Report on 244th Virginia Annual Conference

The 244th Session of the Virginia Annual Conference was held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, at the Atlantic Union Bank Center from June 17–20, 2026. I, along with Pastor Brian, Larissa Luma and 2 of our youth, Ferdinand and Tony Clement attended. The conference continued under the banner of “A Conference in Three Movements”. This year marked the second movement, the historical movement, by focusing on “Reclaiming the Heart of Methodism”.
Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson led the conference, which included a Laity Address by Martha Stokes, who reflected on themes of faith, identity, and spiritual mentorship through the lens of 2 Timothy 1:4–7. Worship was a central focus, featuring an Opening Worship service, a Memorial Service preached by Rev. David McAllister-Wilson, and a Juneteenth Worship service.

Business conducted during the conference included the passage of reports regarding equitable compensation, pension and health benefit support, and a single-payer plan. Recognitions were held for various ministries and retirements, including the ministry of Rev. M.J. Kim, which benefited from a newly created fund to support immigrant clergy.
 Additionally, the conference recognized several congregations with "Wesley Flame" awards for their innovative ministries and celebrated new ordinations and pastoral appointments.

The conference also featured presentations from Dr. Ashley Boggan and Rev. Dr. Candace Lewis, who challenged attendees to reclaim the heart of their mission by focusing on heart renewal, small-group discipleship, and a willingness to challenge unjust systems.
All of the session videos and further details may be viewed at https://vaumc.org/ac2026-session-recordings/.