Dear Friends,
Today I am pleased to welcome my friend and colleague the Reverend John Hice back to preach at Royal Oak First. John is currently serving as the District Superintendent of the East Winds District of the Michigan Area of the United Methodist Church, which includes Flint and the surrounding communities. John helps the churches in his charge organize for mission and ministry.
Prior to joining the Bishop’s cabinet, Pastor John served as pastor right here at Royal Oak First. From 2008 to 2016, John led this congregation through the merger with St. John’s United Methodist and the decision to go “all-in” on The ROFUM Rebirth. The Rebirth set in motion the vision that ultimately led to our historic building renovation. John had every intention of leading this church through this project and to be here at its reopening and revitalization of ministry in this corner of God’s Kingdom. But when you are a United Methodist Pastor you agree to go where God calls and when God calls. So, it is our joy to welcome Rev. Hice and his family back to Royal Oak First to see the fruits of their vision coming to life.
John is a graduate of Dearborn High School. He went on to Michigan State and then to Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. Before coming to Royal Oak, John served churches in Hartford, Traverse City, and Northville and as the District Superintendent of the former Grand Rapids District of the then West Michigan Conference. John is remembered here as a gifted teacher, a caring pastor, an advocate for God’s good creation and an ecumenical leader in the greater Royal Oak Community.
Welcome back to Royal Oak First, Rev. Hice!
We are glad you are here!
Grace and Peace,
