Beloved members of the New England Conference, 
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

We write to announce that Treasurer/Director of Administrative Services Bill Burnside will officially retire on Aug. 7, 2020. 
 
As his previously announced retirement now becomes a reality, we want to again express our deep appreciation for his work on behalf of the Conference over the past 10 years.  
 
Bill has been a faithful and trusted partner in the ministry and mission of the New England Conference. In his role as Director of Administrative services, he oversaw several staffing changes, managed the sale of the conference center in Lawrence, the purchase, renovation and move to the Methuen location, and introduced new procedures for operating under a pandemic.
 
As treasurer, he was a valued partner in managing conference properties and the sale of several church facilities, improving systems and procedures in pension and retiree benefits, and overseeing the various insurance programs. 
 
As a member of the Bishop’s Extended Cabinet and of several Conference boards and agencies, Bill has been a key leader in our mission and vision. We are grateful for Bill’s dedication and hard work over the years. 
 
Please join us in sending our prayerful good wishes to Bill as he enjoys more time with his family including his wife, Barbara, (who will continue in her role as Conference Disaster Response & Mission Coordinator), their daughters and grandchildren. 
 
The search committee for the next Treasurer/Director of Administrative Services has been at work since spring, working in consultation with the General Council on Finance and Administration, to post the position nationally. While the deadline for applications is Aug. 17, interviews are already underway and top candidates who can begin as soon as possible will be considered. 
 
In the meantime, the Conference Council on Finance and Administration (CCFA), along with the Episcopal Office, will manage the responsibilities of the Treasurer’s office.  
 
In Christ’s love, 
 
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar                         
Rev. Ralph W. Howe, President, CCFA