"We have different people with different backgrounds who speak different languages….It has been very rich because the experiences that they bring are very different." — Esther Morales, discussing the North Hudson Community Development program.
United Methodist man identified as flood victim
DALLAS (UMNS) — Authorities have recovered and identified the body of Larry Thomas, who was washed away in the floods that hit Wimberley, Texas. Thomas was an active member of Wimberley United Methodist Church. Sam Hodges updates a story about Thomas and United Methodist relief efforts.
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Hudson River churches link by structure, worship
UNION CITY, N.J. (UMNS) — Six United Methodist churches in Hudson River communities are joining in a new structure with two full-time pastors and two local pastors. The goal of the North Hudson Community Development program is to help create new ministries. All four pastors have a Hispanic heritage, said the Rev. Manny Sardinas, Gateway North district superintendent. “The population is about 80 percent Latino and most of the churches are linked to the community around them,” Sardinas said. Jeff Wolfe reports for the Greater New Jersey Conference.
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British church issues full apology to abuse survivors
LONDON (UMNS) — The Methodist Church in Britain apologized for failing to protect children, young people and adults from physical and sexual abuse by some ministers and Methodists. The apology came after a review of past safeguarding cases related to the church from 1950-2014.
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Commission looks at where women seminarians serve
CHICAGO (UMNS) — The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women looks at who enters seminary, what their vocational goals are and where they are in their first two years of ministry in a new report of Women by the Numbers. The report found that women make up nearly half of all students entering seminary.
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Peace with Justice grant supports interfaith efforts
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (UMNS) — A $5,000 Peace with Justice grant supporting “Daybreak in Alabama” will help Interfaith Services develop educational and advocacy programs to be used in local United Methodist congregations. The grant is one of 15 totaling $41,400 awarded by the United Methodist Board of Church and Society from offerings made on Peace with Justice Sunday (May 31). Cindy Solomon has the story for Interpreter magazine.
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Wesley center celebrates 4 high school graduates
MOBILE, Ala. — Dumas Wesley Community Center honored four Mobile high school seniors who grew up participating and volunteering at the center. The graduates credit the community center, founded in 1903 by United Methodist Women, with setting them on the right path. Kelli Dugan reports for AL.com.
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Course of Study reaches Central American pastors
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Local pastors from across Central America are furthering their education through a Course of Study offered in El Salvador. Sponsors include the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Duke University Divinity School, a United Methodist seminary. Tom Gillem reports.
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History Quiz: Where was the first Wesley Foundation?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Wesley Foundations create a United Methodist presence at universities and colleges. Do you know where the first one was established in 1913?
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Looking ahead
Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have an item to share, email [email protected] and put Digest in the subject line.
Monday, June 1
Deadline to submit nominees for Scarritt Bennett Center's Phenomenal Woman Awards — The awards will honor women, nonprofits and businesses that demonstrate the characteristics of Maya Angelou and the core values of Scarritt Bennett Center. One female high school senior will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Details.
Early-bird deadline to register for SOULfeast — The retreat will be Sunday-Thursday, July 12-16. The Upper Room, part of United Methodist Discipleship Ministries, sponsors a time of worship, prayer, fellowship and study. Costs vary. Details.
You can see more educational opportunities and other upcoming events in the life of the church here.
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