"I hope United Methodists will see this as an opportunity to speak up and speak on behalf of what is at the core of our DNA — love God and love neighbor." — Bishop Bruce Ough, president of the United Methodist Council of Bishops.
Speaking up after Orlando shootings
NEW YORK (UMNS) — In the aftermath of the worst mass shooting incident in U.S. history, church leaders say United Methodists must speak up about the contributing factors: bigotry, hatred and the availability of military-style guns. Linda Bloom and Sam Hodges report.
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After hate, Orlando church offers hope
ORLANDO, Fla. (UMNS) — Violence and hate are not the end of the story. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church — a congregation with many LGBTQ members — demonstrated that truth after the mass shooting on June 12. Heather Hahn reports.
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Many Africans received GC2016 news via text
HARARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — Close to 4,000 people in 12 African countries received news via text messages in four languages during the denomination’s top legislative body meeting in Portland, Oregon, May 10-20. The texting program aims to reach those without internet access. Priscilla Muzerengwa reports.
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Ohio church hosts camp for foster kids
STRONGVILLE, Ohio — Strongsville United Methodist Church is hosting its first camp for foster children — and it's throwing a birthday party for each of the 30 campers. Bob Sandrick has the story for Cleveland.com.
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Welcome centers help churches connect
JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. (UMNS) — A church welcoming center is “like a hotel concierge,” says Marion Shotwell of Beach United Methodist Church. She and other church leaders talk about how even without new construction, churches can start welcome centers that build connections and attract new members. Keith Morelli reports for the Florida Conference.
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.
Wednesday, June 15
Early bird deadline for HopeFest 2016: Building Hope for Humanity — Christian music fest to benefit Habitat for Humanity on Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 27-28. Milford United Methodist Church, 327 North River Road, Milford, New Hampshire, is the host. Overnight wooded camping sites are available. Performers include Mark Schultz, Jonas Woods, Epic Season, Ryan Stevenson and Rock My Soul. $25 for adults until June 15. Children under 12 are free. Details
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