With joy and excitement, I am very pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Brenda Kay Leigey as Superintendent of the State College District effective July 1, 2019. She will succeed the Rev. Lori Steffensen who will complete her eighth year as District Superintendent this year.
Rev. Leigey brings a wealth of both life and pastoral experiences. She previously worked in the banking industry before responding to God’s call into the pastoral ministry. A native of West Decatur, Rev. Leigey graduated from Philipsburg-Osceola High School, Bloomsburg University, and Drew Theological School. She became a certified candidate for ministry in 1989, a licensed local pastor in 1990, a probationary member in 1994, and was ordained in 1997 in the Central Pennsylvania Conference. She was recommended for ordained ministry by the Salem United Methodist Church, Mt. Hope Charge. She has served the following pastorates: Brandon-Central, 1990-1995; Nescopeck Wesley from 1995-2000; Nescopeck Wesley with extended ministry to Albright, 2000-2001; and Philipsburg Trinity since 2001.
Brenda has a passion for children and youth that led to her call to serve as a pastor. She served as the Lewisburg District Youth Coordinator and as a Co-Dean in the conference camping program at Wesley Forest. She has also served on numerous conference boards and agencies, including the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. She has served as Chair of the District Committee on Ordained Ministry and currently is serving as Chair of the State College District Superintendency Committee.
As a spiritual leader, Brenda’s gifts and graces for ministry are deeply appreciated and she is well respected for her leadership in the cluster and district, as well as in the local church. Her collegial spirit and personal way of connecting with people is highly valued. Brenda is also an excellent administrator. The Cabinet is thrilled to welcome her to its table.
Brenda is married to Allen who is the director of the athletic department of the Curwensville School District. They have a daughter, Macala Rae. I would ask that you keep Brenda and Allen in prayer as they make this significant transition. I also ask your prayers for the congregation of Trinity, Philipsburg and the State College District as they live into this time of transition. Please join me in expressing gratitude to Brenda for being willing to follow God’s call upon her life to serve as a District Superintendent for such a time as this.
With You in Christ’s Ministry,
Jeremiah J. Park
