“You who are here are the yeast in the loaf. You are they who ... will impact the church from coast to coast and beyond the coast.” — Retired Bishop Linda Lee to leaders of the denomination’s ethnic caucuses.
What can ethnic caucuses teach the church?
ST. LOUIS (UMNS) — People of color are the disciples who can bring new life to The United Methodist Church. That was a recurring theme throughout a historic gathering March 26-27 that for the first time brought together the boards of the denomination’s five U.S.-based ethnic caucuses. Here are some of the ideas participants shared.
Peace Conference becomes interfaith gathering
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS) –– Rabbis sang in Hebrew, a Muslim prayed in Arabic and United Methodists were involved at every turn during an international gathering of people from across the faith spectrum for a forum on peace March 27-30.
Ginghamsburg Church to host conference on Palestine
NEW YORK (UMNS) — United Methodists from around the world — particularly those who undertake to visit the Holy Land — are increasingly aware of the political realities that affect Palestinians and Israelis. In August, a conference sponsored by the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries and Ginghamsburg Church in Ohio will bring United Methodists and Palestinian Christians together and provide opportunities for prayer, fellowship and study.
Pension board plans new investment fund
GLENVIEW, Ill. (UMNS) —The United Methodist Board of Pension and Health Benefits announces the creation of a new investment fund — the Equities Social Values Plus Fund, an alternative fund for investors who prefer additional screening to eliminate funds that do not support human rights or secure environmental practices. The new fund will be available Jan.1, 2015, replacing the Balanced Social Values Plus Fund.
Rethink Church launches redesigned website
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)-- Spiritual seekers can Rethink Church more easily through the newly redesigned website at RethinkChurch.org. The new site leads visitors through the concept of rethinking church and helps them find opportunities to get involved both virtually and in real life.
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