May 3rd 2024.
The United Methodist Church has achieved a significant milestone by appointing Bishop Tracy S. Malone as the first Black woman president of its Council of Bishops. This momentous occasion was celebrated by nearly 800 delegates and observers at the General Conference on April 30, as Bishop Malone graciously accepted the mantle from outgoing President Bishop Thomas Bickerton. “I am deeply honored to serve as the President of the Council of Bishops during these challenging and hopeful times for our beloved United Methodist Church,” she declared with a sense of pride and responsibility. “I recognize the sacred trust that has been placed upon me and I am ready to fulfill my duty with the help of God’s spirit, which is moving in new and exciting ways within our Church.”
Bishop Tracy S. Malone, who currently serves as the resident bishop of the East Ohio Conference, has been elected for a two-year term as president, which will come to an end in May 2026. Her steadfast leadership during this transformative period for the denomination has been highly praised by the East Ohio Conference News. The news outlet also reported Malone's introduction of her Episcopal colleagues, including Bishop Ruben Saenz as the new president-designate and Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, who is beginning his second term as secretary. “We are rejoicing in what God has accomplished and what He continues to do as we, as a Council, guide and shepherd our beautiful and beloved United Methodist Church towards its next expression, in alignment with God’s vision for His Church,” Malone expressed with heartfelt enthusiasm.
The executive team is further strengthened by the addition of Bishop Gregory V. Palmer as the new executive secretary, and retired Bishops Hope Morgan Ward and Rosemary Wenner, who will serve as co-ecumenical officers, fostering relationships with other denominations. Bishop Malone is grateful for God’s guidance and looks forward to bringing her unique gifts, wisdom, and experience to her new role as President of The Council of Bishops and her leadership within the Church. “I am fully prepared to serve with all that I am and to fulfill my duties with dedication and devotion,” she affirmed.
Bishop Malone was officially elected as president during the COB meeting at Lake Junaluska in November 2023, and her colleagues have full confidence in her ability to lead with grace and wisdom. As Bishop Malone embarks on this new journey, she is filled with hope and anticipation for what God has in store for the present and future of The United Methodist Church.
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