Local Church

Jorge João Novo lifts a wooden pole into place to help secure an emergency tarp over his home after the roof was peeled off by Cyclone Idai in Buzi, Mozambique. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

2019: The year in UM News photos

The year 2019 was an eventful one for The United Methodist Church. Photographers from UM News, the denomination's official news service, documented a year in the life of United Methodism worldwide.

Local Church

The Rev. Bud Heckman. Photo courtesy of the Religion Communicators Council.

Clergyman retires ‘under complaint’ of abuse

The Rev. Donald “Bud” Heckman, who is prominent in interfaith circles, faced formal accusations from four women of sexual misconduct and abuse.

Local Church

Obert Chikwato shows off a gift he received from members of The United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe on Dec. 13. “This is my first time to get a Christmas gift,” said the 16-year-old, who lives at Good Samaritan Children’s Home, a foster home in Harare, Zimbabwe. Photo by Priscilla Muzerengwa, UM News.

Young church members collect gifts for foster children

Members of the Harare East District in Zimbabwe delivered gift boxes filled with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, apparel and candy to Good Samaritan Children’s Home.

Local Church

The Rev. Will Choate (at left) helps lead worshippers in singing “Silent Night” by candlelight on Christmas Eve 2018 at Argenta United Methodist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The growing congregation and others across the United Methodist connection are preparing to make visitors feel welcome. Photo courtesy of Argenta United Methodist Church.

What should a Christmas welcome look like?

New research shows more spiritual seekers are interested in visiting a United Methodist church. Here’s what this could mean for Christmas Eve.

Sign up for our newsletter!

umnews-subscriptions