“We have married couples in our church who strongly disagree on this matter. They’re not getting divorced.” — The Rev. James Howell, pastor of Myers Park United Methodist Church, on the threat of denominational schism over homosexuality.
Congo Central Conference delegates elect bishops
KAMINA, Democratic Republic of Congo (UMNS) — Delegates to the Congo Central Conference elected three new bishops on March 18 and re-elected Bishop Gabriel Yemba Unda. Eveline Chikwanah reports.
Unda re-elected
Lunge second elected bishop
Congo delegates elect Owan
Muyombo elected
'Middle' churches could feel pain if schism comes
DALLAS (UMNS) — United Methodist churches with diverse views on homosexuality are, their pastors say, particularly vulnerable if a denominational breakup occurs and they have to decide between aligning with a traditionalist or progressive group. “I think a choice of two options, if our church had to vote, would be a horrible strain," says the Rev. Cathy Johns, co-pastor of Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church in Cincinnati. Sam Hodges reports.
Read story
Compassion and justice for immigrants, refugees
WASHINGTON (UMNS) — The United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race issued a statement calling on United Methodists to welcome immigrants and refugees. The statement also asks that churches consider becoming a sanctuary church or in some other way address the needs of immigrants and refugees. United Methodists should also, the statement says, do what they can to quell fear and hate speech.
Read full statement
Theologian says Old Testament headed to extinction
ATLANTA (UMNS) — Old Testament professor Brent Strawn of Emory’s Candler School of Theology says the Bible’s Old Testament may be headed for extinction. His latest book, “The Old Testament Is Dying: A Diagnosis and Recommended Treatment,” documents the decline of the Old Testament among Christians and other groups, the consequences of that and what might be done to counter it.
Read press release
Wespath honors 2 with leadership awards
GLENVIEW, Ill. (UMNS) — Jim Berner, West Virginia Conference director of administrative services, and Jerry Pinkerton, a former Wespath director from the North Texas Conference, received distinguished leadership awards from Wespath Benefits and Investments during its recent board of directors’ meeting in Hollywood, Florida.
Read press release
How long is Eastertide?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — How long is Eastertide? Test your knowledge with this and other questions about the seasons of Lent and Easter. The quiz has a new question each weekday.
Take the quiz
LOOKING AHEAD
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.
Sunday, March 26
UMCOR Sunday — Gifts to UMCOR Sunday lay the foundation for all United Methodist Committee on Relief work by covering the costs of doing business. This means all contributions designated to specific programs can go 100 percent to these programs because UMCOR’s basic expenses are covered. Resources
See more United Methodist events
Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.