"In this time of self-isolation, we have proven to be people of faith, not people of the buildings." — Eurasia Area Bishop Eduard Khegay on the coronavirus pandemic.
NEWS AND FEATURES
In Europe, closing church can mean opening to others
MOSCOW (UM News) — The coronavirus crisis brings far-flung United Methodists in Eurasia together for worship; stimulates community contact in Norway; allows for new ways to carry on old traditions in Germany and propels a homebound mask-making venture in Slovakia. A UM News report.
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Church members among dead in Congo flooding
UVIRA, Congo (UM News) — United Methodists are among the thousands affected by devastating flooding that has left at least 40 people dead and hundreds of homes destroyed in the East Congo Episcopal Area. Two church members died and two primary schools run by the church were washed away. Philippe Kituka Lolonga and Chadrack Tambwe Londe report.
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Ask The UMC
How far back does Christian baptism go?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Christian baptism dates back to the beginning of the church itself. The Pentecost celebration after Jesus' resurrection, often called the "birthday of the church," records thousands of people baptized that day. Ask The UMC, a ministry of United Methodist Communications, has more on the history of baptism.
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Holston Conference
Churches step out for tornado response
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — At a time when others were staying home to slow the spread of the coronavirus, members from local churches in Chattanooga and Cleveland had to put on their masks and step out to save a community damaged by tornadoes. Annette Spence reports.
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PRESS RELEASES
Connectional Table
Leadership body unveils new website
CHICAGO — The Connectional Table of The United Methodist Church has launched a new website, www.umcct.org, to provide a clear understanding of its work and resources for ministry throughout the connection. The Connectional Table coordinates the mission, vision and ministries of the denomination.
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Visit website
COMMENTARIES
UM News includes in the Daily Digest various commentaries about issues in the denomination. The opinion pieces reflect a variety of viewpoints and are the opinions of the writers, not the UM News staff.
Council of Bishops
Pandemic spurs house churches, solidarity
KITWE, Zambia — Christ's apostles encountered their own challenges in making worship a communal experience, Bishop Mande Muyombo points out in a commentary. In confronting the coronavirus pandemic, the bishop urges reclaiming the tradition of house churches and staying focused on the common fight against the disease.
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RESOURCES
United Methodist Communications
Communicating with the unplugged
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — COVID-19 has meant online church and virtual communications for United Methodists. But how do churches stay in touch with those who aren't online or smartphone savvy? Eric Seiberling offers suggestions including calling circles, handwritten letters and sidewalk chalk.
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RECENT HEADLINES
Pandemic threatening ministry with migrants
EVENTS
Thursday, April 30
Online panel: Coronavirus at the crossroads of faith and science
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