District welcomes new superintendent at Jan. 9 event

The Corpus Christi District welcomed the Rev. Barbara J. Ruth as new superintendent during a Jan. 9 Service of Celebration at Grace UMC, Corpus Christi.
The Rev. Tim Brewer, Grace senior pastor, led a covenant litany in which Ruth affirmed her commitment to the ministries of the district.
District representatives presented symbols of superintendency to Ruth.
Carol Loeb, Asbury UMC, presented the Bible.
Bill Hatfield, district United Methodist Men president, presented water for baptism.
Peggy Moore, St. Luke’s UMC, presented the bread and cup of Holy Communion.
Pastor Ron Welborn of First UMC, Cuero, and Rabke UMC presented the United Methodist Hymnal and Book of Worship.
Cheryl Worley, district program director, presented the towel and basin of servanthood.
The Rev. B.J. Rogers, senior pastor of Asbury UMC, presented the stole of pastoral leadership.
Beverly Wilson, district United Methodist Women president, presented the Book of Discipline.
Bill Angle, district lay leader (south), presented the globe.
Brewer gave Ruth several gifts unique to the Corpus Christi District: water from the Gulf of Mexico, sand from the beach at Padre Island and a mesquite branch from the Brush Country.
Ruth responded with much appreciation for the warm welcome she has received from the district. During her message, she shared her past ministry experiences and her hopes for her time in the Corpus Christi District.
Following the service, a reception was held in the fellowship hall. Laity and clergy from across the district and special friends of Ruth attended the celebration.