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.

Leadership Development Day - January 25th

The Western Lakes District and Maumee River District are joining forces to host their Leadership Development Day in 2026! We will be meeting on Sunday, January 25th from 1:30 - 5:30 pm at Findlay St Andrew's UMC and would love to have you join us! The Keynote Speaker is Rev. Kelly Brown, District Superintendent of the West Plains District, East Ohio Conference and co-author of the book Church Ecology: Creating a Leadership Pathway for Your Church with Rev. Ken Willard. His keynote address is titled Leadership Development for Church Health.

The afternoon will feature many options for breakout sessions with topics on Next Gen and Youth Ministry, Stewardship, Discipleship Small Groups, Fresh Expression, Financial Best Practices, Lay Leadership, Asset Mapping for Mission, Creation Care, Ethics of Social Media, SPRC Training, and Simplifying Church Leadership (One Board Model).

Please check out the Breakout Sessions HERE to see what sessions you would like to attend and encourage your ministry partners to attend with you.

More information and registration is here Registration ends January 18th!

Monday is the MLK Day Celebration - Join the Livestream!

The Ohio Episcopal Area will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Marin Luther King, Jr. on Sunday, January 18 at 4:00 pm at Clair United Methodist Church, 293 E. Barthman Avenue, Columbus. 

Under the theme, Bending the Arc 2026, the event will feature Rev. Dr. Jack Sullivan, Jr., former Executive Director of the Ohio Council of Churches, as the guest speaker.

The event will be livestreamed. Please go to the West Ohio Conference website to join the celebration.

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

2026 Laity Discernment Retreat

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):

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

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

• Tuesday, March 23, 2026, 6:30-8:30pm

Learn more/register here.

Bishop Jung's Day in the District is Coming!

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

The morning will be spent with the district Clergy. Gathering will begin at 9:30 am, with Worship and Bible Study beginning at 10:00 am, followed by a wonderful lunch. The afternoon will continue with a District Strategy and Visioning Conversation, including Q & A, with Bishop Jung. The afternoon time with clergy will conclude at 3:30 pm following closing Worship and Communion.

A special meeting for church LAY LEADERS will be held at 4:00 pm. OTHER LAITY are invited to arrive at 5:00 pm for dinner, followed by a time of Worship, Bible Study, and a District Strategy and Visioning Conversation with Bishop Jung. The evening will conclude by 8:00 pm.

Clergy Registration
Laity Registration

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

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.

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).

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.

Join in celebrating! Monroe Street UMC and Neighborhood Center to be featured in WGTE's Toledo Stories

An exciting part of Monroe Street UMC's 200th anniversary is the production of a WGTE Toledo Stories segment about our founding, history, accomplishments and struggles. Also this year, Monroe Street Neighborhood Center turns 25 and the various outreach ministries are highlighted as well.

Our story, Monroe Street United, will begin airing on December 18. Livestream and on-demand streaming will be available at wgte.org, pbs.org, the WGTE and PBS apps as well as the church website. Toledo Stories airs on Thursday evenings from 8-9 p.m. and Sunday mornings from 10-11 a.m.  

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

Reset Leaders Retreat: January 23-24, 2026

The last day to register for a room was January 8, the last day to register as a commuter is January 18.



Are you involved with the children, youth or young adults in your church? If so, you won't want to miss a retreat provided by East Ohio Conference Connectional Ministries on January 23-24 in North Canton.

The focus of the retreat is spiritual renewal, inspired by Psalm 51:10 — “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” This theme invites us to pause, reset, and rediscover the joy of ministry. Come connect with others who share your passion for ministry with young people. You’ll find time for reflection, encouragement, and practical connection as we rest, recharge, and grow together.

The event begins Friday evening and goes until 4pm on Saturday. Click here to learn more or here to contact Tim Beck, Associate Director of Engagement with Youth for more information.

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.

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

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:

• Western Lakes District - Soul Reset: January 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 2026
• Hocking River District - Leading Worship: February 27-28, 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
• Western Lakes District - Come! I Will Tell You a Story, An Introduction to Biblical Storytelling: November 6-7, 2026

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.

Part-Time Custodian - Church of St Andrew in Toledo is currently hiring for the custodian position at the church. This is a part-time role with flexible hours, ideal for someone who takes pride in keeping spaces clean, safe, and welcoming.

A full job description is available here

To apply, candidates can email a resume to: churchofstandrewum@gmail.com or apply directly through Indeed.

Please share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested!

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.