This year, United Methodists mourned the passing of the bishop behind a popular Bible study, an influential advocate ordained on his deathbed and the last surviving World War II flying ace in the U.S.
The Rev. Øyvind Helliesen served on The United Methodist Church’s top court — providing crucial guidance to the denomination in a time of division and disaffiliations. He died at age 69.
The United Methodist, who made history as the first Black woman elected bishop in the Northeastern Jurisdiction, also earned admiration across the church for her powerful preaching and tender pastoral care.
