“This has been very successful because the local population accepted it, because of the high reputation of the local Methodist congregation.” — Paolo Naso, on the “House of Cultures” center for migrants in Scicli, Italy.
Migrants find help from Italian Methodists
NEW YORK (UMNS) — A small Methodist congregation in Italy is teaming up with others to address one of the country’s biggest challenges — the overwhelming influx of migrants and refugees over the past five years. The Casa Delle Culture is one of several ways that Mediterranean Hope, a project of the Federation of Protestant Churches in Italy, addresses Europe’s refugee crisis. Linda Bloom has the story.
Read story
Church: Don’t deport 'Dreamers'
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — As President Trump moves forward with a more restrictive approach to immigration, some United Methodist leaders are supporting a bill in Congress that would extend protection from deportation to "Dreamers" — young people brought into the United States illegally as children. The Rev. Gustavo Vasquez reports.
Read story
Connecting with indigenous peoples in Norway
TRONDHEIM, Norway (UMNS) — Three historic gatherings related to United Methodists and the Sami peoples took place in Norway in February, including a meeting near the Arctic Circle to foster networking among indigenous peoples. The Sami are the indigenous peoples in the Arctic regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. Levi Bautista, United Methodist Board of Church and Society, provides a report.
Read story
Read UMNS story on Trondheim celebration
James Lawson: Reflections on civil rights, King
LOS ANGELES (UMC.org) — At age 88, the Rev. James Lawson reflects on his life as a United Methodist pastor, activist, professor and friend to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He credits his parents with sowing the seeds of nonviolence.
Watch video
Higher education executive leaving
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — A high-ranking leader of the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry is leaving the agency to join the staff of Emory & Henry College as provost. John Wells has served as associate general secretary for the higher education and ministry agency since 2016.
Read press release
Online engagement ideas for Lent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMCOM) — Lent is a time many individuals seek ways to deepen their spiritual relationships. Gavin Richardson, writing for United Methodist Communications, offers nine ways churches can engage members and potential visitors during Lent.
Read story
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.
Wednesday, March 1
Ash Wednesday — Christians begin the season of Lent with the imposition of ashes. United Methodist Discipleship Ministries offers worship resources and information about the holy day’s traditions. Details
See more United Methodist events
Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.