Daily Digest - January 23, 2019

"When you live as a Christian in the community, you are the light."The Rev. Judith Banya, on the growth of United Methodism in Sierra Leone.



United Methodism grows in remote border town
BAIWALLA, Sierra Leone (UMNS) — A United Methodist congregation on the eastern border with Liberia has reason to celebrate. After five years of its United Methodist presence, the church has grown from 15 to 100 members with other congregations sprouting up in neighboring villages. The congregation is looking to the future with a new high school, girls’ boarding home and church building in the works. Phileas Jusu has the story.
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Sierra Leone Initiative builds relationships, cultivates mission

NEWS AND FEATURES

United Methodist agencies: 2018 was productive year
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The 13 agencies of The United Methodist Church had an industrious 2018, and all of them are pursuing ambitious goals this year. United Methodist News Service contacted each agency and compiled a list of their proudest accomplishments of 2018 and most important goals for 2019. Jim Patterson reports.
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Response magazine
New York church helps immigrant fighting deportation

NEW YORK — Debora Barrios-Vasquez finds sanctuary and support at St. Paul and St. Andrew United Methodist Church as she fights deportation and works to be reunited with her family. Members of the church and its United Methodist Women also regularly visit U.S. Customs and Immigration offices to advocate on her behalf. Tara Barnes has the story.
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Holston Conference
Combining worship with a meal

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Inspired by a charge from a new district superintendent, the Rev. Teresa Atkins McClure started what she calls “Dinner Church,” where members of New Life United Methodist Church sit down for a meal and worship service on Tuesday evenings at a local elementary school. McClure says the service is working as an outreach to the community. Annette Spence reports.
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United Methodist Communications
Making connections to grow in faith

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — Tiffany Bluhm, a podcaster, speaker and author of a new book called “She Dreams: Live the Life You Were Created For,” has a gift for bringing people together to grow as followers of Jesus. In the latest Get Your Spirit in Shape podcast, she talks with the Rev. Joe Iovino about how she helps others make connections that lead to discipleship.
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