“Widows are threatened, physically intimidated and insulted by in-laws so that they leave their homes. In some cases, older children force their mothers out of their homes, claiming that they are the heirs of the property.” — Babra Munaiwa, who works with widows at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Harare, Zimbabwe, on inheritance conflicts.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Opposing unfair treatment of women for inheritance
HARARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — When Maria’s husband died, his family evicted her from the home the couple had shared for years and claimed her property — a story United Methodists say is far too common for widows in Zimbabwe. That’s why the church is working to teach, assist and engage both victims and perpetrators of inheritance conflicts. Priscilla Muzerengwa has the story.
Read story
North Carolina Conference
Prayer for Florence in North Carolina
GARNER, N.C. — In “A Meditation & Prayer for Hurricane Florence,” North Carolina Bishop Hope Morgan Ward points to the “great gift” of Psalm 27 and offers assurances that the conference stands ready to respond to the storm. “We have wisdom gleaned from experience, disaster recovery staff in place, good neighbors and abundant love for one another,” she writes.
Read bishop’s message
Preparing for Hurricane Florence
New England Conference
Heritage Center collection needs new home
METHUEN, Mass. — The New England United Methodist Historical Society is seeking a new home for some precious old items, including some that belonged to Francis Asbury, the pioneering bishop. The Rev. Margaret Bickford, curator of the collection, outlined what the society is seeking in terms of a place to display the items.
Read story
United Methodist Communications
Coke’s work shaped modern church
FREDERICA, Del. (UMC.org) — Thomas Coke, a British lawyer turned preacher, was born on Sept. 9, 1747. His ministry shaped the structure of the current United Methodist Church, says the Rev. Brian Milford, Publishing House president.
Watch video
In Malawi, community farming transforms lives
MADISI, Malawi (UMNS) — In days of increased concern over food security, resource scarcity and deteriorating ecosystems, permaculture farming plays an important role in Malawi. Joseph Kaipa, trained by The United Methodist Church, is now teaching his neighbors new models of farming to generate income for themselves and to support the church. Francis Nkhoma reports.
Read story
PRESS RELEASES
National and World Council of Churches
Funding cut for Palestinian refugees
WASHINGTON — The U.S. National Council of Churches and World Council of Churches, whose membership includes The United Methodist Church, are calling for a reversal of the U.S. government decision to end funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees.
Read NCC press release
Read WCC press release
RESOURCES
General Council on Finance and Administraton
Top 10 audiovisual questions answered
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Audiovisual technology is integral to many churches’ ministries and worship experiences. Corey Wills, digital event specialist for the General Council on Finance and Administration, has put together a free resource answering the 10 most common questions he is asked.
Download resource
RECENT HEADLINES
Paths collide for immigrants, border agents
Angolan United Methodists weigh in on Social Principles
EVENTS
Monday, Sept. 17-Sunday, Oct. 14
Online class: Culture of the call — congregational life
Share your story or tips with us at [email protected].
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.