Clergy and laity of the Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Susquehanna Conferences are invited to attend one of the “Same Mission, New Hope: Thoughts from Your Bishops” gatherings with Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi. The date/locations closest to SUMC are:

• Saturday, April 23 @ 10 am – Life UMC (3000 Technology Dr., Fairmont, WV)

• Saturday, April 23 @ 3 pm – Grace UMC, Grove City (210 South Broad St., Grove City, PA)

During the gatherings, Bishop Sandra and Bishop Cynthia will:

• Lead us in worship

• Share their portfolios and how the work of both Bishops will lead us in ministry and mission

• Share their vision for the United Methodist Church in the West Virginia, Western PA, and Susquehanna Conferences and how our Wesleyan distinctives will guide us to lead Christ's mission in The United Methodist Church and

• Give us an update on the latest announcements regarding General Conference.

As United Methodists in the Western Pennsylvania Conference, we are part of a church that was founded on:

• Disciple-making – We are committed to making disciples who are grounded in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Disciples of Jesus live a life of personal piety and social holiness, which is what makes us distinctively Wesleyan.

• Belonging – We embrace a Church that has uplifted our own lives and the lives of our friends, family, and those we cherish. We celebrate that God’s grace is not static but meets us where we are as we grow in love of God and neighbor. We give thanks for The United Methodist Church where, when communion is celebrated, everyone is welcome at Christ’s table.

• Connection & Impact – Through the power of the Holy Spirit, living and sharing the grace of Jesus Christ, we are committed to work for better health, education, child welfare, disaster recovery, and countless other efforts. Our connectional nature means we can accomplish much more together than alone to transform our communities and the world.

• Experiencing God – We experience God through the outpouring of God’s mercy and grace. Whether our hands are raised in worship or at work alongside others, this experience of God transforms our own lives as well as the lives of others.

The gatherings with our bishops will be in-person only. Doors will open 30 minutes before start time. Notecards will be provided for a Q&A time. Reservations are not required.