"The point here is that the witness of sanctuary — that is, providing and being a space of shelter, safety, security and embrace for very vulnerable persons — can take different forms." — The Rev. Jeania Ree V. Moore, United Methodist Board of Church and Society.
Sanctuary as more than shelter
DALLAS (UMNS) — United Methodist immigrant rights advocates say churches need a broader definition of sanctuary, one that includes sheltering those facing possible deportation, but isn’t limited to that. Sam Hodges reports.
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Kentucky church welcomes 200 for eclipse
PADUCAH, Ky. — When members of Lone Oak United Methodist Church realized they were going to be in the path of totality for the Aug. 21 solar eclipse, they opened their doors and grounds for eclipse watchers from as far away as Chicago and Houston. Though most had no ties to the church, the event was a way to extend hospitality during the momentous occasion.
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UMCOR responds to Sierra Leone tragedy
ATLANTA — The United Methodist Committee on Relief has given a $10,000 emergency grant to The United Methodist Church in Sierra Leone following a mudslide that killed nearly 500 people and left more than 600 missing. The relief agency is exploring options for responding to the tragedy.
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Church leaders visit Sierra Leone disaster area
Higher Education and Ministry updates mission
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Directors of the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry approved the agency’s plan to become a center for leadership formation and development.
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Table design adds mission dollars in Florida
PENSACOLA, Fla. — Elaborately decorated luncheon tables, a silent auction and a motivational speaker have proved a winning fundraising strategy for mission for the United Methodist Women of First United Methodist Church. Julio Diaz reports for the Pensacola News Journal.
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FamJam delights kids, parents
JACKSON, Miss. — Mosquitos, jellyfish, dinosaurs, chickens and superheroes were part of a day of worship for children at Christ United Methodist Church. Jasmine Haynes has the story and photos.
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Looking ahead
Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have a United Methodist event to share, you can add it to the calendar with this submission form.
Wednesday, Aug. 30
7 Ways to Promote Your Church Event on Facebook — 12:30 p.m. CDT. This webinar will cover how Facebook can benefit churches. It will include basic tips, creative promotion ideas, advertising best practices and livestreaming. Register here
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