NEWS AND FEATURES
Way Forward Commission tops 2017 news stories
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The work of the commission addressing the denomination’s debate over homosexuality topped a news poll for the second consecutive year. United Methodists’ response to a wave of natural disasters, the church’s witness against racism and its focus on global migration issues were also noted. Joey Butler reports.
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2017: The year in UMNS photos
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — United Methodist News Service staff traveled the globe last year to cover important events for the church. Take a look at some of the images they shot to sum up the year 2017 in the life of the denomination.
View slideshow
The Virginian-Pilot
Historic church steeple goes up in flames
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — One of the oldest United Methodist churches in Virginia caught fire Jan. 3. The steeple of Monumental United Methodist Church was engulfed in flames, and other nearby buildings caught fire from falling embers. No injuries were reported. Robyn Sidersky and Ryan Murphy report.
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World Council of Churches
Joining with Christians in Beijing
BEIJING — The World Council of Churches is starting its 70th anniversary by visiting Christians in China. The Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, the WCC’s top executive, preached Jan. 7 at Chongwenmen Church, founded by American Methodists in 1870.
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Read UMNS story, The Church in China: Pews are full
Virginia Conference
Virginia church still serving as sanctuary
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — First United Methodist Church plans to continue to open its doors to those seeking a safe space as court cases stemming from a white supremacist rally turned deadly are heard. “Our witness and justice ministries will continue to respond to the needs of our community as they arise,” said the Rev. Phil Woodson. The church served as a safe space on Dec. 14 when a handful of cases from August went to court. Forrest White has the story.
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PRESS RELEASES
Board of Higher Education and Ministry
Grants support racial-ethnic training programs
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Applications are open for grants that support innovative racial-ethnic training programs. Applications for the Ethnic In-Service Training Grant awards are open now through March 7.
Read press release
RESOURCES
United Methodist Communications
Survey on Human Relations Day
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — United Methodist Communications is looking for interesting personal stories that illustrate the benefits of Human Relations Day. Please take this short survey about being a helping hand to those in crisis so they can overcome formidable obstacles. Human Relations Day is Jan. 14.
Complete survey
Get resources for Human Relations Day
RECENT HEADLINES
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EVENTS
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, Jan. 10
Webinar for local church lay leaders and annual conference members: What’s my job?
Saturday, Jan. 13
Timbre Junction Bluegrass concert to benefit Habitat for Humanity
Share your story or tips with us at [email protected].
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