NEWS AND FEATURES
Unity struggle is major story of 2018
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The struggle to hold The United Methodist Church together despite longstanding division over homosexuality was the denomination’s top news story of 2018, as chosen by church communicators and United Methodist News staff. Sam Hodges reports.
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Pacific Islanders focus on divide over sexuality
CLAREMONT, Calif. (UMNS) — More than 100 Pacific Islanders gathered recently at Claremont School of Theology for a two-day conversation about the human sexuality issues that divide The United Methodist Church. The event was sponsored by the denomination’s Pacific Islander Ministry Plan. The Rev. Thomas Kim has the story.
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Church helps fight ageism in Zimbabwe
HARARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — Elderly patients in Zimbabwe are often excluded from receiving the same health care as young people, said the Rev. Farirayi Nyabote. The United Methodist Church is helping fight ageism through new health initiatives that make senior citizens a priority. Kudzai Chingwe reports.
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The News & Observer
Tyson, a pastor and peacemaker, dead at 89
RALEIGH, N.C. — Veteran United Methodist pastor the Rev. Vernon Tyson, who shepherded many congregations in North Carolina and acted as a peacemaker in the aftermath of a racially motivated shooting of a black man, has died at his home. He was 89. Lynn Bonner reports.
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Greater New Jersey Conference
'Stigma Free' sermon series tackles tough subjects
MONTVILLE/BOONTON, N.J. — Tackling subjects of addiction, suicide, self-harm, mental health and human trafficking can be difficult in a church setting. But the Rev. Donald Kirschner, who serves both Montville and Boonton United Methodist churches, began the “Stigma Free Church” sermon series after an opioid summit in August “lit a fire” in his bones. Josh Kinney has the story.
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PRESS RELEASES
Texas Conference
Bishop and son to discuss new book
PLANO, Texas — Bishop Scott Jones and his son, the Rev. Arthur Jones, have co-written a new book titled “Scripture and the Wesleyan Way.” They will have a discussion and book signing at Plano’s St. Andrew United Methodist Church at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 13. Proceeds of the event will benefit church ministries.
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RECENT HEADLINES
LGBTQ churchgoers wary of bishops' letter
Bishop Oden, ecumenical leader, dies at 83
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Monday, Jan. 14-Monday, Feb. 25
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