"Such conversation is essential today if we are to carry out relevant ministry and effectively engage with people who are immersed in the digital culture." - The Rev. Larry Hollon on a discussion about online communion.
Online communion sparks questions for digital age
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - A conversation about whether the sacrament of the Lord's Supper could be administered online became one of the trending topics among United Methodists on Twitter this week. The Rev. Larry Hollon, top executive of United Methodist Communications, describes what happened as "constructive conversation that began to grapple with what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus in the 21st century."
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United Methodists and communion
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - What do United Methodists mean when they call this act a sacrament? These and other questions answered in this special report on communion.
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The bread and the cup
Bicycle ministry gives wheels, hope
OCALA, Fla. (UMNS) - A weekly bicycle ministry is part of an outreach for the needy and homeless every Tuesday at the Family Center of the First United Methodist Church near downtown Ocala. The Ocala Star Banner reports that nine people recently got bikes in good working order at no cost.
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Women's commission taking pulse of denomination
NEW YORK (UMNS) - The United Methodist Commission on the Status and Role of Women is talking with women and men across the denomination to gauge the progress of its work for "full and equal responsibility and participation of women in the total life and mission of the church." Susan Keaton reports on the outcome of a recent meeting.
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Schools working to recruit minorities in science, math
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - Historically black colleges and universities supported by The United Methodist Church's Black College Fund are working to recruit more women and minorities in the academic areas of science, technology, engineering and math.
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More nations, including U.S., sign Arms Trade Treaty
UNITED NATIONS (UMNS) - For three years, the World Council of Churches and its members have campaigned for the Arms Trade Treaty. Last week, the United States and 26 other countries signed the new treaty at the U.N. General Assembly, bringing the total to 112. The treaty still requires ratification by the U.S. Senate.
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Education commission drafts plan for $5 million fund
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - A new commission that oversees use of the $5 million fund for theological education in the Central Conferences of The United Methodist Church plans to disburse grants totaling $1 million a year. "The need to improve theological education to enhance servant leadership in the Central Conferences is an imperative," said Liberian Bishop John Innis.
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