Visit this page during the month of August for video reflections from clergy (shared below). It’s a tribute to the foresight of the late Royce Reynolds and his wife, Jane, who hoped to make a lasting contribution to the church they love.
“We have one purpose – to make disciples for Christ,” Royce often said. This belief led the Greensboro couple to create the Royce and Jane Reynolds Ministry Fund of the United Methodist Foundation of Western North Carolina.
Many clergy say their experience in the church leadership program sparked a sense of renewal and purpose. For many, it prompted a shift toward healthier relationships with colleagues and loved ones.
As we give thanks for 600 alumni representing five conferences in the Southeastern Jurisdiction, we also recommit to the work God calls us to do. The next cohort of the Reynolds Program in Church Leadership convenes Aug. 26-28.
Day 10: Rev. Susan Heafner-Heun
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Susan Heafner-Heun, a member of the Class of 2020 and pastor of Christ UMC in Charlotte. A Charlotte native, Susan attended Duke University for a year before shifting to Union Theological Seminary in New York City. She holds a doctor of ministry in social justice from Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury.
Day Nine: Rev. Dr. Sam Moore, Jr.
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Dr. Samuel Moore, Jr., a member of the Class of 2001 and district superintendent for the Yadkin Valley District. Sam previously served Hickory Grove UMC in Charlotte. From 2008-2015, he was district superintendent for the Northeast and Uwharrie districts.
Day Eight: Rev. Bev Coppley
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Bev Coppley, a member of the Class of 2014 currently serving as district superintendent for the Northern Piedmont District. Bev held a number of appointments in local church ministry.
Day Seven: Rev. Mark Conforti
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Mark Conforti, a member of the Class of 2020 currently serving First United Methodist Church of Salisbury. A south Florida native, Mark grew up attending a United Methodist congregation and has a particular interest in clergy mentoring.
Day Six: Rev. Laura Auten
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Laura Auten, a member of the Class of 2005. Laura returned to local church ministry in 2023 after eight years as district superintendent for the Uwharrie District. She serves South Point UMC in Belmont.
Day Five: Rev. Randy Blanton
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Randy Blanton, a member of the Class of 2006 and pastor of Aldersgate UMC in Shelby.
Day Four: Rev. Pam Blackstock
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Pam Blackstock, who answered the call to ministry following a distinguished career as a teacher and public schools advocate. Pam serves St. Paul UMC in Winston-Salem and is also a Foundation board member.
Day Three: Rev. Jae Lee
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Jae Lee, a familiar face in the Western North Carolina Conference thanks to his service in the local church and as district superintendent for the Smoky Mountain District. Jae is the first Asian-American to hold such a role in the WNCC.
Day Two: Rev. Holly McKim
Today’s reflection comes from Rev. Holly McKim, a member of the Class of 2024. Holly recently transitioned to an appointment at Spruce Pine UMC following 10 years at Hudson UMC.
Day One: Revs. Janice Virtue and Tom Latimer share the origin story
Foundation earns highest rating for financial management
Independent auditors at Foard and Company have given (graded, if you will) the Foundation’s financial stewardship the highest rating (an unqualified opinion).
With lower threshold, church loans serve wider range of needs
Church loans are now available for as low as $50,000, a change that enables the Foundation's UMF Development Fund Loan Program to better respond to the needs of those it serves.
Tomorrow’s leaders serving in your church today
The Foundation partners with individuals, families and other funders to provide scholarships for students pursuing their dreams through higher education. Meet some of this year's recipients.