*2025 CR Souvenir Journal web

The Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church

TheCircuitRider Souvenir Journal

When

Believers Pray...

Summer 2025

S

MISSISSIPPI CONFERENCE,

Scripture tells us that when two or three gather in Jesus’ name, He is in the midst of them. At this annual conference session, as many of us gather in Jesus’ name, come with a spirit of humility knowing that God will dwell in our presence. Also, come in a spirit of limitless expectation of what God will do in our atmosphere—When Believers Pray…

Peace and Blessings, BISHOP SHARMA LEWIS LOGAN Bishop in Residence, Mississippi Episcopal Area

Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church

CONTENTS

2025 SESSION

of the Mississippi Annual Conference

4 Welcome from Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan 12 Conference Priority: Pray Mississippi 14 2025 Transistions in Conference Geography and Leadership 16 Civil Rights Tour: A Journey for Justice 24 Administry Leads Conference in New Era 26 Churches Step Up to Support Mississippi Conference Disaster Response 28 Making Disciples by Creating Relationships 30 Benevolence Focus: Rust College UM School Profile

16 28

24

14

12

30

On our cover: Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan invites those attending the District 4 Prayer Tour stop at Anderson UMC in Jackson to the altar for prayer. Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 1

2025

When Believers Pray...

Letter from the Editor

Jasmine Haynes, MMC, APR Editor-in-Chief jhaynes@mississippi-umc.org

WE ARE IN A SEASON OF MUCH TRANSITION.

the faith communities of the conference

One of the few constants in life is change. We

have an opportunity to enlarge territory

could grumble about not having clarity about

for the Kingdom. With the help of several

the future, but let’s not make the mistake

partnerships, Mississippi Conference Disaster

that the Pharisees and the Sadducees made

Response has rebuilt 24 houses of families

(Mark 16:1-4) when Jesus told them that they

impacted by inclement weather.

could interpret the weather but not the sign

Faith community formation is focused on

of the times. The transitions are the signs.

building relationships with people, one

As believers, we should have the spiritual

conversation and spiritual brick at a time. For

perceptiveness to see transition as a sign

the first time, brothers and sisters in Christ

that God is moving and that this is a season

embarked on a journey where they returned

for believers to be still and behold what God

inspired to be beacons of light for the biblical

is doing and where He is leading us. Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan has encouraged us to be people of prayer so that we can seek first the

Change is transformative, and we know When Believers Pray... all things are possible.

Kingdom of God. This year’s souvenir journal is filled with signs of God’s hand moving amidst the transitions.

Our districts have decreased in number but have expanded in boundaries, and like them,

Mennonite partners paint to help recovery efforts.

virtue of justice.

Change is transformative, and we know When Believers Pray… all things are possible. As we continue to petition God and ask that His will be done, I am convinced that we will see the Kingdom of Heaven and earth align!

Peace and blessings, Jasmine Haynes

Civil Rights tourgoers sing during daily worship.

Rev. Dr. Scott Wright anoints a woman’s head with oil during the District 3 Prayer Tour Stop.

2 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Photos courtesy of Mississippi Conference Communications

Ways to Stay Connected to the Conference pickisuperstar/freepik

Two volunteers help saw materials for rebuild.

Volunteers rebuild a window in a stormdamaged house.

L

ooking for ways to stay connected to the Mississippi Conference?

Follow, like or opt-in to any of the options below to receive tips, updates and ministry resources from the Mississippi Conference:

The Mississippi United Methodist Conference https://bit.ly/msumcFB Bishop Sharma D. Lewis https://bit.ly/BishopLLFB @Mississippi_UMC https://twitter.com/Mississippi_UMC Mississippi Conference https://bit.ly/MSUMCflickr Mississippi United Methodist Conference

TheCircuitRider Souvenir Journal

PUBLISHER Mississippi Conference Communications

https://bit.ly/2rpHWD7 Sign Up Now! Sign up for e-news updates, which includes The Circuit Rider https://bit.ly/opt-in4

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jasmine Haynes ART DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cindy W. Clark ADVERTISING MANAGER Matthew Johnson SUMMER 2025

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 3

From the Bishop

Welcome to the 2025 Session

of the Mississippi Annual Conference!

D

DEAR SISTERS AND BROTHERS IN THE MISSISSIPPI

Millsaps has produced more United Methodist bishops

ANNUAL CONFERENCE,

than any other college or university in the country!

Can you believe that annual conference—the time of

Our theme, “When Believers Pray…,” is guided by the

worship, prayer, business sessions, gathering around

biblical passage found in Matthew 21:13, in the New

meals and fellowship—is here again?

International Version (NIV) – “It is written,” he said to them,

I would like to take the opportunity to thank the

making it ‘a den of robbers.’”

Mississippi Annual Conference Planning Team and the Millsaps College Staff for their diligent hard work and excellent hospitality as we prepare for the annual conference session on June 4-7, 2025, in Jackson,

“‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are

I am very blessed to preach the opening worship service followed by our guest preacher, Bishop Robert ‘Bob’ Farr, episcopal leader serving the Missouri Area of The United

pickisuperstar/freepik

Mississippi.

Methodist Church. Bishop Farr will preach our ordering

This year I’m excited that we are partnering again with

Church in Madison, Mississippi. I want to thank Rev. M.J.

Millsaps College, a school affiliated with The United Methodist Church since its founding in 1890. Interestingly,

4 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

of ministry service at Saint Matthew’s United Methodist Kirby and Rev. Timothy C. Thompson Sr. who will preach the memorial and closing worship services respectively.

“

“It is written,” he said to them

“ ‘My house will be called a house of prayer...’ ” – Matthew 21:13a NIV

When

Believers Pray...

On Friday, June 6, we will review and vote on four

Please continue to keep the annual conference gathering

constitutional amendments: Ballot #1: Worldwide

in your prayers! May the Holy Spirit guide us as we seek

Regionalization; Ballot #2: Paragraph 4, Article IV

to answer God’s call. I’m looking forward to meeting and

ratification; Ballot #3: Article V racial justice and Ballot #4:

worshiping with you in Jackson!

educational requirements for clergy members.

Peace and Blessings,

This year our annual conference mission offering will support our conference benevolences that are in our mission shares.

I would like to welcome the new leadership of Dr. Felicia Gavin, chief financial officer (CFO), treasurer and benefits officer, and Rev. Dayna Goff, director of connectional

Bishop Sharma D. Lewis Logan

ministries and spiritual leadership. In addition, help me

Resident Bishop of the Mississippi Annual Conference

thank and celebrate Mr. David Stotts, CPA, conference

of The United Methodist Church

benefits officer for 23 years of active service to the Mississippi Annual Conference.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 5

2025 | Agenda

2025 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference Agenda

This is a tentative agenda.

Event details are subject to change. Visit the 2025 Session of the Mississippi Conference app for the latest updates.

Thursday, May 29, 2025 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Laity Executive Session Webinar

Wednesday, June 4, 2025 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Registration – Millsaps College

9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Clergy Session – Hanger Dome – Millsaps College

9:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Clergy Spouse Brunch – Kava Room – Millsaps College

11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. UWF Luncheon (by registration)

– St. Luke’s UMC – 621 Duling Ave., Jackson 1:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

Gathering Music

1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Opening Business Session #1

4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.

Dinner Break

All Ordination Service participants should immediately travel to St. Matthew’s UMC for practice. Dinner will be provided following rehearsal. There will be a group photo of all clergy in their robes following the worship service.

7:00 p.m.

A Service of Celebration and the Ordering of Ministry – St. Matthew’s UMC – 7427 Old Canton Road, Madison Bishop Robert Farr, Preaching

Thursday, June 5, 2025 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Registration

8:45 a.m.-9:00 a.m.

Gathering Music

9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. Opening Worship and Communion

Bishop Sharma D. Lewis Logan, Preaching 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Business Session #2 12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

Lunch Break

Laity Luncheon (by registration) – Millsaps Cafeteria

6 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Candler and Duke Alumni and Student Luncheon (by registration) – Wells Memorial UMC, 2019 Bailey Ave., Jackson

1:45 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Business Session #3

4:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Prayer and Praise Service

Mission Offering to go toward

MSAC Community Centers

and Camps

Friday, June 6, 2025 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Registration

9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Business Session #4

Constitutional Amendment vote 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Memorial Service

Rev. Martha June Kirby, Preaching 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

Lunch Break (Millsaps Cafeteria open for lunch)

Retirees Luncheon (by registration) – Anderson UMC – 6205 Hanging Moss Rd., Jackson

1:45 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

Gathering Music

2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Business Session #5

4:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Prayer and Praise Service

Commissioning of Prayer Coordinators

Saturday, June 7, 2025 8:45 a.m.-9:00 a.m.

Gathering Music

9:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m.

Business Session #6

Sine Die

11:00 p.m.-12:30 p.m. Closing Worship

Rev. Tim Thompson Sr., Preaching

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2025 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference June 4-7

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WOODROW WILSON DRIVE

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 7

2025

AC Biographies

2025 Session Annual Conference Speakers BISHOP SHARMA LEWIS LOGAN

Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan

Episcopal Leader of the Missouri Area

Preaching: Opening Worship Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan was born and

Preaching: Celebration and Ordering of Ministry Service

raised in Statesboro, Georgia in a loving

Robert Farr serves as bishop of the Missouri

Methodist family. Before coming to Mississippi,

Area of The United Methodist Church. Elected

she served six years in the Richmond area of

by the South Central Jurisdiction in July 2016,

the Virginia Annual Conference. In 2016, she

he was assigned to the Missouri Area beginning

was the first African American woman to be

in September 2016.

elected bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church.

Bishop Robert “Bob “Farr

BISHOP ROBERT “BOB” FARR

Episcopal Leader of the Mississippi Area

Before his work as bishop, Rev. Bob Farr served as the director of the Center for

Prior to her election, she held a distinguished

Congregational Excellence for the Missouri

record of service in the North Georgia

Annual Conference of The United Methodist

Conference serving as a district superintendent

Church, guiding 35 church starts into life

of the Atlanta-Decatur-Oxford District, pastor

and has overseen over 150 Healthy Church

at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church,

consultations in the Missouri conference.

associate (and subsequently senior associate)

From 2000-2007, he served as senior pastor

pastor of the 8,000-member Ben Hill United

of Church of the Shepherd in St. Charles,

Methodist Church in Atlanta and as senior

Missouri. Prior to that, Farr started Grace

pastor of Powers Ferry UMC, a cross-racial

United Methodist Church in Lee’s Summit,

assignment in Marietta, Georgia.

Missouri in 1990 and Hope United Methodist

Offering her gifts to The United Methodist Church in a variety of ways, Lewis Logan sits on the board of multiple United Methodist seminaries, and as a key member of organizations supporting women and African Americans in ministry. She is also the author of “Journey to Transformation” and “Struggle to the Cross”—both Lenten studies.

Lewis Logan is a graduate of Mercer University, the University of West Georgia and Gammon Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center.

Church in Lone Jack, Missouri, a daughter congregation of Grace, in 1998. Farr was ordained deacon in 1983 and elder in 1987 after attending seminary at Perkins School of Theology.

As a writer, he has co-authored several books with Kay Kotan that were published

by Abingdon Press, including: “Renovate or Die – 10 Ways to Focus Your Church in Mission (2011),” “Get Their Name- Grow Your Church

by Building New Relationships (2013),” “10 Prescriptions for a Healthy Church (2015)” and “The Necessary Nine (2015).” His latest book,

Bishop Lewis Logan recently married Rev. Dr.

“Obvious Wisdom” was published by Market

Lewis E. Logan II.

Square Publishing in 2018.

8 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Farr and his wife Susan have been married

In 1993, Thompson received a Master of

since 1979 and have two adult children and

Divinity from Candler School of Theology

four grandchildren.

graduating a Jean Ray and Sherman Scholar.

REV. MJ KIRBY

Senior Pastor at Gautier First UMC Preaching: Memorial Service

He majored in preaching, teaching and pastoral care.

Thompson is currently the assistant to the bishop and director of faith community

Rev. MJ Kirby is a proud member in full

formation (FCF). As director, Thompson

connection of the Mississippi Annual

works with staff, district superintendents

Conference. She currently serves in a dual

and committees to lead and assist in the

appointment as senior pastor of Gautier First

development of communities of faith. FCF

United Methodist Church and the district-

walks alongside congregations, new and

wide licensed mental health therapist for the

established, as they discover their purpose,

Pascagoula-Gautier School District.

grow in vitality and boldly live out the mission

Kirby graduated magna cum laude from

of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the

William Carey University with a master’s degree

transformation of the world.

in clinical counseling. She also completed

Through leadership development, church

graduate theological studies at Duke Divinity

planting, revitalization and innovation, FCF

School and Asbury Theological Seminary.

helps churches deepen their connection to

She is an ordained elder, a provisionally

Christ, engage their neighborhoods with

licensed counselor in the state of Mississippi, holds a professional school counseling license and is a certified telehealth provider.

Kirby is married to the Rev. Dr. Eddie Kirby.

Together, they have five children: Eddie (and spouse Adrienne), Mosie, Chloe and Duke—as well as one son, Jeremy Kirby, who now cheers them on in the company of the heavenly saints.

In her free time, Kirby enjoys creative writing, reading literary fiction, hot yoga and spending summer days island hopping.

REV. TIMOTHY THOMPSON SR.

compassion and take Jesus to the streets launching a new ministry or breathing new life into an existing congregation, FCF is here to nurture hope, ignite vision and shape communities that reflect the love and grace of God. Thompson is married to Betty Ann Thompson and is the father of two beautiful children: a son, Timothy II, and a daughter, LaKendra. He is the proud grandfather of five grandchildren and three

Preaching: Closing Worship

and Mrs. Thompson are

Springs, Mississippi and attended Jackson

Rev. Timothy Thompson Sr.

in practical and powerful ways. Whether

Assistant to the Bishop, Director of Faith Community Formation

Timothy C. Thompson Sr. grew up in Crystal

Rev. MJ Kirby

great-grandchildren. He also adoptive parents to

Get the 2025 Session of AC App! Scan to Download

niece, Teresa Rodgers.

State University. At Jackson State, he majored in history and minored in finance before graduating as a Dean’s List scholar.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 9

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“

From the Conference Lay Leader

Yes, as the Mississippi United Methodist Conference, we are considerably smaller, but that should mean that we are mightier. We have opportunities to think, grow and expand beyond the norm of how we can accomplish those things that seem impossible.

Making Ends Meet

Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

Vera Thomas, Mississippi Conference Lay Leader shares personal prayer experience at Pray Mississippi Conference.

Vera Thomas, Mississippi Conference Lay Leader WE DIDN’T HAVE A CAR WHEN I GREW UP.

We have opportunities to think, grow

this season of added reductions, I invite you

I remember that my mother and aunt

and expand beyond the norm of how we

to truly lean in to and learn to do more with

walked about four blocks along an unpaved

can accomplish those things that seem

less by fostering ideas, developing plans,

road to get to the bus stop where it would

impossible. Perhaps we have resources

providing support and informing other

take them another five or six miles to their

in places that may not seem obvious.

churches, our districts and the conference

work locations. Sometimes in the evening

The 2020/2024 Book of Discipline ¶ 630.2,

of your successes. Let us share the ways

as they visited each other I could overhear

outlines the purpose of the board of laity.

that we are able to make ends meet. Let our

them talking about how they had found

Each of the clarion calls in this document

answer to the clarion call of these action

money, mostly coins: “I saw something

begins with action words: to foster, develop

items be stories of how God provides in

shinny on the ground…” It was enough

and provide. Paragraph 251.1 for local

unexpected ways and places.

for bus fare to and from work for another

church lay leaders begins with the same

day, or sometimes someone stopped and

action words and includes continuing,

offered a ride. These exchanges were

assisting and informing. Additionally,

always sprinkled with affirmations about

¶ 660.1 for district lay leaders includes

how good God is, or a “thank you, Lord!”

provide, fostering, supporting and enabling.

At that time, I couldn’t comprehend the

From the local church lay leader, to the

concept of the goodness of God in such a

district lay leader, to the conference board

manner. As an adult, I am now able to share

of laity, we are all called to assist in leading

my stories about that goodness—how God

the way. We have before us an outline, a

provides in unexpected ways and places.

guide to achieve momentous possibilities as

Yes, as the Mississippi United Methodist

the clarion call is answered.

Currently, the board of laity is holding district laity rallies to celebrate the fellowship of laity, inspire and encourage your efforts and support your invaluable contributions within local churches and districts. We look forward to the many ways that God will bless us to be a blessing for the Mississippi Annual Conference and beyond through these efforts. As the conference lay leader, I call upon each lay person throughout this annual conference

Conference, we are considerably smaller,

As the laity of our conference your

to stand with me and be the driving force to

but that should mean that we are mightier.

leadership is tremendously important. In

make ends meet. May it be so.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 11

[Conference Priority]

“Pray Mississippi”

By Jasmine Haynes Mississippi Conference Communications Specialist

B

ISHOP SHARMA LEWIS LOGAN’S CALL TO ACTION

Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan holds the Prayer for the Miss. Conference at the District 6 Prayer Tour Stop at St. Paul UMC in Hattiesburg.

almost two years ago inviting the conference to deepen Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

their practice of prayer has now become the Pray Mississippi Movement. This movement seeks to encourage the spiritual discipline of prayer across the state, in local churches, small groups, campus ministries and beyond.

Lewis Logan explained that this is not a shift to a new focus, but

conference’s faith communities. Rev. Trey Harper, director of spiritual leadership, explained that all these things together are establishing a foundation.

a needed addition to the other spiritual concentrations she has

“The work that we’ve done has been with the intent of helping our

invited the conference to be actively involved in.

people understand that prayer is a natural part of who we are as

“It is my sincere hope that as we deepen our understanding of God’s word participating in our Bible Challenge and heightening our engagement with discipleship, we also strengthen our connection with our creator through prayer,” said Lewis Logan.

In alignment with Lewis Logan’s encouragement to be people of prayer, the Mississippi Conference Office of Spiritual Leadership offered various resources and events over the last 12 months to deepen one’s spiritual

followers of Christ and United Methodists,” shared Harper. “It is upon this foundation that prayer coordinators will be able to build plans and initiatives to help our churches develop prayer spaces and cultivate a life of prayer in our communities.”

The Prayer Tour Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan went on a week-long prayer tour across Mississippi with Rev. Dr. Terry Teykl teaching from his book, “Praying Jesus Name for 21 Centuries.” Teykl taught on problems facing today’s churches such as the culture of consumerism.

practice of prayer.

The crowd attentively listened as Teykl told the story of research

The Prayer Tour in

done in the 1970s to find out why people weren’t going to church.

September 2024 and

Congregations used the research to make church more ‘user

more recently, the

friendly,’ but it ended up bringing in people seeking entertainment

March 2025 Pray Mississippi Conference, were events created to help expand the focus of prayer throughout the

12 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

rather than God. “We’ve become focused on the congregation as the audience and the problem is God is the audience of one,” shared Teykl. “We sing for Him, not them.”

Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

“My prayer is that our clergy and laity be encouraged, challenged and strengthened in their own prayer journeys in a way that draws them closer to God and in deeper relationship with Him.” – Sarah Halford

According to Teykl, churches need a visitation from God to shift

Rev. Dr. Terry Tekyl teaches on prayer during the District 6 Prayer Tour Stop at St. Paul UMC in Hattiesburg.

congregations from being consumer-based to becoming presence-based churches that are open to the guiding of the Holy Spirit. At all the stops, context and cultures could use prayer to reach people for Christ through helping them with their immediate needs and establishing connections that meet their deeper need of salvation.

The Pray Mississippi Conference Clergy and laity from various regions of the Mississippi Conference gathered at Central United Methodist Church in Meridian Saturday, March 29 for the 2025 Pray Mississippi Conference. Themed “Teach us How to Pray,” the conference included personal prayer testimonies, had group exercises and featured teachings on the history of prayer, scriptures on prayer and interactive prayer activities. Participants engaged in group work and

Photo courtesy of Greg Campbell Photography, Inc.

Teykl spoke to a plethora of practical ways that churches of various sizes,

Miss. Conference prayer coordinators Rev. Maxine Bolden (left) and Sarah Halford (right) stand on stage during 2024 AC Session.

discerned multiple lists of people, places, societal issues and community and faith communities. Bishop Lewis Logan closed the conference encouraging attendees to seek the prayer resources made available during the conference and look forward to the fruit that this connectional prayer ministry is going to bear.

Pray Mississippi’s Future “This is only the beginning,” explained Lewis Logan.

Part of her vision with Pray Mississippi is to establish prayer coordinators in every congregation and for each church to have a prayer room or designated prayer space. Sarah Halford, one of two conference prayer coordinators, said that the conference will also be establishing district

Photos to the right and below courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

visions to pray for in order to ground the future work of prayer coordinators

Rev. Tim Thompson (blue), Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan (red), Rev. Dr. Stephen Cook (grey) and Rev. Dr. Terry Tekyl (white) pray before District 4 Prayer Stop.

prayer coordinators who will serve as prayer warriors and as prayer resources for local churches in their districts.

“As the Mississippi Conference prayer coordinators, Rev. Maxine Bolden and I will help support our district prayer coordinators as well as our local church prayer coordinators,” shared Halford. “My prayer is that our clergy and laity be encouraged, challenged and strengthened in their own prayer journeys in a way that draws them closer to God and in deeper relationship with Him.” In lockstep with the prayer movement, Lewis Logan has declared this year’s annual conference session theme, “When Believers Pray…” The theme speaks to the infinite power of prayer and opportunities that are available when believers commune with God.

Rev. Trey Harper, director of spiritual leadership, speaks at the District 6 Prayer Tour Stop in Hattiesburg.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 13

“

“I believe the reduction of districts from seven to five yields opportunity for the conference to build stronger and more intentional relationships...”

– Rev. Paulette BufordJames, Superintendent, Central District

Rev. Paulette Buford-James speaks to the congregation during Chat and Chew 2.0 with Bishop Lewis. Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

2025 Transitions in Conference Geography and Leadership

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Communications Assistant

Seasons of change and transition happen often...

As the Mississippi Conference moves

T

HE YEAR 2025 IS A SEASON OF CHANGE

• Rev. Lynn Mote is the district superintendent

and transition for the Mississippi Conference.

of the Northern Hills District (yellow area),

The conference has been reduced from seven to

and Kristen Partin is the district’s administrative

five districts. Also, staff at both the cabinet and at

assistant.

the conference office in Jackson are transitioning into retirement and new leadership roles. Read on for details of the district and staff changes

into a new era, its

taking place.

mission remains

At the 2024 Called Session of the Mississippi

the same: to make disciples of Jesus for the transformation of the world.

Annual Conference, delegates voted on and approved the recommendation of the Implementation District Realignment Team.

The team recommended that the Mississippi Conference reduce the number of districts from seven to five. The change went into effect January 1, 2025. Today, the Mississippi Conference now has five new districts, each with a unique name voted on and chosen by members of the district.

14 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

• Rev. Paulette Buford-James is the district superintendent of the Central District (blue area), and Pam Simmons is the district’s administrative assistant.

• Rev. Lindsey Robinson is the district superintendent of the Capital River District (green area), and Rebecca Crosby is the district’s administrative assistant. Rev. Trey Harper will become the district superintendent July 1, 2025.

• Rev. Johniel Henry Jr. is the district superintendent of the Red Clay Hills District (red area), and Rev. Trevor Gore is the district’s administrative assistant.

“The new changes and transitions that have occurred in the last two years have been challenging. The Mississippi Conference can be confident that everyone has worked hard to make sure these changes take place as seamlessly as possible.”

– Rev. Rickey Haynes, Dean of the Cabinet

• Rev. Dr. Larry Hilliard is the district

to make sure these changes take place as

superintendent of the Gulf Pines District

seamlessly as possible.”

(pink area), and Janet Donaldson is the district’s administrative assistant.

Rev. Trey Harper will no longer be director of the office of spiritual leadership but will

The districts now cover larger geographical

take over as district superintendent of

areas, meaning more churches for district

the Capital River District July 1. Rev.

superintendents to lead in ministry.

Dayna Goff will become director of

Superintendent of the Central District, Rev.

both connectional ministries and

Paulette Buford-James is confident that

the office of spiritual leadership.

even with a larger area and more churches, effective ministry will continue.

We are reminded by Solomon in Ecclesiastes

“I believe the reduction of districts from

3:1 “To everything there

seven to five yields opportunity for the

is a season, and a time

conference to build stronger and more

to every purpose under

intentional relationships,” said Buford-

heaven.” Seasons of

James. “This will also expand opportunities

change and transition

for laity to serve districts in various ways as

happen often in The

we do the work of making disciples of Jesus

United Methodist

Christ for the transformation of the world.”

Church. As the Mississippi

Changes are also in store for conference staff in 2025. Dean of the cabinet, Rev. Rickey Haynes, and Capital River District superintendent, Rev. Lindsey Robinson will both be retiring. Haynes reminds us that the season of change has not been easy, but the Mississippi Conference has done

Photo of Rev. Rickey Haynes courtesy of Greg Campbell Photography, Inc.

Conference moves into a new era, its mission remains the same: to make disciples of Jesus for the transformation of the world.

the work to make sure it will take place as efficiently as possible.

“The new changes and transitions that have occurred in the last two years have been challenging,” Haynes admitted.

“The Mississippi Conference can be confident that everyone has worked hard Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 15

“

“We are here to learn

This slavery statue is the first exhibit at the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Ala.

together... I want to thank you all for going because I promise you, your life will never be the same.”

– Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan

A Journey for Justice W I T H B I S H O P S H A R MA L E W I S LO G A N

All photos courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

By Jasmine Haynes Mississippi Conference Communications Specialist

S

SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, the episcopal leader of the Mississippi Conference, Bishop Sharma Lewis Logan shared her vision for a travel opportunity focused on the Civil Rights Movement. Based on Ezekiel 11:19, the theme of the tour was “No Stone Unturned for Justice.” Lewis Logan invited people to sign up for this March tour because it would lead participants into daily reflection on justice and how costly injustice can be for the kingdom of God and for those made in the image of God. Lewis Logan was up front with the group on day one about the purpose of the trip.

This hanging stone lists names of lynching victims at the Memorial of Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Ala.

16 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

“We are here to learn together,” Lewis Logan declared to the group. “I want to thank you all for going because I promise you, your life will never be the same.”

Lewis Logan also shared with everyone that she didn’t see this tour as just another trip to go see a bunch of museums. This was an opportunity for everyone to dig deeper as individuals, as families and as a conference to hear what God is saying to believers right now in 2025.

Worship and Reflection Each day a leader or team of leaders centered the day with worship and at some point during the day the group reflected on their experiences. End Racism for Good, the Mississippi Conference’s advocacy task force that aims to reach churches and communities to help end the sin of racism,

This Ku Klux Klan exhibit in the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum displays a Klan robe and hood as well as other KKK artifacts.

Photo, above: One of many panels listing victims of lynching in Mississippi at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson. Photo, left: On Sept. 13, 1963, a dynamite blast ripped through 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala. killing four little girls. This sign is in a nearby park paying tribute to them.

Mallory Carter

difficult or painful history,’ Dr. Marcus Gaut responded, “I remind myself that justice is communal—I can’t do it alone. We have to do it with everyone.”

When asked ‘how can you stay open to God’s transformative spirit throughout this journey,’ Mallory Carter explained, “You have to unplug from back home, not try to do some work, not try to text people—you know—just be here, fully here.”

created a daily devotional and worship guide to shepherd the group’s focus. The devotional led the group through reflection, a call to worship, scripture, worship through song and prayer. The daily devotional concluded with an evening reflection prompted by questions. The group had many thought-provoking responses to the reflection questions. For example, when asked, ‘how do you prepare your heart when you know you are about to engage in

Reflection leaders would ask the group daily about what they learned, what assumptions were challenged that day and what they saw and heard that was new and revelatory to them.

Inception of Racial Injustice Built on the land of a former cotton warehouse where enslaved black people were forced into labor and bondage, the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama,

“

“I looked at the list of the lynchings—you know the dates are there—and I noticed that there was a lynching on December 24th and I never thought about that and it kind of did something to me that on Christmas Eve—you know —it was painful.” – Cheryl Haynes

focuses its exhibit from enslavement to mass incarceration. It looks at the history of slavery and its legacy in the United States. According to the Legacy Museum, between 1501 and 1867 nearly 13 million West African people were kidnapped, forced onto ships and trafficked across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas.

Progressive outcry about the horrors of

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 17

After leaving the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, tourgoers enjoyed food and fellowship.

One young tourgoer shared that witnessing the story of

the four little girls who died in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing made him think about the horror of someone harming his neighbors who are also All photos courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

young girls. the Middle Passage led Congress to formally abolish the Transatlantic Slave Trade in 1808. However, even after the Transatlantic Slave Trade was banned, thousands more African people were kidnapped and brought to the U.S. illegally. Their forced labor, trafficking and enslavement fueled booming commerce such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, insurance, banking and agriculture. According to the Equal Justice Initiative, as the enslavement of black people expanded, American slavery became a permanent, generational status connected to race.

The injustices of slavery continued to impact people long after emancipation, the Reconstruction Era, the Jim Crow Era, the Civil Rights Movement—even now, in the present.

Lynching and Bombing

This 16th Street Baptist Church sign hangs off the corner of the church in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Alabama.

18 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Beginning at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, the group viewed the history of lynching, which is where a mob, under the pretext of administering justice without a trial executes a presumed offender often after inflicting torture and bodily mutilation. This practice denied its victims justice and due process of law. Panel after panel listing the names of those lynched in Mississippi for a period of almost 100 years lined the floors, and those on tour

silently read the locations, accusations and named and unnamed victims.

One tourgoer shared an unexpected revelation during reflection from the lynching panels.

“I looked at the list of the lynchings— you know the dates are there—and I noticed that there was a lynching on December 24th,” said Cheryl Haynes.

“I never thought about that and it kind of did something to me that on Christmas Eve—you know—it was painful.”

Days later as the tour continued to Montgomery, Alabama, the group traversed to the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, a commemorative outdoor space that uses sculpture and art to tell the story of lynching victims and contextualize racial terror and its legacy today. Etched into every pillar were the names of lynching victims and the dates by county and state. Row after row, step by step, the stones and the lists of names on the stones were so numerous they created a winding labyrinth of stones that hung suspended from an apparatus, mimicking the very nature in which the names of the victims they bear were murdered.

These stone tablets hanging from the ceiling bare the names of lynching victims and are sorted by county and state at the Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Ala.

Rev. Sapada Thomas

“The thing that really got me was that they took body parts of those that were lynched home as souvenirs...

How can someone be so brutal?” – Rev. Sapada Thomas

Emotions were salient, yet the group reflected with candor and vulnerability.

Rev. Sapada Thomas shared with the group that he was feeling hurt and that one of the things that stood out to him was when he was reading and saw pictures of spectator lynchings that were set up like a carnival with food as a celebration. The exhibit said that postcards were made of lynchings and people would give them out.

“The thing that really got me was that they took body parts of those that were lynched home as souvenirs,” said Thomas. “How can someone be so brutal, you know, to someone who really hasn’t done anything?”

After viewing some exhibits on lynching, one youth expressed his deep sadness and frustration when he saw a photo of a black man being lynched and noticed a little white girl smiling in a huge crowd as she witnessed it. He explained that he couldn’t fathom that she was born to hate and couldn’t imagine why any parent would teach their children that kind of cruelty. He also mentioned that he had an epiphany about social media and the dangers of influence when used for unjust things.

Additionally, he shared that witnessing the story of the four little girls who died in

the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing made him think about the horror of someone harming his neighbors who are also young girls.

appreciate you all because you are changing my life and making me a better pastor.”

Member of the group Rev. Sam Jones had this to say in summary of his many revelations from the trip:

Faithful Next Steps After embarking on a journey with a painful past, there were also moments of triumph and hope. Many of the people on the tour were motivated to discuss and seek out ways to not only be heralds of justice themselves, but also how to be a catalyst for transformation in their own concentric circles and participate in moving the biblical virtue of justice forward.

Rev. Lynn Mote shared that children and young people were a great investment into the future.

“We need to invest in our young people— whatever it takes,” said Mote. “It scared me a little going through today, listening to some of the recordings, reading the stuff in the museum we just left—we’re seeing the same things happening all over again, history is repeating itself.”

Continued next page...

Dr. Marcus Gaut (center) with two other group members following along in the worship guide during daily devotional.

Seated far left, Rev. Sam Jones

According to Rev. Dwayne Robinson, “It’s starts with relationships first and then we are able to change a dying world, and I

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 19

“This fruit of ignorance is a poisonous fruit and saying nothing is saying something very loudly. The work is not over. In fact, that era might be behind us because we’re here, all together, white and black people getting on a bus to Birmingham, Alabama, just 50 years ago would have been dangerous for all of us,” said Jones. “But if you look at the stuff that’s going on right now, it just looks different. The way our schools are currently redlined, nothing’s changed with that. The stones may look different, but they’re still stones, and they are still unturned.”

Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

Rev. Lynn Mote

No longer a group of strangers, this body of believers met again 30 days after the tour to share their long-term reflections, experiences and thoughts about ways to progress the biblical mandate to “do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with your God” [Micah 6:8] in our churches, communities and throughout the conference. They met via Zoom on the evening of Tuesday, April 22 and talked about how the trip has transformed them and ways they can enhance the trip’s impact and experience in the future.

“

“We need to invest in our young people—whatever it takes. It scared me a little going through today... we’re seeing the same things happening all over again, history is repeating itself.”

– Rev. Lynn Mote

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2025

Ordinands & Retirees

A Service of Celebration and the Ordering of Ministry At the Service of Celebration and the Ordering of Ministry, the Mississippi Conference Board of Ordained Ministry presents Bishop Sharma D. Lewis Logan those persons who have responded to the call of God to proclaim and live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We honor the following persons and their call to life and work in ordained ministry: Ordained Elder Elizabeth Cheryl Farr Associate Membership Alfred Eugene Boyd Jr. Paul Steven Kennedy

Commissioning as Deacon and Elder Sandras Ann Anderson Jonathan Lee Franz Mary Beth Rolfs William Howard Tucker Rainey Chotania LaKess Simmons

Celebrating Retirees We celebrate the ministry of the men and women retiring this year, knowing that they will use their new-found free time in other ways to serve God and advance His kingdom. Well done!

Note: This List reflects those retiring as of May 20, 2025.

Elders in Full Connection Rochelle Ashford-Minor Kevin Carter Cynthia Cross Ella DeDeaux Stacy Douglas Linda Fox

Brad Hodges Harrell Moore Donald Patterson Lindsey Robinson Mary Stewart

Local Pastors Robert Cook Herman Flemons Delicia Henderson Jerry Mannery Maurice McIntosh Benton Tanner

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 23

“

Dr. Felicia Gavin addresses the congregation at Anderson United Methodist Church.

Photo courtesy of Rev. Maxine Bolden

“As the CFO of the Mississippi Annual Conference, I embrace a role that extends beyond financial management— it is a calling to steward resources faithfully, inspire generosity and strategically empower the church’s mission. ...traditional financial approaches must be reimagined with innovation, transparency and a forwardthinking mindset...”

– Dr. Felicia Gavin, CFO

T

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Communications Assistant

THE FUNCTION OF THE ADMINISTRY department is to ensure that the funds entrusted to the conference are properly stewarded and that the Mississippi Conference remains on sound financial footing. Now, under the new leadership of chief financial officer, CFO, Dr. Felicia Gavin, the Mississippi Conference is moving forward with the same goal of fiscal responsibility but with a new and innovative approach.

Gavin received her Bachelor of Science in accounting from Louisiana Tech University. She went on to complete a Master of Business Administration

24 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

at Mississippi College and a Doctor of Philosophy at Jackson State University.

She joins the Mississippi Conference after serving more than seven years as the chief operating officer/chief financial officer for the Mississippi Department of Education. Where she managed the agency’s budget of $3.5 billion in addition to the accounting, grants management, compliance, building and facilities, procurement, human resources and operations divisions.

Gavin is also no stranger to The United Methodist Church or the Mississippi Conference. She serves as the finance

chair at Anderson United Methodist Church in Jackson where she and her family are members.

Upon her hiring, Rev. Steven ‘Rusty’ Keen, chair of the Mississippi Conference Committee on Finance and Administration (CFA) had this to say about Gavin: “Her forward thinking and visionary leadership will be essential as we seek innovative approaches to enhance our ministry in finance and administration,” shared Keen. “Dr. Gavin brings a wealth of expertise and experience that will greatly enhance our administry team.”

Photo courtesy of Greg Campbell Photography

Rev. Steven ‘Rusty’ Keen speaks to the congregation during Chat and Chew with Bishop Lewis.

Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes Dr. Felicia Gavin, front row center, sits with the Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference delegates during the 2024 Session of the MississippiAnnual Conference.

“

“Her forward thinking and visionary leadership will be essential as we seek

innovative approaches to enhance our ministry in finance and administration...”

– Rev. Steven ‘Rusty’ Keen, Chair of the Mississippi Conference CFA

Here Gavin details how her years of experience in accounting and church finance have allowed her to improve financial systems throughout her career.

“I have consistently focused on strengthening financial operations, enhancing efficiency and upholding fiscal integrity and transparency,” said Gavin.

“Some of my key successes included revamping outdated processes that lacked internal controls and improving accountability that resulted in better return on investments.”

Gavin continued by describing how throughout her extensive career she has helped organizations she worked for maximize the funds entrusted to them.

“I have generated measurable cost savings by conducting in-depth reviews of contracts and operational procedures, identifying opportunities to renegotiate terms or eliminate inefficiencies,” said Gavin. “Additionally, I have leveraged technology to streamline financial workflows, reduce manual errors and increase overall productivity ensuring that teams operate more effectively with fewer resources.”

As the Mississippi Conference has decreased in size, it is important to ensure that the conference remains financially strong and missionally vibrant. Gavin plans to lead the conference in this new era by focusing on the four I’s.

• Inspire – Inspiring commitment and generosity in the churches that chose to remain a part of the Mississippi Conference. This can be accomplished by focusing on ways to incrementally increase mission share giving, members/ souls saved and stewardship.

• Intentionality - Developing strategies for growth. The conference can’t just say it wants to grow, but it must be intentional about growth, saving souls and making disciples.

• Innovation - Embracing new approaches to generosity, developing innovative solutions for sustainability and remaining deeply committed to the principles of stewardship that have sustained The United Methodist Church for generations.

• Integrity - Operating at a high level of integrity. Ensuring that financial decisions are communicated clearly and

responsibly and creating a shared vision of stewardship that unites clergy, laity and leadership in faithful generosity empowering the church to give with confidence and purpose.

As the Mississippi Conference moves forward into a new era, there are many economic uncertainties across the conference, state and world. Members of the Mississippi Conference can rest assured that Gavin is working steadfastly to ensure the missions and ministries of the Mississippi Conference will have the resources they need to continue making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Here she sums it up in a final quote.

“As the CFO of the Mississippi Annual Conference, I embrace a role that extends beyond financial management—it is a calling to steward resources faithfully, inspire generosity and strategically empower the church’s mission. In today’s rapidly evolving world, traditional financial approaches must be reimagined with innovation, transparency and a forwardthinking mindset to ensure that the church remains a vital force for transformation.”

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 25

“

“I feel overjoyed and I’m thankful to Methodist Disaster Response and everyone involved

who helped us get our life back together. ...without their help none of this would’ve been possible.”

– Carl Young

Mary, left, and Carl Young, right stand in front of their newly built home. Photo courtesy of Matthew Johnson

Churches Step Up to Support Mississippi Conference Disaster Response

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Communications Assistant

T

WO GENEROUS GRANTS FROM THE UNITED

Methodist Committee on Relief, UMCOR, went a long way in helping Mississippi Conference Disaster Response restore and rebuild lives across the state. Now as disaster response enters a new era of reduced UMCOR funding from the General Conference, churches are taking the lead in helping to restore sisters and brothers who have survived disasters.

Rev. Dayna Goff Director of Connectional Ministries

A $1.5 million grant and a $250,000 grant from UMCOR allowed Mississippi Conference Disaster Response to support disaster response recovery operations from Hurricane Ida and the March 2023 tornados that swept across the Mississippi

26 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Delta. The tornado recovery work included partnering with Mennonite Disaster Services to rebuild 24 homes of disaster survivors.

Carl and Mary Young, of Silver Creek, were the recipients of the 24th home rebuild. Carl and his wife were inside their home when the tornado struck. Their home was lifted from the ground and slammed back down resulting in a severe hip injury for Carl. Here Carl Young describes his gratitude to those who helped his family to once again have a place to call home.

“I feel overjoyed and I’m thankful to Methodist Disaster Response and everyone involved who helped us get our life back together,” said Young.

Completed cleaning kits filled by members of Hawkins UMC in Vicksburg. Photo courtesy of Mississippi Conference Disaster Response

Members of New Albany UMC participate in an ERT class.

Photo courtesy of Mississippi Conference Disaster Response

“After the storm we thought the worst, but I give thanks to God for everyone’s assistance because without their help none of this would’ve been possible.”

Now in a new era with less funding for general agencies like UMCOR, due to a 48% funding cut enacted at General Conference, Mississippi Conference churches are stepping forward to respond to disaster events. Rev. Dayna Goff, director of connectional ministries, describes how churches are being the hands and feet of Christ for their neighbors in need.

“Even in tight times,” said Goff, “congregations have donated over 250 cleaning kits (formerly known as flood buckets) and have donated $10,000 toward disaster recovery.”

Another way congregations have been helping disaster response is by hosting early response team, ERT, classes. During these classes attendees are taught how to establish the presence of the church for survivors after disaster events. The classes take place at United Methodist churches across the state, and many volunteers have been signing up.

“The ERT classes are getting great participation and have been going well,” said Goff. “The classes help prepare a core group of See Response, page 35

Photo courtesy of Mississippi Conference Disaster Response

Photo above: The 24th and final home rebuilt due to the March 2023 tornadoes. Located in Silver Lake, Mississippi.

Photo courtesy of Matthew Johnson Photo left: Members of Hawkins UMC in Vicksburg prepare cleaning kits for Mississippi Disaster Response.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 27

Rev. Trey Jones prays with fairgoers at the FCF booth. Photo courtesy of Matthew Johnson

Making Disciples by Building Relationships

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Communications Assistant

F

Outline Type

FAITH COMMUNITY FORMATION, FCF, IS creating disciples of Jesus Christ by putting a heart with a name. Last year, FCF learned through a ReligionInsite report from MissionInsite that 74% of Mississippians are not involved in a religious congregation. That means there are more than 2 million people in need of the relationships and fellowship of a church family. While such a large number can seem daunting, FCF is taking a personal and hospitable approach to reach people and build disciples.

Faith community formation director, Rev. Tim Thompson, speaks while on the Civil Rights Tour. Photo courtesy of Jasmine Haynes

For the second year in a row, FCF set up a booth at the Mississippi State Fair.

Visitors to the booth were met with a Christian presence and allowed to discuss and release issues that were on their hearts and receive prayer. Fairgoers were also given information about Mississippi

28 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Conference congregations close to their homes they could connect with so that they could maintain the connection created during the fair. Rev. Timothy Thompson, director of faith community formation, explains the goal of FCF’s fair outreach.

“The Mississippi State Fair isn’t just an event, it’s a marketplace filled with people hungry for connection, hope and truth,” said Thompson. “As followers of Christ, we take Jesus beyond the church walls offering prayer, encouragement and the love of Christ to fairgoers in everyday moments of life.”

Just like the face-to-face interactions at the fair, Rev. Trey Jones, associate director of faith community formation and pastor at Edwards United Methodist Church

Sandra Skinner, right, and husband.

Photo Courtesy of Facebook.com

“When we’re out in the community we invite people to Grace everywhere we go. It doesn’t matter if it’s at Piggly Wiggly, Walmart or anywhere else. We want people to know they are welcome, and

Grace United Methodist Church youth gather at the refreshment table during hospitality time.

Photo courtesy of Sandra Skinner

that there is a community of believers that are ready to love

in Edwards, creates opportunities for discipleship while going about his daily life. Often, with Bible in hand, he visits the same restaurants for lunch. While there, Jones builds relationships with staff and regular customers through conversation.

“About 70% of people attend church because someone invites them,” said Jones. “Data also show people will continue to attend because of the encouragement of friends they make while there.”

“Usually when I enter the restaurant people say there goes the preacher man,” said Jones.

Grace United Methodist Church is a Lighthouse Congregation in Iuka. In its beginning the church received hospitality training from FCF. Today, Grace has taken hospitality to another level helping to grow the congregation.

These conversations usually include details about challenges in people’s personal lives, or their relationship with God or the church. Jones uses this opportunity not just to evangelize, but to see how Jesus is already at work in the life of the people he meets.

“Many times, we feel it’s my burden to take Jesus with me,” Jones continues. “Jesus is already there. We must recognize he is at work everywhere especially at the places we go every day.”

For Jones, building relationships that started with friendship is the best way to create disciples.

on them.” – Sandra Skinner

“We used what we like to call our Piggly Wiggly campaign,” said Sandra Skinner, a lay member at Grace. “When we’re out in the community we invite people to Grace everywhere we go. It doesn’t matter if it’s at Piggly Wiggly, Walmart or anywhere else. We want people to know they are welcome, and that there is a community of believers that are ready to love on them.”

Grace hosts a 30-minute hospitality time between Sunday School and worship service. During this time, newcomers and members fellowship and enjoy

refreshments. The Piggly Wiggly campaign outreach has been effective. Grace began with 24 members when it opened in 2023, but the church has now grown to more than 50 members and includes a large youth ministry.

Combining a friendly face with the love of Christ has been helping build disciples in the Mississippi Conference. FCF has hospitality training to guide churches in extending the fellowship and love of their congregation into the community.

For more information on FCF and their available programs contact Rev. Dr. Jason Zebert at jzebert@mississippi-umc.org or visit mississippi-umc.org/faithcommunities.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 29

2025

Benevolence Focus

UM Higher Education Spotlight:

RUST COLLEGE

Rust students pose for a picture on a campus wall.

Photo courtesy of Rust College

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Communications Assistant

F

ounded in 1866, Rust College is the oldest Historically Black College or University, HBCU, in the state of Mississippi and one of the oldest HBCUs in the United States.

Located in Holly Springs, the college is one of two United Methodist institutions of higher learning in the state of Mississippi. With notable alumni that includes bishops, pastors, teachers, civil rights leaders, singers and musicians, Rust has empowered students for more than 150 years to rise up and stand tall wherever they may find themselves.

Bishop Alexander Preston Shaw Photo courtesy of Lovely Lane Museum

30 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

Rust College was founded by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and began educating students in what is now Asbury United Methodist Church in Holly Springs. Originally founded under the name Shaw University, the college’s name has changed several times. In 1892 the college became Rust University to honor Richard S. Rust, secretary of the Freeman’s Aid Society. In 1915, the college changed its name to Rust College, which it is known by today.

Dr. Robert M. Dixon is the current president of Rust College. Dixon formerly served as interim vice president and vice president for academic affairs. Dixon is the thirteenth president to lead the institution. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Dixon has worked at

Rust’s world-renowned a cappella choir performs before judges in Verona, Italy.

Photo courtesy of Rust College

In its 159-year history, more than 20,000 students have graduated from Rust.

Graduates have served as leaders in many industries including church, education, civil rights and government.

Bachelor of Arts degree from Rust. In 1936, Shaw became the first black bishop elected in the Methodist Episcopal Church, later the Methodist Church. In 1950, Shaw became the first African American to be bishop of the Southern California-Arizona Conference, a predominately white conference.

Rust College president, Dr. Robert M. Dixon. Photo courtesy of Rust College

Photo, above, Rust residential life students show school spirit.

Photo courtesy of Rust College Photo, left, Rust College Director of Alumni Relations, Kimberly Woods.

Photo courtesy of Kimberly Woods

Other notable Rust alumni include:

• Civil rights leader Ida B. Wells • Pioneering African American many HBCU campuses across educator Amanda Elzy the country and brings a wealth • Accomplished actor and singer of knowledge in management, Ruby Elzy teaching, fundraising and research.

• Singer and musician Anita Ward • Civil rights activist, political In its 159-year history, more than leader and educator Dr. Leslie 20,000 students have graduated McLemore from Rust. Graduates have served as leaders in many industries including church, education, civil rights and government. More than 20 pastors have graduated from Rust. Including Rev. Alexander Preston Shaw who received his

Kimberly Woods, Rust College’s director of alumni relations, describes what attracts students to See Rust College, page 34

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 31

32 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

1 2

3 5

1 HERNANDO

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WESLEY MEADOWS 662-429-2070

2 CLARKSDALE

FLOWERS 662-627-2222

3 TUPELO

7

THE SUNDAY FUND... is a benevolence fund created to meet the financial burdens of elders who live on a MSS campus across Mississippi. Sunday Fund recipients have depleted their financial resources; many have no family or other support available to meet these overwhelming financial and emotional obstacles.

•

•

•

•

•

TRACEWAY 662-844-1441

9

8

4 WEST POINT

THE HENRY CLAY 662-494-1079

10

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5 WEST POINT

DUGAN 662-494-3640

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TRINITY PLACE 662-327-6716

100% of the money donated to The Sunday Fund is used to support elders in Mississippi.

7 YAZOO CITY

No one has ever had to leave their home with us, because they ran out of money, thanks to The Sunday Fund.

8 RAYMOND

Elders from all denominations are served by The Sunday Fund.

The level of assistance we can offer is directly related to the gift balance available in the fund.

The Sunday Fund does NOT receive an apportionment from the United Methodist Conference.

A special thanks to all the churches and individuals who assist our ministry through the Sunday Fund Campaign!

The 2025 Sunday Fund Campaign kicked-off on Mother’s Day May 11th.

MARTHA COKER 662-746-4621 RIGGS MANOR 601-857-5011

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WESLEY MANOR 601-264-8847

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For more information or to give today, visit us at

www.mss.org

SEASHORE HIGHLANDS 228-831-7000

RUST COLLEGE page 31 Rust and how they are prepared to serve the world after graduation.

“Rust College provides a family-oriented environment, and a place where students from many diverse backgrounds from all over the world enroll with the common goal to obtain quality education,” said Woods.

“Students depart to serve the world as alumni, showcasing the skills and talent developed and enhanced while receiving quality education at Rust College.”

The Rust College A’Cappella Choir performed in a competition held in Italy and won a Silver Performance Award, the top award granted in their catagory.

Rust is also well known for its world-renowned a cappella choir, led by Dr. Karl Twyner.

The choir traces its roots back to the early 1930s, and sings from a diverse repertoire encompassing major works, anthems and spirituals. The a cappella choir has blessed listeners during performances at churches and in venues across the country and around the world. Recently, the choir performed at the 36th Annual International Verona Competition held in Verona, Italy. The a cappella choir, the only choir representing the United States, won a Silver Performance Award, the top award granted in their category.

Rust College’s legacy of United Methodist higher education continues to remain strong after more than 150 years. The Northern Mississippi college continues to produce graduates who are well equipped to be leaders in their churches, professions and communities.

For more information on Rust College visit rustcollege.edu.

34 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2025

RESPONSE page 27 people in each district that are ready to serve others when a disaster happens.”

Even with great participation and assistance from Mississippi congregations there is still a need for more volunteers. Goff expressed a desire for Mississippi Conference congregations to become involved in the Community Emergency Response Team, CERT, program.

CERT is a federal government program that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live.

“The ERT classes are getting great participation and have been going well. The classes help prepare a core group of people in each district that are ready to serve others when a disaster happens.”

– Rev. Dayna Goff, Director of Connectional Ministeries

There are also opportunities to organize or be a part of district disaster response teams.

With the reduction from seven to five districts, Mississippi Conference districts are now larger and require more volunteers to respond to disasters.

When it comes to restoring lives after disasters, the need is plentiful, but Mississippi Conference congregations are doing the work to answer the call.

If your church would like to donate time, talent, resources or money to Mississippi Disaster Response contact Rev. Dayna Goff at dgoff@ mississippi-umc.org.

Summer 2025 The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal 35

ANDERSON UNITED METHODIST CHRUCH 6205 HANGING MOSS ROAD; JACKSON, MS

ANDERSONUMC.ORG

Moving Forward All In:

With Greater Works

Rev. Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Senior Pastor

Sunday Worship Experiences 8:00 & 10:15 AM Sunday School at 9:15 AM

START YOUR JOURNEY WITH GAMMON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

AT GAMMON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, STUDENTS ARE PREPARED TO THINK THEOLOGICALLY, ACT JUSTLY, LEAD FAITH COMMUNITIES THROUGH CHANGE & INSPIRE OTHERS THROUGH SERVICE & EDUCATION.

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YOLONDA STEWARD DIRECTOR OF RECRUITMENT & ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT MOBILE: 404-933-9491 EMAIL: YSTEWARD@GAMMON-ITC.ORG