"This was not a forever decision, but a for-now decision until we have a better sense of which churches may choose to disaffiliate and who will remain." — Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, president of the Council of Bishops, explaining the recommended delay in episcopal elections.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Scrutinizing the proposed hold on new bishops
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — United Methodist bishops explained in a webinar why they are urging delegates to delay electing any new U.S. bishops until 2024. However, some delegates say such a move is more drastic than needed. Heather Hahn reports.
Read story
Watch webinar
Schools, students struggle with COVID-19 closures
HARARE, Zimbabwe (UM News) — A second surge of COVID-19 continues to disrupt education in this southern African nation. From preschool through college, students and staff at United Methodist schools are facing challenges and finding innovative ways to cope. Kudzai Chingwe reports.
Read story
California-Pacific Conference
Bishop addresses pastor's guilty plea
PASADENA, Calif. — California-Pacific Conference Bishop Grant Hagiya released a statement after a former United Methodist pastor pleaded guilty to child molestation on Feb. 8. John McFarland was sentenced to 15 years to life for molesting seven girls ages 5 to 15. "As clergy, we need to remember our sacred vows of 'doing no harm,' and uphold our highest moral values in our personal and professional conduct," Hagiya wrote. "In this difficult time, let us be in prayer for the victims, their families, and all who are affected."
Read statement
Read Orange County Register story
Greater New Jersey Conference
Running 13 miles in an unlucky year to make miracles
BOONTON, N.J. — Outfitted with running shoes, a Santa hat and an ugly Christmas sweater, the Rev. Donald Kirschner ran 13 miles in 13 different towns in 13 days to raise money for the Greater New Jersey Conference's Miracles Everywhere Campaign. Miracles Everywhere is a three-year fundraising effort to nurture young people's spiritual journey, provide disaster relief, assist the marginalized in New Jersey and support new clergy in Tanzania. Heather Mistretta reports.
Read story
The (Hot Springs) Sentinel-Record
Church opens as warming shelter
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — First United Methodist Church of Hot Springs opened its Family Life Center as a warming shelter during the brutally cold weather gripping much of the Southwest. A homeless man staying there had an asthma attack and died later at a local hospital.
Read about shelter
Read about man's death
PRESS RELEASES
Council of Bishops
Bishops offer Lenten devotions
WASHINGTON — The Council of Bishops plans to offer a weekly devotion during the Lenten season, starting this week. Each Wednesday during Lent and every day during Holy Week, people can view a 15-minute recorded devotion led by a bishop and leaders from their episcopal areas. The devotions are part of the larger Dismantling Racism initiative.
Read press release
To watch online
Global Ministries
Book traces history of Global Ministries
ATLANTA — "Methodist Mission at 200," a new book on the history of United Methodist Global Ministries, marks the bicentennial of the agency and details the mission theology that guides its work. One emphasis is on the way effective mission crosses boundaries in friendship.
Read press release
RECENT HEADLINES
Bishop Skeete, 'pastor to people,' dies at 90
'Black Church' film taps United Methodist sources
EVENTS
Thursday, March 4
Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.