news article
Change in Chairs on the Board of Ordained Ministry
September 3, 2024 / By Shelby Winchell, UNY Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Every quadrennium, the Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) nominates and elects new Chairs for the Order of Elders, Order of Deacons, and Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members. The new chairs are as follows:
Chair of the Order of Elders is Rev. Anna Blinn Cole
Chair of the Order of Deacons is Rev. Becky Naber
President of the Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members is Pastor Donna Fitchette
Deacon Becky Naber, serving Kenmore UMC, served as co-chair of the Order of Deacons with Deacon Carrie Wolfe in the last quadrennium. Pastor Donna Fitchette, serving Ogdensburg and Waddington UMCs, has been elected to serve in the same role as President of the Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members for another four years. The Rev. Blinn Cole is currently serving Cobleskill UMC and also coordinates the Schoharie Mosaic, a cooperative parish of ten United Methodist Churches. She is replacing the Rev. Steven Smith as the new Chair of the Order of Elders.
“Many things about our denomination and our world are changing at a rapid pace. I am early enough in my ministry that I dream about the long-term health and sustainability of this calling, not just for myself but for all the other Elders who are leading during uncertain times. I love my work as an Elder, challenging though it is. I look forward to visioning together for a future that keeps us healthy, supported, and engaged with a changing church and world,” said Rev. Blinn Cole.
Rev. Blinn Cole says she’s passionate about staying rooted, exploring cooperative work, and empowering collective vision. She says having a sense of agency and connection is important in this type of work.
“I want us to see one another as resources of information, "been there, done that" learnings, collaboration over competition, and support for the difficult calling we find ourselves following. All of us will see our roles shift in the coming years. I'd like to ask the question: how can we feel supported for the shifts to come as we are asked to lead in new ways?"
Pastor Donna Fitchette admits that even though she was honored with the nomination, she’s always considered herself as “just” a Licensed Local Pastor (LLP), not worthy of serving on such a distinguished board.
“As I write this the tears flow from my eyes, still overcome with emotions, I am in awe of God, and the opportunity given to me to serve as chair of the Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members. I am proud of my title of Licensed Local Pastor, and I believe that the BOM can see the potential I have as I strive to lead in love and grace. I commit to be God’s hands and feet as I move forward.”
Like for many, the road to ministry has not always easy for Pastor Donna. Her journey began in lay servant ministry before shifting to Certified Lay Minister and then into the role as serving as pastor.
“I have experienced so many setbacks along the way. At times I would ask God if this was really the path I was to take. I say this without seeking praise, but I have worked darn hard to be where I am today. I certainly have no regrets.”
“As Chair, I hope to provide an outlet for LLP’s and Associate Members to come together as one. Through prayer and study, I hope to unite us in support and love. I also look forward to providing incoming procedures, requirements, and information needed to continue in ministry.
I am beyond honored to be selected and look forward to what God will do.”
The Rev. Ann Kemper, BOM Chairperson, says all candidates were recommended by BOM prior to annual conference and the election was conducted by electronic ballot.
“The Board of Ordained Ministry is looking forward to working with the Chairs of Order of Elders, Order of Deacons, and Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members in ways that will build up conference clergy,” said Rev. Kemper.
The Chairs and Fellowship President will work in collaboration with Bishop Héctor to help provide care and development to the order/fellowship. To view the full list of BOM executive team, click here.