Below you'll find upcoming events, helpful information, and mission highlights for the West Ohio Conference and Maumee River District. Please visit our website using the link below for additional resources and info.

2026 Go Grant Awards!

The West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church presented its annual Go Awards, honoring nearly 80 Go Grant and Greenhouse Grant recipients and spotlighting congregations and leaders shaping new ministry across the conference. The exciting event took place on Sunday February 1st in Worthington.

Several of the Maumee River District churches were awarded grants this year. Among the top awards were Findlay St Mark's with the Bishop Gregory Vaughn Palmer Award for Social Transformation and Justice and Woodville UMC with the inaugural Resilient Church Award. You can read more about these awards along with the full story and pictures HERE.

Bishop Jung's Day in the District - 
Registration ends Monday

Bishop Hee-Soo Jung will spend Saturday, February 21st, 2026 in the Western Lakes District with clergy and laity from Western Lakes and Maumee River Districts. Clergy are highly encouraged to attend. (Please choose a different meeting if you can't attend the one in your district.) Retired clergy are welcome too! The events will take place at Lima Shawnee UMC, 2600 Zurmehly Rd. Lima, OH.

Clergy and laity will attend together! Everyone gathers at 9:00 am. Worship for all at 9:30 am. Clergy and laity will have a separate time/training. Lunch 12:00 pm. Time with clergy and laity together 1:00 – 3:00 pm.

More details and updated registration available HERE

Registration ends February 16th. We hope to see you there!

Join the Climate Justice Journey to Wisconsin this Summer!

This year’s Ohio Episcopal Area Climate Justice Mission Journey will travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to assist in clean-up and rebuilding of homes that were flooded last summer. Dates for the mission journey are July 13-18, 2026, and housing will be provided by a local church. Estimated cost per person is $200. Please indicate your interest in the mission journey by filling out this ONLINE FORM – we will contact you with the formal application process in the coming weeks. Check out THIS VIDEO of last year’s Climate Justice Mission Journey! For more information, contact Mariellyn Grace at mgrace@wocumc.org.

2026 Intergenerational Lenten Journal

Lent is the 40 days prior to Easter, but counting is tricky because Sundays are not a part of those 40 days. Sundays are considered celebration days. A way to practice worshiping and celebrating all that God has done. The 40 days are to help us remember our humanness and need for Jesus in our lives. The journey begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18th and ends on Easter, April 5th.

The intergenerational journal is appropriate for all ages and can be used by individuals, families or groups. There are 8 weeks of meditative prayer activities which can be engaged any time during the designated week. The journal is free for you to download and print for all within your local context on the West Ohio Conference Emerging Generations website.

Each week includes a passage of scripture to read and a song to listen to while prayerfully creating a collage utilizing the journal entry page. The scriptures follow the lectionary, and the songs can be found on Spotify within the Ohio Episcopal Area Emerging Generations Lenten Playlist 2026. Follow the QR Code for easy reference.

For questions, contact Rev. Ann Marie Carley, Director of Engagement with Children, Youth, and Young Adults (amcarley@wocumc.org).

UW Faith Spring Celebration

Maumee River District United Women in Faith 2026 Spring Celebration, The Hands and Feet of Christ (1 Corinthians 12: 14-18; 27), will be held on Saturday, March 14 from 10:00AM to 2:00PM at Maumee United Methodist Church, 

405 Sackett St., Maumee, OH 43537. Breakout sessions will be held for participants to learn more about the following roles/topics: President, Treasurer, Membership, Nurture and Outreach, Nominations, Mission u, and UWF 101.

Cost $15 per person. Make checks payable to: MRD UWF

Send REGISTRATION & check to: Miriam Kuhn, 15363 Twp Rd 207, Findlay, OH 45840. mmkuhn81@gmail.com, 419.957.3627

Due by March 11, 2026

Join Us - 2026 Bishop’s Laity Leadership Convocation

You are invited to gather with Bishop Hee Soo Jung and laity from across the Ohio Episcopal Area for this year’s Bishop’s Laity Leadership Convocation, a two‑day event designed to inspire, equip, and strengthen lay people for ministry in a rapidly changing world.

Throughout the convocation, Bishop Hee Soo Jung will guide participants in exploring what it means to lead from a posture of abundant grace. In a season when many congregations are searching for renewed purpose and connection, Bishop Jung’s leadership emphasizes hope, inclusion, and the transformative power of God’s grace at work through laypeople.

We are also honored to welcome Dr. Ashley Boggan as our plenary speaker. Dr. Boggan serves as the General Secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History, where she helps The United Methodist Church understand its past in order to faithfully imagine its future.

In her plenary sessions, Dr. Boggan will offer a historical lens for lay leadership—inviting us to learn from our roots, examine patterns that have shaped the church, and discern how history can guide us toward a more equitable and vibrant future for all Methodists.

Woven throughout the event will be meaningful opportunities for laity to connect with one another across roles, regions, and experiences. Participants will have time to share stories, support one another, and learn together in both structured and informal moments of conversation.

This year’s convocation also includes dedicated affinity group time, offering space for individuals with shared interests or ministry areas to dream, wonder, and plan together for the future. Whether you’re passionate about discipleship, community outreach, digital ministry, justice initiatives, or congregational care, there will be room to explore new possibilities with others who share your call.

Be sure to invite others to join you this year!

Event Details

• Dates: March 20–21, 2026 (beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday and concluding at 3:30 pm on Saturday)
• Location: William Street United Methodist Church, 28 W William Street, Delaware, OH and Asbury United Methodist Church, 55 W Lincoln Avenue, Delaware, OH
• Meals Included: Dinner and lunch will be provided and snackle boxes will be back
• Lodging: A hotel room block is available at the Sheraton Suites Columbus Worthington for $99 per night. Use the link to make your own room reservation: (Book your group rate for Bishop’s Laity Leadership Convocation Mar2026) (Booking Deadline March 6, 2026) If you desire a room with more than one bed, please call the hotel directly and they will make those accommodations for you. There are hotels in closer proximity to the churches in Delaware. You may choose to reserve a room there. These hotels would not provide a room block or guarantee a price. 

On the REGISTRATION PAGE - Please be sure to check what day(s) you will be attending below:

-Friday (3/20) ~ OR

-Saturday (3/21) ~ OR

-Both Friday and Saturday (3/20 & 3/21)

NOTE: If you have a mobility challenge, please be sure to let us know during the registration process. There is a box you can fill out and specify how we can help you.

DEADLINE for REGISTRATON by: March 06, 2026

Register HERE

McClure UMC - Baked Steak Supper

The McClure United Methodist Baked Steak Supper is scheduled for Friday, February 13, serving from 5:00- 6:30.  The menu is Baked Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Harvard Beets, Green Beans, Corn, Dinner Rolls, Dessert & Drink, all for a donation of $10 or more. Carry outs will be available. The church is located at 430 South East Street in McClure. The phone number is 419-748-8505.

All proceeds will support our June mission trip to Midwest Mission in Illinois. Your donation will help pay for transportation, lodging, and food for our multi-church team. 



Follow this event at https://www.facebook.com/McClureumchurch. 

Change The World Conference This Spring

West Ohio Leaders are invited to the Change the World Conference at Ginghamsburg Church in Tipp City, Ohio, April 23-24.

The Change the World Conference is a space for pastors, leaders, and everyday disciples to envision ministry beyond yesterday’s models through a time of learning from friends and leaders of Ginghamsburg Church.

Early Bird Registration is $149 and ends Friday, February 6. Seminary students can register for $119.


More Info & Registration HERE

Wesley Camp & Retreat Center Launches “For the Love of Camp” Campaign to Send Kids to Camp in Summer 2026

Wesley Camp and Retreat Center today announced the launch of the For the Love of Camp campaign, a two‑month fundraising effort dedicated to providing camperships for children and youth when the center reopens in summer 2026. With a goal of $10,000, the campaign will help ensure that every child—regardless of financial circumstance—has the opportunity to experience the life-changing impact of camp.

After several years of planning, prayer, and construction, Wesley Camp and Retreat Center is preparing to welcome campers back to a campus that has undergone extensive upgrades designed to create a safe, sustainable, and deeply welcoming environment. Improvements include maintenance facility upgrades, safety enhancements, cabin, lodge and dining hall renovations, trail and worship space upgrades and more.

“We’re building something new at Wesley,” said Rev. Ann Marie Carley, Director of Camps, Retreats and Next Gen Engagement for West Ohio. “A place that is safe, sustainable, and Christ-centered—where kids can meet God in nature, grow in faith, and be transformed by community.”

Camp Changes Lives—And Donors Help Make It Possible

The For the Love of Camp campaign invites donors to invest not just in a place, but in the lives of the young people who will gather there.

“When you support Wesley, you’re not just donating to a camp. You’re investing in faith that sticks, leaders that last, and stories that begin under the stars and around a fire.”

To break down the financial barriers that keep many children from attending camp, the campaign will raise funds for camperships. A full campership costs $550, but since many families apply for partial scholarships, a single gift has the potential to impact multiple campers.

“We want the summer of 2026 to be the beginning of something extraordinary,” said Rev Carley. “Not only for Wesley as it reopens, but for every young person who steps onto this holy ground.”

How Many Kids Could You Send to Camp This Summer?

Donors are encouraged to consider how many children they can help send to camp by contributing to the For the Love of Camp campaign. Whether it’s a partial scholarship or sponsoring an entire cabin’s worth of campers, every gift moves West Ohio closer to the goal of ensuring all kids have access to the transformative power of camp.

Donors can give at the West Ohio Conference website www.wocumc.org/donate or mail a check to: UMF West Ohio c/o For the Love of Camp, 32 Wesley Blvd. Worthington, OH 43085.

Churches with unused campership funds can contact Susan Black at the United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio to discuss how to release these funds to support th campaign. Call 380-223-9257 or email at sblack@wocumc.org.

Find about more about Wesley Camp and Retreat Center HERE

Join the Wesley Camp & Retreat Center Summer Staff

It’s not just a summer job – it’s a summer that changes you.

Wesley Camp & Retreat Center is gearing up for an exciting new chapter, welcoming campers back for a full relaunch in 2026! We are entering a revitalized season and envisioning the camp as a safe place to “Unplug, Unwind, and Experience God.” We are seeking to build a dynamic team of 30 summer staff who are passionate, energetic, and faithful young adults who want to spend their summer serving God, building community, and helping campers experience the joy of camp. 

As Johan, a former counselor at Wesley, puts it: “Being a counselor at Wesley was one of the best experiences I've ever had — getting closer to God while having fun and making friends who became family… The impact will last forever.”

Another former staff member, Brock says: “I feel like I became a better version of myself. I learned skills that I still use today, such as communication, team building, leadership, and how to better connect with God. Not only that, but you get paid to have fun; what's better than that?! It is a true blessing to get to work with kids and see them learn and have fun while getting away for a week. Getting to spend a summer away from everything and in nature had a massive and unexpected positive impact in my faith journey. I really got to work on my relationship with God.”

Summer staff at Wesley Camp & Retreat Center get the opportunity to impact lives, grow as leaders, live in a faith-centered community, and a chance to unplug and enjoy God’s creation. If you or someone you know wants your summer to matter, desires to grow personally and spiritually, enjoys working with kids or teens, and values real, supportive community; join the Wesley summer staff family. Whether you’re passionate about outdoor adventure, ministry, hospitality, leadership, or simply loving kids well, there’s a place for you on this team; Wesley is currently hiring counselors, medical staff, program staff, and support staff.

Be a part of the story and join us as we help shape this renewed mission and build something transformative—together.

Apply now and be part of a summer that will shape you for years to come.

To apply, visit the Wesley Camp and Retreat Center Summer Staff Application Page:

HOPE Letters - Ministry Monday

HOPE Letters Ministry is a signature initiative through All In Community that is endorsed by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) to provide a mentorship through correspondence opportunity for its residents as they prepare to return home after their incarceration experience. 

Ministry Mondays are opportunities for learning about specific All In Community ministry pathways both connectionally and within local congregations that radiate out into the community at large.  In this session of Ministry Mondays, we will hear from current mentors on how participating in this ministry has had an influence in their lives as much as it has had on the mentees inside state correctional institutions in Ohio. Additionally, pathways for involvement will also be shared.

Monday, February 23, beginning at 7:00pm on ZOOM.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION is APPRECIATED at https://qrco.de/bfia1a

Cost: FREE

Questions and requests for the ZOOM link can be directed to Jami Nathan, AIC Ministries Coordinator, by email (jami.nathan.22@gmail.com) or by phone (419-591-9717).  

2026 Annual Conference Dates Announced

At-Large Lay Members Needed

The 57th session of the West Ohio Conference will be held May 27 through May 30 at Capital University in Bexley. Bishop Hee-Soo Jung will preside. The theme for this year's session is "Abundant Grace," based on the scripture from Matthew 13:14-21:

If you, or anyone you know, is interested in representing the Maumee River District at Annual Conference this year, please complete THIS FORM, get it signed by your pastor, and send it to the district office for consideration. if you have any questions, please reach out to Michelle in the office at 419-897-9770 or mrobinson@wocumc.org.

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand

When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.”

Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”

“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.

“Bring them here to me,” he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21 The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children. (NRSVA)

Registration begins March 1.

Register Your Child for an Unforgettable Summer at Wesley Camp & Retreat Center

Unplug, unwind, and experience God—that’s the opportunity for campers ages 7–17 at Wesley Camp & Retreat Center this summer. With our Summer 2026 relaunch, we are preparing to welcome campers into a safe, engaging environment that is both Christ‑centered and inclusive.

Summer camp at Wesley offers an experience immersed in nature and community, far from screens and everyday distractions. Campers are guided by trained young adults who create a supportive atmosphere where they can explore, try new things, and experience God’s presence in meaningful ways. Wesley provides a positive, nurturing environment that promotes personal growth, spiritual development, and genuine connection with others. Each day is intentionally designed to balance recreation, learning, and adventure, with faith formation woven throughout. Campers will be in a safe environment where they can discover their God‑given gifts, build confidence, and develop friendships that last long after the week of camp ends.

This summer, join us for a phone-free, unforgettable week of adventure, faith, and fun! Each session will offer a mix of worship and devotions and provide opportunities for campers to experience all the creative and outdoor adventures Wesley has to offer. Each day, campers will dive into hands‑on activities tailored to their age group—such as hiking, swimming, crafts, and games—alongside cabin time for reflection and connection. Through both worship and play, we journey together to find courage, joy, and God’s guidance in today’s world. Adventure Awaits! Whether making new friends, creating art under the trees, or singing around the campfire, we want you to join us as we grow in faith and community while having the time of our lives.

Now is the ideal time to secure a spot; the early bird discount ends February 15.

Full Week: Adventure Awaits – Finding Our Way Together

Dates: June 7–12 | June 14–19 | June 21–26

Taste of Adventure Awaits – Finding Our Way Together

Dates: June 28–July 1 | July 5–8

To learn more or begin registration, visit the new Wesley Camp and Retreat Center website.

Reclaiming Evangelism: 
Evangelism as an Invitation to Community

Seminar on March 21st. Trinity UMC, 413 E. 2nd St. Defiance, OH 43512. from 10 to noon. All are welcome!

When many of us hear the word evangelism, we think of persuasion—trying to change someone’s mind about what to believe or how to behave. But what if evangelism isn’t about convincing, but inviting?

In this workshop, Pastor and church planter Joe Graves invites participants to rediscover evangelism as an act of hospitality—an invitation to community and belonging. Drawing on the life of Jesus, social psychology, and practical church-planting experience, Joe reframes evangelism as the process of helping people belong first, trusting that belief and behavior will follow.

Through group discussion, reflection, and practical tools, participants will explore:

• What belonging looked like in Jesus’ ministry
• How “belong → believe → behave” changes the way we form communities
• Theological foundation for evangelism as an invitation. 
• How to invite people into an authentic community without manipulation or “bait and switch” tactics
• Essential practices for meeting new people, the power of invitation, and radical hospitality

This session is designed for pastors, planters, and leaders who want to extend the table of grace in meaningful, practical ways.

About Joe Graves:

Joe Graves is a United Methodist pastor, writer, and consultant passionate about helping churches rediscover hope and vitality. He serves as the founding pastor of Cityview Church in Columbus, Ohio, and as President of the Ohio Writers’ Association. Joe has launched multiple community initiatives, including the Columbus Violence Reduction Fund and the Little Bottoms Free Store, and regularly teaches on leadership, belonging, and renewal in the church. Joe brings a blend of pastoral heart, creative communication, and practical insight to help faith communities embody the radical hospitality of Jesus.

Champion Your Support of Children, Youth &

Young Adults Through UMFWO Grant Program

Many churches find their congregations growing older with fewer young families and children attending church on a regular basis. For this reason, UMFWO’s new grant program, Championing Children, Youth and Young Adults, officially opens February 1^st.

The Foundation wants to support churches and ministries that are working to reverse current trends by creating intergenerational, Christ-centered communities that nurture children (0-12), youth (13-18), college-age (19-23), and young adults (24-29), through a holistic approach.

The new program will award grants of $1000-$5000 for programs that equip and empower lay and clergy leaders with the resources needed to create new, and/or expand existing programs to achieve a transformative vision for youth.

To make the application process more accessible and less time-consuming, applicants will first complete a Letter of Intent, which is a shortened list of questions that will help mitigate the amount of information all applicants need to initially provide. After the LOIs are reviewed, some applicants will be invited to complete a full application. To learn more about this application process, please click here: Championing Children Youth & Young Adults.

The LOI will close on March 1st, with the opportunity to attend a special Zoom seminar on Thursday, February 5th at 2:00PM, to discuss how to submit a successful grant application. Contact Maddy DeWitt at 380-223-9229 or mdewitt@wocumc.org for more information.

VBS Mini-Grants Available through UMFWO

2026 Spring Grant Cycle

As a part of the Foundation’s new grant program, the VBS mini-grant application will open on February 1st, thanks to the generosity of major donor, Ketha Robbins. In 2017, Ketha invested her resources into an endowment with the Foundation, as a way to honor her family’s legacy and love of vacation bible school. Since then, over 41 mini-grants have been awarded to churches across West Ohio. The Foundation is honored to continue offering this grant opportunity. Grants of $250-$1000 will be available for curriculum materials, supplies, staff costs, or other expenses related to the production of Vacation Bible School programs in West Ohio churches. Special consideration will be given to those serving rural and underserved communities.

Applications are due by March 15th, with the opportunity to attend a special Zoom seminar on Tuesday, February 24th at 2:00PM, to discuss how to submit a competitive VBS grant application. Contact Maddy DeWitt at 380-223-9229 or mdewitt@wocumc.org for more information.

To learn more about the VBS mini-grants, including access to the Zoom link and application link, please click here: 2026 VBS Mini-Grants.

For more information about the Foundation’s new grant program, please click here: 2026 UMFWO Grant Program.

Serve at Urban Mission this Summer

Urban Mission Ministries in Steubenville is excited to invite youth groups to take part in the J.O.S.H.U.A. Program—an opportunity for young people to make a meaningful impact close to home. J.O.S.H.U.A., which stands for Journeys Of Service Helping Upper Appalachia, is designed to bring groups together for hands-on service projects that meet real needs in Eastern Ohio. Work could include neighborhood cleanups, small building/repair, and painting projects where participants experience firsthand how serving others can transform both a community and the hearts of those who serve. Youth groups will grow in teamwork, leadership, compassion, and faith as they work side by side to make a difference. To learn more, contact Cynthia Lytle at 740-282-8010 or clytle@urbanmission.org.

Maumee UMC Combats

Cabin Fever

Did you catch Maumee United Methodist Church in the Blade? Their Cabin Fever ministry was featured for providing families with a wintertime place where kids can run around and play! Cabin Fever is every Friday at 4:30-6pm in our FLC. And dinner is provided!

Marketplace For All People

The Marketplace for All People is a ministry of St Paul's United Methodist Church, Toledo. Marketplace just got a new Executive Director and was featured on 13ABC News.

Read the story or watch a video HERE

Please send any Celebrations or Special Ministry stories that you would like to share with the District to Michelle at mrobinson@wocumc.org.

Expanding Connection Book Club - 
The Personal Librarian

Join in the fun and learning from and about diverse characters, both in the discussion group and the book! In February the group will gather on February 17th at 7pm on zoom. Even if you haven’t read the book, join the lively conversation. Do you want to know more? Email jcarter@wocumc.org

In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works as she helps create a world-class collection.

But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle’s complexion isn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white—her complexion is dark because she is African American.

The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go to—for the protection of her family and her legacy—to preserve her carefully crafted white identity in the racist world in which she lives.



Date: Tue, 02/17/2026 - 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Contact: Julie Carter

Email: jcarter@wocumc.org

Event URL: Register Now!

First Green Church Training of 2026 - February 22nd

Is your church looking for ways to better care for God’s creation? Are you thinking about starting a ‘Green Team’ at your church? Consider attending the Ohio Episcopal Area’s Green Church Training on Sunday, February 22, 4-7pm on Zoom! This training will provide scriptures and United Methodist tradition that support caring for God’s creation, as well as ideas for how to form a Green Team. You will also have time to dream and plan with your church team about the next faithful steps your church can take in environmental stewardship! The cost is $40 per church team (no size limit), and scholarships are available for churches with financial need. Deadline to register is Friday, February 20.

Register now: 2026 Green Church Training - Zoom | West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church

Clergy Spouse Retreat: March 6-8, 2026

Spouses of clergy, you're in for a treat! Clergy spouses of the East and West Ohio Conferences are busy planning a wonderful weekend of relaxation, fellowship and reflection just for you March 6-8, 2026. The retreat will take place at beautiful Wanake Camp & Retreat Center in Beach City, OH. Blessings will come your way as you take some time to relax and connect with others who share your unique position. More information and registration for the event will be coming soon.

Mark your calendar and plan to take some time away from your busy family and church events early next year. 



Printable Flyer

North Central Jurisdiction IGNITE! Conference

March 13-15, 2026 

Have you felt a nudge toward ministry? Maybe it’s a gentle whisper… or a strong tug at your heart. However, it shows up, it might just be God calling you! Don't miss this opportunity for discernment, fellowship, education, and support as you explore your call into ministry, March 13-15, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

Sponsored by the North Central Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church, IGNITE is a powerful gathering for anyone exploring a call - lay or clergy. Whether you're just starting to wonder or actively discerning your next steps, this event is created with you in mind. 

Click here to learn more and register.

The Holy Land, the Holy People Tour - Spring 2026

Bishop Hee-Soo Jung invites you to join The Holy Land, the Holy People Tour to Israel, scheduled for April 6 – 15, 2026. The tour will be led by The Society for Biblical Studies (SBC), an ecumenical, interfaith, and inclusive organization. SBC seeks to renew the mission of the church by making this experience contextual and grounded in biblical faith. 

Your participation will reach beyond geographical, religious, ethnic, and cultural boundaries to new horizons of mission. To learn more about The Holy Land, the Holy People Tour and to sign up for your travel package, click here.

Lay Servant Ministry - New Classes Added

Lay Servant Ministries is one of the most significant lay leadership development programs available within the United Methodist connection. Through this equipping and empowering system, lay servants have the opportunity to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ who then go and make other disciples.

Check out the new classes that have been added to the schedule. Most are offered online via Zoom unless indicated. Click each link to learn more and sign up:

• Olentangy River District - The Basic Course: February 20-21, 2026
• Hocking River District - Leading Worship: February 27-28, 2026
• Great Miami River District - The BASIC Course: March 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 2026
• Great Miami River District - Ministry With the Forgotten: April 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30, 2026 
• Olentangy River District - Discover Your Spiritual Gifts: April 24-25, 2026
• Olentangy River District - Leading Worship: April 24-25, 2026
• Hocking River District - Called to Preach: May 15-16, 2026
• Hocking River Didtrict - The BASIC Course: August 21 & 22, 2026
• Hocking River District - Teaching Biblical Faith: Leading Small Group Bible Studies: October 30 & 31, 2026
• Olentangy River District - Living Our United Methodist Beliefs, Heritage: November 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 2026 
• Western Lakes District - Come! I Will Tell You a Story, An Introduction to Biblical Storytelling: November 6-7, 2026

Mrs. Carole Brown
Mrs. Garnet "Lucille" Nuhfer
Rev. Katie Wilson

Part-time Maintenance/Grounds Engineer - First United Methodist Church in Bowling Green is hiring a part-time Maintenance/Grounds Engineer. The position is 20-22 hours per week. General maintenance experience preferred. Full job description available HERE. Please send your resume to church.office@fumcbg.org. Deadline to apply is February 6th. 

Part-time Worship Music Leader - Journey at Christ Church in Findlay, Ohio is an inclusive worshipping community looking for a worship music leader for their 11 o'clock emergent worship service. This position offers the opportunity for a skilled musician to lead the faith community in worshipping God alongside other musicians in the band. This role involves working collaboratively with the pastor and other musicians in selecting songs that enhance the focus for worship each week. It also involves coordinating band volunteers and the playing schedule as well as leading band rehearsals and worship services weekly throughout the year. It is an ideal position for someone with a heart and call to lead a congregation in praise and worship. For a full job description and to apply, click on the LINK to Indeed. For questions. please email jen.miller@ourjourneycommunity.org or call Pastor Jen Miller at 225-747-0560.

UMFWO Launches Competitive Grants Process

The United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio will launch a competitive grants process beginning in January 2026. The new program focuses on providing financial support for established programs and program expansion of local churches, ministries and organizations across West Ohio; and for pastoral scholarships. In 2026, grant funds will support: 1) existing programs and program expansion that benefits children, youth, and young adult ministries; and 2) clergy development and wellness support.

The spring cycle opens on Feb. 1 and will offer mini-grants for VBS programs, as well as grants for transformative church and campus ministries that nurture children, youth, college-age and young adults.

The fall grant cycle opens Sept. 1 and provides individual grants for clergy seeking renewal; and for individual clergy and Licensed Local Pastors seeking educational or personal development opportunities including coaching.

In addition to these two cycles, in May of this year grant applications will be received for the Alford-Cantlin Fellows program in conjunction with MTSO. Admission to the Doctor of Ministry degree program is required to be eligible for this fellowship.

More information is available here and applications will open for the spring cycle on February 1. Questions can be sent to UMFWO Program Manager Maddy DeWitt at mdewitt@wocumc.org.

Free Tools For Church Leaders

Free 2026 Worship Calendar Bundle Digital Download

Pay Your Apportionments Online with E-Check

WOC United Women of Faith - February Inspirations

Ministry of the Laity

Emerging Generations Resource

The New Zenler Platform

Immigration Resources

Clergy Financial Wellness Resource Guide

The Maumee River District Office is open from 9:00am-4:30pm Monday-Thursday. The office may be closed on Fridays, but Michelle will still be working from home and available by phone and email. Office appointments can be scheduled on Fridays if needed.