"Though we may be physically distant, we are connected to one another through God's power, the gifts of technology and our care for each other that surpasses any limitations." — The Rev. Wendy Hudson, pastor of Two Rivers Church in Charleston, South Carolina.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Churches overcome social distancing to continue outreach
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — This past weekend, churches across the U.S. held virtual worship services online. Now, pastors and other church staff turn to continuing other aspects of their ministry from a distance as the church copes with the spread of COVID-19. Joey Butler and Jim Patterson have the story.
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Virus alters but does not stop Sunday worship
Coronavirus disrupts 17 Filipino annual conference sessions
MANILA, Philippines (UM News) — Seventeen annual conference sessions in the Philippines have been postponed indefinitely due to the threat of the coronavirus and quarantines in the region. The Côte d'Ivoire and Germany North conferences also have postponed their upcoming annual sessions. Gladys P. Mangiduyos reports.
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Oklahoma Conference restructures annual meeting
Global Ministries
Project provides water to mountain homes
SNEEDVILLE, Tenn. — The United Methodist Jubilee Water Project builds about three wells each year in Hancock County, where many residents don't have access to clean, safe water. The project, a mission of the Holston Conference, also helps with indoor plumbing. "The need for water here is amazing. People living up in the 'hollers' even today lack access to clean, fresh water," said Lisa Nichols, director of the project. Christie R. House reports.
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PRESS RELEASES
United Methodist Women
Changes planned for 2 UMW spring events
NEW YORK — In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, United Methodist Women announced changes for two major program events scheduled for April through May. The organization plans to reschedule four of its five quadrennial jurisdiction events and is exploring online distance-learning resources for those registered for its national Mission U training events for conference study leaders.
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World Council of Churches
As world turns virtual, it is easy to pray
GENEVA — People pray daily for an end to the coronavirus that is turning human interaction into a virtual affair and upending lives everywhere during a struggle against a silent enemy about which little is known. Praying is something that does not need social contact as global Christian groups, including the World Council of Churches, the Vatican and the World Evangelical Alliance, have noted.
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RESOURCES
United Methodist Men
Latest issue of UMMen magazine available
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The theme of the Spring 2020 issue of UMMen, the magazine of United Methodist Men, is "What Are We Fighting For?" In the midst of debates on the future direction of the denomination, the issue previews the major proposals coming to the 2020 General Conference, but also contains tips on men's ministry, as the need to reach out to men and youth will continue no matter what is decided.
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RECENT HEADLINES
Ask The UMC: How can we livestream worship legally?
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