At this year's Ordering of Ministry Service, held at Ankeny First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center on July 10, Bishop Laurie Haller ordained eight elders, commissioned two provisional members, commissioned one deaconess, recognized two transfers of membership, and two Course of Study graduates.
Newly Ordained Elders:
- Christopher Eric Childs
- Lucas Stephen Richard Fillmore
- Jennifer Lynn Hibben
- Mark Richard Johnson
- Jaeseong Lee
- Ryan Mohan Russell
- Trevor Joe Vaughn, and
- Brian Edward Williams
New Provisional Members:
- Lana Karie Williams
- LeAnn Danielle Robine
New Deaconess:
- Irene Rose DeMaris (Baltimore Washington Conference)
New Transfers:
- Brian Lane Channel (Northern Illinois Conference)
- Gewnlynn Viola Trullinger (Missouri Annual Conference)
Course of Study Graduates:
- Linda K. Morris
- Joyce Ann Proctor
During her sermon, Bishop Laurie highlighted how ministry may not always be easy, but if those being recognized remember that God is with them, God will provide.
"The reality is that ministry is not always going to be fun and you’re not always going to be praised," she said. "In fact, you’re going to be stressed. You’re going to be disillusioned. You’re going to be overwhelmed by the enormity of your call. The fire will even go out at times, and your only response will be 'Whatever! I know you are with me, Lord!' As you come before us today, you have prepared well for this moment. God will give you whatever you need, and your family and friends and fellow church members will walk with you every step of the way."
At the end of the service, Assistant to the Bishop Rev. Dr. Lanette Plambeck invited anyone experiencing a call to ministry to reach out to their pastor, district office or the conference. For more information on how to explore your calling complete the form at
iaumc.org/called.
