Paula Snyder Belousek has been named conference minister of Ohio Mennonite Conference. The conference’s Leadership Council made the announcement March 5. She will begin her role June 16.

Belousek has been a pastor since 2005, serving the last 14 years at Salem Mennonite Church in Elida, Ohio. She has been assistant moderator and moderator of Ohio Conference since 2019.

“I have a deep affection for this community of congregations and trust that the Spirit of Jesus will guide us with wisdom and grace,” she said.

Belousek has a bachelor of science degree from Eastern Mennonite University, a master of divinity degree from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and took graduate courses at Conrad Grebel University College. The conference prioritized qualifications in strong communication skills, Anabaptist commitment and bridgebuilding between diverse perspectives.

“Paula brings a heart for ministry, leadership gifts and a deep commitment to the church that will serve the conference well,” said search committee chair Andrew Blount.