“With Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, I was able to answer my call to ministry. I know a lot of DACA recipients that have been able to develop themselves and they are really afraid now.” — The Rev. Orlando Gallardo, part of a U.S. program for young immigrants.
Pastor among Dreamers waiting for citizenship
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The Rev. Orlando Gallardo has a master of divinity degree from Saint Paul School of Theology and is an associate pastor in a United Methodist church, but not yet a U.S. citizen. Gallardo is one among thousands of young people waiting to see what changes the Trump administration will make to immigration laws. Kathy L. Gilbert reports.
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Commentary: Conferences need final say on gay issues
EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. (UMNS) — Bishop William B. Lewis writes that the annual conference, not General Conference, has the responsibility for addressing behavioral issues involving clergy. Perhaps, the retired bishop suggests, that means the annual conference is the right place for questions regarding homosexuality.
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United Methodist scouting surges
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The number of youth involved in Scouting packs, troops and crews chartered by United Methodist churches is on the rise, reports the Commission on United Methodist Men. At the end of 2016, 327,405 were involved in Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops and Venturing crews. That’s an increase of about 2,700 youth.
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Lifewatch plans events Jan. 27
WASHINGTON (UMNS) — Lifewatch, an unofficial United Methodist group that advocates against abortion, will have its annual worship service at 9:30 a.m. EST, Friday, Jan. 27 in the chapel of the United Methodist Building, 100 Maryland Ave. The service will feature a sermon by the Rev. Stephen Rankin, chaplain and minister to United Methodist-related Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Following the March for Life, a 3 p.m. board meeting is planned at the United Methodist Building.
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Evangelism foundation meets with leaders
ATLANTA (UMNS) — The Foundation for Evangelism is meeting with a select group of 11 United Methodist leaders next week to listen to ways these leaders are successfully making disciples. The aim of the event is to determine how the foundation can best support evangelistic efforts.
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Methodist Central Hall serves the world
LONDON (UMC.org) — Methodist Central Hall in Westminster is an impressive structure in a very busy section of London. Joe Iovino writes that the hall, the host of the first United Nations General Assembly, makes a statement to the world.
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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.
Saturday, Jan. 28
Creative Culture Conference — From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. MST, First United Methodist Church in Farmington, New Mexico, will offer a conference encouraging Christians to use their artistic God-given talents to live out their faith. Photographers and advanced painters are asked to bring their own supplies/equipment. Beginning photographers can use point-and-shoot cameras or cellphones. The cost is $14. Lunch is provided. Registration due on Jan. 26. Details
Friday, Feb. 3
Webinar “Targeting Spiritual but not Religious, Nones and Unaffiliated Baby Boomers and Older Adults” — From 10 to 11 a.m. CST, Discipleship Ministries will have a webinar looking at ways to engage Baby Boomers, who identify as “spiritual but not religious.” Details
More United Methodist events
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