Rio Texas Conference Undergoes Staff Realignment

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.

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

A Letter from Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey

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

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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

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

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

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.”

Bishop Announces Superintendent Appointment

Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey announces the appointment of the Rev. Tracey Beadle as the district superintendent of the new North District. Details of new districts are available online at riotexas.org/new-districts. Tracey is currently serving as the senior pastor at Austin Westlake UMC and has served there since 2017. This appointment will become effective July 1, 2025.

"I am so thankful for the steady leadership of Rev. Beadle. Her outstanding leadership in the church, district, and conference levels has prepared her for this season of supervisory ministry. We welcome her with excitement to the work of the cabinet!” said Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey. 

Rev. Beadle walks alongside those seeking to follow God’s call to serve and love God’s people. It is one of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of her ministry. Her new role as district superintendent will allow her to continue to challenge herself and others to grow. She will learn alongside the clergy and laity of the newly formed North District by discerning together God’s dreams for the beloved communities of the district and conference.

Rev. Dr. Marcus Freeman, the current superintendent says, “Rev. Beadle is already an excellent leader of this district and I am so grateful someone of her gifts will lead this amazing district here in the Austin area!”

Dr. Freeman will be rolling off the cabinet after eight years of distinguished service to the conference and episcopal office. “Marcus has a deep level of commitment to God and the church. His wisdom and integrity enhanced the workings of the cabinet,” shared Bishop Harvey.

Tracey is a 1991 graduate of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Theatre and Radio, Television, and Motion Pictures. Before discerning a call to ministry, Tracey worked in business and finance. In 2008, she discerned a call to ministry and graduated in 2011 from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with a Masters of Divinity. 

Tracey’s husband James works in logistics for the Lower Colorado River Authority. He loves golf, ice hockey, and being a girl-dad. James plays guitar (and several other stringed instruments) and sings in the church’s praise band.

James and Tracey have two adult daughters. Michaela graduated from Texas A&M last year with a degree in Communications and Business. She works in Austin in Public Relations. Zaye is a sophomore at Texas A&M pursuing a degree in education and aspires to be an elementary school teacher. They also love rescuing animals and currently parent two fat and happy orange cats, a sweet black lab mix, and a miniature poodle with an adorable underbite.

Tracey loves to travel. She also enjoys gardening, jogging, playing Spades with her family, and recently ran her first trail race. She experiences God in nature, especially meditating on the sky’s many transitions and mood—seeing the Aurora Borealis Northern Lights is at the top of her bucket list!    

Bishop Harvey Appoints Director of Communications for the Rio Texas Conference

San Antonio, TX — March 2, 2025 — Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey announces the appointment of Rev. Amanda Banda as the Director of Communications for the Rio Texas Conference, effective July 1, 2025. In this role, Amanda will lead strategic communication initiatives, expand digital engagement, and enhance storytelling efforts to better connect clergy, laity, and local churches across the conference. Rev. Banda will be apart of the extended Cabinet and will join the Director’s table of the conference.

“As Amanda steps into this role, she will help us tell the stories of how God is moving in our congregations,” said Bishop Harvey. “Her expertise in communications, digital strategy, and ministry leadership will be invaluable in equipping our churches with the tools they need to engage their communities with clarity and purpose.”

Amanda brings significant experience in communications, public relations, and digital ministry, having worked in church, corporate, and educational settings to develop high-impact messaging, branding, and media production.

“I am honored to step into this role and passionate about strengthening communication across the Rio Texas Conference,” Amanda shared. “I believe storytelling is at the heart of our mission, and my goal is to help churches share their unique stories in compelling ways—through digital platforms, creative media, and strategic messaging. I am excited to work with our Rio Texas clergy and laity, and the team at the conference office.”

Amanda’s background includes serving as a Communication Specialist at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health Brownsville, where she managed media production and social media content, created graphic designs for print and digital platforms, and facilitated team-building sessions on collaboration and self-awareness. She also worked in public relations and marketing for Harlingen CISD, serving as an editor, videographer, social media manager, and studio director for district-wide communication efforts. In addition, she has taught audio/video production, graphic design, and digital storytelling, equipping students, staff, and organizations with the skills to craft compelling narratives and enhance communication strategies.

Amanda is a licensed local pastor pursuing her Master of Divinity at SMU Perkins School of Theology (Class of 2027) and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Leadership from the University of Arizona Global Campus. She currently serves on the Rio Texas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, Nominations Committee, Finance Table, and the Crossroads District Strategy Team.

Her husband, George, is a Network Engineer for the City of Victoria and plays a key role at FUMC Victoria, overseeing the AV production and sound team for the contemporary service. Their teenage children are actively involved in church ministry, serving in AV production, worship leadership, the praise band, and children’s ministry, as well as volunteering at and attending midwinter retreats, various camps, and mission trips. As a family, they are deeply committed to using their gifts and talents to serve the church and share Christ’s love with others.