The Oregon and Pacific Northwest Conferences are taking intentional steps to establish a new annual conference together.
This effort is part of the broader direction our Bishops are leading the Free Methodist Church nationally. We are joining this Spirit-led movement already unfolding across the U.S. Our Conferences are expected to vote on its formation in 2027.
THE “WHY?”
God is stirring our Board of Bishops to lead the Free Methodist Church into a new Spirit-fueled movement. This movement, rooted in Ephesians 4, calls us to reimagine how we can support local churches, leaders, and pastors by equipping God’s people for ministry. It will involve teams working together to multiply disciples, raise up leaders, and plant churches.
– OREGON SUPERINTENDENT ROBROY RANGER –
"We can't just take old structures and rename them. That's not a new conference, that's a costume. What we need is the courage to ask what structures actually serve the mission in front of us today? So the question isn't simply, 'should we do this?' The question is, 'What might God be able to do if we say yes?'"
– PNWC SUPERINTENDENT CATHY TASTAD –
"The map that brought us here does not always show us what comes next – what roads to take, what exits and on-ramps there are. But I want to say this clearly: we are not erasing what came before. What we are doing is asking what kind of conference can serve the work in front of us right now."
Tentative Timeline
Late 2026/Early 2027: Superintendents, Task Forces, Boards of Administration, and Bishop continue work on the timeline and other details needed to prepare for the vote. Broader communication with pastors and churches will focus on timeline updates, the meaning of the vote, and creating Connect Groups for Lead Pastors.
Spring 2027: Each conference votes separately on whether to create a new conference together. A yes vote begins the transition work; it does not immediately establish the new conference.
2027–2028: If approved, PNWC and Oregon continue operating as existing conferences while legal, financial, governance, staffing, and operational work prepares the new conference for launch.
Spring 2028: The Convening Annual Conference formally launches the new conference, which begins operating as the new entity. The formal superintendent search begins after the new conference is convened and the appropriate leadership bodies are in place.
2028–2029: The new conference operates while remaining transition work is completed, systems are refined, existing conference structures are unwound, and annual conference members vote on the new superintendent after the search process concludes.
FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT THE FAQ PAGE
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With the New Conference, we expect:
Stronger connections and support where every congregation and leader, regardless of size or context, has the resources necessary to thrive in their mission rather than just survive.
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Access to leadership teams equipped to support you, especially during growth, transition, or challenge seasons. This structure is designed to strengthen relationships and foster collaboration so no one has to lead alone.
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A conference where leaders of every generation and background are equipped, supported, and released to thrive in the mission God has given them. Whether your church is multiethnic, rural, suburban, urban, large, or small, your story and context matter.
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Thriving, mission-focused leaders and churches as we align our time, systems, people, and resources around what matters most.
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Shared ownership and voice. You are part of something that will be intentionally shaped through listening and prayer for this generation and the next.
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