Support UM News on World Press Freedom Day: Give to help sustain and expand the storytelling capacity of UM News. Your donation today will transform information into inspiration and ensure we can continue sharing stories of God’s work in the world through The UMC. Help us reach our $10,000 goal and keep this vital ministry fair, faithful, trusted and free for all!

Daily Digest - June 30, 2020


"I feel glad to see everyone again in face-to-face service after a few months of just seeing through the internet. Things are a bit more difficult than before, but I believe and pray that this, too, shall pass." — Gillie Divine T. Pascua, on the first in-person services at United Methodist City Temple in Cabanatuan City, Philippines.

NEWS AND FEATURES

Churches adapt to 'new normal' in Philippines
CABANATUAN CITY, Philippines (UM News) — Worshippers adjusted to a "new normal" as some United Methodist churches reopened after a strict community quarantine was lifted in parts of the country. Adhering to health guidelines, churches set up hand-washing stations, checked temperatures and required masks. Gladys P. Mangiduyos reports.
Read story

Kentucky Conference
Glory sightings among new faith communities

CRESTWOOD, Ky. — From launching a new food ministry to continuing a successful capital campaign, new churches in the Kentucky Conference are finding ways to reach new people and growing despite the COVID-19 crisis. Alan Wild, new church development ministry assistant, compiled these stories.
Read story

United Methodist Committee on Relief
Relief for drought victims in India

ATLANTA — Several years of drought in India have led to suffering and suicide for subsistence farmers there. A grant from the United Methodist Committee on Relief — through a partnership with Churches Auxiliary for Social Action — is helping provide feed for livestock, seeds and saplings, small tools, soil test kits and more. Christie R. House has the story.
Read story

The New York Times
Houston Methodist Hospital sees virus surge

HOUSTON — With COVID-19 cases rising sharply in this part of Texas, Houston Methodist Hospital is adding beds and asking nurses to work extra shifts. Sheri Fink reports on these and other efforts by the hospital to cope with the surge.
Read story

RESOURCES

United Methodist Communications
Resources for discussing racism with children

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Bringing children into calm, educated discussions can help a younger generation confront the reality of racism and be part of ending racial injustice. UMC.org suggests books and other resources to help address this difficult topic with children. Crystal Caviness reports.
Read story

RECENT HEADLINES

Surviving tribulations part of school's history

Food relief helps in Liberia's COVID-19 fight

EVENTS

Monday, July 6-Friday, July 31

Online class: Your Ministry of Leading Worship 101


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now

UM News Digest - May 28, 2025

Joy of singing aids people with Parkinson’s; Asian American clergy affirm roles at gathering; Reflecting 5 years after George Floyd’s death

UM News Digest - May 23, 2025

Ohio leaders mark 140 years of Korean mission; Bishop, pastor deal with tornado’s wreckage; Explainer: Voting on constitutional amendments

UM News Digest - May 21, 2025

United Methodist ‘sisters’ blend Christian traditions; Church supports flood survivors in Burundi; Sharing the Gospel through creation care

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved