A New Blessing for Retired Clergy & Spouses: The Shepherd’s Fund Comes to Rio Texa

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Attention Rio Texas Retired Clergy & Spouses!

A wonderful new blessing is coming your way – The Shepherd’s Fund is now available to help retired clergy, their spouses, and surviving spouses with medical-related bills and unexpected expenses (up to $10,000 every 12 months—no financial means test!). This is open to both ordained and licensed clergy, as long as you retired from The Rio Texas Annual Conference (or Rio Grande and Southwest Texas) – even if you are serving a church as retired supply!

Applications open October 27th.

To learn more, join us at one of the informational meetings with Dr. Derek McAleer.
Choose the location most convenient for you—spouses, adult children, and caregivers welcome!

Meeting Dates & Locations:

Mon, Oct 27, 2025
• 9–10 AM | Weslaco | First UMC Weslaco
• 2–3 PM | Corpus Christi | First UMC Corpus Christi

Tue, Oct 28, 2025
• 10–11 AM | San Antonio | La Trinidad – San Antonio
• 2–3 PM | Seguin | La Trinidad UMC – Seguin

Wed, Oct 29, 2025
• 10–11 AM | San Marcos | First UMC – San Marcos
• 2–3 PM | Austin | Bethany UMC – Austin

Thu, Oct 30, 2025
• 11:45 AM–12:45 PM | San Antonio | Alamo Heights UMC (WOP Mtg)
• 3–4 PM | Kerrville | First UMC – Kerrville

👉 To register or ask questions:
lguillen@riotexas.org | 📞 (210) 408-4548

The Shepherd’s Fund has already provided 1,019 grants totaling $9.9M across 17 conferences in the South East and South Central Jurisdiction — and now it’s coming to Rio Texas!

✅ ITEMS COVERED: hearing aids, dental care, prescriptions, co-pays, mobility equipment, home modifications, in-home care & more.
✅ WHO QUALIFIES: For ordained AND licensed clergy retired from Rio Texas (or former Rio Grande/SWTX) — even if serving as retired supply.
✅ Confidential + Easy online application.

We hope to see you there—don’t miss this incredible opportunity!

Rio Texas Conference Welcomes Tony LoBasso as Incoming Director of Financial Services

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By: Rev. Amanda Banda, Director of Communications, Rio Texas Conference

Tony lobasso – Incoming Director of Financial Services for Rio Texas, effective April 1, 2026. Photo courtesy of Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

The Rio Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church is pleased to announce that Tony LoBasso will join the Conference staff on April 1, 2026, as the next Director of Financial Services.

After exploring several candidates, the Conference is confident that Tony is the best choice to lead our Financial Services into the future. He brings more than 40 years of extensive financial and accounting leadership to this role. Since 2014, he has served as Chief Financial Officer at Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM), where he was responsible for the organization's overall financial health. Under his leadership, MHM's budget grew from $58.2 million to $213.6 million, with zero external audit findings. 

He also guided the organization through milestones such as property acquisitions, federal grant partnerships, and upcoming system upgrades.

Tony's career began in public accounting, serving large financial institutions and health care/health insurance clients. Over the years, his work has spanned health insurance, specialty medical care, and hospital systems, giving him a broad foundation for financial stewardship. He also brings extensive experience in investments, real estate, and general business law, an expertise that will serve the Conference well. 

A graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, Tony is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. He has also faithfully served the Rio Texas Conference, including on the Pensions and Benefits Committee since 2016 and as its President/Chairman since 2019.

Tony and his wife, Carrie, are active members of Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, where they serve on the Foundation Investment Committee and Finance Committee. They have two grown children and one grandchild.

Reflecting on this transition, Tony shared:

"I have enjoyed the last 12 years serving MHM clients and our Board of Directors, and look forward to serving the Rio Texas Conference and developing further partnerships between MHM and the Conference."

Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey welcomed Tony with these words:

"Tony brings a wealth of experience in accounting, insurance, property, and investments—expertise that is especially needed in this season of the church. Even more, he brings a deep heart for ministry and a call rooted in faith. I am excited to welcome him into this role and look forward to the impact of his leadership."

Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries, reflected on Tony's legacy at MHM:

"He is an extraordinary leader, colleague, and friend to all of us. His commitment to MHM is evident in his excellent work ethic and tremendous contributions to furthering our mission. Tony will leave a legacy of leadership and wisdom for many years to come."

As the Conference prepares for this transition, we also pause to honor Rev. Kendall Waller, who has served faithfully for the past nine years as Director of Financial and Administrative Ministries. His steady leadership and pastoral presence have guided the Conference through some of the most challenging seasons in our denomination's history.

Rev. Dr. Aaron A. Gonzalez, Chief of Staff, noted:

"We are deeply grateful for Rev. Waller's years of service and look forward with hope to Tony's leadership as we move into the future together."

This moment marks both gratitude for the steady guidance of Rev. Kendall Waller and anticipation for the leadership Tony will bring. Together, these seasons of service strengthen the Conference's mission to steward faithfully and serve boldly in the years to come.

Tony Lobasso will join the rio texas conference staff as director of financial services, effective april 1, 2026.

Rio Texas Conference Undergoes Staff Realignment

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The Rio Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church has begun implementing a staff realignment in response to significant financial realities and a desire to align resources with mission priorities strategically. This realignment reflects both present challenges and a hopeful vision for the future of ministry across the Conference.

"These decisions are not easy," said Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, "but they are necessary. This is about faithful stewardship—making decisions that allow us to continue serving our churches well in a changing landscape. We remain focused on our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world."

A Realignment Already in Motion

In August, the Conference began taking concrete steps toward restructuring, including the difficult decision to release three staff members. Additional departmental structure, role responsibilities, and position funding changes will continue to unfold in the coming months.

Leadership has emphasized that the goal is not merely to reduce expenses, but to strengthen alignment between staffing, ministry priorities, and current financial capacity.

Financial Context and Shifting Realities

In just seven years, the Rio Texas Conference budget has declined from $9.5 million in 2019 to a projected $5.5 million in 2026. Staffing costs have similarly decreased, from $2.8 million to $1.58 million in that same timeframe.

The number of churches within the Conference has also dropped significantly—from 351 in 2019 to 206 in 2024, following widespread disaffiliations and ongoing litigation. In 2024, churches contributed $4.6 million toward conference apportionments—about 69.4% of the approved budget.

This gap in funding has further strained cash reserves and emphasized the need for long-term adjustments. 

"We are not making cuts for the sake of cutting," said Director of Finance and Administrative Ministries, Kendall Waller. "This is a strategic reorganization driven by the realities of our current and projected finances. We aim to ensure the Conference remains sustainable and responsive, so we can continue to serve and equip local churches for years to come." 

Compassion in the Midst of Change

Out of respect for the privacy of those affected, individual names will not be released. However, all impacted staff have been personally notified and are being supported through this transition with:

• Continued health insurance

• Severance packages

• Counseling or pastoral care upon request

In a message to staff, Rev. Dr. Aaron Gonzalez, Assistant to the Bishop and Chief of Staff, shared these words:

"I know this moment carries sadness, but I also believe it holds hope. Our mission remains as important as ever, and I believe in our ability to support one another, adapt, and continue serving with excellence. Together, we will honor the past, stand strong in the present, and move forward with courage and unity into the future we are building side by side."

A Vision for What's Next

The Conference will restructure departments and consolidate or outsource certain services as needed to support emerging areas of ministry better.

Conference leadership remains committed to aligning staffing and organizational decisions with ministry priorities and financial realities as part of this work. This commitment ensures faithful stewardship and sustainable growth while continuing to serve our churches with clarity and care.

Rooted in the Conference's core values of clarity, connection, and collaboration, this realignment is part of a broader strategy to build a more sustainable and responsive structure for the future.

On a related note, we give thanks for the continued service of Rev. Kendall Waller, who, even in retirement, faithfully serves as our Director of Financial Services and Treasurer. His steady leadership and deep knowledge have been a gift during this season of transition. Looking ahead, we are planning intentionally for the next chapter of this role, as Rev. Waller will enter into full retirement on July 1, 2026. The process of discerning and preparing for the next Director of Financial Services and Treasurer is underway to ensure a smooth transition.

Moving Forward in Hope

"This is painful, yes," said Bishop Harvey, "but it is also an opportunity. An opportunity to be honest, faithful, and bold in reshaping the Rio Texas Conference to meet the needs of this moment. I believe God is with us in this work."

While this realignment marks a difficult chapter, Conference leadership focuses on walking with congregations and staff through this transition with honesty, compassion, and faith in what lies ahead–with the assurance that God is with us.

Author: Rev. Amanda Banda, Director of Communication for the Rio Texas Conference

A Letter from Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey

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August 2, 2025

Dear Beloved Community,

With heavy hearts, we grieve the recent act of vandalism at Life in the City United Methodist Church in Austin. Hateful graffiti was scrawled on their building, and the rainbow flag—long a sign of radical hospitality and Christ-like welcome—was torn down. This was not merely an attack on property; it was an attempt to strike at the very heart of who LITC is.

Life in the City is a vibrant, faithful community grounded in the love of Christ. It boldly proclaims the sacred worth of every person and affirms that all are beloved children of God—created in the divine image, named, known, and deeply loved. That includes our LGBTQ+ siblings, whose lives, witness, and gifts continue to enrich the life of this church and the broader body of Christ.

To those in our community who may feel especially vulnerable or afraid in light of this hateful act: you are not alone. We see you. We stand with you. We love you.

As the leadership of the Rio Texas Conference, we stand in full solidarity with Life in the City. We affirm their unwavering commitment to the gospel of love, justice, and welcome. And we echo their message that hate has no home in our churches.

In the face of hate, we respond with love. In the face of fear, we choose courage. In the face of destruction, we rebuild with hope. And yes—as followers of Jesus—we also choose to forgive. We do not excuse or diminish the harm done. But we remember that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy and transforming grace.

In the days ahead, the damage to the building will be repaired. But more importantly, Life in the City—and all of us across the Rio Texas Conference—will continue to proclaim and embody a gospel where love triumphs over hate and where every person has a place at God’s table.

“Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.”—Romans 12:21

With grace, resolve, and forgiveness,

 

Cynthia Fierro Harvey
Bishop, Rio Texas Conference
On behalf of the Cabinet and Conference Leadership

From Hurt to Hope: What Happened at Life in the City UMC

The act of vandalism was heartbreaking, but it did not have the final word. What followed was a mighty outpouring of love. Volunteers, neighbors, and faith leaders showed up to restore what had been damaged and to stand publicly with Life in the City UMC.

The following images show real damage caused by a recent act of vandalism. They include hateful language that may be upsetting, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
PLEASE VIEW WITH CARE.

Community Response: Over 30 people gathered at Life in the City UMC to help repair the damage. Others from the community brought food, water, and encouragement, embodying Christ-like love in the face of hate.

Life in the City UMC is a place where outsiders are insiders. To follow their journey, show your support, and witness the ongoing work of love and restoration, visit them online:


Facebook: facebook.com/LITCaustin 
Instagram: @litcaustin
Website: lifeinthecityaustin.org

An Update from Bishop Harvey

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May 8, 2025

Dear Friends,

Eastertide blessings to you as we continue journeying through this sacred season of resurrection and renewal.

Recently, the Judicial Council issued Decision 1516, addressing the use of church property. Understandably, this decision has raised questions and, for some, concerns. In response, the Council of Bishops has provided thoughtful interpretation and reflection, which I encourage you to read.

As with many matters of polity and practice, what we read in official language may feel quite different in the lived experience of ministry. It’s in this spirit of pastoral care and clarity that I offer my own reflection.

Although Decision 1516 may initially appear to revise previous rulings, a closer reading shows that it largely upholds existing language and understanding from earlier versions of the Book of Discipline. Specifically, the decision:

  • Upholds Paragraph ¶341.3, which clearly states:
    “No clergy at any time may be required or compelled to perform, or prohibited from performing, any marriage, union, or blessing of any couple, including same-sex couples. All clergy have the right to exercise and preserve their conscience when requested to perform any marriage, union, or blessing of any couple.”

In short, clergy continue to be entrusted with making faithful, contextual decisions—guided by conscience, pastoral wisdom, and deep knowledge of their congregations and communities.

As your bishop, I trust and expect that the pastors under appointment will continue to exercise this responsibility with grace, courage, and pastoral sensitivity. You are called to know your people and the communities you serve with care, insight, and integrity. Let that relationship guide your discernment and leadership.

Thank you for your ministry and for the ways you embody Christ’s love in the lives you touch.

Grace and Peace,

 

Cynthia Fierro Harvey

Bishop Appoints Director of Congregational Vitality and New Faith Communities

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Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey announces the appointment of Rev. Ray Altman as the Director of Congregational Vitality and New Faith Communities for the Rio Texas Conference, effective July 1, 2025. In this role, Ray will lead efforts to identify, mobilize, and connect the faithful ministry that already exists within our conference and to help ignite and release new ministries that are emerging. He will work to expand our definitions of vitality, our models for new faith communities, and our metrics of fruitfulness. Ray will join the Director’s Table and relate to the work of the cabinet.

“Ray brings a unique set of skills and giftings to this work. He will help us engage new communities with the gospel message and help strengthen our local congregations. I am excited that Rev. Altman has said yes to joining this team of conference leadership and look forward to his wise and innovative counsel,” shares Bishop Harvey.

After 11 years in traditional church settings, Ray has spent the last 6 years appointed to The New Wineskin Initiative. In this appointment, he has planted two faith communities, one online and another based in his neighborhood. He also developed a cohort model training ministry for clergy and church teams focused on missional leadership, neighboring, and beyond-the-walls engagement. Ray will continue his ministry supporting the New Wineskin Initiative.

“I’m humbled to be invited into leadership among a conference of congregations, lay people, and clergy colleagues that I know God is working with and through. I’m convinced God has called us to share our unique witness by word and deed, through innovation and tradition, to current and future generations. We are called to do this in ways that are ancient and new and that bring about our own transformation and the transformation of our communities.” 

Ray was ordained as an Elder in full connection in 2011 after graduating from Union Theological Seminary in 2008 and Southwestern University in 2005. He served as Associate Pastor at Kerrville First UMC from 2008-2014 and was appointed to Leander UMC from 2014-2019. He has been a regular innovator of church models that explore alternative ways of engaging discipleship, evangelism, and community building. In the last two years, through New Wineskins’ training cohorts and recent work with Rio Texas Transforming Communities Network, Ray has learned from and accompanied over 50 churches in missional work.

Ray has been married to Megan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, for 18 years. They have three children, Asher (13), Levi (11), and Katherine (9) who are each active in school and extracurricular activities and play important roles in their neighborhood ministry. They love family, travel adventures, sharing wonderful food, and playing with their dog, Duncan. Ray enjoys the San Antonio Spurs, funk, jazz, house music, sci-fi movies, playing ultimate frisbee, and meeting his Camp Gladiator friends early in the morning to exercise.

Bishop Harvey Makes New Appointments

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The cabinet remains focused on the appointment process as they prayerfully discern the future leadership of the Rio Texas Conference and honor those who have dedicated their lives to the kingdom of God.

“As Dr. Austin Frederick prepares for his well-earned retirement after 45 years of ministry, we celebrate his unwavering faithfulness and exceptional service at every level of the church,” said Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey. “In his role as Vice President of Pastoral Care Services for the Methodist Healthcare System (MHS), Dr. Frederick has exemplified the excellence that has defined his entire ministry.”

Dan Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Methodist Healthcare System, expressed gratitude for Dr. Frederick’s contributions adding that information regarding Dr. Frederick’s retirement will be forthcoming. 

“We are deeply grateful for Rev. Austin Frederick’s years of compassionate leadership and unwavering dedication to our mission,” shared Miller. “His guidance has provided comfort, strength, and support to so many within Methodist Healthcare and the communities we serve. We look forward to celebrating his legacy and know Austin’s impact will continue to inspire and uplift others.”

The position of Vice President of Pastoral Care Services at MHS is an appointment reserved for the bishop. Effective July 1, 2025, Rev. Dr. Robert Lopez will step into this role. Bishop Harvey affirmed, “Dr. Lopez will bring the same level of dedication, compassion, and excellence to this position as he has in every appointment he has faithfully served in The United Methodist Church.”

"I am so grateful to God for this opportunity to serve in this capacity and be a part of an excellent pastoral care team. I am deeply thankful to Bishop Harvey for her support and care during this time of discernment. I look forward to this season of serving humanity to honor God,” says Dr. Lopez.

Additionally, effective July 1, Rev. Dr. Aaron Gonzalez will begin his appointment as Assistant to the Bishop/Chief of Staff and Director of Financial Services for the Rio Texas Conference. His extensive experience including serving as Director of Spiritual Care and Church Connections at Methodist Healthcare Ministries, his professional expertise while holding multiple leadership roles at USAA for 12 years, and his active leadership within the Rio Texas Conference as chair of the Finance Table, positions him well for this vital role. His ongoing commitment to pulpit ministry across the Conference further enriches his leadership.

"Pastor Aaron has been an extraordinary spiritual leader, colleague, and friend to all of us at Methodist Healthcare Ministries—and by extension—to those we serve across our service area. His commitment to Christ is evident in his daily walk and he’ll be leaving a legacy of faith and hope that we’ll hold close to our hearts for years to come,” shared Jaime Wesolowski.    

Bishop Harvey is working closely with Jaime Wesolowski to name the appointment to the Director of Spiritual Care and Church Connections position.

“I am thrilled that Dr. Gonzalez has said YES! to serving in this crucial role,” said Bishop Harvey. “His combination of administrative excellence and deep calling to serve the kingdom of God makes him the perfect fit for this season in The United Methodist Church.”

Dr. Gonzalez stated, “I am deeply humbled to serve our Bishop and the Rio Texas Conference in this capacity. When I responded to my call into ministry 15 years ago, I placed my life in God’s hands, asking that I be sent where I could be of greatest service.  I look forward with great anticipation to what we will accomplish as the we move forward in responding to our call together. I am grateful to Bishop Harvey for this opportunity.”

As the Rio Texas Conference prepares for leadership transitions, Rev. Kendall Waller will retire on June 30, 2025, after 38 years of dedicated service. To ensure a smooth transition, he will remain on staff in a part-time capacity through December 31, 2025, providing guidance and support.

“Rev. Waller has led with care, compassion, and unwavering love, especially through the challenges of disaffiliation and other transitions,” said Bishop Harvey. “His leadership has paved the way for Dr. Gonzalez to step into this new role with confidence and vision.”

Looking ahead, Bishop Harvey reflected on the evolving landscape of the Conference: “We are stepping into a season of creative possibilities as we embrace new realities. What may seem like challenges are, in fact, opportunities made possible by the dedication of extraordinary clergy and lay leaders across the Rio Texas Conference.”