Cross to Head General Board of Higher Education’s Clergy Supervision and Accountability

The Rev. Randolph Cross

General Secretary Jerome King Del Pino is pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Randolph Cross as assistant general secretary of Clergy Supervision and Accountability.

Cross’s appointment to the General Board of Higher Education’s Division of Ordained Ministry was announced upon recommendation by the search committee and approval of his bishop, Deborah Kiesey, episcopal leader of the Dakotas Annual Conference.

Cross, who will join GBHEM on Dec. 1, is now serving as superintendent of the Lower James River District, director of connectional ministries and leadership development, and dean of the cabinet in the Dakotas Annual Conference.  Prior to his tenure as a district superintendent, he spent 20 years serving in pastoral roles in the North and South Dakota areas.

“Randy’s experience as a district superintendent, combined with his education and experience in supervision, will serve the church well in this new role. Additionally, his diverse background and leadership qualities fit well with the direction and mission of the GBHEM, especially with implementation of GBHEM’s strategic plan,” Del Pino said. 

The new assistant general secretary’s responsibilities will include the development of resources for various forms of pastoral supervision and clergy support systems, including mentors, bishops, district superintendents, and pastor-parish relations committees.

Cross will have responsibility for directing the development of resources for supervision/accountability and providing resources for bishops and cabinets, including critical writing in the areas of supervision and accountability as it relates to appointive ministry.

He will work with church leaders to design and conduct a variety of training workshops on topics of supervision and support systems, assist with formation and positive growth for self-initiated support systems for clergy and their families.

The Rev. Mary Ann Moman, associate general secretary at the GBHEM, said Cross brings a wealth of experience and passion for the ministry of The United Methodist Church. “In addition, his skills and abilities will enhance the work of supervision within the many structures of our church,” Moman said.

Cross, who will be moving from his home in Mitchell, S.D., to Nashville, received his undergraduate degree at University of North Dakota and a Master of Theology at Perkins School of Theology.