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Daily Digest - July 22, 2020

"I preach with a newspaper in one hand and a Bible in the other." — The Rev. Sheron C. Patterson, senior pastor of Hamilton Park United Methodist Church in Dallas.

NEWS AND FEATURES

'Triple whammy' of issues challenges pastors
COLUMBUS, Ohio (UM News) — Pastors are working longer hours dealing with the coronavirus, economic hard times and racial issues. Four of them speak about the pressures of their jobs and the progress they are making. Jim Patterson reports.
Read story

Filipino pastor aims to bring stranded workers home
MANILA, Philippines (UM News) — United Methodists joined a prayer rally to seek repatriation of Filipino overseas workers stranded in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, due to COVID-19. The Rev. Mariesol Villalon has an online ministry with some of those stranded, including a United Methodist who is holding onto his faith despite food scarcity and fears of contracting the virus. Gladys Mangiduyos reports.
Read story

The Tennessean
Ruth Handy, widow of bishop, dies

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Ruth R. Handy, widow of the late Bishop W.T. Handy Jr. and mother of the Rev. Stephen Handy, died July 20. A visitation will be 3-5 p.m. Central time July 23 at Lewis and Wright Funeral Directors, Robert E. Lewis Memorial Chapel, 2500 Clarksville Pike. Funeral services will be private due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Read obituary

South Georgia Conference
Faith helps incoming college freshmen

MACON, Ga. — The coronavirus threat means the start of classes this fall is full of uncertainty for students and university administrators, faculty and staff. However, United Methodist incoming freshmen say their faith helps them stay connected and keep perspective. Kara Witherow has the story.
Read story

RESOURCES

United Methodist Men
New book of prayers available

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — United Methodist Men has published a free collection of prayers, "United Methodist Men Pray for Peace With Justice." The Southeastern Jurisdiction United Methodist Men also will host a virtual day of prayer 1-4 p.m. Eastern time July 25.
Download prayer book
Watch prayer service

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