"Too often, actual ministry decisions are based on what the church has done before or what’s worked somewhere else." — The Rev. Kate Walker of the Texas Conference Vibrant Church Initiative.
How churches can communicate vision
LAKE JACKSON, Texas (UMNS) — A church’s vision can be like an amazing travel brochure, said the Rev. Kate Walker. “It paints a beautiful picture of a destination, and attracts us with highlights,” she says. “But it also sets some clear milestones for getting there.” The Texas Conference shares Walker’s advice for casting a vision that can revitalize a church.
Liberian Ebola survivors report sight problems
GANTA CITY, Liberia (UMNS) — Liberia is now Ebola-free, but many stricken with the virus are now experiencing poor vision, fatigue and severe headaches. Julu Swen reports how United Methodist health institutions are trying to help.
Normal life elusive for Ebola survivors
Making the most of church advertising budget
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMCOM) — While churches don’t necessarily want to employ the same tactics as fast-food restaurants and cola companies, successful commercial advertising campaigns do offer some lessons for churches seeking to reach more people. Tricia Brown, writing for United Methodist Communications, offers a few things to keep in mind when advertising.
Archives and History holds organizing meeting
MADISON, N.J. (UMNS) — The United Methodist Commission of Archives and History honored the Rev. Ted Campbell with a Distinguished Service Award, inducted its 24-member board and began planning for the next four years. Bishop Jeremiah Park, who also leads the Susquehanna Conference, is the board president, and the Rev. Alfred T. Day is the agency’s top executive.
Publishing House plans new distribution, layoffs
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The self-supporting United Methodist Publishing House announced it is forming a partnership with LSC Communications for print and digital product distribution. As part of the change, the Publishing House will close its distribution center in Nashville in March 2017. The closure will mean the layoffs of around 40 employees.
Read press release about new distribution
Read Tennessean article on distribution center
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.
Tuesday, Oct. 25
Webinar Healthy Families Series: “(Physical Health) Nurturing Active Families” — 2 p.m. CDT. This interactive webinar deals with how families can grow together through play, movement and healthy nutrition. Fun and creativity are crucial factors. Webinar leaders will be Wespath’s Center for Health with the United Methodist Commission on the Status and Role of Women contributing. Details
Webinar “Becoming a Barrier-Free Congregation” — 6 to 7 p.m. CDT. Many people with disabilities do not come to church. Can people with mobility differences get into your church? Are people with cognitive disabilities comfortable in Bible study and Sunday school? Sharon McCart, chair of the DisAbility Ministries Committee of The United Methodist Church, will offer advice for welcoming people with disabilities into the life of the church. Details
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