Rev. Jeff Pehl Announces Planned Retirement

Rev. Jeff Pehl, chief financial officer, conference benefits officer, treasurer and conference statistician for the Horizon Texas Conference, has announced his intention to retire Dec. 31, 2026.

Pehl, who began serving in the role in May 2024 as the conference was preparing for unification, said the decision came after an extended period of prayer, discernment and conversation with family, friends and colleagues.

“It has been a blessing to serve as the first CFO and CBO for the Horizon Texas Conference and share my gifts and talents in these areas,” Pehl said. “Thank you again to Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. for inviting me to help form the Horizon Texas Conference. It has been an honor.”

Pehl said his retirement will allow him to devote more time to his family, including his wife, Rev. Silvia Wang, and their son, Gabriel.

“Now, the Holy Spirit has affirmed that it is time to set aside the work of the conference and attend to family members who have sacrificed much so that I could offer all that I did in this ministry,” Pehl said. “Those who know me well understand how I thrive as Dad and ‘Mr. Wang,’ as well as being a son and brother. This decision allows me to live into these roles fully.”

Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. expressed gratitude for Pehl’s leadership during a formative season for the new conference.

“Jeff stepped into this role at a pivotal moment, helping guide the Horizon Texas Conference through the practical and financial work of becoming a new conference,” Saenz said. “His steady leadership, deep faith and commitment to financial integrity have helped lay a strong foundation for our shared ministry. We are grateful for Jeff’s faithful service and pray God’s blessing on him, Silvia and Gabriel in this next season.”

During the remainder of his term, Pehl will continue leading the Stewardship Team and supporting the conference’s day-to-day financial, benefits and statistical work. He also will assist with the transition to the next CFO/CBO during an overlap period.

The conference will post the position Sept. 1 and accept applications through Sept. 22. The goal is to have a new CFO in place in November, allowing time for a smooth transition before Pehl’s retirement takes effect.

Rev. Jeff Pehl