"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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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