2025 West Ohio Annual Conference Wrap
The 56th session of the West Ohio Annual Conference, held May 28–31, 2025, at Capital University in Bexley, Ohio, radiated love, joy, and unity under the theme “Rise Up, Beloved,” inspired by Mark 5:35–43. Led by Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, the gathering featured dynamic worship, heartfelt preaching, and deep moments of confession and healing. Worship leaders and preachers — including Bishop Jung and retired Bishops Linda Lee and Bruce Ough — emphasized embracing diversity, reconciling past harms, and reclaiming the inclusive way of Jesus. A powerful litany confessed harm done to marginalized groups, with a call to amend church life and policy in light of Christ’s love for all.
In his first State of the Church address as leader of the newly unified Ohio Episcopal Area, Bishop Jung highlighted the need for Spirit-led collaboration, calling churches to “rise up” in discipleship and mission. He introduced a task team to explore a shared future between East and West Ohio Conferences, with a recommendation expected in 2027. Celebratory moments included ordinations, retirements, and recognition of local pastors and award recipients. Bible studies, led by Dr. AHyun Lee, encouraged courageous honesty and communal healing. Key legislation passed focused on structural reform, budget reductions, clergy compensation, energy-efficient building requirements, and the formation of a task force for LGBTQI+ ministry.
The conference also supported establishing an immigration justice site in Ohio and endorsed seven major legislative recommendations, all adopted. Constitutional amendments adopted at the 2024 General Conference — regarding regionalization, inclusion, racial justice, and clergy voting requirements — were affirmed and await global approval. Music from worship leader Mark Miller reinforced the conference’s spirit with the refrain, “Rise up, Beloved, God isn’t finished with us yet.” The 2025 gathering concluded with a unified call to continue building a beloved, inclusive, and mission-driven Church.