Rev. Stephanie York Arnold Named Theologian in Residence for Assembly 2026

For Immediate Release

Contact: dfrancisco@uwfaith.org

INDIANAPOLIS — United Women in Faith is honored to announce that the Rev. Stephanie York Arnold will serve as theologian in residence for Assembly 2026, taking place May 15–17, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Assembly is the organization’s signature quadrennial gathering, bringing together thousands of women of faith from across the world under the theme “Dream it! Believe it! Do it!”

“Rev. Arnold brings both a prophetic voice and a pastoral heart to Assembly 2026,” said Sally Vonner, CEO of United Women in Faith. “Her leadership will guide our community in deepening our spiritual grounding as we live out our mission to put love into action.”

Arnold currently serves as general secretary for The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women of The United Methodist Church, leading the team in fulfilling their mandate to advocate for the full and equitable inclusion of women in the total life of the church. Previously, she led Birmingham First United Methodist Church for nearly 15 years, serving first as associate pastor and later as senior pastor. A lifelong United Methodist from Alabama, Arnold is known for her passion for faith, justice, and building the Beloved Community of God.

Registration for Assembly 2026 is now open at uwfaith.org/assembly. Early registration ends on November 30, 2025. This event promises to be an unforgettable gathering of women committed to faith, justice, and transformative leadership.

For media inquiries, please contact dfrancisco@uwfaith.org.

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