“Be prepared — strap in, be ready to roll. … We don’t move at church speed.” — Greg Arnold, top executive of United Methodist Men.
NEWS AND FEATURES
United Methodist Men is on the move
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — United Methodist Men is moving fast on its four-year plan to revitalize itself after Greg Arnold took over leadership about 18 months ago. Arnold, who brings a business background to the job, has deemphasized the charter membership model, revised the agency’s relationship with the Boy Scouts and moved its offices. Jim Patterson has the story.
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UM News: Changes, expansion for United Methodist Men
South Carolina Conference
Conference OKs exits, helps those who stay
FLORENCE, S.C. — In a solemn moment, the South Carolina Annual Conference approved the separation of 113 congregations — about 12% of its churches — from The United Methodist Church. South Carolina has been unusual in its approach to letting churches leave, using a process grounded in the denomination’s policy for church closures. The conference is also offering help to people in separating churches who want to remain United Methodist. Jessica Brodie has both stories.
Read about 113 church separations
Read about help for staying United Methodist
Higher Education and Ministry
Celebrating women of color scholars
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Some 30 years ago, no women of color served as professors at the 13 United Methodist-related theological schools in the U.S. Today, the Angella P. Current-Felder Women of Color Scholars Program celebrates 55 program graduates who have obtained their doctoral degrees in religious studies and are teaching in seminaries and theological schools on three continents. The Rev. Karen Y. Collier, who died earlier this year, was instrumental in the program. LaConteau Williams has the story.
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UM News: Collier had impact at denominational, personal levels
California-Pacific Conference
After second fire, church looks to future
LOS ANGELES — The building of St. John’s United Methodist Church has long operated in an open green space, but now the church has plans to add a fence around its perimeter. The decision comes as the church is starting the rebuilding process after its second fire in less than two years. Miya Kim has the story and how to help.
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PRESS RELEASES
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
New dean named at Garrett-Evangelical
EVANSTON, Ill. — The Rev. Jennifer Harvey was named new vice president of academic affairs and academic dean at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, beginning work on Aug. 1. Harvey comes from Drake University, where she was associate provost for campus equity and inclusion for the past three years. She is ordained in the American Baptist Churches (USA). Garrett is one of 13 United Methodist seminaries in the U.S.
Read press release
RESOURCES
United Methodist Communications
3 ways to use tech in children’s ministry
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Most U.S. children ages 8-12 already have at least one personal digital device like a smartphone in their household. Tricia K. Brown reports three ways churches can use technology safely and effectively in their kids’ ministry.
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RECENT HEADLINES
Disciple Bible Study goes digital
Weeping with grief, gratitude for closed church
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