Northeast 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.

Kathie Jones

Kathie Jones’ ministry began as a second career, and after raising 3 children. She has grown in leadership and organizational skills, as well as her ability to creatively work through difficult circumstances. Currently, Kathie is the Associate Conference Superintendent in the Northeast District where she connects and supports part-time local congregations and local pastors. Kathie is proud to call Fort Wayne her home.

Rev. Jen Huff (Northeast)

Rev. Jen Huff is an ordained deacon who has served in different areas as youth minister, director of children’s ministries including after school programs, childcares and preschools, and in the role of associate pastor through the years. She is also working on her certification as a ministry coach. Jen is excited to serve at the conference and district levels because she believes the connection is important, especially for local churches. Jen’s immediate family includes her husband John who is an ordained elder, their three beautiful children, and their goldendoodle puppy. When Jen is not equipping disciples to serve others through Jesus’ love, she is keeping up with her kids, trying new restaurants, and watching movies. From time to time she enjoys getting to camp and travel to the beach.

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.