“People can now pay their tithes anytime from anywhere even if they are not at church physically.” — The Rev. Gift Machinga, United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe churches find cash alternatives for giving
HARARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — Adjusting to Zimbabwe’s cash shortages, United Methodist churches there are encouraging members to give with credit cards and mobile money transfer. Priscilla Muzerengwa has the story.
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Coalition asks bishops to call for Oliveto’s resignation
THE WOODLANDS, Texas (UMNS) — A coalition of unofficial United Methodist groups that support the denomination’s current prohibition against ordaining “self-avowed practicing homosexuals,” have asked the United Methodist Council of Bishops to request the resignation of Bishop Karen Oliveto, a married lesbian elected last week. In a statement released on July 18, they also asked the bishops to expedite the appointment of members to a commission that will examine all church laws on human sexuality
Read the statement
Bishop Oliveto addresses reaction to her election
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (UMNS) — United Methodist Bishop Karen Oliveto thanked delegates and bishops of the Western Jurisdiction in a letter posted on the website. “I know there are many who are lamenting my election,” she writes. “Our task is to love deeply, which means standing before those who are angry, anxious, or fearful and be a witness to all they are feeling, and to remain in relationship through the power of Christ’s love.”
Read the letter
Church leaders flag major crisis in South Sudan
GENEVA (WCC) — The country of South Sudan, celebrating its fifth birthday this month, is on the brink of a major humanitarian crisis, the World Council of Churches reports. Church leaders are calling for support from the international ecumenical community.
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Q&A with WCC program executive for South Sudan
Praying together for peace, unity
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — First United Methodist Church and St. Paul A.M.E. Church here held a joint worship and prayer service July 17, responding to the shooting of police officers as well as to accusations of unjustified violence by police against black citizens. Pastors called for peace and unity. Alabamanews.net reports.
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Delaware pastor named director of men’s ministry
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) –– The Rev. Richard (Rick) Vance, pastor of Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Newark, Delaware, has been chosen as director of men’s ministry for the Commission on United Methodist Men. He will join the commission on Sept. 1.
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 newsdesk@umcom.org and put Digest in the subject line.
Thursday-Friday, July 21-22
Young Preachers Festival and Conference — Gathering will be at United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Ave, Leawood, Kansas. The United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry is helping to organize the event for seminarians, declared candidates for ministry and young clergy to cultivate their preaching skills. $79. Details
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