Support UM News on World Press Freedom Day: Give to help sustain and expand the storytelling capacity of UM News. Your donation today will transform information into inspiration and ensure we can continue sharing stories of God’s work in the world through The UMC. Help us reach our $10,000 goal and keep this vital ministry fair, faithful, trusted and free for all!

Daily Digest - January 5, 2017

"To look at the face of Jesus disguised as beautiful Guatemalan people is ministry at its best."  — The Rev. Nema LeCuyer, on serving those fleeing their countries to escape violence."

Backpacks of Hope fill need at border
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (UMNS) — The idea for Backpacks of Hope was born out of the need to help refugees and immigrants seeking refuge from violence in their countries. The Rev. Nema LeCuyer, pastor of El Calvario United Methodist Church in Las Cruces, New Mexico, talks about assisting families on their journey to a safe home. Alli Costello reports for the New Mexico Conference. 
Listen to interview
To donate

2016: The year in photos
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — From General Conference to natural disasters to community outreach, United Methodists were active across the world in 2016. Images of the global connection at work in the past year are captured in this photo slideshow.
View slideshow

Embrace Church pastor honored
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS) — The Rev. Adam Weber, lead pastor of Embrace Church, a United Methodist congregation in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is the recipient of the Foundation for Evangelism’s 2016 Distinguished Evangelist of the United Methodist Church Award. Under Weber, Embrace has grown to six campuses with more than 4,000 in weekly attendance.
Read press release

Scholarships for health ministry certificate
WASHINGTON (UMNS) — Wesley Theological Seminary’s Heal the Sick program has full-tuition scholarships for United Methodist leaders participating in the new online health minister certificate that begins Jan. 30. Scholarships are available because of a grant from the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries. The application deadline is Jan. 6. 
To register for certificate

Methodist Insurance seeks new president
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Steve Hundley has resigned as president and chief executive officer of United Methodist Insurance, which provides coverage of United Methodist property. Mike Plesko, chief operating officer, will serve as the interim president/CEO while the nonprofit’s board seeks a new top executive.
Read press release

Looking ahead

Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have an item to share, email [email protected] and put Digest in the subject line.

Tuesday, Feb. 7
Webinar “Healthy Families Series: (Financial Health) Setting healthy goals” — This interactive webinar will discuss how to nurture healthy giving, saving and spending habits in your family and include ideas for teaching children about money. Details 

More United Methodist events

 


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now

Daily Digest - April 28, 2025

Bishops urged to confront rising cruelty; Peace Church offers ‘home for everyone’; Preparing pastors for modern ministry

Daily Digest - April 25, 2025

Called to ministry in Congo; Bishops get pay increase; Top stories from the week

Daily Digest - April 23, 2025

Songs spark spiritual conversations at brew pub; What’s new in the Book of Resolutions?; Church leaders reflect on pope’s legacy

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved