Daily Digest - April 2, 2015

"I think his own self-righteousness, his sense that ‘I know what’s right,’ really got him into trouble. Of course, it got Jesus into trouble too." — David Berger on Judas, whom he played in “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

What can Christians learn from Judas?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Christians still struggle today with how to view Jesus’ most notorious disciple. But Judas, even in his sinfulness, has something to teach Christians, say New Testament scholars. Heather Hahn shares what is known about Judas.
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Interim top executive named at communications agency

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The Rev. Larry Hollon, United Methodist Communications’ top executive since 2000, left the agency April 1. A search had been under way for a replacement since last fall, when Hollon announced that the Book of Discipline required him to leave since he had reached the mandatory retirement age of 70. Sherri Thiel, chief operating officer, will serve as interim general secretary until Hollon’s successor is announced. Bishop Sally Dyck, president of the agency, said the search committee has completed interviews and expects to make an announcement soon.
Read press release

About 200 join in Côte d’ Ivoire Palm Sunday procession

PORT-BOUET, Côte d’ Ivoire (UMNS) — About 200 people processed to Emmanuel United Methodist Church on Palm Sunday, including a man who portrayed Jesus riding on a donkey. Isaac Broune has a photo essay.
View photos

Indiana presents $1 million endowed chair to Africa University

MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — The Indiana Conference presented $1 million for an endowed chair of agriculture and natural resources for Africa University, continuing a long conference tradition of major support for the United Methodist institution. Skyler Nimmons and Vicki Brown report.
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What people can do with doubt

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — “My God, my God, why have you left me?” Jesus’ cry from the cross resonates with all people whenever they feel alone, afraid or full of doubt. Joe Iovino shares spiritual advice for those moments when our hearts are troubled.
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WCC’s Philip Potter dies at 93

GENEVA (UMNS) — The Rev. Philip Potter, a Methodist from Dominica, West Indies who served as the top executive of the World Council of Churches from 1972 to 1984, died March 31 at the age of 93 in Lübeck, Germany. “Phillip Potter was fearless in faith, wise in knowledge, and determined to bring the Christian community to unity in Christ for the sake of showing the world that generosity, peace, and justice are possible in the real world,” said Thomas Kemper, top executive, United Methodist Board of Global Ministries.
Read WCC story
Read reflection from Thomas Kemper

Washing feet: A dream for a servant

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (UMNS) — While in a medically induced coma, Sam Murillo had a dream in which he saw Jesus washing the feet of countless people. Asked why he would engage in such humble work, Jesus responded: “There is nothing on heaven or earth more important than washing feet.” In Interpreter, Murillo explains the importance of this ministry.
Read personal reflection
Read why United Methodists include foot washing

Lent quiz continues through Easter Sunday

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The Lent quiz will have new questions throughout the rest of Holy Week about Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. A new question will be posted each day, and all previous questions are still available.
Take today's quiz

CORRECTION: The quote in the March 31 Daily Digest misspelled the name of speaker. He is the Rev. Robert Fuquay, senior pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Indianapolis. The story now includes new information about similar Arkansas legislation, as well as comments from university presidents in Indiana.
Read updated story

The Daily Digest will return Monday, April 6. United Methodist News Service wishes you a blessed Holy Week and joyous Easter.

Looking ahead

Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have an item to share, email [email protected] and put Digest in the subject line.

Monday, April 13
Online Lay Servant Ministries advanced courses offered by BeADisciple.com — Three options: Leading Public Prayer, Rediscovering Our Spiritual Gifts and the polity course, Life Together in the United Methodist Connection

Welcome Table at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington — 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EDT. Events for prospective students include a fellowship meal with a faculty member and the chance to attend a class. Details.

You can see more educational opportunities and other upcoming events in the life of the church here.