January 18, 2023
Dear Members and Friends of Manchester United Methodist Church,
As Chairperson of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee of our church, I have the responsibility to announce the appointment of Dillon Burns, as the pastor at Okemos Community Church in Okemos, Michigan, effective July 1, 2023. This appointment has been made by our Bishop, David Bard, in consultation with the Cabinet of the Michigan Conference. The decision to appoint Pastor Dillon to the Okemos Community Church occurred after considerable prayer, discussion, and discernment. Pastor Dillon has agreed to accept this new appointment.
In the coming weeks and months, we will have the opportunity to express our appreciation for Pastor Dillon’s ministry in our midst. There will be time to say our good-byes, and time to begin planning a welcome for the new person whom God will send to become our next pastor.
As United Methodists, we affirm with faithful understanding that we, the Church, are the Body of Christ. It is Christ’s sustaining Spirit that will guide us in the days ahead. We will trust and rely on Christ’s presence and grace during this time of transition.
The Michigan Area Cabinet has already been meeting with Bishop Bard and will be discerning the appointment of our new pastor. Please be in prayer for them and for Pastor Dillon, as he prepares to follow Christ to new ministries ahead.
In Christ’s service,
Ryan Sannes
Chairperson
Staff-Parish Relations Committee
Manchester United Methodist Church