New Ministry Team appointed
by June Miller
New Conference Ministry Team appointed
With the conclusion of the interim Conference Leadership Team (iCLT), Virginia Mennonite Conference is pleased to announce a 4-person transitional ministry team. Returning from the iCLT are Maren Tyedmers Hange and June Miller who will resume similar roles. Maren’s time will be increasing from 0.25 FTE to 0.5 FTE. She continues to be co-pastor at Charlottesville Mennonite Church but has resigned as Co-District Minister of Harrisonburg District. The new members include Juan Carlos Malvaez (0.5 FTE) and Phil Kniss (0.25 FTE).
Maren Tyedmers Hange: Conference Minister of Conference Formation and Soulcare (0.5 FTE)
Major responsibilities include tending to the spiritual vitality of the conference, supporting the Racial Justice Task Force, Youth Council and other ministries, and serving as the team’s leader. New role begins October 1. Current 0.25 FTE role continues through September.
June Miller: Conference Director of Administration and Communication (0.75 FTE)
Major responsibilities include managing the business side of the conference, overseeing office staff, and directing strategic communications. Role continues from iCLT term.
Juan Carlos Malvaez: Conference Minister of Congregational Vision and Mission (0.5 FTE)
Major responsibilities include assisting congregations with training resources, working with districts to coordinate regional events, consult with congregational leadership teams on vision and mission. Begins Monday, September 16.
Phil Kniss: Conference Minister of Leadership Development and Support (0.25)
Major responsibilities include supporting District Ministers, cultivating pastoral relationships across conferences, geographical areas, or interests. Begins Tuesday, October 1
Staff representation to Mennonite Church USA and to the districts will be divided among the team. Though start times vary, the new Ministry team will be in full force on October 1, 2024 continuing through August 31, 2025. The additional transition year allows for proper time to confirm a permanent team.
Join us October 6, 2024 for the commissioning of the new team at 546 Franklin St, home of Ridgeway Mennonite Church and Manantial de Vida at 7pm