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Daily Digest - February 27, 2020

“After vigorous discussion and critique, the leaders of the UMC Africa Initiative have decided to support the passage of the implementing legislation of the Protocol for Reconciliation and Grace through Separation.”Statement from the Africa Initiative, a United Methodist advocacy group.


NEWS AND FEATURES

Key African group supports protocol

JOHANNESBURG (UM News) — The Africa Initiative, a United Methodist advocacy group, has given a qualified endorsement to the Protocol of Reconciliation & Grace Through Separation — potentially easing its way for passage at General Conference. The group also is urging some amendments to the proposal. Heather Hahn reports.
Read story

Clergywomen in US, Africa forge bonds
CINCINNATI (UM News) — The longtime visions of two United Methodist clergywomen — the Rev. J. Kabamba Kiboko and retired Bishop Linda Lee — have helped African clergywomen and black clergywomen in the U.S. build relationships and issue a joint proclamation of sisterhood. A gathering is planned at Africa University in 2022. Linda Bloom has the story.
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Michigan Conference
Bishop urges calm, preparation for coronavirus

LANSING, Mich. — Bishop David Bard has asked United Methodist churches in Michigan to begin preparing for a possible widespread outbreak of the coronavirus disease. The respiratory disease has spread to 37 countries, including the U.S. The conference’s disaster response coordinators and others will explore how congregations can best prepare, but Bard has urged church members to stay calm. 
Read story
Wespath statement on coronavirus and stock market

Church evangelizes across Congo River
KINSHASA, Congo (UM News) — Central Congo Bishop Daniel Lunge is extending his evangelism efforts across the Congo River to help establish the first United Methodist Church presence in the Republic of Congo. Pierre Omadjela has the story.
Read story
 
Florida Conference
A trip back in time to tackle racism

HAMPTON, Va. — A diverse group of 14 representatives from the Florida Conference traveled to Virginia to observe history that was haunting, disturbing and sobering. Ultimately, they hope the experience will be liberating. Joey Johnston writes about their experience for Black History Month. 
Read story
 

PRESS RELEASES

General Conference
Preview of proposed global Discipline online

ATLANTA — For eight years, United Methodist leaders have been trying to decide what in the denomination’s Book of Discipline applies around the globe and what can be adapted by region. United Methodists can see a draft of the work with tracked changes from the current Discipline. Leaders plan to ask for feedback in 2020 before submitting their work for a vote at the 2024 General Conference.
Read press release
See draft
Feedback sought on global Discipline effort


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