Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball has announced that Rev. Frank Shomo, Superintendent for the Midland South District, will retire at the end of this annual conference year.

“Frank Shomo is a faithful and faith-filled leader of the West Virginia Conference,” said Bishop Steiner Ball. “Frank has been a tremendous asset to the Cabinet sharing his gifts, his compassion for West Virginia congregations, and his love for God’s people. His wisdom has helped the bishop and Cabinet to discern God’s Will and he has been the presence of Christ for pastors and congregations amidst times of tension and moments of discernment and decision.

“I am grateful for Frank’s leadership and for his contribution to the Cabinet team. As the apostle Paul would say, Frank uses and continues to use his gifts for the common good–to strengthen, encourage, comfort, and edify the church. While I am sorry to receive Frank’s request for retirement, retirement is just a different season in life and ministry. There is more to come and I look forward to working with Frank—a continuing member of Christ’s body—in new and faith-filled ways!”

“I can proudly proclaim that we serve a vital church that is making a critical difference in our communities, state, nation, and world as we proclaim the Good News of Christ Jesus in word and deed,” Rev. Shomo said in a letter announcing his retirement to Midland South churches.

“Frank brings a passion for Christ and the church in his work as a superintendent,” said Rev. Joe Kenaston, Dean of the Cabinet. “His ministry is based on a deep spirituality infused by scripture, prayer, worship, and music. It is out of his passion and spirit that Frank has led the Midland South District with excellence and been a valuable conference superintendent. His commitment to justice and equality is inspired by the prophets and the teachings of Jesus. As a Cabinet we will miss his ability to lighten any discussion with a song or a pun (at least we will miss the songs!). We pray God’s blessing upon Frank and Michelle as he moves towards retirement and serving God in new ways.”