As we begin the new year, my first word is gratitude. I give thanks for the people of Ohio – pastors, lay leaders, congregations, and communities – who have walked faithfully through seasons of change. Across this State, I have witnessed quiet courage, generous service, and love that sought no recognition. These moments have stayed with me, strengthening my hope and deepening my trust in what God is doing among us.
With gratitude for the past and with expectancy for the year ahead, we pause to listen.
“See, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19) God’s word through Isaiah reminds us that the future does not begin with our plans, but with God’s faithful action. The question before us is not whether God is at work, but whether we are attentive enough to notice it. This new year invites us to listen carefully for what God is already bringing into being.
The God who makes a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert (Isaiah 43:16-18) continues to lead us – often quietly, often unexpectedly – calling us to walk by faith rather than familiarity.
My hope for this year is simple: that following Jesus will feel less like a burden and more like a source of life – less like obligation and more like joy. May humble discipleship quietly renew and steady us for the journey ahead.
Humble discipleship always turns us outward.
Again, and again, Scripture calls us to a life that is open and generous toward the neighbor. Jesus tells us plainly, “Just as you did it to one of the least of these … you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40). In caring for our neighbors, we encounter Christ himself.
Storyboard: Faith Witness Transformation is a podcast highlighting ministries across the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church that are transforming lives locally, nationally, and globally. Produced twice-a-month by EOC Communications, each podcast episode focuses on one of the core values of the #BeUMC campaign: Disciple Making; Belonging & Inclusion; Influence, Connection & Impact; and Experience of God through The United Methodist Church.
Episode 73 "Influence, Connection & Impact: Welcoming Newcomers to Cleveland" highlights how The Nehemiah Mission of Cleveland is reaching new people for Christ.
“In Cleveland there doesn’t really exist dedicated newcomer housing spaces for refugees and asylum seekers and so Nehemiah is unique in occupying this space,” said Graham Ball, the new executive director of the Mission, an EOC Advance Special ministry partner.
Board Member the Rev. Kathy Dickriede said the Mission’s ministries would not be possible without the support of churches and individuals across the Church.
“It’s not just about us, what we have to offer, but what do we have to gain as members of suburban United Methodist churches to come and build some community and to welcome international newcomers into our spaces and to northeast Ohio,” she said.
Listen to previous Storyboard podcast episodes.
View clergy and laity sharing their #BeUMC stories.
You are invited to Camp Asbury Saturday, February 7 from 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. to dive deep into United Methodist teachings. The cost to attend is $70/youth and $60/adult. The last day to register is January 16.
Your confirmation class is invited to Camp Wanake February 20-22. One adult chaperone must be present for every six youth of the same gender. The cost to attend is $169/youth and $159/adult. Save $20/person if you register by February 3.
If you have questions about confirmation retreats, please call the East Ohio Conference Camps office at (330) 499-3972 extension 139.
Register on the Events Registration page.
Summer Camp 2026 is a place for campers in grades 1-12 to enjoy the outdoors, learn new skills, have exciting experiences, and make lasting friendships – all while guided by skilled, creative and compassionate staff.
Camp Aldersgate in Carrollton, Camp Asbury in Hiram, and Camp Wanake in Beach City are ministry sites of the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church. For Summer Camp 2026, all three sites will focus on campers being in God’s Creation and experiencing the power of God’s Spirit working in their lives and in the lives of the Camp community.
A life-changing week of Summer Camp 2026 starts at just $575 per camper. Early-bird registration discounts, tiered pricing, and financial assistance camperships are available to make it possible for each of God’s children to attend Summer Camp 2026.
To ask questions about camp, please call the East Ohio Conference Camps office at (330) 499-3972 ext. 139.
Learn more and register for Summer Camp 2026.
MESSAGES FROM OUR EPISCOPAL LEADER: Bishop Hee-Soo Jung is resident bishop of the Ohio Episcopal Area consisting of the East Ohio and West Ohio Conferences of The United Methodist Church. View Bishop Jung’s Soul Food messages to Ohio laity and clergy.
OHIO EPISCOPAL AREA TASK TEAM:
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung formed the task team of East and West Ohio clergy and laity to actively listen, discuss, and discern about forming a new, unified Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church. Learn more about the Ohio Episcopal Area Task Team.
UMC STEWARDSHIP CAMPAIGN: GCFA, Discipleship Ministries and UM Communications have collaborated to educate and resource churches about the positive impact apportionments make on how we minister to those in need. Learn about apportionments and the United In Impact campaign.
EOC STANDS AGAINST RACISM: Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, the Cabinet, Executive staff, and East Ohio laity and clergy are committed to stand against racism. Visit the Stand Against Racism resource page for small group studies, videos, podcasts, books, and more to learn how you can stand against racism.
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