The California-Pacific Annual Conference announces the departure of Rev. Dr. Denyse Barnes, effective March 2, 2025. Rev. Dr. Barnes, an Elder in Full Connection, has served in Cal-Pac since 2018 and has been the Director of Justice and Compassion Ministries since 2021. Rev. Dr. Barnes provided dedicated leadership in advancing the conference’s justice and compassion initiatives, including the LGBTQIA+ strategy group, resources for asylum seekers, and disaster relief efforts. She will be going on personal leave (¶354.2a) and will be relocating back to England with her wife.

As the conference continues its restructuring process, discernment is underway regarding the future of this position and how the vital work of justice and compassion will be carried forward. An announcement will be made soon about the next steps in ensuring that this essential ministry remains a strong and active part of our shared mission.

Erin Hawkins, Executive Director of Connectional Ministries, shared, “Rev. Dr. Denyse Barnes has been a steadfast leader and advocate for justice and compassion in our conference. Her dedication to serving the most vulnerable, equipping churches for meaningful ministry, and advancing justice work has made a lasting impact. We give thanks for her faithful service and pray for blessings as she steps into this new season of life.”

Please join us in wishing Rev. Dr. Barnes well in her next chapter.