Pentecostal Holiness Bishop Talmadge Gardner Sets Out Vision in First Address Since July Election
The denomination's new general superintendent spoke by video on equipping pastors, strengthening local churches and supporting missionaries, after delegates reshaped its leadership in Mobile, Alabama.
See where this is ›BETHANY, Okla. —
Presiding Bishop J. Talmadge Gardner, general superintendent of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church, has released his first official address since the denomination's 2026 General Conference, the church announced Saturday, Oct. 31, on its website. The church, based in Bethany, Okla., posted the address as a video.
See where this is ›According to the church's summary, Gardner speaks about the direction of the denomination and introduces leadership and ministry developments. The church said the initiatives center on equipping pastors, strengthening local churches, supporting missionaries and advancing the church's mission worldwide, with a focus on unity and connection across its global family.
Delegates elected Gardner general superintendent and Dr. Terry Tramel assistant general superintendent at the 30th General Conference, held July 15-17 in Mobile, Ala. Gardner succeeded Bishop Doug Beacham, who concluded his service in the office. Beacham, Dr. Mark Williams and Rev. Steve DeNeff ministered during the conference, and Rev. Trés Ward led worship.
See where this is ›The conference also approved a new leadership structure. The general superintendent and assistant general superintendent are the two executive officers elected by the General Conference, while the Council of Bishops elects the leaders of World Missions and a new Church Ministries division from nominees the general superintendent presents. Church Ministries combines the work of Evangelism USA Ministries and Discipleship Ministries.
Delegates also adopted bylaws revisions on church governance, financial accountability and ministry oversight, and approved a study of the climate for women in ministry and leadership at the local, conference and general levels.
Separately, World Missions Ministries said Oct. 8 that Bryan Nix, director of People to People Ministries since 2018, has also become director of Global Outreach, helping stateside churches support missionaries in prayer and giving. Bishop Stan Reynolds, presiding executive director of World Missions Ministries, said, “We knew if he accepted the position, GO would be in good hands.”
The church reports ministry in more than 125 nations.
