From Bishop Burgos: Announcement of New Conference Superintendent

Dear siblings in ministry,

Grace and peace to you in the precious name of Jesus Christ as this new year unfolds, full of hope and possibilities to serve Jesus Christ.

This past fall, I announced the retirement of Rev. Dr. Gary Weaver, which created an opening for Conference Superintendent to serve in the River Valley District.

Superintendents serve as spiritual leaders, chief missional strategists, and overseers for their assigned districts. Alongside the cabinet and the resident bishop, they develop strategies and guide clergy and laity in their districts to form passionate disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously - so that lives, communities, and the world are transformed by the healing and liberating love of God.

After a process that included gathering input, consultation, and deep prayerful discernment, I am pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Don Rowe as Conference Superintendent for the River Valley District, effective July 1, 2026.

Rev. Rowe brings both experience and a deep commitment to The United Methodist Church and the local church. He is passionate about people and local congregations. Currently, Rev. Rowe serves as pastor of Red Lion Bethany Church. He has also served other churches within the Susquehanna Conference, as chaplain for the Children’s Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio, and in extension ministry as pastor of Outreach and Discipleship in Ripon, California.

Rev. Rowe’s commitment to mission and ministry extends both locally and globally, including work with inner-city and urban homeless communities on the East Coast, as well as service in Mexico, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Malawi.

He is a graduate of Messiah University and earned a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary. He has also completed the three-year Beeson Institute for Advanced Church Leadership through Asbury Seminary. Rev. Rowe is married to Sarah, and they have three sons and one daughter-in-law.

This appointment reflects our shared commitment to cultivating vibrant, regenerative, diverse, strategic leadership across the Conference. Rev. Rowe has a passion for serving diverse communities and a strong dedication to the local church and the people in our communities.

Please join me in celebrating Rev. Don Rowe’s ministry and in keeping him, his family, and his congregation in our prayers as they enter this season of transition.

Together in mission and ministry,