The Redemption Ministries Quadrennial Conference took place Friday and Saturday, June 2nd and 3rd, 2023. The Conference family gathered at the Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
A significant part of this Quadrennial Conference was the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Eastern Virginia Conference, now Redemption Ministries. There were multiple expressions of remembrance, journeying through history, and recognition of God’s faithfulness. A book has been produced by historian Rev. Michael Blythe titled A Centennial Celebration of Redemption Ministries which provides an excellent reflection of the life of the Conference over the past century!
L-R: Pastor Mark Thomas, Pastor Larry Hudnall, Pastor Hans Hess, Pastor Leon Dunner, and Allen Powell
The Friday session was filled with Committee Reports, promotion, and the quadrennium emphasis of “ARISE To Mission.” During this time, the Conference selected to approve the three-term statute of limitations for serving in a single role on the Conference Executive Council. Following this, the attendees were provided a time to fellowship while enjoying a great dinner meal, sponsored by the IPHC Extension Loan Fund. President Travis Lowe gave an excellent presentation on the services and opportunities made available through the ELF.
The evening celebration service was an invigorating time of worship, prayer, and a challenging message by Bishop Hans Hess. The word of the Lord to the conference body was to “launch out into the deep!” and to be freed from the spirit of fear, intimidation, and a poverty mindset. It was then expressed that the goal of the 2023 Global Outreach offering for the conference was to be $30,000.00!
The Saturday morning session began with worship, the Memoirs Report, and Holy Communion. Multiple minsters were honored and had their heavenly promotion celebrated! There was special attention and recognition provided in memory of the dearly beloved Bishop Dayton Birt. The conference family continues to honor his life and legacy.
Bishop Hans provided a stirring, inspiring, and promising State of the Conference address. There will be an increased emphasis on servicing the pastors and ministers of the Conference.
The election of the Conference Executive Council:
• Bishop – Hans Hess
• Assistant Superintendent – Leon Dunning
• Secretary/Treasurer – Larry Hudnall
• Council Member – Mark Thomas
• Council Member – Allen Powell
Credential Committee Report:
Ordained Ministers (by year)
2022
Katrina R. Ethridge
Maria M. Mateos
Misael Orellana
Elizabeth C. Strunk
Jonathan H. Thomas
2023
Walter Byrum
Andrew Delgado
Richard Ragno
Licensed Ministers (by year)
2022
Wanda L. Dentremont
John E. Jewell
Cornelia R. June
Jonathan D. Michalak
John A. Navolis
Kisha F. Prisinzano
Anthony C. Valentine
2023
Matthew Krammes
Heidi Noble
The 2023 Quadrennial Conference concluded by commissioning the newly elected Conference Executive Council with a charge to “lead from your knees!” These were special days marked by the rich presence of God, unity of the body, and an obvious excitement about what lies ahead.
Grace & Peace,
Bishop Garry Bryant
