Rev. Bill Donahue
Our senior pastor, Bill Donahue, believes in breaking down the walls between the community and the church. Bill has taken to heart the words of John Wesley (one of the founders of Methodism), who said, “All the world is my parish.” While serving United Methodist congregations in Dexter and Utica, Bill has been involved in Kiwanis and Optimist groups, has served on the board of the United Way and other service organizations, and has served and trained as a jail and fire department chaplain.
Bill is also a lover of music – he plays a few instruments, and he likes a wide variety of styles. He enjoys “hanging out” at his cottage, evening pontoon cruises, cooking (grill only) and getting together with friends and family. Bill and his son Ryan are looking forward to going to the “Big House” again. Ryan is an Assistant VP of Finance at a company in Ann Arbor; Bill’s other son, Scott, will be a senior at Oakland University. He works full-time as an agent for a large health insurance agency. Bill’s wife, Nancy, is the director of a local community service agency (until July 2011).
Bill Donahue, in his own words:
On his family: “I’m so grateful for Nancy’s dynamic faith and support. I am blessed that Ryan and Scott have a vital faith in Jesus and are committed disciples. I am especially thankful to serve the wonderful people of Fenton UMC and share in the joyous task of ministry in the name of Jesus.”
On leading and serving the church: “As senior pastor I am called to model and reflect servant-leadership. My task is to equip disciples for their ministry. That’s why my ministry is to equip you for your ministry not for you to equip me for mine.”
On the purpose of ministry: “I have had no greater joy than to see a person’s life changed through faith in Jesus Christ. This is my passion- that lives might be changed through the power of the Holy Spirit and that we receive the ‘full measure’ as we give out of our abundance.”
On his own faith journey: “I want to be known as one who knows something about leadership and followership. First and foremost, I am a follower of Jesus the Christ. Only then am I equipped to lead others to a vital and personal relationship with Jesus.”