The days of the circuit riding preacher may be returning to the 21st century. Noted Methodist clergyman Peter Cartwright, who once served as a minister at Wesley United Methodist Church in Macomb, would be amazed at how the process has evolved for three area United Methodist Churches.
For the last several months, Bushnell United Methodist and Walnut Grove United Methodist have been without pastoral leadership. Former pastors Randy and Crystal Burwell were reassigned to the Industry and Rushville UMCs. This prompted District Superintendent James Fielder of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference UMC to explore the creation of a parish system.
It’s no secret that religious denominations are struggling with supplying ministers for all of their congregations.
After all, a church is more than a building; it’s a group of people who freely gather for spiritual communion.
Having a pastor in each pulpit is at the heart of that worship.
