Last summer, some members of the Great Lakes Annual Conference met a leader from Oasis Conference, a missional partner of the conference, whose courage and faith left an indelible mark on our hearts. Despite urgent warnings about the dangers in his city—despite friends and fellow believers pleading with him to seek asylum elsewhere—he made the difficult choice to stay. To remain with his people. To continue the work God has called him to, no matter the cost. Recently, that cost became devastatingly real. Armed men invaded his home, carrying machetes. They threatened his wife and children and waited to ambush him when he returned. Only by God's grace and a timely warning did he escape that day. This is not a another news story to gloss over. This is our brother in Christ. His family is our family. His danger is our concern. The Oasis Conference serves an overseas region of the world where it is dangerous to share the Gospel and many worship in underground churches. There is an urgent need right now: a safe haven in a more secure city where this leader and perhaps others like him can flee with their families when violence closes in. The GLAC has been invited to contribute $10,000 to help fund this refuge. We're asking small groups, local churches, individuals, and districts across our conference to come together during this season of giving. Every gift—whether $25, $100, or $1,000—brings us closer to this goal. We will update you weekly through the end of the year on our progress. Any amount raised beyond $10,000 will be directed to Oasis Conference's most pressing needs as determined by their leaders. Will you stand with our brothers and sisters who are standing for the Gospel at great personal risk?
Conference Superintendent Scott Pattison is pleased to announce the appointment of Rev. Stan Pegram as Interim Dean of the Cabinet, effective immediately. Rev. Pegram currently serves as pastor of Connexion Church in Kokomo, Indiana. He previously served as Presiding Elder of the former Wisconsin West district, where he led Backroads Church in and around Boscobel, Wisconsin. Known for his pastoral heart and innovative approach to ministry, Rev. Pegram brought together seven churches in rural Wisconsin to create a thriving multi-site ministry model. "Stan has demonstrated exceptional leadership and creativity in his ministry," said Superintendent Pattison. "His experience as both a pastor and past Presiding Elder, combined with his collaborative spirit, makes him ideally suited for this important role." As Dean of the Cabinet, Rev. Pegram will serve as a strategic partner to the Conference Superintendent and Presiding Elders across the four-state region. Like the majority of Presiding Elders, Rev. Pegram will continue to serve a local church while serving on the Cabinet part-time. His responsibilities include working with the Conference Superintendent to support Presiding Elders, shepherd ongoing work, and strategize for the future of pastors and congregations. "I'm humbled and honored to serve the conference in this capacity," said Rev. Pegram. "My goal is to support our Presiding Elders and strengthen our collective ministry across the region." Rev. Pegram can be reached at stan.pegram@greatlakesgmc.org .
The Great Lakes Annual Conference (GLAC) is thrilled to welcome Carol Perry as its new Office Manager. Carol began serving in mid-November 2025, and her enthusiasm is already lighting up the team. From her home in Illinois, where she is an active member of Grace Methodist Church in Decatur, Carol will serve as the first point of contact with the GLAC office. She will be managing the phone system, general email, maintaining the conference calendars, and overseeing data management—making sure you are connected and supported. Carol is very familiar with the GLAC, having served on the conference prayer team and as co-district prayer point person for the IL Central district, where she has been faithfully interceding for churches. She also brings a long-term familiarity with the Wesleyan Covenant Association and Global Methodist Church. Carol's journey has always been about serving others. She spent two decades in public schools as a special education teaching assistant, bringing patience and compassion to students who needed it most. Before that, she worked in social work, advocating for vulnerable populations. Now she is bringing all that experience—and all that heart—to serve the conference. "I am very excited about this opportunity to serve the Lord in this new way!" Carol shared. Whether you have questions, need assistance, or just want to say hello, Carol is available: EMAIL: carol.perry@greatlakesgmc.org PHONE: (463) 202-6032
