“We cannot fully discuss all the issues of racism because it has tentacles that go out so far … and we fear where it will take us.” — South Carolina Bishop Jonathan Holston on the need for churches to talk about racism.
Exploring the church's role in fighting racism
SPARTANBURG, S.C. (UMNS) — Gatherings at two United Methodist-related colleges in South Carolina explored the church’s role in confronting the sin of racism. Bishops and pastors shared thoughts on preaching against racism at Wofford College on the 70th anniversary of the state’s last known lynching. At Claflin University in Orangeburg, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eugene Robinson moderated a panel on race relations and the role of the church. Jessica Brodie reports for the South Carolina Advocate.
Read story on Wofford panel
Read story on Claflin forum
All-faiths prayer vigil connects community
EAST LANSING, Mich. (UMNS) — United Methodists, including Bishop David Bard, were among a diverse interfaith group of 300 who gathered to affirm their care for immigrants and pray for the nation and President Donald Trump. Kay DeMoss reports for the Michigan Area.
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Lewis Center changing its leadership
WASHINGTON (UMNS) — The Rev. F. Douglas Powe Jr. will become the new director of Wesley Theological Seminary’s Lewis Center for Church Leadership on July 1. The Rev. Lovett H. Weems Jr., the center’s founding director, is stepping down but will remain on the Lewis Center staff as senior consultant. The Lewis Center, among other endeavors, annually puts together a report on United Methodist clergy age.
Read press release and watch announcement
Japanese church members recall internment
SEATTLE — Seventy-five years ago, the entire membership of Seattle Japanese Methodist Episcopal Church — now known as Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church — was interned in a government relocation camp. Several congregation members gathered recently to talk about what happened to them during World War II. Christine Clarridge of The Seattle Times reports.
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What spiritual 'methods' might Methodists use?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Methodists use “methods” to practice spiritual growing in the same way Jesuits use “exercises.” What is a method that Methodists might use? InfoServ, a ministry of United Methodist Communications, has the answer in the latest installment of Ask the UMC.
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Ask the UMC
Agencies join on scholarship project
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Discipleship Ministries and the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry have teamed up to host an online scholarship application process for international students.
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To apply
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, March 1-Thursday, July 13
Online Lenten Book Study: Bishop Job’s 40 Days with Wesley — This online study includes prayer, Scripture, readings from John Wesley, reflection, journaling, a blessing and online discussion. Each participant must purchase a copy of “40 Days with Wesley” by Bishop Rueben P. Job from BeADisciple.com. Details
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