Building Bridges: Conference

Tim Bias has been a leader within the Illinois Great Rivers Conference since his arrival in 1999.

Serving on the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, Bias led the Board through a process that resulted in a ministerial effectiveness document and has modeled what it means to be in covenant community. “I have worked with Tim for seven years on the Board of Ordained Ministry,” said Rev. Deryck Sonaram, BOM chair. “He has compassion for pastors coming through the process that will serve him well as bishop.”

Tim has taught in UMW Schools of Christian Mission in both West Virginia and Illinois.

“Tim has been supportive of the UMW as a pastor and Conference leader as well as being part of the General Board of Global Ministries,” said Carolyn Yockey, IGRC President of UMW. “Our conference UMW experienced spiritual growth and new insights as Tim led the Spiritual Growth study, Shalom, Peace, Salaam at the Conference School of Christian Mission.”

In both 2004 and 2008, the Illinois Great Rivers Conference and its general and jurisdictional conference delegation selected Tim Bias to both lead the delegation as well as to offer him as its episcopal nominee.

As bishop, Tim Bias will develop systems which identify and develop the clergy and lay leaders needed to give effective leadership and support to the strategic direction of the denomination. Specific attention will be given to identifying and developing young adult leaders.

“As part of the faculty for Tim’s national Pastors in Transition program, I know Tim as someone who both expounds and exemplifies true servant leadership,” says Rev. Charles Anderson, pastor of University UMC in San Antonio, Texas.

“Pastors in Transition embodies Tim’s commitment to the local church, Tim’s passion for making disciples, and Tim’s heart for those who pastor. Tim is an innovator in ministry, a mentor to his peers, and a visionary in the Wesleyan spirit – in short, a leader.”