Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar announces the following changes to the Extended Cabinet.
After seven years as superintendent of the Katahdin District and 18 years serving the New England Conference as pastor, Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Brannen will be seeking retirement as of July 1, 2023. The decision requires the approval of the Cabinet, Board of Ordained Ministry and Clergy Session.
"It has been a blessing and a privilege to serve the Conference for these years,” Dr. Brannen said. “I look forward to spending
Jackie Brannen
more time with my family in my retirement and serving the church in the ways that God may plan."
“Jackie is a wonderful pastor and counselor,” Bishop Devadhar said, “and has been a faithful colleague on the Cabinet. She has the ability to ask the right question at the right time to keep us firmly on the path.”
The bishop went on to say: “In working with the District Committee on Superintendency and my many visits to the Katahdin District, I know I am not alone in my deep respect for Jackie. I have seen the admiration and affection that both clergy and laity have for her.”
The bishop also announces that Director of Connectional Ministries Rev. Ashley Renee Johnson will complete her service in that role on Dec. 31, 2022, as agreed when she began on July 1, 2021. Ashley Johnson
"I am deeply appreciative of the numerous opportunities that the New England Conference has provided to learn about leadership within the connection while serving as the Director of Connectional Ministries,” Rev. Johnson said. “I am also incredibly grateful for all of the love and support I have received.”
“As I return to focusing on ministry at my primary and secondary appointments,” she said. “I return knowing that I am much better equipped to serve as a deacon and as a leader in the New England Conference and in the world."
“While I knew from the outset that this time would come, it is still a difficult moment,” Bishop Devadhar said, “however it is important that I honor the agreement made with Ashley.”
“I am so grateful to Ashley for accepting this challenge,” the bishop said. “She has been diligent and faithful in her service to the clergy and laity of New England as Director of Connectional Ministries. I know Ashley’s ministry will continue to be a great blessing to this Conference.”
