Rio Texas Conference Honors 2026 #BeUMC Award Recipients
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Rev. Amanda Banda
Director of Communications,
Rio Texas Conference
Three individuals and congregations whose ministries embody the spirit of Love Boldly. Serve Joyfully. Lead Courageously. were recognized during the 2026 Rio Texas Annual Conference as recipients of the Rio Texas Conference #BeUMC Awards.
Presented in partnership with United Methodist Communications, the #BeUMC Awards celebrate clergy, laity, and congregations whose witness reflects the mission and values of The United Methodist Church.
Layperson Award
The 2026 Rio Texas Conference #BeUMC Layperson Award was presented to Cindy Andrade Johnson for her compassionate leadership serving immigrant and unhoused communities.
Through her work across multiple ministry settings, Johnson has connected people, resources, and the church in meaningful ways, offering a powerful witness to faithful lay leadership and demonstrating what it means to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.
Clergy Award
The 2026 Rio Texas Conference #BeUMC Clergy Award was presented to Rev. Cynthia Engstrom of Travis Park United Methodist Church.
Engstrom was recognized for her faithful and courageous leadership during an important season in the life of her congregation. Her leadership has helped strengthen the church's connection to The United Methodist Church while guiding the congregation with clarity, purpose, and a deep commitment to its mission.
Congregation Award
The 2026 Rio Texas Conference #BeUMC Congregation Award was presented to Westlawn United Methodist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Laura Dorantes.
Serving one of San Antonio's most vulnerable communities, Westlawn was recognized for its faithful witness, particularly its ministry alongside immigrant neighbors. Though small in size, the congregation continues to offer refuge, compassion, and hope through its commitment to serving others.
Congratulations to this year's recipients for their faithful leadership and ministry. Their witness reminds us that the Church is at its best when we live out our shared calling to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.
