Bishop Julius Trimble has announced the appointment of Rev. Annettra Jones as the Associate Director of Diversity, Missions, and Justice Ministries, effective February 1, 2021.
This fills the position vacated by Rev. Tom Heaton in October 2020. In addition to leadership in the areas of Missions and Justice Ministries, the position has been modified to include an emphasis around diversity and anti-racism action.
“Rev. Jones is particularly adept with connecting with people and leading critical conversations. Her addition to our staff will bring someone on board who is certified in leading the IDI process (Intercultural Development Inventory) for Conference leadership. Annettra will bring excellence and passion to this important part of our ministry together,” said Bishop Trimble.
Annettra will have a key role in leading in partnership with the Conference Task Force for Dismantling Racism and the Conference Commission on Religion and Race, as well as guiding the response to the motion passed at the 2020 Annual Conference to develop a strategic plan that demonstrates our commitment to anti-racism and to actively dismantling systemic institutional racism in the INUMC.
About her new role, Annettra said, “I am excited about having the opportunity to lead alongside the Extended Cabinet and Connectional leaders as we work on building the Beloved Community throughout Indiana as we engage in anti-racism, diversity, equity and biblical justice work.”
Since 2019, Annettra has served as Associate Pastor at West Lafayette St. Andrew UMC. When she’s not reading or listening to a book, she enjoys spending time with her children playing board games and religiously observing Taco Tuesday. In April, Annettra will be “marrying my best friend Jemicah Stephens.”