offering guidance as we continue this journey of developing the EMC global family and fulfilling God’s call on our lives!
Scan the code to support the Walkers:
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
HAPPY 100TH ANNIVERSARY EMC Mexico! Bill & Lisa Walker
Most of our readers are aware that the Mexican Evangelistic Mission (MEM) was founded by the Rev. Dr. Ezequiel Vargas in 1926, 20 years before Dr. Hamblen and others founded the Evangelical Methodist Church. In 1948, the first EMC General Conference voted to include the MEM as part of the Evangelical Methodist Church (formalized in 1957), making Mexico our oldest and elder partner. Since those early days, there have been many who have served as missionaries to the MEM. Non-EMC (but supported by EMC): Alta Dixon, Hariette Tautwine, Caroline Burry, Dorothy Holman, Mary Massey, John Dr. Ezekiel Vargas and Ruth Pawelski, and Lois Raser. EMC missionaries: Leroy (Sr.) and Jesse Lindsey, Leroy (Jr.) and Kay Lindsey, Alex and Mae Hoover, Jack and Sandra Conner, Dan and Ferol Elam (Swartz), Vernon and Ruth Perkins, Ken and Kathy Kile, Colin Conner, Meda Jane Leach, John and Paula Gentry, and lastly Bill and Lisa Walker. These served in ministries such as Christian school, church planting, pastoring, evangelism, discipleship training, the Life and Truth Bible Institute, and more. WHAT A GREAT SHARED HERITAGE we have in the EMC and the MEM! The 100th MEM Annual Conference was a time of celebration and thanksgiving to God for our heritage, as well as a challenge to remember the evangelistic burden and passionate ministry that characterized Dr. Vargas and his early ministry partners. The EMC Board of World Missions invited and sponsored some former missionaries to attend: Vernon and Ruth Perkins, Colin and Dana Conner (representing Jack and Sandra Conner), OMS Missionaries and EMC’ers Troy and Jenny Gentry (representing John and Paula Gentry). Also in attendance were Rev. Max and Judy Edwards, Rev. Aaron Withrow, and Rev. Jim Inspiring Worship Services Coulston. Revs. Withrow, Conner, and Edwards shared in preaching along with MEM General Superintendent Rev. Isaias Flores. Rev. Colin Conner just published a book largely written by the late Mae Hoover about “the amazing life of Alta Dixon.” It is available on Amazon. The Board of World Missions purchased 30 copies in Spanish, and we gave them as gifts personally to each MEM pastor in Mexico and to the churches. We were surprised by how many in attendance at the 100th Conference knew Sister Dixon personally. Newly Elected Mexico General Superintendent
This year saw the election of Rev. Daniel Duran as the new MEM General Superintendent, along with his wife, Luz Urtusuastigue, who will now lead the MEM EMW. We give our heartfelt thanks to Rev. Isaias Flores and his wife, Elva Mares (outgoing EMW president), for their excellent service over the past 8 years.
Daniel and Luz
Many of you saw them at the 34th EMC General Conference.
Isaias and Elva
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Survey Responses Received After General Conference Coming to a gathering for almost a week from all around the country is not the easiest thing to do, which is why General Conference is only held once every four years. So naturally not all the feedback will be over the moon regarding location, schedule, food, speakers, etc. We appreciate you taking time to share your thoughts with us, and your constructive criticism about location, long days, having to drive between hotels and the meeting location. We will take all of your feedback into account as we look to the future! But for the most part, the feedback we have heard is overwhelmingly positive. Here are a few results from the survey responses, and a few direct quotes from the optional comments. Prefer to meet Prefer a Hotel or In a Church Conference Center (As we did this year)
(As we did in 2022)
72%
28%
Enjoyed The Opening We Should Do It Again (Tuesday Morning Worship)
92%
“This was an amazing conference, and I am blessed every 1me I remember it.” “The overall spirit was phenomenal, very evident the 40 days of prayer leading up to GC was used migh1ly by the Lord to prepare the EMC Family for worship, unity and love for one another!”
“Best conference I have ever aIended in 25 years!”
We Should Start Business Earlier
8%
“The atmosphere was invi1ng and it was a joy to see so many younger ministers and families in the EMC.” “Karl Vaters changed my life.”
“Overall, I thought it was an amazing, Spirit led and Spirit filled 1me together.”
“It was the best one I’ve ever aIended. Thank you for all the work that went into it.”
“The kids programing was fantas?c. Our eldest grandson didn't want to leave. I can't tell you how much that means to us. Also, celebra?ng Holy Communion was a precious moment for me.” The Schedule Was Good
Too Much Free Time
Not Enough Free Time
88%
8%
4%
“I really enjoyed our opening session, our plenary sessions with Karl Vaters, and the overall sense of unity.”
The Kerusso – September/October | 2026
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
Resolution on Gender Identity and Transgenderism A Resolution Affirmed by the 34th General Conference of the Evangelical Methodist Church, July 2026
We affirm the Triune God as Holy Love, the Creator who reveals His intended purposes for humanity through creation and Scripture. God created human beings in His image as male and female (Genesis 1:26–27), declaring this binary sexual design "very good" (Genesis 1:31). The human body is good, a temple of the Holy Spirit, and must be used to glorify God (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). The Fall has corrupted every aspect of human nature, including perceptions of gender and sexuality, leading in some to gender dysphoria—a felt incongruence between biological sex and internal sense of gender. We recognize the complexity of such experiences are often intertwined with brokenness, abuse, shame, or other factors. We view all persons regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation with compassion, humility, and holy love (Galatians 6:2; 2 Timothy 2:24–26). We deny that gender is merely a social construct or that adopting a transgender self-conception aligns with God's purposes in creation and redemption. Biological sex is an essential, God-ordained reality, and men and women are called to live in accordance with their birth sex. Rare cases of intersex conditions (disorders of sexual development) do not negate this binary design. Such persons, too, are image-bearers to be supported toward wholeness in Christ. Sexual intimacy is reserved for the covenant of marriage between one biological man and one biological woman, reflecting God's faithfulness and intention to unite Christ and His church (Ephesians 5:31-32; Revelation 19:7-9). All sexual activity falling outside the biblical norm is contrary to God's will and constitutes sin when willfully pursued. No person may maintain membership or take leadership in any form in the Church if appropriate counsel and admonition fail to bring about repentance and reformation. We welcome all who experience gender dysphoria into the fellowship of the church as sinners redeemable by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Desires or temptations are not sin in themselves but must be brought under the lordship of Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, sanctification transforms disordered desires, enabling obedience and joyful discipleship—whether in biblical marriage or celibacy. Sexual fulfillment is not essential for human flourishing; ultimate joy is found in union with God. We also oppose all laws, regulatory controls, or executive orders that force individual Christians, as well as Christian institutions and Christian-owned private businesses, to choose between being sanctioned for noncompliance and violating their own strongly held biblical principles and religious conscience. We affirm the right of churches and Christian institutions to maintain policies and practices consistent with our biblical understanding of human sexuality and gender, including the use of sex-based facilities, dress codes, pronouns, housing, sports, and leadership qualifications based on biological sex. We will support our members and institutions who, in good conscience, cannot comply with directives that violate Scripture, even when such noncompliance results in legal or financial penalties. The Evangelical Methodist Church commits to: • Loving all persons, regardless of their sense of gender identity, in Christ, working for their physical well-being, their emotional healing, and their spiritual transformation. • Offering patient, informed pastoral care and accountable community to all who struggle. • Supporting reversible, biblically consistent, and non-harmful means of addressing distress (such as counseling, prayer, or modest changes in appearance that remain consistent with one’s biological sex), while firmly opposing irreversible medical interventions, hormone therapies, surgeries, cross-dressing, or any form of cross-gender presentation. • Honoring biblical marriage while cultivating deep, same-sex friendships and genuine belonging for all. • Proclaiming that all can be saved, sanctified, and made whole in Christ, who redeems every aspect of our sexuality (Romans 5:20; 1 Corinthians 6:9–11). Where cultural values and ideologies contradict the clear teaching of Scripture — our final authority — we will humbly yet resolutely proclaim the transformative grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, calling every person to repentance, new birth, and holy living in His abundant life.
The Kerusso – September/October | 2026
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Kerusso (Greek): “To publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done.”
The Affirmation of Men and Women in Ministerial Service A Resolution Affirmed by the 34th General Conference of the Evangelical Methodist Church, July 2026
Resolution on Women in Ministry: The Evangelical Methodist Church affirms that both men and women are created in the image of God and are recipients of God-given spiritual gifts for the building up of the Church and the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ; and Whereas, it has been the historic position of the Evangelical Methodist Church to recognize that God calls whom He wills into spiritual leadership and ministerial service, including women; and Whereas, this affirmation extends to all credentialed offices and ministerial orders of the Church, including Local Preacher, Admission on Trial, Elder, and Deacon; and Whereas, men and women who are called by God into ministerial service share equal responsibility and authority to preach, teach, lead, govern, and serve in any office or ministry of the Church for which they are duly called, gifted, examined, and credentialed; and Whereas, the Church understands Scripture to contain no properly discerned prohibition against women exercising ministry, leadership, or Christian calling in obedience to the Holy Spirit; and Whereas, Galatians 3:26-28 bears witness to the unity of all believers in Christ, declaring: "For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus"; and Whereas, the Evangelical Methodist Church recognizes that some passages of Scripture have been understood by some to limit the service of women in ministry, particularly passages addressing order, decorum, and pastoral concerns within specific first-century contexts; and Whereas, the Church believes that passages of Scripture that are less clear, or that address particular and limited circumstances, are most faithfully interpreted in light of the clearer and more universal witness of Scripture concerning the redemptive work of Christ, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the calling of all believers to faithful service; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED That the Evangelical Methodist Church hereby reaffirms its support for the full participation of both men and women in ministerial service and spiritual leadership within the Church; and Be it further resolved, that the Church affirms the eligibility of men and women to serve in all credentialed positions and ministerial offices of the Church, including Local Preacher, Admission on Trial, Elder, and Deacon, in accordance with the Church’s established processes for discernment, examination, and credentialing; and Be it further resolved, that the Church affirms that any person serving in ministry must be called by God, must bear faithful witness to that call, and must confirm it through holy character, sound doctrine, and fruitful service; and Be it further resolved, that a call to ministerial service and leadership is not merely a privilege granted to those who receive it, but a sacred obligation to obey the Holy Spirit and to serve Christ and His Church faithfully; and Be it finally resolved, that the Evangelical Methodist Church encourages all congregations, clergy, laity, and denominational leaders to honor, support, and make room for the ministry of those whom God has called, both men and women, for the glory of God and the good of His Church.