Daily Digest - January 2, 2024

NEWS AND FEATURES

2023: The year in photos

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — In a world filled with uncertainty, United Methodists found creative ways to live out their faith and serve their communities in 2023. UM News photographers documented a year in the life of United Methodism worldwide.
See photos

West Virginia Conference
Church's vision comes to life

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — During his time serving as the pastor of Christ United Methodist Church, the Rev. Tom McDowell had a vision of a walking bridge connecting the church and the community as far as he could see. His vision later became reality, though not as a physical bridge. Through a grant, the church transformed its unused educational wing into a “bridge for needed resources,” offering space to local nonprofits that address the issues of poverty and addiction. Allie Sears has the story.
Read story

Desert Southwest Conference
Pacific Islander church opens doors

LAS VEGAS — Pasifika: United Methodist Community has begun ministry with the growing Pacific Islander population in the Las Vegas area. The community’s building will now host Tongan, Samoan and Filipino United Methodist congregations that began at other United Methodist churches in the area. Molly Shannon has the story. 
Read story

Detroit News
Jewish, Hindu volunteers help ministry on Christmas

DETROIT — More than a dozen Jewish and Hindu volunteers spent Christmas Day working at Cass Community Social Services to give some Christian workers the day off. The United Methodist nonprofit serves as a 24/7 warming center and family shelter. Cass Community also provides stable housing to people experiencing homelessness. Myesha Johnson has the story.
Read story
 

PRESS RELEASES

United Methodist Communications, General Conference
Online orientation offered for GC2024 delegates

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In preparation for The United Methodist Church’s top lawmaking assembly this year, United Methodist Communications and the General Conference secretary will co-host a livestreamed orientation for delegates from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. U.S. Central time Feb. 29 and March 1. Recordings will be available to watch after the event. General Conference is scheduled for April 23-May 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 
Read press release
UM News: Looking ahead to General Conference

Asbury Theological Seminary
Tennent stepping down as Asbury president

WILMORE, Ky. — Timothy C. Tennent, president of Asbury Theological Seminary, will step down on June 30, the school announced. He will remain at Asbury as professor of world Christianity. Tennent became president in 2009 and led the seminary through its centennial year.
Read press release
 

RESOURCES 

Higher Education and Ministry
Event for young adults exploring ministry

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry plans to hold Exploration on Feb. 16-18 at the DoubleTree Hotel near Universal Orlando in Florida. Exploration creates sacred space for young adults, ages 18-26, to be in meaningful fellowship, passionate worship, theological reflection and practical workshops as they discern whether God is calling them to ordained United Methodist ministry. 
Learn more
Register
 

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