Pastor’s Report from the 2026 Susquehanna Annual Conference
I am pleased to report that this was, by far, the most encouraging Annual Conference I have attended. The emphasis throughout the gathering was clear and consistent: equipping clergy and laity for the work of making disciples of Jesus Christ.
While the business of Annual Conference was conducted faithfully, what stood out most was the strong focus on ministry, evangelism, and helping local churches reach people in a rapidly changing world.
One of the highlights was Friday morning’s Learning Session led by Ken Willard, Director of Faith Communities reNEWal for the West Virginia Annual Conference and author of Beacon of Hope. Willard challenged us to rethink evangelism, not as something reserved for a gifted few, but as a natural expression of Christian discipleship.
He reminded us that evangelism is simply helping another person take one step closer to God. Rather than focusing on programs or persuasion, he emphasized relational evangelism, sharing our faith through authentic relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Drawing from 1 Peter 3:15, Willard encouraged believers to live in such a way that others will naturally ask about the hope we have in Christ.
Churches were challenged to examine whether their ministries are truly equipping disciples to share their faith and to consider new “bridge events” that create meaningful connections with people beyond church walls. The overall message was that every congregation can become a beacon of hope where people experience God’s love and are invited into deeper relationship with Christ.
On a personal level, this year’s Conference was deeply nourishing for my soul. God often meets us in unexpected places. During my stay, I met a man who worked at the hotel. He shared that he had once experienced homelessness but was now, in his words, “on his way up.” We had several meaningful conversations, listened to one another’s stories, and prayed together. Encounters like this remind me why we do what we do. They are holy moments that renew a pastor’s spirit and reaffirm God’s ongoing work in the lives of people all around us.
Attached is an overview of the work completed. For those interested in learning more, including videos of the plenary sessions and additional conference materials, please visit the Susquehanna Conference website at susumc.org.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Theresa
Photo Gallery – all photos by Matthew Shineman
Summary of Business Conducted at the 2026 Susquehanna Annual Conference
Annual Conference members acted on a number of resolutions that will help shape the future ministry and witness of the Susquehanna Conference. Nine resolutions were approved, and one resolution was withdrawn.
Among the most significant actions was the approval of the Susquehanna Strategic Missional Path Forward, affirming a shared vision to align ministries, leadership, and resources around a common mission for the future.
Conference members also approved the creation of two new internally designated funds; the Missional Renewal & Innovation Fund and the Superintendency Strategic Fund; through the reallocation of reserve funds. These resources will support future ministry initiatives, innovation, and strategic priorities.
In support of global mission, the Conference voted to partner with the Upper New York Conference in raising $1.5 million to construct a new dormitory for female students at Africa University in Zimbabwe. Members also authorized a study regarding the possibility of providing upfront funding for the project while fundraising efforts continue. A God moment!
Several resolutions addressed issues of social witness and advocacy. Conference members approved resolutions encouraging faithful engagement with immigration concerns, support for Native American awareness and peaceful witness, continued study of Kairos Palestine II, and ongoing efforts to address gun violence through prevention, education, advocacy, and healing.
The Conference also demonstrated its commitment to faithful stewardship of creation by adopting a resolution encouraging churches, districts, camps, and conference offices to complete energy audits and work toward reducing overall energy consumption.
Recognizing the importance of congregational care, members approved a resolution promoting mental health awareness, education, and support, including the observance of Mental Health Awareness Sunday and participation in national suicide prevention and recovery initiatives.
One resolution concerning the dissolution of the Sierra Leone Initiative was withdrawn and therefore was not considered by the Conference.
Overall, the actions of the 2026 Annual Conference reflected a strong commitment to strategic visioning, discipleship, global mission, stewardship, congregational care, and engagement with the needs of the wider community.
To learn more about the Annual Conference, visit https://susumc.org/annual-conference/