Roland Fernandes has been tapped as the next general secretary of Global Ministries, the United Methodist Church’s worldwide mission agency. He will replace Thomas Kemper, who, after a decade of leading the organization, chose not to stand for reelection.
Fernandes, a layperson, has been with the organization since 1995, serving in various capacities, including interim general secretary. Since 2003, Fernandes has been the chief operating officer and chief financial officer.

