news article
Steve Ranous receives national UMM award
April 14, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Steve Ranous, a regular attendee of the national gathering of United Methodist Men (UMM), made his way to Myrtle Beach this March for the annual event—just as he always does. As the current Treasurer of the United Methodist Men Foundation, his attendance was a priority. What he didn’t expect was to be honored for his outstanding work, witness, and leadership within the organization.
“I was certainly surprised and humbled,” explained Steve.
At the gathering, Steve was inducted into the Society of John Wesley, the top recognition within the UMM community, and became a Fellow as award recipient #902. According to the UMM, this distinction is presented to clergy and laity who exemplify a deep commitment to Christ and a faith that shapes every part of their daily lives. Fellows are recognized for their faithful witness, visionary leadership, and generous stewardship, all of which help to enrich and advance the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church. The inaugural award was given in 1982.
Individuals do not need to be United Methodist to join or be recognized by the Society of John Wesley. Each recipient is awarded a plaque and lapel pin.
Steve is pictured holding the plaque surrounded by Wayne Custer, Northeast Jurisdiction UMM President; Steve Nailor, acting UMM Foundation President; and Don Davis, Northeast Jurisdiction UMM Treasurer.
Steve has been a part of UMM, locally and nationally, since 1994, when Ted Johndrow from North Syracuse gave a UMM introduction talk to the Baldwinsville First United Church’s men’s group.
He said, “Since 1994, when the UMM idea was first introduced to me, it always seemed like ‘the right thing to do’ to join and support this fraternal group in any way I could.”
This isn’t the first time Steve’s been honored by United Methodist Men. Just last year, he was recognized as attaining Lifetime Achievement status.
A number of national dignitaries have been awarded the same honor prior to Steve.
President Jimmy Carter was inducted into the Society of John Wesley in 2018 in recognition of his unwavering commitment to prayer, young people, and mission-focused service.
President George W. Bush was also honored with induction, following his leadership and response in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, making him the 426th member of the Society of John Wesley Fellows.
Former, now retired, Chairman of the Board of Dollar General, Cal Turner Jr., received the recognition in 2001 for his outstanding contributions to local church mission and ministry.
“It is a true honor to be in the company of so many souls before me. Like everyone else, I just take one day at a time and see what God has in store for me for the future, trying to lead a Christian life, and assist others as needed.”
Steve is married to the Rev. Susan Ranous, the UNY Conference’s Stewardship Chair, and has been a member of Baldwinsville First UMC for 40 years.
If a church or men’s group is interested in starting a UMM charter, you can learn more by clicking here. For individuals interested in joining UMM, click here.