Jean Bush, Director of Leadership and Program Development, to retire July 1, 2010
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By Matt Kuzma, Director of Communications
mkuzma@umcnic.org
After nearly 40 years of service in local churches and on the Northern Illinois Conference staff, Jean Bush will be retiring as Director of Leadership and Program Development on July 1. Jean's passion for ministry in the United Methodist Church has led her to serve in many different roles, including local pastor, diaconal minister and Director of Leadership. She has been a part of the conference staff and Director of Leadership and Program Development since 1996.
During the last few years Jean's focus has been on training new leaders in local churches in small group ministries, spiritual formation, children's ministries, and effective church organization. Jean has also been instrumental in fostering the implementation of Safe Sanctuary standards for local churches, training more than 3,000 adults about the guidelines and best practices that keep children, youth and adults safe.
Jean is also the lead coordinator for our Annual Conference in June, which brings more than 1,000 clergy and lay leaders together for worship, discussion and celebration.
"I will miss working with local churches-small, medium, and large-encouraging, energizing and empowering them in mission and ministry of the church," Jean said. "And I will miss the laity and clergy who have devoted their time in helping others grow into leadership in their local churches and in the conference."
"But," she added, "my husband, George, and I probably won't miss the the 6:00 a.m. drives most weekends to get across the conference."
Jean said she looks forward to spending more time with her husband, three children and five grandchildren.
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung celebrated Jean's career of ministry:
"We are grateful for Jean's many years of leadership and dedication to the Northern Illinois Conference. Jean's energy and spirit have done much to empower our discipleship efforts. We pray that in retirement Jean will enjoy time with family and the many friends she has made across the United Methodist Connection."
Director of Connectional Ministries, Rev. Chris Pierson, said:
"The NIC and staff will miss Jean's dedication and the many gifts that she has shared in her service to God and God's people. Jean has been a valued colleague of mine in ministry since we came to know each other through a post-seminary group many years ago. I know that Jean will enjoy this stage of her life that begins with retirement; she cherishes the time that she will be able to spend with her children and grandchildren. On behalf of the staff and conference leadership that has worked with Jean throughout the years, we wish her well.
NIC leaders and the conference personnel committee will release details soon on how conference staffing will adjust due to Jean's departure. In the meantime, we lift up our sister Jean in prayer and thank her for service and dedication.
Please send notes of congratulations to Jean Bush at:
NIC Program Office 217 Division Street, Elgin, IL 60120
jbush@umcnic.org
847-931-0710, extension 14
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