Dear Members and Friends of Central United Methodist Church,

As Chairperson of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, I wish to announce to you the
appointment of Pastor Linda Stephan, our new Senior Pastor effective July 1, 2023.

Pastor Linda was re-introduced to our Staff Parish Relations Committee this past Tuesday as
our next Senior Pastor by our District Superintendent, Rev. Jodie Flessner, on behalf of Bishop
David Bard, who set this new appointment in concert with the Cabinet of District
Superintendents of the state of Michigan.

Pastor Chris and our committee are excited about the spirit, gifts, and abilities that Pastor Linda
will continue to bring to our congregation.

As many of us know Pastor Linda is from this area and has gained a treasure trove of
experience from her roles as a public figure at Interlochen Public Radio, and as a pastor of a
mid-Michigan Methodist Church. And as a non-profit leader, she has also worked hard to create
sustainable programs that enrich the community and support those who are vulnerable.

We will be planning a warm celebration for Pastor Linda as she accepts this new role in July.
In the meantime, of course, we will also be celebrating the ministry of Pastor Chris Lane to
thank him for his years of faithful service as we pray God’s blessing upon his future. Please hold
Pastor Chris and family in prayer during these months of transition.

Pray, too, for the whole Cabinet, including Bishop David Bard, as they continue to meet, pray,
and discern God’s will as the appointment-making process begins for our next Associate Pastor.
We trust God’s amazing grace, Christ’s faithful love, and the presence and power of the Holy
Spirit as we move into the future.

Serving Christ with you,

Wes Bara
Staff Parish Relations Committee Chair
Central United Methodist Church