Brownwood DS takes incapacity leave

2/1/2010

Health concerns have necessitated Rev. Jim Olney’s decision to request incapacity leave from his role as superintendent of the Brownwood District of the Central Texas Conference.

Bishop Mike Lowry accepted his request with deep regret. “I cannot convey adequately my deep grief,” Bishop Lowry replied upon receiving Rev. Olney’s notification letter. “You’ve made both valued and valuable contributions to my ministry coming into this conference and to the work of the conference as a whole,” he said, adding, “You will be sorely missed.”

As Rev. Olney proceeds with treatment for cancer, Bishop Lowry said, “I will look forward eagerly to the day in which I may place you back on active appointment.”

Caring for the clergy and laity of the Brownwood District is a primary concern at this time, especially as the conference’s moves into the annual inventory and clergy appointment process. Three members of the Cabinet — Superintendents Rankin Koch (Temple District), Rod Miles (Waco District) and Ginger Bassford (Weatherford District) — have stepped up to cover the Brownwood District with their prayers and leadership.

Congregations have been assigned to the three superintendents based mostly on geographic location with consideration given to driving routes and the most effective clusters of local churches. The superintendents who will be representing in Rev. Olney’s absence will be contacting their assigned local churches.

Rev. Olney’s request for Feb. 1, 2010, as his effective leave date sets in motion a review and approval process as defined by The United Methodist Church’s Book of Discipline. A clergy request for incapacity leave requires approval of the Cabinet and the Board of Ordained Ministry’s Joint Committee on Incapacity. This joint committee, comprised of representatives of the Board of Ordained Ministry and the Board of Pensions, has responsibility to review the medical verification of incapacity status and determine the disability benefits. Rev. Olney will be well cared for, and there will be periodic updates on his incapacity status.

Our prayers offer the best support the conference can give Rev. Olney during this time of intense treatment. Bishop Lowry reminds him: “Know my full sense of prayer and great admiration for your courage and work for the Lord.”

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