Church

Church Growth
Jason Shelton, a sociologist who teaches at the University of Texas, Arlington, is the author of “The Contemporary Black Church: The New Dynamics of African American Religion.” He is also a member of The Village United Methodist Church in DeSoto, Texas, which has used innovative ways to grow the congregation. Photo by Justin Clemons, University of Texas, Arlington.

Research reveals new trends among Black Protestants

Jason E. Shelton, a sociologist and United Methodist in Texas, writes in his latest book that many Black churches would be more likely to thrive if they find the courage to modernize.
Local Church
The banner in front of Woori Naperville United Methodist Church (formerly Naperville Korean United Methodist Church) in Naperville, Ill., reads, “Grace of God does everything.” On Oct. 4, the Northern Illinois Conference announced that it had signed a settlement with a breakaway faction of Naperville Korean United Methodist Church over the rightful ownership of the church building and other assets. Photo by the Rev. Nadan Jo, Woori Naperville United Methodist Church.

Dispute over church property resolved

United Methodists in the Northern Illinois Conference are celebrating a settlement reached between the conference and a breakaway faction of the former Naperville Korean United Methodist Church.
Social Concerns
Haleign Baker said she lost nearly everything, including her daughter, because of pill and alcohol addiction. Living at the Dove Recovery House for Women in Indianapolis has given her hope for the future. Photo by Joey Butler, UM News.

Ministry helps women in recovery blossom into ‘doves’

Haleign Baker lost nearly everything, including her daughter, because of pill and alcohol addiction. The Dove Recovery House, where about 50 women reside and learn better ways to live, has given her hope for the future.
Evangelism
A total eclipse will occur across much of North America on April 8, and United Methodist churches are finding ways to be part of the excitement. Photo of Aug. 21, 2017 eclipse by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Churches all in for total solar eclipse

United Methodist congregations are finding creative ways to engage the public before and during the rare event on April 8.

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