Dr. Peter J. Bellini named an episcopal nominee for the Global Methodist Church
DAYTON, Ohio, May 15, 2026 — United Theological Seminary congratulates Dr. Peter J. Bellini, Professor of Church Renewal and Evangelization in the Heisel Chair, on his nomination to serve as bishop in the Global Methodist Church. He was named in an announcement today from The Global Episcopacy Committee of the Global Methodist Church introducing all episcopal nominees who will be considered for election at the denomination’s next General Conference, taking place August 30-September 6, 2026. Bishops in the Global Methodist Church are elected to serve for a six-year term.
Dr. Bellini is a prolific author and beloved professor, researching, teaching, and writing on topics at the intersection of theology, philosophy, and the sciences. Since joining United in 2011, Dr. Bellini has been an integral member of the seminary community. His courses on global Christianity, intercultural studies, evangelization, church renewal, and pastoral care are often cited by students as deeply influential both to their own spiritual formation and to their work of ministry.
United’s prayer is to be “Spirit Led, Renewing the Church,” and in 2011 Dr. Bellini introduced the Holy Spirit Seminar to help fulfill this vision through powerful teaching, worship, and prayer. In addition to his teaching, he is Director of Non-Degree Programs at United, and he established the Fire Academy in 2023 to offer additional Spirit-filled learning opportunities for both clergy and laity. He is passionate about reclaiming the Wesleyan tradition of revival and renewal for the church today.
“Dr. Pete Bellini is one of the most passionate, compassionate, visionary, wise, and spirit-filled Christian leaders I have ever known,” said Dr. Kent Millard, President of United. “Dr. Bellini’s classes always fill up with students who are eager to learn from his vast experience as a local church pastor, evangelistic preacher, author, and genuinely humble servant of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God brings healing and hope to everyone who meets Dr. Bellini, and we surrender him into the hands of God for how God might want to use his many spiritual gifts in the future.”
The United community trusts in God’s direction for Dr. Bellini’s leadership role in the larger church. We are grateful for his multiple spiritual gifts and will continue to surround him in prayer and affirmation for his faithful service to the Holy Spirit’s call wherever this may lead him.
United Theological Seminary, located in Dayton, Ohio, is the second largest of the thirteen United Methodist theological schools in the United States. Since 1871, it has prepared men and women to become faithful and fruitful Christian leaders who make disciples of Jesus Christ. Now in its 155th academic year, United serves more than 600 students, representing over 20 nations and more than 50 denominations.