Bishop Merrill moved to Arkansas and began her ministry here in November of 2022. She has made great strides both in providing spaces of healing for our conference in the wake of disaffiliations and in setting a new and exciting vision of Christ's mission and ministry through Arkansas United Methodists.

When asked how we can best support her ministry, Bishop Merrill said, "My ministry is one that I hope will support the lives of our churches and their people, and whatever we hope to accomplish together will need to be rooted in the basics of our life of faith. Make space to reflect on the goodness of God and your own gratitude for the grace that surrounds you. Gather regularly with fellow Christians, in the community of the Holy Spirit, to hear the word, break the bread, and sing the songs of the faith. Pray with hope and an open heart to know how Christ would have us serve in his name in our communities. And act with love toward those whose lives touch yours."