It’s a boy! We would like to formally introduce you to Lincoln Todd Loughman. We could not be more excited to get to finally feel the kicks on the outside of the belly and kiss his sweet little cheeks! Thank you so much for the way you have cared for us. Thank you for your support through your gifts and your prayer. Todd and I know that beyond us, this baby will be well loved and raised in a beautiful family of God! We are also extremely grateful for the time that has been granted to us to be able to bond with our sweet baby. Thus begins my twelve week maternity leave. Over this time, I will still be connected to the church through prayer and worship. I also invite you to join with me as we begin to read through the Bible in a year. Included in the newsletter once again, on page 6, is the outline for reading through the Bible. We will begin to read together on October 4th. Beginning on November 2nd, I will send out a weekly devotional that engages some of the scripture we have read for that week.

I know the church has gone through a lot of changes and transitions over the past couple of months. You all have said goodbye to one beloved pastor and have welcomed with open arms another. I have no doubt that you will do the same for Reverend Beth Nelson. She has graciously agreed to fill in during my maternity leave. She has already started connecting with folks, preparing for a small group she will lead and for twelve weeks of worship services. She cares deeply about connecting with people on a personal level and has a Spirit given gift of hospitality. I know you will love her and enjoy serving God’s kingdom alongside her during this time. This is where I sign off and formally introduce you to Reverend Beth Nelson.

From one light to another,
Pastor Hannah Loughman

A little blurb about me…

I grew up in the Mon Valley. My dad was a proud steel worker. I felt a call to ministry in high school, went to Otterbein College, and then Wesley Theological Seminary. I was drawn to Urban Ministry in Washington DC, and my first appointment was in the heart of Erie. I loved engaging in ministry there, and I helped start the Rainbow Connection (a thrift store), The Refuge (a homeless shelter), and San Juan UMC (an Hispanic congregation).

I served churches in Mars, Carnegie, and Coraopolis before an appointment to our Conference Staff. I served as the Director of Training and Resources. My last appointment was to Salem UMC in Wexford. I retired in June of the year but continue my love of urban ministry at the United Methodist Church Union. I also remain involved at the Olive Branch (a fair trade store and mission center) which expanded to a storefront while I was at Salem UMC. I had a total of 43 years under appointment!

I remain a member of the Pittsburgh District Mission Strategy Team. I cherish times being a part of a clergywomen’s convent group. I am President of the Common Roots Federal Credit Union and I am an active Board member of the United Methodist Foundation. I will admit that I am a committed Pittsburgh Pirate fan, and I still have season tickets. One of my favorite places is Chautauqua Institution. In my spare time, I am trying to get settled in my new home in the North Hills.

I am grateful to share this brief season with you!
Beth L. Nelson