Central conferences communications initiative approved

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A plan to improve communications for church members in countries outside the United States was overwhelmingly approved May 3 by the United Methodist General Conference.

The plan, submitted by United Methodist Communications, calls upon that church agency to identify new partnerships or assist with established partnerships among United Methodists in Africa, Europe, Asia and the United States.

The agency will collaborate with central conference bishops, communicators and other leaders “to determine the nature of each partnership and choose appropriate, specific, supportive communications linkages and training.”

Giving voice “to those who otherwise might not be heard” and sharing stories and the word of the church in “culture-appropriate” ways are among the plan’s goals.

Funding of $2.3 million is included in the central conferences communications initiative.

*Bloom is the director of the New York office of United Methodist News Service.

News media contact: (412) 325-6080 during General Conference, April 27-May 7.
After May 10: (615) 742-5470.

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