PASTOR OF COMMUNITY JUSTICE 

RESURRECTION, A UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Rev. Cheryl Jefferson Bell (she/her/hers) is an ordained Elder in the Great Plains Conference of The United Methodist Church. Formally an Electrical Engineer for 10 years, she received her calling to full-time ministry in 1990 while serving as an active member of her home church, Wichita Saint Mark UMC. Cheryl is the 4th generation of her family to be part of what is the UMC.

She has served as either the first African American and/or female in her Kansas appointments as associate pastor, senior pastor, executive minister of a social service organization, and 8 years as a DS (district superintendent). Cheryl has served at the General/Jurisdictional level of the denomination for over 25 years. She has been on staff for 13 years and currently serves as Pastor of Community Justice at Resurrection, a United Methodist Church or commonly known as COR!

She is the proud mother of an adopted sibling group of 4 - Lisa (Jason); Keira (James); Creighton and Victoria and grandmother of 9 grandchildren, 2 dogs and 1 cat! She lives with her youngest daughter and her 4 children, as well as with Coco, 90+ pound Labradane (Labrador Retriever and Great Dane)!

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics; Bachelor of Electrical Engineering; and Master of Divinity.

PANELIST

ORGANIZING BEYOND BELIEF

As Christian Nationalism continues to shape policies and divide communities, secular and faith leaders are finding common ground in the fight to defend true religious freedom and democracy. This panel brings together these voices for a candid discussion on how Christian nationalism impacts their communities. We'll hear stories of resistance and resilience along with real-world examples of coalition-building that transcend belief systems. Join us to explore how shared purpose—not shared faith—can unite allies to push back against extremism and protect freedom for all.