Staff
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INUMC
Resident Bishop

Julius C. Trimble

Bishop Julius C. Trimble was assigned July 16, 2016, to the Indiana Episcopal Area (Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church) by the 184 delegates of the North Central Jurisdictional Conference of The United Methodist Church meeting in Peoria, Illinois. He was elected and consecrated a bishop by the same jurisdiction in 2008 and served eight years as the bishop of the Iowa Conference before his assignment to Indiana.

Trimble is a native of Chicago and a graduate of Illinois State University. He earned his Master of Divinity degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago, Ill., and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio.

He was ordained a deacon and elder in the Northern Illinois Conference where he served two churches before transferring to the East Ohio Conference. He served churches in the Cleveland area and as the District Superintendent of the Cleveland District from 1996-2003.

Recipient of many honors and awards, He received the Outstanding Alumni Award in 1998 from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and the 2007 Bishop James S. Thomas Social Action Award from the Methodist Federation for Social Action at Lakeside, OH. He continues to promote faith-based response to domestic violence and has encouraged the establishment of mental health ministries at the local church and conference level. He is also an active advocate for social justice, faith-based initiatives to address gun violence, as well as immigration reform. Trimble has preached throughout the United States and in Africa. He has also written a book, to support The United Methodist Church campaign Imagine No Malaria, A Faithful Church and a Healthy World: Reflections and Poems by Bishop Julius Calvin Trimble (2015). Trimble received 2015 Peace and Justice Award from Iowa Conference MFSA. In December 2017, he was the Graduation Keynote speaker at United Theological Seminary Dayton, Ohio, where he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity for leadership in area of Global Health and Global Justice.

Trimble has been married since May of 1978 to First Lady Racelder Grandberry-Trimble, a professional counselor and graduate of Methodist Theological School in Ohio. They are the parents of three adult children: Cameron, Candiace, and Julius Thomas.

Trimble’s personal mission statement is “to encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential or “Be Encouraged” for short.

Chief of Staff and Executive Assistant to the Bishop

Rev. Larry Whitehead

Larry Whitehead serves as Chief of Staff and Executive Assistant to the Bishop. He has previously served as Director of Connectional Ministries, six years as Conference Superintendent assigned to the North District, and has also served for two years as Dean of the Appointive Cabinet. Bringing a strong emphasis on missional strategy, Larry offers a consistent message to churches and pastors to abandon survival efforts for the church and to instead, discover vitality in a focus on giving ourselves away to connect people to the message of Jesus Christ (Mark 8:35). While energized for ministry as a Conference leader, Larry loves to recharge by traveling and boating with his wife Susan and sharing family activities with the families of their 5 adult children and 7 grandchildren.

Conference Superintendent - South District & Southwest District

Rev. Mitch Gieselman

Rev. Mitchell C. (Mitch) Gieselman has served churches across the Indiana Conference in various capacities since 1974; including Evansville Old North, Rushville St. Paul’s, New Castle First, Plainfield, Hanover, Mt. Vernon First, and Evansville Aldersgate UMC. While his energies focus on being the Chief Missional Strategist of the district, he does so through the particular lens of justice, having been intensively engaged in justice ministries and interfaith dialogue over the past decade. When the demands of being a part of the Extended Cabinet team allow, Mitch escapes into his preferred pastimes of golf, fishing, reading, crossword puzzles, watching baseball, and camping. He is also an avid follower of John and Charles Wesley’s footsteps all over the world. Additionally, he is involved in campus life at the University of Evansville and has lectured, taught in adult education courses, and volunteered in numerous capacities, and served as Chapter Counselor for Sigma Phi Epsilon, a social fraternity for male students. Gieselman received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Evansville in 1978 and Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in 1981. He is married to the Rev. Dr. Tamara K. Gieselman, also an Elder in the Indiana Conference. The couple has three adult children: son, Cory Gieselman; and daughter, Dana (Lucious) Wagner who live in Evansville and both work for Old National Bank; and son, Jordan (Jennifer) Gieselman, a graphic designer who lives in Bowling Green, KY. The Gieselmans also have five grandchildren: Sydney, Rhyan, Sophie, Malik, and Hakeem who reside in Evansville.

Conference Superintendent - East District & Northeast District

Rev. Russ Abel

Rev. Russ Abel is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ and seeks to live a grace-filled presence in a hurting world. Russ grew up in rural southern Indiana and continues to feel a strong connection to “hills and trees” and finds solace and renewal there. He has lived in northern Indiana since his appointment in Fort Wayne in 2007. Being one of “those people” he loves the winter and spending time as far north as possible. Russ has served the East District since 2019 and the Northeast District since 2021. Growing up in a working-class home, Russ holds deeply the values he learned in that home and strives to remember his roots. He also is very thankful for his military service, Air Force, which helped awaken him to the beauty and blessing of diversity.

A graduate of Indiana University and Christian Theological (Magna) he was also inducted into The International Society of Theta Phi (an honor society for theological students). Ordained in 2000, he continues to be blessed, humbled, and excited by opportunities to serve Jesus. He is most passionate about helping people unlock the story of Jesus in their faith walk.

Russ is committed to his beautiful family and has been especially blessed by his wife, Michelle, of over 30 years and his children Emma (Chad) and Sam (Alyssa). Ask Russ about his grandkids, but make sure you have some time to listen, because he will talk for a long time about them.

Conference Superintendent - Southeast District

Rev. Dr. In Suk Peebles

Rev. Dr. In Suk Peebles serves as the Conference Superintendent of the Southeast District. In Suk served for 21 years in the United States Air Force Reserve (air national guard) as a chaplain, retiring in 2019 as lieutenant colonel.

She holds degrees in English and Literature from Woosuk University in South Korea and Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary. She has finished her coursework for a Doctor of Ministry degree, also at Christian Theological Seminary, and will receive her DMin later this year.

In addition to serving parishes across the state, In Suk has served on the Indiana Conference Finance and Administration, the South Indiana Conference Board of Pensions, and the Indiana Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

In Suk is married to David, an attorney, and they have two children, Sunny and Faith. She is a self-proclaimed “news junky” on global affairs and enjoys “healthy discussions with my husband while reading the Sunday New York Times and Wall Street Journal after Sunday morning worship (and a nap).”

Conference Superintendent - Northwest District

Rev. Lore Blinn Gibson

Rev. Lore Blinn Gibson met Jesus as in infant, carried by her parents to be baptized at Star City [United] Methodist Church, where she began her ministry by playing piano and working with children. There she was trained to think outside the box, work hard, and be a team player. Experiences in marching band, choirs, and teaching middle schoolers were the doors God used to invite her into pastoral ministry. After working with local pastors on several District Committee on Ministries and teaching Course of Study, Lore developed a passion for equipping and empowering licensed local pastors and small churches to do whatever it takes to follow the Spirit in transforming lives to become more and more like Jesus. When not driving around the Northwest District in her blue super-mobile, Lore maybe found painting, walking the family dog (Kitty), trying to coax interesting plant life out of the Lafayette clay,learning about and creating art, and history. She’s a proud Winamac Warrior, Indiana State Sycamore, Duke Blue Devil, and adopted Lafayette Jefferson Broncho and above all, a grateful United Methodist who highly values the connection. Lore married Randy, who currently works in medical research for Cook and teaches college ethics. They are the parents of Maia, a UIndy student and soon-to-be teacher, and James, a student at Lafayette Jefferson High School.

Conference Superintendent - North Central District

Rev. Saneta Maiko

Saneta Maiko, Ph.D. is a former John Templeton Research Fellow with Indiana University School of Medicine (2017-2019). His clinical research investigated the role of spirituality and religion on the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of metastatic cancer patients. An experienced ordained clergy of the United Methodist, Dr. Maiko is the founder and former executive director of Crime Victim Care of Allen County (Amani Family Services), Chaplain Researcher at Indiana University Health. Dr. Maiko has many years of serving churches and teaching gender and diversity management at Purdue University. He is a respected leader in training Intercultural Competence for Law Enforcement, Social Agencies, Businesses, and Healthcare Systems. Dr. Maiko is Nationally licensed as an Intercultural Development Qualified Administrator and is nationally board certified as a healthcare chaplain. Dr. Maiko is a recipient of several honors and awards. He has authored a book and several articles in medical, leadership, chaplaincy, and youth journals. He is married to Beatrice. They are both blessed with three daughters and a son.

Conference Superintendent - North District

Rev. Dr. Marti Lundy

After serving local churches in the Indiana Conference for 28 years, Rev. Dr. Marti G. Lundy now serves as the Conference Superintendent of the North District. She is a native of Columbia City, IN and a lifelong United Methodist. Marti holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Northwestern University, a Master of Divinity from Garrett-ETS, and a Doctor of Ministry from Portland Theological Seminary (formerly George Fox Seminary). Rev. Dr. Lundy has served the Conference in many capacities, some of those include: Chair of Board of Camps and Conferences, Chair of the NE DCOM, and the Committee on Episcopacy. Rev. Dr. Lundy is married to the Rev. Dr. Kent A. Lundy, who serves in extension ministry at the 181st Intelligence Wing, Indiana Air National Guard, Terre Haute. They are the proud parents of Josh, a US Air Force Combat Veteran and full-time member of the 122d Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne and Nathan, a full-time law student at Indiana University McKinney Law School in Indianapolis. Fun fact, she sang the National Anthem at a Cubs game while in college and was a torchbearer for the Indiana Bicentennial for Whitley County.

CFO and Director of Administration

David Robinson

David Robinson joined the Indiana Conference office in December 2021. He has 30 years of finance experience in not for profit and the public sector. Most recently David served 10 years as the CFO of an Episcopal Diocese.

He began volunteering in his church at an early age and was appointed assistant church treasurer at nineteen while in college at Xavier University. David enjoys teaching church finance. He has written articles and led several national workshops on church administration.

He jokes his formation began watching the deacons at his Baptist church and now has a career in church work. He has mused writing a book on church administration citing stories from ‘those old deacons’.

When not at work he sings in a community gospel choir. He and his wife like to travel with their children to sporting competitions .

Associate Director of Leadership Development - Young Leaders and Project Management

Emily Krach

Emily Krach is a part of the Leadership Development team, specifically working with emerging leaders. This also includes working closely with adults who support young people.She is a veteran youth leader with a passion for empowering and developing leaders of all ages for the sake of the next generation of the church. She attended Huntington University for her undergrad in Youth Ministry and Indiana Wesleyan University for her Masters in Organizational Leadership. Currently, she is also a mentor for young professional women through the Edge Mentoring program. Emily has been a part of the United Methodist Church all her life and is a native Hoosier now residing in Fort Wayne where she can have her nieces and nephews in her home regularly. She finds great joy in walking her dog (Bear), exploring parks, and sitting near a body of water.

Director of Local Pastor Education

Rev. Britt Leslie

Britt Leslie is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church with about 10 years of pastoral experience, having served in urban and rural congregations. He does not currently serve in a local congregation, but spends his time teaching in adult education. He has a PhD in New Testament, a ThM in bible, a Masters in Theology and a Masters in Divinity. He has taught at Manchester University in North Manchester, IN; at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH; and at South University’s Online Doctor of Ministry program. He has been teaching Bible courses in Course of Study at United Theological Seminary, Methodist School of Theology in Ohio, and the Indiana Extension COS since 2011. He is also the director of Local Pastor Education for the Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church since 2018. He lives in Lafayette, IN with his wife, who serves as Sr. Pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church, and their dog.

Administrator of Ministerial Services

Luska Natali

Luska came to the United States from Brazil in 1988 with her family. Since that time, she has volunteered at a large number of churches as a music librarian, drama ministry leader, Hispanic ministry church planter and interpreter. She has also taught Sunday school classes to high schoolers, college agers, and women.

Luska has three sons, Thiago, Andre, and Lukas, as well as 10 grandsons. Her daughters-in-love add the right measure of sweetness to the mix of energy and craziness that comes from having a family of 13 guys.

From a very young age, Luska developed an interest and love for foreign languages and cultures, and she is fluent in English, Portuguese (native tongue) and Spanish, with the ability to interpret and translate. She is a member of the American Translators Association (ATA). She has a Bachelor’s and Master ’s degrees in Business Management from Indiana Wesleyan University, and an Education Specialist degree (EdS) from Liberty University. She also completed all the coursework for a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at Liberty University (dissertation not completed).

Luska enjoys time with family, taking pictures, traveling, writing devotionals, editing, dining out, going to the movies, volunteering, mentoring, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), networking, knowledge-sharing, writing letters with confetti in them, and teaching her grandchildren about Jesus.

Associate Director of Ministerial Services

Michele Phillips

Michele Phillips is the Associate Director of Leadership Development Ministerial Services. She was born and raised in Indiana and has been a United Methodist from birth. The UMC is where she developed her love for serving God and serving others. Michele graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics and brings over 30 years’ experience working in administration and management. She has spent over 20 years working and volunteering in the local church. Michele is a mother of two adult daughters, Mackenzie and Aliza, two grand dogs (Lulu and Tessie) and is soon to be a grandmother. She resides in Fort Wayne with her husband and enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, volunteering at the theatre and spending time outside during the summer months. She has a passion for Health and Wellness and has obtained her certification as a Health and Nutrition Coach which she uses to coach others so that they may live their healthiest life.

Financial Assistant & Camping Registrar

Emily Burkhart

Emily grew up in New Albany, IN, where she attended Main Street UMC. After high school, she attended Indiana University in Bloomington where she majored in Non-Profit Management in the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. While there Emily completed an internship with Outdoor Ministries in the South Indiana Conference. Post graduation, Emily worked for the March of Dimes in Lexington, KY. In 2010 she moved to Indianapolis and began work with the Indiana Conference, moving into the role of Camp Registrar in 2011. As Camp Registrar and Finance Assistant, she strives to make camp registration a smooth process for everyone and to help people find the site that best suits the needs of their camper or retreat group. She is passionate about advancing camp attendance and has been since her days as a camper when she invited friends to attend with her. Emily and her husband, Chris, were married in 2006. They have a son, a daughter, and a giant puppy. In her free time, Emily enjoys watching the Indianapolis Colts and “NerdyTV.” Emily has volunteered as a counselor for a week of senior high camp at Indicoso since 2005 and a few years later became one of the co-directors for that event.

Conference Assistant - Administration & Financial Services and Connectional Ministries

Roscel Carandang

Roscel S. Carandang serves as Conference Assistant for the Annual Conference in the Administration and Financial Ministries Team. She brings with her more than 30 years of administrative experience, in addition to many years in event coordination, media coordination, Web development and design, graphic design, fund development, community organizing and ministry outreach. Always interested in making this world a better place for the growth of God’s kingdom, she volunteers and supports many local not-for-profits from women/family/homeless shelters, feeding the hungry, environmental concerns to animal rescue.

Born in the Philippines and a lifelong Hoosier, Roscel comes from a very large, close-knit Filipino family. She says she attributes her deep love for the Lord from being taught to lead a prayerful life by her grandmother and mother. She is aware that all her talents are God-given and is excited to apply them to promote ministry at the Indiana Conference in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. She lives daily by this Scripture: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Asset Manager

Jonathan Gerber

Jonathan Gerber, MBA, has worked in the Finance and Accounting industry for over 10 years and has expertise in asset management, accounting, and financial analysis. Prior to working in Finance and Accounting, Jonathan was a Human Resources Manager in the United States Navy for 4 years. As a seasoned Financial expert, he is passionate about advancing both professionally and personally; in the Fall of 2021 he Graduated from Butler University with a Master’s of Business Administration Degree with a Concentration in Entrepreneurship & Innovation. He is constantly striving for excellence in all aspects of his career and is passionate about helping the Conference in moving discontinued churches, parsonages, and other real estate. On a daily basis Jonathan enjoys reading the Wall Street Journal as well as other various periodicals relating to real estate, finance, and accounting. In Jonathan’s free time, he can be spotted as a captain of an ice hockey team teaching other adults how to play hockey and on the golf course attempting to score pars.

Associate Director of Church Development

Rev. Doug Anderson

Doug Anderson is a retired United Methodist clergy who served under appointment for 48 years. During that time he served several growing churches of various sizes as well as twice being appointed as a District Superintendent. Doug was the founding Executive Director of the Bishop Rueben Job Center for Leadership Development for 15 years. He is a member of the Academy for Spiritual Formation of the Upper Room. Currently, Doug serves as an associate director for Church Development of the Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church and also as Transitional Lead Pastor of The Promise United Methodist Church in Fishers, IN. Doug and his wife Jan, have been married for 46 years and have lived in the Muncie area for 25 years. They have 4 children and 9 grandchildren who range from 4 to 21 years old. Doug and Jan enjoy time with their family, specifically the grand kids activities, traveling to historic sites, playing and watching baseball, basketball, and football, playing board and card games like euchre, sudoku, Sorry, Farkle, Quixx and many more. Additionally, Doug and Jan spend time with friends, shopping, watching TV and movies, reading, cooking, and eating out.

Associate Director of Church Development

Ed Fenstermacher

Ed Fenstermacher is a lifelong United Methodist layman who has served as Associate Director of Church Development for the former North Indiana Conference and Indiana Conference since 1995. Ed lives with his wife, Marlene, in Fort Wayne and is an active member of Faith United Methodist Church. In his position with the Conference, he leads the Church Development’s team, which focuses on helping churches more effectively carry out the church’s mission and start new faith communities and Fresh Expressions. Over the years, Ed has been a delegate to many General Conference and Jurisdictional Conference sessions. He presently serves on the Discipleship Ministries board of directors (a General Church agency), and he chairs the board of directors of the Upper Room Ministries. Ed is also an ICF-certified coach and has a passion for helping leaders and churches reach their fullest potential for fruitful ministry. His greatest passion, however, is serving Christ and helping develop a multiplication movement within the UM churches of Indiana. Ed is active in his local neighborhood association. He enjoys playing pickleball, reading, working crosswords, gardening, and water and cross-country skiing. He and Marlene, a diaconal minister, have three adult sons and live in a 120-year-old home that they’ve renovated near downtown Fort Wayne.

North District Director of Lay Servant Ministries and North District Lay Leader

Denise Parker

Denise has been married to her high school sweetheart for 47 years and counting. Together they have 4 grown children, all of whom are married. In 2020, she and her husband lost their 2nd oldest daughter to breast cancer. They have 5 perfect grandchildren with #6 due in December.

Denise attends Elkhart Bethel UMC and has been a member since 1985. She drives a school bus for Concord Community Schools and plans to retire at the end of the coming school year after 34 years of driving. Denise has a heart for Lay Servant Ministries and helping other laity to become better equipped to make disciples of Jesus.

Camp Manager - Pine Creek Camp

Grant Crumbaugh

Grant was raised as a Catholic till 1999 and feels blessed by the blind, unshakable faith he acquired there. Since then he has been partying with the Methodist church! He values his relationship with Jesus above all else. He met Shannon Sutton in the spring of 1998 at Camp Wahsega in the North Georgia Mountains. After 6 years of friendship and persistence, he convinced her to marry on January 4, 2004. Shannon loves everything Southern, reading, and is an amazing mother. They celebrate their three kids; Nāla, Sutton, and Tucker. Nāla loves working with animals, especially those we do not intend to eat. Sutton is a lover of all things creative. She enjoys the woodshop and craft room. Tucker is still young enough to challenge expectations and thrive in chaos. Grant has worked at a camp in one way or another every year since 1988. He has personally experienced the life change camp has to offer. He has been the Camp Manager at Pine Creek since the Fall of 2014. He continues to come alongside many others to enhance the discipleship efforts there, and across mission opportunities.

Camp Adventure Program Manager

Sara Daniels

I grew up in Syracuse, IN just 10 minutes from Epworth Forest not knowing what was happening on that campus. I spent most of my childhood as a girl scout and camping family and one summer as a staff counselor at camp. I graduated from Indiana Tech with a Computer Information Systems degree and married my college sweetheart. After a short time in the business world, I realized that I was not designed to work inside so journeyed back home to work for the family business, excavation. After the birth of my two daughters and 15 years in the construction world, God called me into full time ministry. My faith journey included directing family camp at Lakewood for 3 seasons, 2 seasons of Upward Basketball Director at Saint Joseph UMC in Fort Wayne, 9 years as the Student Ministries Director at Saint Joseph UMC, 3 years as Next Generation Director, member of Children Matter most since March 2020, countless retreats and hours of camp counseling at Epworth for high school and middle school campers. I look forward to many more adventures. My outdoor loves include kayaking, high ropes, and hiking.

Camp Manager - Camp Lakewood

Tanner Ginder

Tanner Ginder is rooted in the traditions of Camp Lakewood, and now is the Camp Manager there. Having attended Camp Lakewood as a kid, returning as a volunteer counselor and director, then working on summer staff Tanner is passionate about the mission of outdoor ministry for elementary aged students. Prior to becoming the Camp Manager, Tanner graduated from Indiana University with a degree in elementary education which he used to teach 3rd grade for two years in Fort Wayne. Through his time in teaching, Tanner felt a calling to vocational ministry which he hopes to use to pour out the love of Jesus Christ to all who come on site in the years to come. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and writing, being with friends and traveling the world.

Executive Assistant of Camping Ministries

Chris Kindelsparger

I am a Fort Wayne native that never left. I am a member of Covenant UMC and was a youth director for 15 years. I loved every moment of it! I have two grown sons, 23 and 26 and a wonderful daughter-in-law. I help run a food bank in my neighborhood which keeps me pretty busy along with my new job with the camping ministry. Jesus has been my first love for over 30 years and a big part of my life from day one. I love the outdoors, having coffee with friends, being on a lake, and hanging out with my family and cat.

Camp Manager - Camp Rivervale and Moneto

Pam Tedrow

Pamela Tedrow brings seventeen years of youth ministry, thirteen years of social service experience, and over twelve years in property management to her position at Camp Rivervale. Driven by a sense of urgency to bring children and youth to Christ, Pam has dedicated much of her life to children and youth ministries in southern Indiana. As a camp manager, alongside her husband Steve, Pam’s goals include providing a safe, nurturing place for children to hear the Gospel message, finding and mentoring leaders for the future, and building relationships with the local church. Pam has committed this season of her life to maintaining the facilities, grounds, and programs at Camp Rivervale. In addition to her primary job functions, Pam serves on the children’s ministry team at her church, directs a Royal Family Kids Camp for children in the foster care system, and is continuing her education through Bethel Seminary in Family and Children Ministry. Pam considers her most important discipleship efforts to be those used while raising three children and now impacting the lives of her four grandchildren.

Conference Assistant - Administration & Financial Services

Roscel Carandang

Roscel S. Carandang serves as Conference Assistant for the Annual Conference in the Administration and Financial Ministries Team. She brings with her more than 30 years of administrative experience, in addition to many years in event coordination, media coordination, Web development and design, graphic design, fund development, community organizing and ministry outreach. Always interested in making this world a better place for the growth of God’s kingdom, she volunteers and supports many local not-for-profits from women/family/homeless shelters, feeding the hungry, environmental concerns to animal rescue.

Born in the Philippines and a lifelong Hoosier, Roscel comes from a very large, close-knit Filipino family. She says she attributes her deep love for the Lord from being taught to lead a prayerful life by her grandmother and mother. She is aware that all her talents are God-given and is excited to apply them to promote ministry at the Indiana Conference in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. She lives daily by this Scripture: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Assistant to the Director of Connectional Ministries

Rev. Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner, although raised a United Methodist, first became keenly aware of God’s presence in his life while a teenager on a “Work Camp” trip to the backwoods of Kentucky during which he participated in building a log home for a young widowed mother and her baby. In working with and helping this family, who couldn’t help themselves, he experienced God’s presence in a truly tangible way and from that moment knew that the purpose God had for his life was to be in ministry beside others serving others.

Paul, an experienced pastor, has served 32 years in Indiana Methodism in various capacities including: serving on the Board of Ordained Ministry and various District Committees for 16 years, as lead planner of the Worship Service for Commissioning and Ordination at Annual Conference, and as a District Youth Director.

Having pastored for 31 years and now as the Assistant to the Director of Connectional Ministries for the Conference, Paul brings together the unique experience of local church ministry and institutional ministry.

He was ordained a Deacon in 1991 and Elder in 1993. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Church History, giving him valued insight and interest in collaborating with our Conference Commission on Archives and History, along with a Masters of Divinity from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. His experience, training and personality have provided him with tremendous skills for managing details and diverse tasks, making him a meaningful part of our Conference staff.

He believes that, “We are much more powerful as the people of God when we unite our resources, knowledge and passion in ministry together.” He’s excited about being a member of our Indiana Conference Connectional Ministries Team.

As a self-described baseball fanatic Paul participates in a Fantasy Baseball League, plays softball, has coached many youth and adult softball teams, enjoys attending Indianapolis Indians games — and of course roots for the Major League Angels, “as any good Christian should”. He’s currently writing an interactive book which tests how well the reader would succeed as a baseball manager. When he’s not involved following baseball, he’s found with his wife watching movies, hiking trails and cooking — creating many of his own recipes.

Associate Director of Mission and Justice

Rev. Jen Huff

Rev. Jen Huff is an ordained deacon who has served in different areas as youth minister, director of children’s ministries including after school programs, childcares and preschools, and in the role of associate pastor through the years. She is also working on her certification as a ministry coach. Jen is excited to serve at the conference and district levels because she believes the connection is important, especially for local churches. Jen’s immediate family includes her husband John who is an ordained elder, their three beautiful children, and their goldendoodle puppy. When Jen is not equipping disciples to serve others through Jesus’ love, she is keeping up with her kids, trying new restaurants, and watching movies. From time to time she enjoys getting to camp and travel to the beach.

Conference Assistant

LaToshia Everson

Tosh Everson is the Administrative Assistant for Diversity, Missions, & Justice Ministries. After spending over 15 years working in Higher Education, Tosh is excited to be a part of the INUMC. She has dedicated herself to justice and equity work in her hometown of Greencastle, where she serves on the executive team of the NAACP as well as other community organizations that are focused on cultural development and equity.

Tosh is a part of the leadership board at her church, Gobin United Methodist, and loves singing with the worship team. Her passion for anti-racism education has led her to organizing work with local community organizations, churches, and elementary schools with the ongoing goal of helping others realize our shared humanity and connectedness. In addition to her extensive work in education, she also works with the unhoused population in Greencastle and is an advocate for the disabled through her work with Putnam County Comprehensive Services. Tosh is passionate about social activism, community service, and building relationships.

Tosh holds a BA in Communications from DePauw University

Associate Director of Diversity and Inclusion

Lan Davis Wilson

Lan Davis Wilson is a Kentucky native who has been serving in ministry on church staffs since he was ten years old. He comes to Indiana having served on the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference staff and prior to that as a teaching and worship pastor in the Susquehanna Conference. Lan comes from four generations of pastors and preachers and has traveled the world doing ministry. He is not only a minister and educator, but also a trained coach and consultant.

During the pandemic, he led teams that developed worship and justice resources to aid churches that have been used in every jurisdiction of the US, all around the world and across several other denominations.

From his early days in the small rural church, to his upbringing at a dynamic church in the projects, to one of the fastest growing churches in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, to new church plants, historic churches, and Cross-racial Cross-Cultural assignments, Lan is experienced in many different church settings and enjoys connecting with churches and leaders everywhere.

Conference Assistant

Susie Wild

Susie was born and raised in New Jersey, where she graduated from Rutgers University with degrees in Business Administration and German. Although she is an East Coast native, Fort Wayne has been her home for the past 24 years and also where she and her husband, Chris, chose to raise their 4 children together. Susie has spent the majority of her time here in Fort Wayne raising her children and being a pastor’s wife.

Now facing an empty nest, Susie is ready to dedicate her time and gifts in an administrative capacity and is looking forward to serving The United Methodist Church. In her spare time, she enjoys exercising, staying healthy, gardening, and backpacking.

Conference Assistant

Heather Hilbert

Heather Hilbert is a born & bred Hoosier, growing up on the north side of Indianapolis and attending Indiana University, Bloomington. Not growing up attending church, she came to faith as a 20-something when she began her family. Before long, church was the place Heather felt most herself. Thanks to a sincere UMC pastor who never shied away from Heather’s questions about faith and Jesus, she committed herself to the United Methodist Church and raising her kids in the local church.

She has served on administrative councils, led lay teams, worked on UMC local church staff and now brings her skills & passions to Indiana Conference staff.

Being unchurched until adulthood, she has a particular passion around hospitality and missions in the church, striving to make sure everyone she encounters feels seen, known & loved. When she’s not busy with her family, you can find her cozying up with a good book, studying the Enneagram, or volunteering in the community for a passion project.

Conference Lay Leader

Shannon Priddy

Growing up in the United Methodist Church, my faith grew as I learned to work for justice in the world. It was at my mother’s invitation that I became involved in United Women in Faith through the transformative education now called Mission u. The opportunities I have been afforded through United Women in Faith opened my eyes to injustice everywhere and opened my heart to love in action.

I grew up in the United Methodist Church in northern Illinois. After college at Truman State University, I moved to Boston, MA. I left Boston in 2008 to transition into the Peace Corps, where I served in Armenia from 2009-2011.

Upon returning to the United States in 2011, I settled in Indianapolis, IN to work for nonprofit organizations as a fundraiser. Matching passions and resources, my work at UWF is an expression of God at work in the world. I am an active member at North UMC in Indianapolis.

I am a homeowner in a neighborhood of Indianapolis called Little Flower on the east side of the city. I am active with the INUMC. Growth and possibilities are in the church and UWF. I am thankful to be a delegate to General Conference from Indiana to see our church grow and succeed in the transformation of the world. Growth and possibilities are present in the United Methodist Church and UWF. It is our turn to make good trouble happen!

Senior Conference Assistant - District Services

Robin Brown

Robin Brown began her career in the United Methodist Church as a volunteer in the communications department at a local church office, filling in for the office manager’s extended vacation. Nine years and a certification in Church Business Administration later, she moved from St. Louis, MO to Bloomington, IN where she served as the Church Administrator at FUMC. During that time, Robin oversaw a six million dollar capital campaign and a substantial building and renovation effort. After an opportunity to move into non-profit management, Robin left the church environment and completed ten years of executive management at two different non-profit organizations, leading strategic change as well as financial and program expansion. “Returning to the United Methodist Church has been gratifying in a whole new way,” Robin says. Since 2009, Robin has served as a Conference Assistant to the Central and North Central Districts, as an Associate District Superintendent, and now as the Senior Conference Assistant – District Services. Supporting the Cabinet and Conference Assistants assigned to Districts as they help churches, pastors and laity carry out the ministry of administration fulfills her. Robin’s passion is her large, blended family of seven adult children and 18 grandchildren, all of whom live out of state from the east coast to the west coast. In addition to traveling with her husband to spend time with the family, she loves gardening, decorating, entertaining and reading, and she hasn’t met a grammatical error she wouldn’t love to correct.

Conference Assistant

Katie Starks

Katie Starks, M.T.S. joins the INUMC from the IU School of Medicine where she was an administrative assistant and event planner.

She has a professional background in event management and combined with a Masters of Theological Studies (17) in Biblical Studies and Languages from Perkins School of Theology at SMU in Dallas Texas. Her research interests include the Apostle Paul, the Pauline tree, as well as pre-rabbinical interpretations of the Torah.

Prior to graduate school, she worked with undergraduate students at IUPUI in the Center for Research and Learning. She worked to further their research interests and opportunities in addition to planning campus wide and university wide research events. She believes in doing research at all levels.

Katie lives in Avon and loves to travel in her personal life. She attends Calvary UMC in Brownsburg and has a rabbit named Lola.

Benefits Specialist

Ashley Hobbs

Ashley was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and originally joined the Conference in May of 2018. She has a background specializing in both Finance and Benefits that spans over 10 years. Ashley is currently obtaining her Associates degree in Human Resources. She resides in Mooresville with her two sons, two rescued schnoodles, and attends Mt. Gilead Church. In her free time she loves attending hockey games and will forever be a Pittsburgh Penguins fan. She also appreciates a good book, a heart racing true crime podcast, and being able to explore new hiking trails with her family. Her favorite scripture is: And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4

Conference Assistant - Church Development

Kaitlyn Kilgo

As a compassionate and resilient individual, I’m ready to contribute my unique blend of skills and passion to the Indiana United Methodist Church Conference. Being a devoted single mom to three wonderful kids, I see myself embodying strength, love, and a commitment to family – values that align seamlessly with the heart of the Conference’s mission.

I’m currently on the verge of completing my Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Human Health and Sports Performance. This journey has been a demonstration of my dedication to personal and academic growth, and I view it as a valuable asset, combining scientific knowledge with a compassionate approach to community well-being.

Having previously worked as an administrative assistant, I’ve built a solid foundation in organizational efficiency, communication, and attention to detail. My professional acumen is complemented by a warm and approachable demeanor, making me an ideal fit for fostering a welcoming and organized environment within the Conference.

Beyond the professional realm, I find joy in expressing my creativity through arts and crafts, considering them both a form of self-expression and a source of relaxation. My involvement in church activities isn’t just a commitment; it’s a source of genuine joy and spiritual fulfillment. Moreover, my love for the outdoors reflects a holistic approach to well-being, appreciating the beauty of nature and finding inspiration in its simplicity.

Joining the Indiana United Methodist Church Conference as a Conference Assistant excites me. I look forward to merging my administrative expertise with a heartfelt dedication to the Conference’s mission. With a genuine commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment, I’m eager to contribute to the vibrant and compassionate community within the Conference, where faith, family, and service converge harmoniously.

Resident Bishop

Julius C. Trimble

Bishop Julius C. Trimble was assigned July 16, 2016, to the Indiana Episcopal Area (Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church) by the 184 delegates of the North Central Jurisdictional Conference of The United Methodist Church meeting in Peoria, Illinois. He was elected and consecrated a bishop by the same jurisdiction in 2008 and served eight years as the bishop of the Iowa Conference before his assignment to Indiana.

Trimble is a native of Chicago and a graduate of Illinois State University. He earned his Master of Divinity degree from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago, Ill., and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio.

He was ordained a deacon and elder in the Northern Illinois Conference where he served two churches before transferring to the East Ohio Conference. He served churches in the Cleveland area and as the District Superintendent of the Cleveland District from 1996-2003.

Recipient of many honors and awards, He received the Outstanding Alumni Award in 1998 from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and the 2007 Bishop James S. Thomas Social Action Award from the Methodist Federation for Social Action at Lakeside, OH. He continues to promote faith-based response to domestic violence and has encouraged the establishment of mental health ministries at the local church and conference level. He is also an active advocate for social justice, faith-based initiatives to address gun violence, as well as immigration reform. Trimble has preached throughout the United States and in Africa. He has also written a book, to support The United Methodist Church campaign Imagine No Malaria, A Faithful Church and a Healthy World: Reflections and Poems by Bishop Julius Calvin Trimble (2015). Trimble received 2015 Peace and Justice Award from Iowa Conference MFSA. In December 2017, he was the Graduation Keynote speaker at United Theological Seminary Dayton, Ohio, where he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity for leadership in area of Global Health and Global Justice.

Trimble has been married since May of 1978 to First Lady Racelder Grandberry-Trimble, a professional counselor and graduate of Methodist Theological School in Ohio. They are the parents of three adult children: Cameron, Candiace, and Julius Thomas.

Trimble’s personal mission statement is “to encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential or “Be Encouraged” for short.

Associate Superintendent - Central District

Rev. Meredith McNabb

Meredith McNabb is an ordained elder in the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church, where she served as the Director of the Center for Clergy Excellence from 2014-2019 before moving to Indianapolis to serve in extension ministry at the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, part of the IU-Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. In her early career, Meredith was an attorney, working primarily with low-income victims of domestic violence and on end-of-life planning in rural parts of Virginia. That work led her to answer her call to ministry, working to point out God’s transformative hope and grace in the world. Meredith is completing her internship as a spiritual director with the Benedictine sisters in Beech Grove, and she and her spouse, Mike Davis, live in Indianapolis with their elderly terrier, Murphy.

Conference Superintendent - North Central District

Rev. Saneta Maiko

Saneta Maiko, Ph.D. is a former John Templeton Research Fellow with Indiana University School of Medicine (2017-2019). His clinical research investigated the role of spirituality and religion on the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of metastatic cancer patients. An experienced ordained clergy of the United Methodist, Dr. Maiko is the founder and former executive director of Crime Victim Care of Allen County (Amani Family Services), Chaplain Researcher at Indiana University Health. Dr. Maiko has many years of serving churches and teaching gender and diversity management at Purdue University. He is a respected leader in training Intercultural Competence for Law Enforcement, Social Agencies, Businesses, and Healthcare Systems. Dr. Maiko is Nationally licensed as an Intercultural Development Qualified Administrator and is nationally board certified as a healthcare chaplain. Dr. Maiko is a recipient of several honors and awards. He has authored a book and several articles in medical, leadership, chaplaincy, and youth journals. He is married to Beatrice. They are both blessed with three daughters and a son.

Conference Superintendent - East District & Northeast District

Rev. Russ Abel

Rev. Russ Abel is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ and seeks to live a grace-filled presence in a hurting world. Russ grew up in rural southern Indiana and continues to feel a strong connection to “hills and trees” and finds solace and renewal there. He has lived in northern Indiana since his appointment in Fort Wayne in 2007. Being one of “those people” he loves the winter and spending time as far north as possible. Russ has served the East District since 2019 and the Northeast District since 2021. Growing up in a working-class home, Russ holds deeply the values he learned in that home and strives to remember his roots. He also is very thankful for his military service, Air Force, which helped awaken him to the beauty and blessing of diversity.

A graduate of Indiana University and Christian Theological (Magna) he was also inducted into The International Society of Theta Phi (an honor society for theological students). Ordained in 2000, he continues to be blessed, humbled, and excited by opportunities to serve Jesus. He is most passionate about helping people unlock the story of Jesus in their faith walk.

Russ is committed to his beautiful family and has been especially blessed by his wife, Michelle, of over 30 years and his children Emma (Chad) and Sam (Alyssa). Ask Russ about his grandkids, but make sure you have some time to listen, because he will talk for a long time about them.

Conference Assistant

Susie Wild

Susie was born and raised in New Jersey, where she graduated from Rutgers University with degrees in Business Administration and German. Although she is an East Coast native, Fort Wayne has been her home for the past 24 years and also where she and her husband, Chris, chose to raise their 4 children together. Susie has spent the majority of her time here in Fort Wayne raising her children and being a pastor’s wife.

Now facing an empty nest, Susie is ready to dedicate her time and gifts in an administrative capacity and is looking forward to serving The United Methodist Church. In her spare time, she enjoys exercising, staying healthy, gardening, and backpacking.

Conference Superintendent - North District

Rev. Dr. Marti Lundy

After serving local churches in the Indiana Conference for 28 years, Rev. Dr. Marti G. Lundy now serves as the Conference Superintendent of the North District. She is a native of Columbia City, IN and a lifelong United Methodist. Marti holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Northwestern University, a Master of Divinity from Garrett-ETS, and a Doctor of Ministry from Portland Theological Seminary (formerly George Fox Seminary). Rev. Dr. Lundy has served the Conference in many capacities, some of those include: Chair of Board of Camps and Conferences, Chair of the NE DCOM, and the Committee on Episcopacy. Rev. Dr. Lundy is married to the Rev. Dr. Kent A. Lundy, who serves in extension ministry at the 181st Intelligence Wing, Indiana Air National Guard, Terre Haute. They are the proud parents of Josh, a US Air Force Combat Veteran and full-time member of the 122d Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne and Nathan, a full-time law student at Indiana University McKinney Law School in Indianapolis. Fun fact, she sang the National Anthem at a Cubs game while in college and was a torchbearer for the Indiana Bicentennial for Whitley County.

Associate Superintendent - North District

Rev. Paul Arnold

Paul Arnold serves part-time as an Associate Conference Superintendent in the North District working with churches and pastors in the Central Time Zone of Northwest Indiana. Paul has been a member of the Indiana Conference for forty-two years and officially retired from full-time pastoral ministry in 2014. He has pastored churches of various sizes with worship attendance from 50 to 500 and has a passion for churches to fulfill their missional calling with an emphasis on justice ministry. Paul is also a consultant with Church Growth Services which assists congregations conducting capital campaigns. Paul lives on the shore of Lake Michigan with the sound of water constantly in his head and putting him to sleep at night. He has taken up kayaking and attempts to paddle board. His wife JoAnn, two grown children and their families with his four grandchildren, keep him enthused for life.

Conference Superintendent - Northwest District

Rev. Lore Blinn Gibson

Rev. Lore Blinn Gibson met Jesus as in infant, carried by her parents to be baptized at Star City [United] Methodist Church, where she began her ministry by playing piano and working with children. There she was trained to think outside the box, work hard, and be a team player. Experiences in marching band, choirs, and teaching middle schoolers were the doors God used to invite her into pastoral ministry. After working with local pastors on several District Committee on Ministries and teaching Course of Study, Lore developed a passion for equipping and empowering licensed local pastors and small churches to do whatever it takes to follow the Spirit in transforming lives to become more and more like Jesus. When not driving around the Northwest District in her blue super-mobile, Lore maybe found painting, walking the family dog (Kitty), trying to coax interesting plant life out of the Lafayette clay,learning about and creating art, and history. She’s a proud Winamac Warrior, Indiana State Sycamore, Duke Blue Devil, and adopted Lafayette Jefferson Broncho and above all, a grateful United Methodist who highly values the connection. Lore married Randy, who currently works in medical research for Cook and teaches college ethics. They are the parents of Maia, a UIndy student and soon-to-be teacher, and James, a student at Lafayette Jefferson High School.

Conference Superintendent - South District & Southwest District

Rev. Mitch Gieselman

Rev. Mitchell C. (Mitch) Gieselman has served churches across the Indiana Conference in various capacities since 1974; including Evansville Old North, Rushville St. Paul’s, New Castle First, Plainfield, Hanover, Mt. Vernon First, and Evansville Aldersgate UMC. While his energies focus on being the Chief Missional Strategist of the district, he does so through the particular lens of justice, having been intensively engaged in justice ministries and interfaith dialogue over the past decade. When the demands of being a part of the Extended Cabinet team allow, Mitch escapes into his preferred pastimes of golf, fishing, reading, crossword puzzles, watching baseball, and camping. He is also an avid follower of John and Charles Wesley’s footsteps all over the world. Additionally, he is involved in campus life at the University of Evansville and has lectured, taught in adult education courses, and volunteered in numerous capacities, and served as Chapter Counselor for Sigma Phi Epsilon, a social fraternity for male students. Gieselman received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Evansville in 1978 and Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary in 1981. He is married to the Rev. Dr. Tamara K. Gieselman, also an Elder in the Indiana Conference. The couple has three adult children: son, Cory Gieselman; and daughter, Dana (Lucious) Wagner who live in Evansville and both work for Old National Bank; and son, Jordan (Jennifer) Gieselman, a graphic designer who lives in Bowling Green, KY. The Gieselmans also have five grandchildren: Sydney, Rhyan, Sophie, Malik, and Hakeem who reside in Evansville.

Associate Superintendent - South District

Rev. Douglas Finney

Douglas S. Finney began his ministry in the former Southern Indiana Conference in 1975. Finney served as a student pastor for the Liberty/Freeport Charge in Shelby County, Indiana. While serving there, he completed his Master of Divinity degree from Christian Theological Seminary. Currently, Douglas is appointed to Wickliffe UMC, and also serves an Associate Conference Superintendent for the South District. Throughout this ministerial journey, Douglas has served as District Youth Coordinator, worked on Conference level Church Development, was chair of the former Bloomington District Superintendency Committee, and Church Location and Building Committees. What stands out the most through all these various committees is Finney’s passion for encouragement and sharing Christ’s love for all. Forty-three years of active ministry have allowed Finney to share that experience with younger pastors and those who are new to pastoral ministry. It is a joy for him. Finney’s interest outside of pastoral ministry would include raising a large vegetable garden each season. From the harvest of that garden, Finney and his wife Margaret enjoy home canning. Additionally, Douglas is an active classic car enthusiast. He owns a classic 1968 Plymouth Fury III and a 2001 Chevrolet Corvette which brings a lot of joy. Finney has worked for the last two years at the MECUM Classic Car Auction in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Conference Superintendent - Southeast District

Rev. Dr. In Suk Peebles

Rev. Dr. In Suk Peebles serves as the Conference Superintendent of the Southeast District. In Suk served for 21 years in the United States Air Force Reserve (air national guard) as a chaplain, retiring in 2019 as lieutenant colonel.

She holds degrees in English and Literature from Woosuk University in South Korea and Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary. She has finished her coursework for a Doctor of Ministry degree, also at Christian Theological Seminary, and will receive her DMin later this year.

In addition to serving parishes across the state, In Suk has served on the Indiana Conference Finance and Administration, the South Indiana Conference Board of Pensions, and the Indiana Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

In Suk is married to David, an attorney, and they have two children, Sunny and Faith. She is a self-proclaimed “news junky” on global affairs and enjoys “healthy discussions with my husband while reading the Sunday New York Times and Wall Street Journal after Sunday morning worship (and a nap).”

Conference Assistant

Heather Hilbert

Heather Hilbert is a born & bred Hoosier, growing up on the north side of Indianapolis and attending Indiana University, Bloomington. Not growing up attending church, she came to faith as a 20-something when she began her family. Before long, church was the place Heather felt most herself. Thanks to a sincere UMC pastor who never shied away from Heather’s questions about faith and Jesus, she committed herself to the United Methodist Church and raising her kids in the local church.

She has served on administrative councils, led lay teams, worked on UMC local church staff and now brings her skills & passions to Indiana Conference staff.

Being unchurched until adulthood, she has a particular passion around hospitality and missions in the church, striving to make sure everyone she encounters feels seen, known & loved. When she’s not busy with her family, you can find her cozying up with a good book, studying the Enneagram, or volunteering in the community for a passion project.

Senior Conference Assistant - District Services

Robin Brown

Robin Brown began her career in the United Methodist Church as a volunteer in the communications department at a local church office, filling in for the office manager’s extended vacation. Nine years and a certification in Church Business Administration later, she moved from St. Louis, MO to Bloomington, IN where she served as the Church Administrator at FUMC. During that time, Robin oversaw a six million dollar capital campaign and a substantial building and renovation effort. After an opportunity to move into non-profit management, Robin left the church environment and completed ten years of executive management at two different non-profit organizations, leading strategic change as well as financial and program expansion. “Returning to the United Methodist Church has been gratifying in a whole new way,” Robin says. Since 2009, Robin has served as a Conference Assistant to the Central and North Central Districts, as an Associate District Superintendent, and now as the Senior Conference Assistant – District Services. Supporting the Cabinet and Conference Assistants assigned to Districts as they help churches, pastors and laity carry out the ministry of administration fulfills her. Robin’s passion is her large, blended family of seven adult children and 18 grandchildren, all of whom live out of state from the east coast to the west coast. In addition to traveling with her husband to spend time with the family, she loves gardening, decorating, entertaining and reading, and she hasn’t met a grammatical error she wouldn’t love to correct.

Conference Lay Leader

Shannon Priddy

Growing up in the United Methodist Church, my faith grew as I learned to work for justice in the world. It was at my mother’s invitation that I became involved in United Women in Faith through the transformative education now called Mission u. The opportunities I have been afforded through United Women in Faith opened my eyes to injustice everywhere and opened my heart to love in action.

I grew up in the United Methodist Church in northern Illinois. After college at Truman State University, I moved to Boston, MA. I left Boston in 2008 to transition into the Peace Corps, where I served in Armenia from 2009-2011.

Upon returning to the United States in 2011, I settled in Indianapolis, IN to work for nonprofit organizations as a fundraiser. Matching passions and resources, my work at UWF is an expression of God at work in the world. I am an active member at North UMC in Indianapolis.

I am a homeowner in a neighborhood of Indianapolis called Little Flower on the east side of the city. I am active with the INUMC. Growth and possibilities are in the church and UWF. I am thankful to be a delegate to General Conference from Indiana to see our church grow and succeed in the transformation of the world. Growth and possibilities are present in the United Methodist Church and UWF. It is our turn to make good trouble happen!

Associate DS of Rural Ministry Development

Rev. Andrea Lantz

Andrea has loved God and followed Christ most of her life. She was raised mainly in Wabash, IN with a few years living in MN. It was while in MN that she became connected with the United Methodist Church. Through the prayers and mentoring she found in UMC churches in MN and in Christ UMC in Wabash, she finally gathered the courage to say “yes” to God’s call to ministry.

Andrea is an ordained elder in the United Methodist. She has pastored several churches in Indiana with many of them being rural churches. Andrea is currently the pastor at Woodlawn UMC in Somerset, Indiana. While pastoring, Andrea is also serving as the Associate DS of rural ministry development for the NW District.

Andrea is married to Chris Lantz, also an ordained elder in the UMC. Together they live in Huntington, IN and have three children, Madeleine, Isaac, and Nathaniel. Andrea loves spending time with her family. She is often found having adventures or reading books with her children. She also enjoys board games, jigsaw puzzles, and hiking.

North District Lay Leader

Denise Parker

Denise has been married to her high school sweetheart for 47 years and counting. Together they have 4 grown children, all of whom are married. In 2020, she and her husband lost their 2nd oldest daughter to breast cancer. They have 5 perfect grandchildren with #6 due in December.

Denise attends Elkhart Bethel UMC and has been a member since 1985. She drives a school bus for Concord Community Schools and plans to retire at the end of the coming school year after 34 years of driving. Denise has a heart for Lay Servant Ministries and helping other laity to become better equipped to make disciples of Jesus.

Conference Assistant

Katie Starks

Katie Starks, M.T.S. joins the INUMC from the IU School of Medicine where she was an administrative assistant and event planner.

She has a professional background in event management and combined with a Masters of Theological Studies (17) in Biblical Studies and Languages from Perkins School of Theology at SMU in Dallas Texas. Her research interests include the Apostle Paul, the Pauline tree, as well as pre-rabbinical interpretations of the Torah.

Prior to graduate school, she worked with undergraduate students at IUPUI in the Center for Research and Learning. She worked to further their research interests and opportunities in addition to planning campus wide and university wide research events. She believes in doing research at all levels.

Katie lives in Avon and loves to travel in her personal life. She attends Calvary UMC in Brownsburg and has a rabbit named Lola.

Benefits Specialist

Ashley Hobbs

Ashley was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and originally joined the Conference in May of 2018. She has a background specializing in both Finance and Benefits that spans over 10 years. Ashley is currently obtaining her Associates degree in Human Resources. She resides in Mooresville with her two sons, two rescued schnoodles, and attends Mt. Gilead Church. In her free time she loves attending hockey games and will forever be a Pittsburgh Penguins fan. She also appreciates a good book, a heart racing true crime podcast, and being able to explore new hiking trails with her family. Her favorite scripture is: And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4

Conference Superintendent - East District & Northeast District

Rev. Russ Abel

Rev. Russ Abel is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ and seeks to live a grace-filled presence in a hurting world. Russ grew up in rural southern Indiana and continues to feel a strong connection to “hills and trees” and finds solace and renewal there. He has lived in northern Indiana since his appointment in Fort Wayne in 2007. Being one of “those people” he loves the winter and spending time as far north as possible. Russ has served the East District since 2019 and the Northeast District since 2021. Growing up in a working-class home, Russ holds deeply the values he learned in that home and strives to remember his roots. He also is very thankful for his military service, Air Force, which helped awaken him to the beauty and blessing of diversity.

A graduate of Indiana University and Christian Theological (Magna) he was also inducted into The International Society of Theta Phi (an honor society for theological students). Ordained in 2000, he continues to be blessed, humbled, and excited by opportunities to serve Jesus. He is most passionate about helping people unlock the story of Jesus in their faith walk.

Russ is committed to his beautiful family and has been especially blessed by his wife, Michelle, of over 30 years and his children Emma (Chad) and Sam (Alyssa). Ask Russ about his grandkids, but make sure you have some time to listen, because he will talk for a long time about them.

Associate District Superintendent

Rev. Jim Farrer

Jim Farrer serves as an Associate District Superintendent in the North Central District. Jim retired from full time ministry in 2023 after 40 years of service including six years as a member of the Desert Southwest Conference. He currently is also serving as Chaplain at the Trinity Hope Center in Frankfort. For the remainder of this appointment year, Jim is also the pastor at the Flora UM church in the Northwest District. Jim remains a member of the Spiritual Directors International and a professional member of the International Enneagram Association. He frequently consults with individuals and church staffs using the enneagram to increase self-understanding and team dynamics. Jim enjoys golf and other activities at Wesley Manor where he views both the golf course and deer travels from his home’s kitchen table. Besides golf, Jim enjoys his Harley and Jeep and most of all his family. Jim enjoys visiting with his three children and 12 grandchildren.