Daily Digest - February 27, 2019

"It was our aspiration that we would find a way forward beyond our impasse. … I will simply say we have work to do."Bishop Kenneth H. Carter, president of the Council of Bishops.

NEWS AND FEATURES

GC2019 maps uncertain way forward
ST. LOUIS (UMNS) — More than 53 percent of General Conference delegates approved the Traditional Plan, which reinforces the church’s current bans on “self-avowed practicing” gay clergy and same-sex unions. Still uncertain is how much of the legislation will take effect — or whether it will change the dynamic where a number of United Methodists openly defy these rules. Heather Hahn has an analysis.
Read story
Read Council of Bishops press release

Ask The UMC
Why do we celebrate Ash Wednesday?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. Although Ash Wednesday has ancient roots, it does not appear in the rituals of The United Methodist Church or its predecessor denominations until the 20th century.
Read story
More Ask The UMC

United Methodist Communications
Reflecting after General Conference

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — Now that the 2019 special session has ended, the people of The United Methodist Church are invited to pause and reflect on how the movement continues. “Peace, rest, trust and direction are given to those who pause, listen and wait," writes the Rev. Joe Iovino.
Read story

Audio stories from General Conference 2019
ST. LOUIS (UMNS) — Audio stories from General Conference 2019 include daily wrap-ups of events in the voices of the delegates and others.
Listen to audio stories

GC2019 in photos
ST. LOUIS (UMNS) — Photographers captured the scenes at the special General Conference, which included passionate debate, prayer and protests.
View photos

PRESS RELEASES

Inter-Ethnic Strategy & Development Group
Inter-ethnic group calls for church unity

ST. LOUIS — The mission to win disciples for Jesus Christ remains as strong as ever after the conclusion of the special General Conference, the Inter-Ethnic Strategy & Development Group said in a statement. The group, which represents more than 20 United Methodist racial ethnic communities, said it will support actions that further the unity of the church and promote justice.
Read statement

RESOURCES

General Conference 2019 archives
ST. LOUIS — If you missed any of the 2019 General Conference action, you can view or download the archived versions of the daily plenary sessions, worship and addresses. The Daily Christian Advocate, the official journal of the General Conference, also is available from each day of the special session.
Watch archived livestream
Read Daily Christian Advocate

RECENT HEADLINES

2019 General Conference passes Traditional Plan

Conflict defines General Conference aimed at unity

EVENTS

Friday, March 1
Webinar: Bishop Kenneth H. Carter to discuss results of GC2019


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