For the third consecutive year, a team of clergy chaplains served the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference through a quiet but meaningful ministry of presence. Led by Rev. Timothy Holton-Overcast, the 2026 annual conference chaplain team included Rev. Rob Dunbar, Rev. Marie C. King, Rev. Dr. Steph Dodge, Rev. Stephanie Dunn, Rev. Keller Hawkins, Rev. Wanda Spencer, Rev. Anne Culver, and Rev. Camille Bradley. Recognizable by their red shirts and vests, chaplains moved through hallways, gathering spaces, and the sanctuary offering prayer, compassionate listening, encouragement, and care.

Throughout the annual conference, chaplains responded to a wide range of needs including prayer requests, grief support, conflict care, accessibility assistance, emotional and spiritual support, and ministry with LGBTQ+ members and clergy. During Monday morning’s service of anointing, many conference members approached chaplains already carrying deep emotion, often with tears in their eyes and arms extended for an embrace before a word was ever spoken.

Reflecting on the ministry, Rev. Holton-Overcast asked the chaplains where they most clearly saw God at work through this ministry. Again and again, the response centered on presence. Chaplains described their role as a visible reminder that no one had to navigate the intensity, emotion, or vulnerability of the annual conference alone. One chaplain noted that members have now come to expect and seek out the presence of chaplains each year, finding reassurance simply in knowing someone safe and attentive is nearby. In its third year, the annual conference chaplain ministry continues to take root as part of the culture and spiritual life of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference.

Submitted by Rev. Timothy Holton-Overcast