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