Each generation is called to carry the gospel to a new generation.  I believe the United Methodist Church is poised to engage a multi-cultural, globally conscious generation in the West with the good news of Jesus Christ. Our Wesleyan heritage offers rich resources for this mission in our region:

• enthusiasm for sharing the grace and love of Jesus Christ
• passion for ministry with poor and marginalized people
• love of knowledge and of the natural world
• confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit to transform and make new
• a “catholic spirit” of fellowship with anyone whose “heart is as my heart”
• educated clergy in partnership with empowered laity
• a lay movement of small groups, where seekers become disciples

Since my youth God has called and empowered me for ministries of renewal and oversight.  I continue to say “yes” to God’s claim on my life. 

I love the church that nurtured and ordained me.  I yearn and work for the church God calls us to become.  

                                    Elaine Stanovsky
                                    April 2008