“For you, the graduating class of Africa University, are the architects of Africa’s future — the torchbearers of progress, innovation and change.” — Joaquim Chissano, keynote speaker at Africa University’s graduation ceremony.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Africa University
Africa University celebrates 30th graduation
OLD MUTARE, Zimbabwe — More than 560 students from 22 countries received degrees during Africa University’s 30th graduation ceremony. Nearly 58% of this year’s graduates are women. Former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano was the keynote speaker at the pan-African United Methodist university’s commencement. He reminded the graduates of the transformative potential of peace, tracing from his own experiences as a leader during a time of turmoil in Mozambique. Tawanda Chiwara reports.
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Liberian bishop counters misinformation
MONROVIA, Liberia (UM News) — Bishop Samuel J. Quire of Liberia responded to protests following General Conference’s removal of bans on same-sex weddings and gay ordination. He is dealing with calls for the conference to hold a special session to determine its future, but such a meeting is not currently scheduled. “Be a United Methodist, love The United Methodist Church and stay a United Methodist,” Quire urged his fellow Liberian church members at the end of a press briefing aimed at clearing up misinformation. E Julu Swen reports.
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Great Plains Conference
Church celebrates Juneteenth with music, message
FAIRWAY, Kan. — With celebratory music and cultural insight, Old Mission United Methodist Church celebrated Juneteenth on June 16. The Rev. David Livingston, senior pastor, compared it to the size of an Easter Sunday morning and noted that only about 5% to 10% of the congregation is Black. The service included dialogues between three generations of Black and white Old Mission members and pastors, a reading of the Langston Hughes poem “Freedom” and music led by four-time Grammy nominee and Old Mission member Oleta Adams. David Burke reports.
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United Methodist Communications
Cultivating empathy in polarized times
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Curious about maintaining compassion and engaging in meaningful conversations in daily life? On the latest episode of the “Compass" podcast, the Rev. Ryan Dunn speaks with John Pavlovitz, a pastor, writer and activist, about how to navigate differences with empathy, find solace in nature and embrace an authentic faith journey.
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New 2024 annual conference reports posted
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — United Methodist News is posting 2024 annual conference reports. New this week are the Illinois Great Rivers, Missouri, North Carolina, Northwest Texas, Peninsula-Delaware and Tanzania conferences.
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RESOURCES
Explore United Methodist photos
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — UM News has thousands of images of The United Methodist Church in action around the world. These images are free to use for United Methodist organizations that provide an identifying credit.
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