In keeping with the movement to fulfill the District’s purpose by resourcing local churches, the District Superintendent has been in the process of redefining his role.

“In my two years on the District I’ve found that as an authority figure in the United Methodist Church, the District Superintendent sometimes finds it difficult to build relationships of trust and cooperation with local churches,” said Topeka D.S., Kent Melcher.  “Many local church members see the D.S. only at Church Conferences, where the Superintendent often has to interpret and enforce the Discipline.  I would rather be known as a colleague in ministry with local churches and pastors instead of the ‘bureaucrat from Topeka’ who ‘lays down the law’.”

In order to build relationships of trust and mutual encouragement, Kent is planning informal time this summer in District Cluster settings.  His purpose will be to dialogue with clergy and laity about the challenges they face doing ministry in their communities, and how the D.S. and the DCOM can assist local churches in meeting those challenges.  Pastors will be invited for a late afternoon discussion with the D.S., followed by dinner with laity from cluster churches.  The evening will conclude with another session of discussions with laity and clergy.

“My goal is to build good will, open communication, and a sense that we are all in this together,” Kent said.  “I want to help strengthen local churches for the ministry and mission of Jesus Christ.”

Topeka District Cluster Groups

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