"We are persecuted by violence; we lost so many churches. One congregation completely disappeared. Some died, some immigrated to the coastal capital, and others just disappeared." — The Rev. Juan Ixtan, a leader of the Evangelical National Methodist Primitive Church of Guatemala.
Guatemala church works in shadow of gangs
GUATEMALA CITY (UMNS) — Pastors of the Evangelical National Methodist Primitive Church of Guatemala talked about how they never have services at night for fear of the gangs, or “maras,” that control the area. The church has a covenant with The United Methodist Church. Kathy L. Gilbert has the story and photos.
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Abingdon pulls Clinton devotional book
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The United Methodist author of a book of devotionals sent during the 2016 presidential campaign to Hillary Rodham Clinton has apologized after the publisher’s review following an earlier plagiarism concern showed other unattributed content. Linda Bloom reports.
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Coalition fights for labor issues in Liberia
MONROVIA, Liberia (UMNS) — The Civil Society and Trade Union Institutions of Liberia, now headed by United Methodist leadership, says it will not endorse presidential candidates whose platforms do not consider Liberia’s labor force. Julu Swen reports.
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How to hear a sermon for all it's worth
ASHBURN, Va. (UMC.org) — What is God speaking through the pulpit? The Rev. Larry Buxton, a United Methodist clergy coach and retired pastor, writes about how to be active listeners and get the most impact from a sermon.
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Living together well is hard, but possible
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interpreter) — Five leaders talk about how United Methodists can lead in living together well in an increasingly diverse world. Polly House has the story for Interpreter.
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Respect for refugees at heart of 'All Saints'
SMYRNA, Tenn. (UMC.org) — “All Saints,” a new film about a struggling congregation, shows the many ways welcoming and helping refugees can change a church. Christopher Fenoglio, who visited the movie shooting on location, has the story.
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Looking ahead
Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have a United Methodist event to share, you can add it to the calendar with this submission form.
Thursday, Sept. 7
Webinar "Youth Ministry: 15 Minutes at a Time" — 7 p.m. EDT. This webinar will provide practical, engaging and developmentally appropriate ideas for youth ministry. As youth continue to face increased pressure on their already busy schedules, youth ministers need to make every minute count. Christine V. Hides, a United Methodist deacon candidate, will lead this webinar from the ecumenical Practical Resources for Churches. Details
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