Newly appointed pastors, district superintendent enter new pulpits this Sunday

The annual shift in newly appointed pastors takes place this Sunday as pastors begin a new appointment year. Also newly appointed is the Rev. David Byrum who begins his new duties as superintendent of the East District based in Muncie. This past Tuesday evening, Indiana Bishop Mike Coyner installed Byrum as East District Superintendent in a special worship service held at Central UMC in Richmond. During his sermon to the lay and clergy leaders of the district, Byrum quoted from John 1:6 saying, “There was a man sent from God named John.” He emphasized that clergy are called and sent from God to fulfill their responsibilities, just as John the Baptist was sent from God. He asked those present to join in assisting him in this task of leading the district. During the hour-long service, Coyner also introduced the Rev. David Neckers of Muncie who will be serving with Byrum as Associate District Superintendent and also will continue to serve on the staff of Union Chapel UMC in Muncie. The Rev. Dale Mendenhall had completed his term as East District Superintendent and begins his duties as senior pastor of High Street UMC in Muncie. East District Assistant Bernie Jamison will continue her responsibilities.