“The events of Ferguson and the conditions that made the situation ripe for conflict challenge us to reflect more deeply about the witness and role of the church.” - Missouri Area Bishop Robert Schnase.
Working for redemption in Ferguson
FERGUSON, Mo. (UMNS) — Tensions remain high over the much-publicized police shooting here, and United Methodists in the St. Louis area warn that it will take a long time to build community and trust between law enforcement and people of color. But leaders across the denomination agree that churches have a role in the arduous healing process ahead. Heather Hahn has the story.
Agreement resolves same-sex union complaint
PHILADELPHIA (UMNS) — Philadelphia Area Bishop Peggy Johnson announced Oct. 3 that a complaint filed against 36 pastors who officiated at the Nov. 9, 2013, same-sex union of two men has been resolved in an agreement by the complainants and respondents. The plan calls for the pastors to acknowledge they violated rules of the United Methodist Book of Discipline and for the complainants to withdraw the complaint. Kathy Gilbert reports.
Mission agency will match $1 million on #GivingTuesday
NEW YORK (UMNS) — The United Methodist Board of Global Ministries announced that on Dec. 2, 2014, it will match up to one million dollars in gifts made online to any project through The Advance as part of The United Methodist Church #GivingTuesday.
Humanitarians must be at forefront of technology
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The Ebola crisis is demonstrating that in this new age of pervasive technology, no one on the planet is so isolated that she or he can exist outside the global web of connectivity that delivers life-enhancing and lifesaving, information. The Rev. Larry Hollon, United Methodist Communication’s top executive, writes that those concerned with humanitarian assistance in crisis situations must be at the forefront of this new era of technology.
Strength for Service to handle devotionals
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — A nine-member nondenominational board will take responsibility for two devotional books that United Methodist Men has produced for nearly three-quarters of a century. Strength for Service will now produce the two daily devotional books, one for the military and one for police officers, firefighters and other first-responders.
California teen recognized for anti-malaria efforts
APTOS, Calif. (UMNS) — Austin Eaton, from the Aptos United Methodist Church, has been named the Outstanding Philanthropic Youth of the Year for the Central Coast. Eaton was nominated for his work for Imagine No Malaria. This is his second nomination for the award and the first time he has won. Larry Hygh of the California-Nevada Conference reports.
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, Oct. 6
Early-bird registration deadline for Reach New Disciples Conference: “Taking Church to the Community" — Lewis Center for Church Leadership Conference is 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET Saturday, Nov. 1, at Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington. $40. Details
Sunday, Oct. 12
Children's Sabbath — The United Methodist Board of Discipleship offers prayers and hymns celebrating the sacredness of children. This year’s theme is “Precious in God’s Sight: Answering the Call to Cherish and Protect Every Child."
You can see more educational opportunities and other upcoming events in the life of the church here.
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