On February 11, Michael Curry stepped down from his position as Southwest Conference Lay Minister for Disability Education, Advocacy, and Awareness. He had been on wellness/medical leave. Michael served in this conference position since April 2019.

“Thank you for the ways you have advanced the ministry of disability education, advocacy, and awareness,” said Conference Minister Bill Lyons when he learned of Michael’s decision. “You have been a valuable contributor to the health and vitality of our local churches.”

During his ministry, Michael was instrumental in shifting the SWC from a focus on Widening the Welcome to a broader Conference Inclusion Team strategy. Michael championed the WISE movement, inviting SWC congregations to become Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive and Engaged churches for mental health. Desert Palm, Church of the Palms, First UCC/Phoenix, and First UCC/Albuquerque are now WISE local churches. Several more congregations are in the process toward that ministry designation.

Thank you, Michael, for your brave and courageous ministry and testimony among us!

We’ll miss Michael’s visits and presence among us as a SWC staff member, and we are glad he continues his spiritual journey among us.