Spiritual Leadership

The Office of Spiritual Leadership is tasked with the work of “nurturing spiritual Leaders who nurture disciples of Jesus Christ,” by working to continually call, equip, assess and deploy excellent clergy and lay leaders. Our mission is built upon the Wesleyan foundation of collaborative leadership between educated, vital and fruitful clergy and strong, committed and empowered laity.  The core value of apprenticeship is also key faithful engagement of our work.

The Office of Spiritual Leadership resources both the work of the Board of Ordained Ministry (including District Committees on Ministry) and the Board of Laity (including the Conference Committee on Lay Servant Ministries).  In addition, the office guides and supports the work of Higher Education and Campus Ministry, Licensing School, the Mississippi Course of Study program and provides for continuing education and required disciplinary training.

Director of Spiritual Leadership - is a member of both the extended and appointive cabinets, and resources the Episcopal Office and district superintendents in the work of clergy evaluation and supervision.

Associate Director of Spiritual Leadership - supports the work of ministerial education, equitable compensation and serves as the conference registrar.

Associate Director for Lay Leadership - supports the work of the Board of Laity including Lay Servant Ministries, United Methodist Men representatives, United Methodist Women representatives and representatives from the Conference Council on Youth Ministries or like organizations.

Associate Director for Clergy Leadership - oversees and supports district committees on ministry, the residency in ministry program, as well as the work of candidacy and calling.

Campus Ministry Coordinator - supports and organizes the work of the board of higher education and campus ministries and resources and advises the campus ministers and boards.   

The Office of Spiritual Leadership - also houses the work of the Secretary of the Annual Conference.