CHICAGO, IL – Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN), which advocates for LGBTQ justice and inclusion in The United Methodist Church, is pleased to announce Jan Lawrence as Interim Executive Director, following the departure of Matthew Berryman who has served in the position since 2013.
RMN Photo
Jan Lawrence
Jan Lawrence, interim executive director of Reconciling Ministries Network
Ms. Lawrence has been engaged in the movement for full inclusion in The United Methodist Church since 2012. As a leader on the LGBTQ Inclusion Advocacy Team at Foundry UMC in Washington D.C., she has been responsible for legislative actions, conference outreach, and leading General Conference volunteer teams in 2012 and 2016.
A recent retiree from a career in corporate senior management, Ms. Lawrence brings expertise in program management, change management, and communications with strengths in strategic planning, team building, and organizational development. She also brings a theological understanding gained from being a current student at Wesley Seminary in Washington D.C.
“We are thrilled that Jan has agreed to serve during this transitional capacity in such a critical time for the movement,” said Board Chair David Mauzy. “Her experience with the work of LGBTQ justice in the church paired with her professional background will be an incredible asset to RMN’s leadership as we move towards a special called General Conference in 2019.”
Upon accepting the appointment, Jan remarked, “I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve on the RMN team. As a part of a family that has not always been recognized as such, I have experienced the harm that happens when the church forgets or denies that all are welcome as a part of the body of Christ. I am eager for this opportunity to serve in a role where I can advocate for my passions of church unity and full inclusion for all of God’s children.”
RMN remains committed to building upon the success of decades of movement building witness, and Biblical Obedience in leading the denomination towards a just and inclusive church for all people.
Ms. Lawrence will serve as Interim Director from Washington D.C. beginning on June 1, 2017. RMN wishes Matt Berryman well with new opportunities and thanks him for his years of service working for inclusion in The United Methodist Church.
A search by the RMN board for a permanent executive director will begin shortly.
M Barclay serves as director of communications for Reconciling Ministries Network.