John Fillmore has been called by the Church of the Brethren’s Idaho/Western Montana District as district executive minister in a quarter-time capacity. He was affirmed and installed at the district conference on Oct. 12.
personnel
Sharon Norton hired as executive director of Global Mission
Sharon Norton has been hired by the Church of the Brethren as executive director of Global Mission. Her previous mission work spans 27 years, including 9 years in multiple positions and the most recent 4 years as co-administrator for Europe and Africa with the Mennonite Mission Network, which is related to the Mennonite Church USA.
Walt Wiltschek resigns from part-time work for Brethren Volunteer Service
Walt Wiltschek has resigned his part-time position as office assistant for Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill., as of Oct. 3.
Shannon McNeil Smith is hired as executive administrative assistant in General Secretary’s Office
Shannon McNeil Smith begins Oct. 7 as executive administrative assistant for the General Secretary’s Office at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill. She is currently working as a Mission Advancement advocate, a position she has held since March 4, 2019.
Personnel transitions are announced by Brethren Woods
Betty Taylor is retiring as administrative assistant, and Pieter Tramper has resigned as program director at Brethren Woods, a camp and outdoor ministry center near Harrisonburg, Va. Brethren Woods also announces the hiring of Megan Babcock as office manager.
Memorandum of understanding updating Bethany Seminary polity is approved
A Memorandum of Understanding updating the Bethany Theological Seminary polity regarding members of the school’s board of trustees was approved by the delegate body.
Standing Committee concludes pre-Conference meetings
The closing business session of the Standing Committee addressed proposed revisions to the pastor’s Housing Equity Fund and a recommended cost of living adjustment to the minimum cash salary table for pastors. An additional action came during a review of the Special Response Process.
Middle Pennsylvania announces interim district executive minister team
The Middle Pennsylvania District of the Church of the Brethren has called an interim district executive minister team to serve beginning July 29. The three-person team consists of Rebecca (Beckie) Zeek, Janet Sell, and Mark Liller. All members of the team will address the needs for pastoral placement and will cover the remaining duties of the position description according to interest and gifts.
Nancy Miner retires as manager of the Church of the Brethren General Secretary’s office
Nancy Miner will retire Oct. 31 as office manager of the Church of the Brethren General Secretary’s office. She has worked for the denomination for more than 31 years in a wide variety of positions.
Blaine and Nancy Miner to lead Western Plains District
The Western Plains District of the Church of the Brethren has called Blaine and Nancy Miner to serve as co-district executive ministers in a half-time role. While they will begin familiarizing themselves on a limited basis with the work of the district during June and July, their formal starting date will be Aug. 5 following the Western Plains District conference.