“The Social Principles are a prayerful and thoughtful effort on the part of the General Conference to speak to the human issues in the contemporary world from a sound biblical and theological foundation as historically demonstrated in United Methodist traditions." — The Book of Discipline and the Book of Resolutions.
Analysis: GC2016 tackling 44-year stance on homosexuality
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Words that bind or hurt: “The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching.” Kathy L. Gilbert looks back over 44 years of struggle and previews legislation going before the church’s top lawmaking body.
Ugandans join push for bishop accountability
KAMPALA, Uganda (UMNS) — Three Ugandan United Methodists say their bishop is using their nation’s legal system to silence their calls for accountability. They also are urging the 2016 General Conference, the denomination’s top lawmaking body, to approve proposed legislation to increase bishops’ accountability — especially on financial matters. Rich Peck and Heather Hahn report.
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Oklahoma church loses sanctuary to storm
DAVIS, Okla. (UMNS) — The sanctuary of First United Methodist Church in Davis is considered a total loss due to damage from an April 26 storm. Church members rushed to save a Bible and other items on the altar. Chris Schutz of the Oklahoma Conference reports.
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Prince had ties to United Methodist Church
MINNEAPOLIS (UMNS) — Music megastar Prince was not United Methodist, but had multiple ties to Park Avenue United Methodist Church — including going on mission trips in high school and marrying his first wife at the church. Christa Meland reports for the Minnesota Conference.
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London council rejects ‘homeless Jesus’ statue
LONDON (UMNS) — The Westminster city council has rejected an application to place a life-size bronze cast of homeless Jesus in front of Methodist Central Hall because it “would fail to maintain or improve (preserve or enhance) the character or appearance of the Westminster Abbey and Parliament Square conservation area,” the Guardian newspaper reported. Methodist Central Hall has started a petition to appeal the decision.
United Methodists, Episcopalians meet
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (UMNS) — Episcopalians and United Methodists conducted the third session of a dialogue on achieving full communion between the two denominations. The April 25-27 meeting included conversation, meals, prayer and a celebration of the Eucharist.
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, May 10 to Friday, May 20
2016 General Conference — The United Methodist Church’s top lawmaking body will meet at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. Details
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