Rev. Gary Jones to Retire October 1

It is with a deep sense of gratitude, and a little sadness that we share the upcoming retirement of Rev. Gary Jones, director of East Ohio Camping and Retreat Ministries.

For 24 years, Rev. Jones has offered faithful, innovative, and strategic leadership, touching thousands of lives. His unwavering commitment to camping ministries as vital spaces for faith formation and evangelism has been a hallmark of his service.

Rev. Jones will retire effective October 1, 2025. As we honor his remarkable ministry, the Connectional Ministries offices of both the East Ohio and West Ohio Conferences will collaborate with their respective teams to ensure the continued vitality of our beloved camps and retreat ministries, which Rev. Jones has so faithfully stewarded for more than two decades.

The Cabinet and Conference staff will hold a luncheon in honor of Rev. Jones on October 6. If you would like to celebrate Gary's ministry, we invite you to participate in raining cards of joy upon him. Please send your card(s) to Rev Gary Jones, 8800 Cleveland Ave. NW, North Canton, Ohio 44720 before October 4. 

With deep appreciation,

Rev. Ed Fashbaugh, East Ohio Executive Director of Connectional Ministries

Rev. Karen Cook, West Ohio Executive Director of Connectional Ministries