Human Rights

Florida delegates Rachael Sumner (front left) and the Rev. Jacqueline Leveron (front right) of the Florida Conference join in prayer with bishops and other delegates at the front of the stage before a key vote on church policies about homosexuality during the 2019 United Methodist General Conference in St. Louis. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS.

2019 General Conference passes Traditional Plan

Delegates to The United Methodist Church’s top lawmaking assembly approved a plan that affirms church policies on homosexuality and strengthens enforcement. The vote was 438 to 384.

Social Concerns

United Methodist deaconess Cindy Johnson (right) walks to buy medicine with Isabél who traveled with her daughter from Nicaragua to Matamoros, Mexico, hoping to request asylum in the U.S. Kassandra, 16 months, was suffering from fever and weight loss while she and her mother waited for their turn to approach the bridge leading to Brownsville, Texas. Johnson, who makes regular visits to the makeshift camp, brought members of the United Methodist Immigration Task Force for a firsthand look at the immigration situation. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS.

United Methodists respond to migrants at the border

The United Methodist Immigration Task Force saw United Methodists in action caring for migrants from around the world seeking asylum at border towns in Texas.

Social Concerns

Participants hold signs during an interfaith gathering at Rajah Sulayman plaza in Manila. Satur Ocampo (left), a well-known social activist, commended the interfaith initiative, calling it “a signal that society should not remain silent in the face of such exigencies.” Photo by Gladys Mangiduyo, UMNS.

New concerns over human rights in Philippines

United Methodists, concerned about the escalation of threats and violent incidents, are seeking God’s wisdom and strength through prayer.

Social Concerns

United Methodist Women in Liberia display signs to protest against the rising wave of violence against women and girls in Liberia. The peaceful demonstration took place during the group’s 72nd annual session, held Jan. 21-27 in Marshall, Liberia. Photo by E Julu Swen, UMNS.

UMW in Liberia focuses on ending violence against women

As part of its five-year strategic plan, United Methodist Women aims to help women and girls by providing safe homes, counseling, legal and medical services, education and other aid.

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