Ryan Hannon Named Next Leader of Central Outreach
Jane Lippert is scheduled to retire June 20
When Jane Lippert announced her retirement plans earlier this year, leaders of Central Church reaffirmed our commitment to the vital ministries of Central Outreach. Outreach serves hundreds of meals every week, provides a mailing address and showers for those without housing, and access to everything from healthcare to haircuts. We have worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
Today, it is our privilege to announce Ryan Hannon will become the new leader of this important ministry. Hannon has spent the last 17 years of his career at Goodwill of Northern Michigan, developing and leading their street outreach programs, and working in fundraising and advocacy. He has been a tireless advocate for those in our community who lack adequate housing. He was also instrumental in the launch of one of our key partner ministries, the Safe Harbor Shelter.
Jane Lippert says she knows she will be leaving Outreach in good hands.
“When I was new to the Outreach position, Ryan was on my speed dial,” Pastor Jane says. “He helped me figure out how to get people resources in the community and how to handle conflict and crises.
“I am beyond confident Outreach is in great hands and poised to grow in the future.”
As Ryan prepares to take this new role, he says:
“Jane has built Outreach into a critical hub of services for people without housing in the Traverse City area. I’m honored to join Central Church and this vital downtown ministry.”
Ryan will be joining the staff full time. In addition to his Outreach role, he will also be tasked with engaging our members and attendees in lifelong mission: finding opportunities for those within the church to connect with others, to serve in ministry, and to grow through faith formation. This newly formed position will be similar to our previous adult education position, but with a different emphasis.
“Ryan’s work will be less about curriculum development and teaching and more about helping people to discover what they are capable of and what gives them joy about being part of a faith community,” Pastor Linda says. “Think of him as a volunteer coordinator, trainer, facilitator, and someone who can help you find your own special niche at Central Church – so that you can serve, get to know others, and grow closer to God.”
Ryan will be available to meet the congregation on Mission Sunday, June 2, as we celebrate Pastor Jane’s leadership and her retirement.
We will worship in Rotary Square at 9am, and in the sanctuary and online at 11am.
Blessings,
Wes Bara, SPPRC Chair
Liz & Bob Bevier, Outreach Co-chairs
Rev. Linda Stephan, Lead Pastor
Rev. Joan VanDessel, Supervising Pastor
Congratulations, Ryan! Outreach is DEFINITELY in great hands! Central & those served by Outreach are very lucky to have you on board! I hope Goodwill finds someone as dedicated as you to take your place! And – the best to you, Jane and thank you for all you have done!
Wow! What an awesome vision! My love and great gratitude to Jane and my prayers and support for Ryan. May the future be full of good things for all!
Ryan is a wonderful person. How blessed we are to welcome him to Central’s family! Sending sincere gratitude and blessings to Jane for her tireless contributions to our church and community ❤️
Jane leaves big shoes to fill. Her dedication to building the ministry leaves a legacy beyond measure. I’ve known Ryan since my days at Love INC. We will be incredibly blessed and lucky to have him at Central. This is fantastic news!
Congratulations to Pastor Jane, for handing off the baton to another marathon runner against homelessness in the northern region of Michigan. What an amazing choice in Ryan Hannon, who has also dedicated his life to those who are experiencing homelessness and other circumstances that are quite often hard to imagine that require Empathy and consideration to give hope to those who need it the most. Thank you, Pastor Jane for all your service and a warm welcome to you, Ryan. Staton .
Thank you, Pastor Jane, and welcome to Ryan! We are all “blessed to be a blessing,” and these two walk the walk when it comes to helping others. We are continuing to evolve as a downtown church, opening doors… opening hearts… opening minds. Thanks be to God!
So many hands have contributed to the witness and neighborly care Central offers our neighbors. I’m proud of my love, Jane, for how she has elevated the program. Now, look what a great next chapter is about to unfold. Welcome to you, Ryan. Looks like ministry is in more good hands.
This is the best news ever. Jane leaves big shoes to fill but Ryan Hannon has the heart to step into that role. The future looks bright.
Ryan is the ONLY person I can imagine with any chance of filling Jane’s ruby slippers!
Ryan knows the community, appreciates the individuals & has the long term commitment to see this through.
Congratulations Ryan!
Congratulations Jane!
Enjoy your well deserved retirement!
Jane, your work has been a blessing to all of in the church. You will be terribly missed but Ryan sounds like the perfect person to carry on your great work.