Associate Conference Minister Search Concludes

The search for two part-time Associate Conference Ministers has been concluded with invitations for working with the Hawai'i Conference being extended to and accepted by the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Roach and the Rev. Dr. Valerie Ross.

Those on Hawai'i Island will recognize Jonathan. He and his family moved to the island a few years ago as his wife Rev. Jihey Roach took a position as chaplain on the Hilo side. Says Jonathan, "My model of theology works to bring people into a closer, loving relationship with their Creator and their fellow humans in this world. As a fellow pilgrim seeking the will of God who is still speaking, I am passionate about fostering our love for each other and for our God. This passion translates into empowering the people of a congregation to be the hands and feet of God in this world engaging in ministry together. As we draw nearer to God and each other, we become a community in action driven by love for our neighbors." Jonathan will be deployed on Hawai'i Island.

Valerie is presently in New York City and will be deployed on Kaua'i. Valerie has recently finished a Designated Pastor position in the Metro New York Association. Says Valerie, "I am empowered by the prophet Joel's reminder, 'Without a vision the people perish.' It is this that sparks my passion to cast and implement vision. The developing of vision and inspiring a strong sense of mission are essential to improving the health of all areas of ministry. My vision for ministry is to serve the Body of Christ through teaching, counseling, and developing strategic programs for the church and community. These programs will utilize Scripture and tradition with appropriate tools relevant to the culture. My personal vision is to continually grow in my own faith and in the knowledge and grace of Christ."

More will be shared about these two ministers in the coming weeks. For now, we wanted to make public the decision of the Associate Conference Ministers Search Team and provide a quick introduction to those hired into these two positions.