General Church

Bishop Violet L. Fisher, the first Black woman elected bishop in the Northeastern Jurisdiction, died Nov. 17 at the age of 86. Photo courtesy of the Council of Bishops.

Bishop Violet L. Fisher remembered as trailblazer

The United Methodist, who made history as the first Black woman elected bishop in the Northeastern Jurisdiction, also earned admiration across the church for her powerful preaching and tender pastoral care.

General Agencies

Board members of The United Methodist Church’s finance agency sing “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” during opening worship at their meeting Nov. 14 in Nashville, Tenn. During the meeting, the board reckoned with the denomination’s financial difficulties while approving spending for denomination-wide ministries in 2026. The board also heard a report on alternative sources of revenue beyond the offering plate. Photo by Heather Hahn, UM News.

Bishop warns of financial troubles ahead

The president of The United Methodist Church’s finance agency urged leaders to face the reality of reduced resources. He also expressed hope that the church can rebuild for a faithful future.

Global Health

Bishop Nelson Kalombo Ngoy of the Tanganyika Episcopal Area (center, in blue suit) and the Rev. Alpher K. Sylvester of the New York Conference (right, in light jacket) stand amid a group of clergy and community members with hands raised in prayer during an outreach visit in Kalemie, Congo. Photo by Chadrack Tambwe Londe, UM News.

New bishop brings big dreams to Tanganyika

Bishop Nelson Kalombo Ngoy shares his vision for addressing the critical lack of medical care in the newly created episcopal area.

Connectional Table

Connectional Table lives into new vision at Philippines gathering

The October meeting provided a time for fellowship as a worldwide community and space to celebrate and discern the denomination’s new vision.

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