“This indecision denies many immigrants the opportunity to work lawfully, drive, or to truly become part of our American society.” — Rob Rutland-Brown, director of NJFON
Disappointment with immigration ruling
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — President Barack Obama’s executive order to protect undocumented parents of citizens or lawful permanent residents was reversed by a deadlock 4-4 ruling. The United Methodist Church supports keeping families together and some United Methodist leaders expressed disappointment with the ruling. Kathy L. Gilbert reports.
Lesbian pastor to face church trial
TOPEKA, Kan. (UMNS) — The case against the Rev. Cynthia Meyer, a United Methodist pastor, has been referred to a church trial that likely would take place later this summer, a committee on investigation for the Great Plains Conference announced June 24.
N.J. district superintendent suspended
OCEAN, N.J. (UMNS) — A district superintendent in the Greater New Jersey Conference has been suspended while under complaint, the conference announced June 24. The conference’s cabinet filed the complaint against the Rev. Jisun Kwak in June. Heather Hahn reports.
British Methodists react to “Brexit” victory
LONDON (UMNS) — British Methodist leaders responded to their nation’s vote to leave the European Union with a call “to move forward together with goodwill” and a continued commitment to sister churches in Europe. In a letter to the British church, United Methodist Bishop Rosemarie Wenner of Germany offered her support. “We face many divisions in our countries, throughout Europe and in the world,” Wenner wrote. “In these challenging times, we are grateful for our connection in the Methodist family.”
Read British Methodist statement
Read press release from UMC in Germany
Court rules on N.J. church ownership
NEPTUNE, N.J. (UMNS) — United Methodist Bishop John Schol, Greater New Jersey Area, met this week with a small group of worshipers from the Alpine Community Church to explore ways that the church can move forward in the wake of a court ruling over property rights. On June 16, Judge Robert C. Wilson, Superior Court of New Jersey, ruled that “the express language of the controlling religious and statutory texts requires that all real and personal property of the local Alpine Church must be held in trust for the United Methodist Church.”
Joining Christian festivities in Norway
TRONDHEIM, Norway (WCC) — A midsummer Christian holiday honoring John the Baptist provided a break from business for the 150 members of the World Council of Churches Central Committee on June 23 as they climbed the slopes of Sverresborg, an ancient hill fort now in ruin, and mingled with Norwegian families awaiting the ignition of a towering bonfire.
Sweetness in the midst of sending forth
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (UMNS) — The story of Samson in Judges has more death and destruction than many action movies. Nevertheless, the Rev. Lynn Dyke of the Missouri Conference sees lessons in Samson’s story for pastors heading to new appointments. The conference’s Fred Koenig reports on her advice as clergy are sent forth.
Bailey joins Higher Education and Ministry
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Retired Brig. Gen. Charles R. Bailey is joining the staff of the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry as associate general secretary of administration and operations.
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.
Thursday, June 30
Early bird deadline for “Imagine What’s Next” conference — The event is Friday-Sunday, Nov. 4-6, in Atlanta. Sponsored by the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry, the gathering is designed to help college students connect their gifts with innovative discipleship. A $50 discount on registration is available through June 30. Details
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