by Alyssa Fisher, Director of Communications
On Saturday, September 21, the North District community gathered at Santa Clarita United Methodist Church for a vibrant and heartfelt service celebrating Rev. Garth Gilliam’s installation as North District Superintendent. The event began with worship at 11 AM and was a collaborative effort of musicians and ministry leaders from around the district, bringing together voices and talents for a truly special occasion.
Rev. Rachel Tabutol, pastor of Santa Clarita UMC, Rev. Dr. Angela Galanis Price (Chair of the North District Superintendency Committee), and Rev. Kalesita Tu’ifua (Knollwood UMC) took part in the service. The scripture readings, Ezekiel 34:11-16 and Ephesians 4:1-7; 11-16, were presented by young people from the district, echoing Rev. Garth’s focus on outreach to young people and young families. Special music was provided by soloist Terrell Moran, Rev. Garth’s brother in-law.
Rev. Melissa McKinnon (North District Change Manager) introduced the new DS, who was presented with several symbolic gifts from clergy and lay leaders in the district. The gifts included a Bible, water from the River Jordan, bread and a cup, a hymnal and a Book of Worship, a Book of Discipline, and a stole, specially commissioned by the superintendency committee.
The sermon, delivered by Rev. James “Jim” Powell of St. Matthew’s UMC in Newbury Park, reflected on the gifts and calling of the role of District Superintendent as a Chief Missional Strategist, emphasizing the spiritual leadership and vision needed to guide the North District forward. Pastor Ervin Aguilon (North Hills Hispanic Mission) and Rev. Adrian Garcia (Pacoima First UMC) lead prayers in Spanish, lifting up the district and laying hands on its new leader.
In his remarks, Rev. Garth introduced his family, including his wife, daughter, and son, and shared about the blessings and challenges of stepping into his new role. He spoke about his passion for reaching young people and young families in our conference, shared his plans to establish an “Impossible Mission Task Force,” and the goal to bring together the wide-reaching North District in community events. He closed his remarks with a “North District rap,” which is not to be missed and can be seen in the YouTube live stream below from 1:15:55 to 1:20:30:
The service concluded with a special offering supporting Urban Kids Camp and Cal-Pac Camper Sponsorships. The special offering at the service supported Urban Kids Camp and Cal-Pac Camper Sponsorships. During the offering, Delaney Porter, Rev. Garth’s goddaughter, offered a special praise dance performance.
Following the worship, attendees enjoyed a BBQ and a variety of fun activities including music, corn hole, and a bounce house. The day was a joyful celebration of Rev. Garth’s leadership, the shared calling of ministry, and the bright future ahead for the district.
