East District

Rev. Russ Abel

Rev. Russ Abel has been passionately following Jesus most of his life. A native of southern Indiana he has found great joy in serving the northern part of the state for the past 13 years. Russ has served as a parish pastor since 1992. He began serving in his new appointment as Conference Superintendent for the East District of the Indiana United Methodist Conference July 1, 2019.

Growing up in a working-class home, Russ holds deeply the values he learned in that home and strives to remember his roots. He also is very thankful for his military service, Air Force, which helped awaken him to the beauty and blessing of diversity.

A graduate of Indiana University and Christian Theological (Magna) and inducted into The International Society of Theta Phi (an honor society for theological students). Ordained in 2000, he continues to be blessed, humbled, and excited by opportunities to serve Jesus. He is most passionate about helping people unlock the story of Jesus in their faith walk.

Russ and his wife have two children, Emma and Sam.
Russ is committed to his beautiful family and looks forward to his firmly growing through two weddings (Chad and Alyssa) in the next four months.

Susie Wild

Susie was born and raised in New Jersey, where she graduated from Rutgers University with degrees in Business Administration and German. Although she is an East Coast native, Fort Wayne has been her home for the past 24 years and also where she and her husband, Chris, chose to raise their 4 children together. Susie has spent the majority of her time here in Fort Wayne raising her children and being a pastor’s wife.

Now facing an empty nest, Susie is ready to dedicate her time and gifts in an administrative capacity and is looking forward to serving The United Methodist Church. In her spare time, she enjoys exercising, staying healthy, gardening, and backpacking.

Charlotte Barden

Tricia Williams