"It attempts to be less legalistic and less prescriptive and to give more freedom to local churches and annual conferences to structure themselves for effective ministry." — The Rev. Tom Lambrecht of the Wesleyan Covenant Association about the first draft of a guidebook for a potential new denomination spun out of The United Methodist Church.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Scripture key to first draft of WCA guidebook
TULSA, Okla. (UM News) — The Wesleyan Covenant Association posted the first draft of a guidebook for a potential new expression of Methodism. The primacy of Scripture and clear language against the acceptance of homosexual marriage and gay clergy are contained in the document. Jim Patterson reports.
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United Methodist men fight climate change in Congo
BUKAVU, Congo (UM News) — United Methodist men in Congo are helping to fight climate change through education and action. The men's groups are planting trees on United Methodist properties and talking with church members about ways to protect the environment. Philippe Kituka Lolonga reports.
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South Carolina Conference
'Another lease on life' for historic rural church
GRAY COURT, S.C. — Less than two years ago, historic Bramlett United Methodist Church was one more rural church at risk of closing. Since then, the church has expanded its definition of community, reaching out to families settling nearby. Attendance has grown, as have baptisms and other vitality measures. "We have another lease on life," said the Rev. John Fahrney, pastor. Jessica Brodie reports.
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North Georgia Conference
Conference helps save eyesight of 16 teens
ATLANTA — The North Georgia Conference has provided the support needed for 16 Georgia teenagers to receive sight-saving treatment. Conference leadership used a fund set up to help people who would go blind if not treated.
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Michigan Conference
Tearoom, new worship service in Detroit
DETROIT — Cass Community United Methodist Church is seeking to join in the revival of its midtown neighborhood with a combination tearoom and new focus on justice, the arts, inclusion and transformation. The Rev. John E. Harnish reports.
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Florida Conference
Sewing ministry stays busy
NAPLES, Fla. — The Busy Needles group at North Naples United Methodist Church has been going for more than 25 years. It started with quilts but moved to making handmade shawls for people undergoing serious illness or other challenges. The pastor prays over each finished item. Yvette C. Hammett reports.
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