Daily Digest - October 14, 2019

NEWS AND FEATURES

California-Nevada Conference
Power cuts remind survivors of deadly fires

SANTA ROSA, Calif. — Red-flag fire warnings and power outages across Northern California — aimed at preventing wildfires sparked by electrical lines — have brought back anxious memories for survivors of past deadly fires. Power was restored Oct. 14. Cate Monaghan reports on the reaction from United Methodists.  
Read story
California-Pacific Conference response to fires

South Central Jurisdiction
Bishops speak out on border crisis
 
DALLAS — Active and retired bishops of the South Central Jurisdiction have called for more attention to the humanitarian crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. They offer priorities in their joint letter, including “safe and humane care for undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers.”
Read letter

South Georgia Conference
Church activity mats help dementia patients

SPARKS, Ga. — When Pat Scrogham’s mother, Margery Resser, was living with dementia, Scrogham looked high and low for something to keep her mother’s hands busy. The Joyful Stitchers at Sparks United Methodist Church created the activity mat she envisioned and gave rise to a new ministry. Kara Witherow reports. 
Read story

Texas Conference
Houston church bouncing back after fire

HOUSTON — Historic St. Mark’s United Methodist Church is working on recovery after a Sept. 20 fire caused structural and smoke damage. The Rev. Emily Chapman said the congregation has found temporary worship space in nearby schools and is working with a restoration firm to get the sanctuary usable again. Lindsay Peyton reports.
Read story

The Spokesman-Review
Classic tunes, dumplings fuel church fundraiser

GREEN BLUFF, Wash. — The Apple Festival in Green Bluff is a chance to celebrate fall with pumpkin and apple picking, famous pumpkin doughnuts and fresh produce from the small family farms in the area. Green Bluff Community United Methodist Church makes the event possible. Emma Epperly has the story.
Read story


PRESS RELEASES

Council of Bishops
Felder lauded by Council of Bishops

WASHINGTON — The legacy of the Rev. Cain Hope Felder is being honored by the Council of Bishops, which in a statement said he touched millions with his work as a pastor, scholar, professor and advocate. The council especially noted his work as the first executive director of Black Methodists for Church Renewal.
Read press release
Read UM News obituary


RECENT HEADLINES

Challenges stack up for United Methodist school
 

Faith communities provide respite care for immigrants 


EVENTS

Monday, Oct. 28

Free online class: How to start small groups 

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