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.

Bishop Jung's Day in the District is a little bit different now!

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 9:30 am. Worship for all at 10:00 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 coming soon!

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

Clergy Taxes: An Overview 2026

For a decade, Discipleship Ministries has offered a February webinar to help clergy get a clearer picture of their taxes. The key ingredient in that offering was Don Joiner, a retired staff member of the agency, as well as a Certified Financial Planner and a Clergy Tax preparer. Don’s sudden death in October 2024 came as a shock to all of us, but we decided to continue the information session as best as we could without Don’s expertise. Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, Director of Stewardship & Generosity, will be joined by Janet Jamieson, CPA, clergy spouse, and recently retired CFO of Discipleship Ministries. Together, they will give an overview of what you might expect as you prepare your 2025 Federal Tax Return. We will also help you see the way to savings that might bring a more secure and satisfying retirement!

Register Here

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.

BGSU Collegiate Chorale in concert - January 23rd

The Bowling Green State University Collegiate Chorale will be performing in the Maumee United Methodist Church Sanctuary on Friday, January 23rd at 7:00 pm. The church is located at 405 Sackett St in Maumee, Ohio. There is no admission charge for the event and everyone is welcome to attend. The sneak peeks have been pretty good!

Clark St UMC - Lasagna Dinner - January 28th

Clark Street UMC is hosting a Lasagna Dinner on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The event will be held at Clark Street United Methodist Church, 1133 Clark Street, Toledo, OH (off Fassett St. between Oak St. & Miami St.) Suggested Cost: $15.00 (adults); $7.50 (children 3-10). The monies raised will go toward the missions of the church. For questions, please reach out to Pat Davis - 419-666-3147.

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Elliston Zion Souper Bowl of Caring - February 8th

Ellistion Zion UMC would love to invite you and your congregation to their Annual SOUPER BOWL of CARING Event at their church, located at 18045 W William St., (Off Elliston Trowbridge Rd.) Graytown, Ohio 419-862-3166. This afternoon of food and fellowship will begin with their SOUP, SALAD AND CHILI LUNCHEON beginning at 11:30 AM featuring a variety of home made soups, salads, Gary's Chili and Mike's Homemade bread!

Then, at 12:30 their Annual PING PONG TOURNAMENT will begin. They are always looking for players! (Professionals welcome!! LOL)

All donations will benefit the LIGHT Neighborhood Pantry and the LIGHT MOBILE Food Pantry at Elliston Zion. Both are free choice food pantries serving all of Ottawa County. Proceeds are used share the LIGHT of Christ with our neighbors... one meal at a time! They will be accepting financial donations and donations of non perishable food items, laundry soap and bathroom tissue.

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2026 Annual Conference Dates Announced

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:

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.

2026 Laity Discernment Retreat - corrected dates

Do you feel God's call on your life but are uncertain how to discern that call or what to do next? Consider participating in next year's Laity Discernment Retreats. They will help you learn about call, discernment and what it means to be "called by our baptism." You'll learn ways to intentionally enter into a time of prayer about discernment and discover Spiritual Rhythms that can help guide your journey. You'll also learn the variety of ways you can serve both in your church and community.

Each virtual retreat will consist of two, two-hour ZOOM sessions, followed 6 weeks later by a two-hour ZOOM debriefing. In the 6 weeks between sessions, there will be opportunities for you to read, reflect, and practice Spiritual Rhythms that will lead you to a better understanding of your own call.

Dates (please plan to attend all 3 sessions):

• Monday, February 2, 2026, 6:30-8:30pm

• Monday, February 9, 2026, 6:30-8:30pm

• Monday, March 23, 2026, 6:30-8:30pm

Learn more/register here.

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.

Reclaiming Evangelism: 
Evangelism as an Invitation to Community

Seminar coming 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.

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.

Hope UMC: Turning Discipleship Outward in Whitehouse

Shared from WOC T.R.E.E.S. Newsletter - At Hope United Methodist Church in Whitehouse, Ohio, discipleship is moving beyond Sunday mornings and into the heart of the community. Inspired by John Wesley’s belief that “the world is my parish,” Hope UMC is proving that the Church comes alive when faith looks outward.

Hope UMC’s lead pastor, Warren Clifton, describes how active participation in community engagement has created joy, strengthened faith, and enhanced hope within the congregation and individuals outside the church.

Two ministries—Wiggles and Giggles and Senior Connection—grew out of a Disciple III Bible study, where members prayerfully asked how they might share Christ’s love in new ways. Their answers have transformed Hope into a vibrant community hub.

Once each month, Hope hosts Wiggles and Giggles, a family-friendly worship service designed especially for childcare families. With music, laughter, and a shared meal, it creates a space where young families can experience God’s love in ways that fit their busy lives. What began with a Go Grant from the West Ohio Conference has blossomed into a joyful gathering that bridges church and community.

Another Go Grant helped spark Senior Connection, a warm weekly ministry for older adults that meets every Saturday morning. What started small has become a gathering of companionship, care, and faith—a space where neighbors connect and no one feels alone.

These ministries have grown alongside Hope’s many community partnerships. The church hosts a thriving childcare center, serving 150 children, Cub and Boy Scout troops, the Hope Chest clothing closet, and a “Little Pantry”, offering free groceries every Saturday. The gym buzzes nightly with local teams, and each year, the congregation joins the Rotary Club for a Build-a-Bed project, providing beds and linens for children who have none.

The church is prayerfully discerning a capital campaign to make Hope’s space better-suited for its outward-facing ministries. “We’ve learned that when we open our doors and our hearts, God multiplies what we offer,” he says.

Hope UMC shows what happens when a church embraces community engagement as its true calling. Through worship, service, and shared compassion, this congregation reminds us that hope is more than a name; it’s a mission.

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

Journey to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Set for February 6th

The East Ohio Conference is sponsoring a day at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, Michigan on February 6, 2026. You are invited to meet at and ride a charter bus from Mentor United Methodist Church, North Olmsted United Methodist Church, or Sylvania First United Methodist Church to the museum. Together, we will spend the day learning, meeting new friends, and fellowshipping. Lunch will be served on the bus.

January 30 is the deadline to register for this opportunity. Find Schedule and Registration HERE

First Green Church Training of 2026 - Registration Open

The Ohio Episcopal Area presents the 2026 Virtual Green Church Training for local churches, coming Sunday, February 22, from 4:00-7:00pm on Zoom. Green Church Training provides a solid foundation for moving your church toward green solutions. The training includes Biblical, Wesleyan, and United Methodist resources for creation care; tips for forming a Green Team at your church; and plenty of ideas and suggestions for creative ways to green your church - plus time to plan and dream with your church team! The training should be attended by at least two people from each church (either two lay or one lay, one clergy). After completing the training, churches are invited to either create a Green Team (if they do not already have one) or complete a green project at their church. Cost of the virtual training is $40 per church. Scholarships are available for churches with financial need. One participant from each church should register for the whole team; that person will be responsible for passing along information to the other team member(s). For more information, contact mgrace@wocumc.org.

Deadline to Register: Friday, February 20

For more information or to register, click here (link: https://www.westohioumc.org/event/2026-green-church-training-zoom).

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. 



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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.

Global Young People’s Convocation

July 7-11, 2026

The 2026 Global Young People’s Convocation (GYPC) is a worldwide gathering for United Methodist Youth which takes place every four years. This event is open to active members of the United Methodist Church and those who are connected with and interested in learning more about the Methodist connection. The event focuses on young people between the ages of 14-35, however, adult chaperones and those who serve young people are also encouraged to attend.  

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. Noreen Rohrer
Rev. William "Bill" Hunter
Mrs. Sally Reiff Dickey
Rev. Katherine Riley
Mr. Steven Sykes

Gulbransen digital hymnal DH-100 - Church of the Master has a digital hymnal that they would like to give to a church that could use it. If a church does not have a musician, this can fill the bill. The manuals, power cords and remote that go with it are included. For any questions, please contact Pastor Ben Sheaffer by text @ 419-966-0271 or email @ stinger@bright.net.

West Ohio Foundation Offers Two Academies in 2026

The United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio is offering two academies in 2026. Both clergy and lay people from East and West Ohio are welcome to attend. Registration is required.

Church Stewardship Academy

This four-part series is intended for church leaders involved in stewardship activities in the local church. Improve your understanding of stewardship basics and take your efforts to the next level with these engaging educational opportunities. Sessions will be held quarterly via Zoom at noon on January 14, April 8, July 8, and Oct. 14. Sessions will be recorded and registered participants will receive a link to the recordings. Click HERE for more information and registration.

Church Investment and Legacy Academy

This four-part series is intended for church leaders involved in investment and legacy giving activities in the local church. Improve your understanding of planned giving basics and take your investment knowledge to the next level with these engaging educational opportunities. Sessions will be held quarterly via Zoom at noon on Feb. 25, May 20, Aug. 19, and Nov. 18. Sessions will be recorded and registered participants will receive a link to the recordings. Click HERE for more information and registration.

Free Tools For Church Leaders

Free 2026 Worship Calendar Bundle Digital Download

Pay Your Apportionments Online with E-Check

WOC United Women of Faith - January 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.