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Daily Digest - April 22, 2020


“The pipeline has disrupted the church, with people on both sides of the issue, and there's nothing like a church fight.” — Becky Crabtree on a natural gas pipeline running behind her local church.

NEWS AND FEATURES

Preaching creation care in the land of fracking
JANE LEW, W.Va. (UM News) — The continued rise of fracking activity in West Virginia has divided not only communities but churches — usually between those who stand to profit and others concerned about the long-term environmental impact. Joey Butler reports, with photos by Mike DuBose.
Read story

LifeWay Research
Survey: Pastors agree climate change is real

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — For the first time, a majority of Protestant pastors believe global warming is happening and caused by humans. A 2019 survey from LifeWay Research found 53% of Protestant pastors — and 80% of Methodists — agree with the statement, “I believe global warming is real and man-made.” Aaron Earls has the story.
Read story

Memphis Conference
Men's ramp ministry adapts to COVID-19

PADUCAH, Ky. — The men of Reidland United Methodist Church, for over a quarter century, have provided handicap access to those who cannot safely get in and out of their homes and can't afford to hire a contractor. The Ramp Ministry Team explains how they are able to continue the ministry while still social distancing.
Read story

PRESS RELEASES

Texas Methodist Foundation
Low-interest microloans for churches, ministries

AUSTIN, Texas — Responding to the COVID-19 emergency, the Texas Methodist Foundation has announced a $1 million, low-interest microloan program for United Methodist churches and ministries in Texas and New Mexico.
Read press release

RESOURCES

Perkins School of Theology
Faith leaders speak on COVID-19

DALLAS — Robert Hunt, director of Global Theological Education at Perkins School of Theology, has begun a series of podcasts about COVID-19 with faith leaders from a range of religious traditions. The first is with Azhar Azeez, past president of the Islamic Society of North America. North Texas Conference Bishop Michael McKee is a scheduled guest.
Listen to podcast

Discipleship Ministries
Latest Upper Room issue available for free download

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Since churches are unable to meet and gather safely in their buildings during the coronavirus pandemic, The Upper Room is offering the May/June 2020 issue, both in English and Spanish, as a free, downloadable PDF. The Upper Room also has created a web page featuring resources to help create and maintain spiritual wellness during anxious times.
Download issue
View resources

RECENT HEADLINES

Tentative General Conference dates publicized

Church hospitals race to prepare for the coronavirus

EVENTS

Thursday, April 23
Webinar: Start planning your church's COVID-19 recovery ministry now


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