UMC announces changes in executive leadership

UMC announces changes in executive leadership

UMC Announces Leadership Transition and Structural Reforms

The United Methodist Church (UMC) has announced significant changes in executive leadership and structural realignments, reflecting broader efforts to adapt to financial and demographic shifts within the denomination. Key updates include the appointment of Richard Vance as the new General Secretary of United Methodist Men, effective October 1, 2025, and the ratification of a constitutional amendment reorganizing the church into globally equitable regional conferences.

Richard Vance, previously Director of Operations for United Methodist Men, succeeds Bishop James Swanson, Sr., who will retire on December 31, 2025, after serving as interim general secretary. Vance, an ordained elder with over 30 years of ministry experience, emphasized his commitment to advancing the agency's mission of equipping men for spiritual growth and service. Swanson will transition to a coaching role during the leadership handover.

Simultaneously, the UMC ratified a constitutional amendment establishing "Worldwide Regionalization," creating regional conferences in the U.S., Africa, Europe, and the Philippines with equal legislative authority. This restructuring aims to decentralize decision-making and align governance with local contexts while maintaining doctrinal unity. The U.S. regional conference will be organized by an interim committee appointed by the Council of Bishops, with implementation planned ahead of the 2028 General Conference.

Financial sustainability remains a priority, as highlighted by the Michigan Conference's recent staff reductions and budget adjustments. Conference leadership attributed these measures to declining membership and contributions, with Ministry Shares pay-in rates falling below 72% in 2024. While regionalization and leadership transitions aim to enhance operational efficiency, challenges persist in stabilizing cash reserves and aligning resources with mission goals.

These developments underscore the UMC's ongoing efforts to balance structural modernization with financial resilience amid evolving global and cultural dynamics.