The Council of Bishops is made up of all active and retired bishops of The United Methodist Church. The Council meets twice a year. According to the Book of Discipline, "The Church expects the Council of Bishops to speak to the Church and from the Church to the world and to give leadership in the quest for Christian unity and interreligious relationships." [Paragraph 427.2]
Along with a staff of supportive individuals, the Council of Bishops works to fulfill the mission of teaching, equipping and encouraging.
Here one will find courses to help individuals and groups engage in the quest for Christian unity and interreligious relationships.
Grace and peace to you!
I'm Dr. David Field
The Dr. David Field serves as an Ecumenical Staff Officer for the Council of Bishops. His areas of responsibility include the bi-lateral dialogues and full communion coordinating committees of The UMC, and staffing the United Methodist Committee on Faith and Order. He began in this role in 2021.
Grace and peace to you!
I'm Rev. Dr. Jean Hawxhurst.
The Rev. Dr. Jean G. Hawxhurst serves as an Ecumenical Staff Officer for the United Methodist Council of Bishops. Her responsibilities include general ecumenical engagement with organizations and groups, and leadership development. She has served in this appointment for over 4 years. Dr. Hawxhurst holds a BA degree in mathematics and education from the University of Richmond, an MDiv degree in theology from Lexington Theological Seminary, and a DMin degree from Louisville Seminary, with a focus on theological diversity. She is an ordained elder in the Kentucky Annual Conference, and prior to this appointment served three local congregations and as a District Superintendent.