United Methodist Communications was honored to present two annual conference communicators with an Epikoinonía Award this summer. The award program, created and helmed by UMCom and fondly known as the "Epi,” celebrates excellence in communication ministry that is rooted in the Christian call to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
This year’s recipients—Dan O'Mara, communications director for the South Carolina Annual Conference, and Mary Catherine Phillips, communications director for the Alabama-West Florida Annual Conference—were surprised with their awards recognition during their respective annual conference sessions.
The award's name derives from the Greek word epikoinonía, which means communication. When used in a Christian context, it conveys a more profound sense of community and intimate connection. Both recipients are longtime, widely respected communicators who were selected for their outstanding contributions to church communication that helps to create these special connections.
"Mary Catherine is known for her generosity and willingness to help others across our United Methodist connection — sharing resources, supporting fellow communicators, reviewing media statements, and strengthening the work of the wider church," said UMCom’s Head of Communications, PR, and Marketing, Poonam Patodia, who presented Phillips' award.
"Dan embodies the spirit of Christian communication," shared Jennifer Rodia, Head of Partnerships, News, and Production at United Methodist Communications. In presenting the award, she added that O'Mara, who also serves as chair of the United Methodist Association of Communicators (UMAC), a professional organization that partners closely with UMCom, “does all of this, and more, with grace, humor, and a spirit that inspires others.”
Since 2019, United Methodist Communications has recognized several annual conference communicators each year who have made a profound difference in their conference and our United Methodist connection.
Sybil Davidson serves as US Annual Conferences Lead at United Methodist Communications.