“The (Interjurisdictional Committee on Episcopacy) recognizes that we are in significant time of transition and invites The United Methodist Church to be in prayer for the election of two bishops in the West, the assignment of each bishop, and the work of the whole church that is now before us.” — Statement from committee, which is responsible for recommending the number and distribution of bishops.
NEWS AND FEATURES
2 new US bishops to be elected this week
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — After two unexpected vacancies in U.S. bishop offices, the Western Jurisdiction now has plans to elect two new bishops when jurisdictional conferences meet this week throughout the country. The plan, brought forward by a little-known denominational committee, is slightly different than what came out of General Conference, and the denomination’s finance agency cautions that it could potentially lead to more bishops than General Conference authorized. Heather Hahn reports.
Read story
Texas Conference
College students enlist in U.M. ARMY
NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas — More than 80 college students from Texas and Louisiana came together in the Texas Hill Country for a week of mission work and fellowship through College U.M. ARMY. This year’s theme was “Fearless” and the event featured projects such as the construction of accessibility ramps and repair work on homes damaged by a recent tornado. The Rev. Sunny Farley has the story.
Read story
Greater New Jersey Conference
Departing pastor will continue to seek ‘hope’
TRENTON, N.J. — When the Rev. Rupert Hall Jr. completed eight years as the pastor of Turning Point United Methodist Church on June 30, he already was writing the next chapter of his own story of dedicated service and leadership. Hope for the City is the new nonprofit he is creating. It’s a lofty title anchored by the word that is most fundamental to his ministry: hope. John W. Coleman has the story.
Read story
Upper New York Conference
District Day events reignite sense of community
LIVERPOOL, N.Y. — Aiming to bridge the isolation felt by local churches since 2019, the Cornerstone District of the Upper New York Conference began hosting District Days. These events have provided fellowship, worship and tailored learning sessions for church leaders, earning enthusiastic feedback. With plans to make these gatherings an annual tradition, the district is fostering stronger bonds and ongoing support among churches. Kristian Snyder reports.
Read story
PRESS RELEASES
Drew University
Historic newsletter collection to be digitized
MADISON, N.J. — The Drew University Methodist Library has partnered with Affirmation, a nonprofit organization supporting United Methodist LGBTQ+ people, to digitize nearly 50 years of newsletters and make them available for free. The collection will include 130 newsletters from various decades, plus 10 daily newsletters from the 2008 General Conference. The newsletters contain stories, reflections and calls for action for and by LGBTQAI+ Methodists. The collection will launch at the start of the fall 2024 term.
Read press release
California-Pacific Conference
Church taking applications for racial justice grants
SAN DIEGO — First United Methodist Church of San Diego, in partnership with St. Paul United Methodist Church, San Diego, has released its grant focus areas and application materials for the 2024 Racial Justice Grants in San Diego County. A total of $35,000 will be awarded during this fifth annual grant cycle. Applications are due by July 31.
Read press release https://www.calpacumc.org/announcement/san-diego-methodist-churches-awarding-racial-justice-grant-funds/
Learn more and apply
RESOURCES
Rethink Church
Don’t neglect personal peace and wellness
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — When was the last time you did something to nurture your soul, body or mind? Sabbath is a specific time established to connect with the Creator and creation. The Rev. Carlos Samuel Reyes Rodriguez offers guidance on how to tend to your soul and deepen your relationship with your own value.
Watch video
RECENT HEADLINES
US Supreme Court ruling puts focus on housing
Medical mission provides free care for hundreds in Philippines
EVENTS
Monday, July 22-Friday, Aug. 2
Online course: Mysticism and Resistance
Monday, Aug. 5-Saturday, Aug. 17
Online course: Loving People and Planet in God's Name
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.