“In a fixed-sum game like we deal with, if someone is overrepresented, that means someone else is underrepresented” — The Rev. Rurel Ausley Jr. on delegate allotment for General Conference.
Fairness of delegate allotment questioned
DALLAS (UMNS) — Critics of how delegates are allotted to General Conference say the Philippines and Europe enjoy an unfair advantage, having many small conferences that get a mandatory-minimum of two delegates under church law. Others say geographical and cultural factors must be taken into account when looking at numerical disparities in representation. Tension over the issue is up, due to a reduction in the overall number of delegates. Sam Hodges reports.
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Garrett-Evangelical seminary to offer Freedom Schools
EVANSTON, Ill. (UMNS) — Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, a United Methodist seminary, is now a partner with the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School program that offers free reading summer schools for underserved children. The six-week program will be at Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church.
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Lawyer donates time to low-income community
DALLAS — A United Methodist layman and lawyer is giving pro bono legal help to a low-income community near Dallas that doesn’t have running water. Mark McPherson, a member of Christ United Methodist in Plano, Texas, said of the Sandbranch community’s situation: “If I can do something about it, I’m going to.” He talks about his work in a Q&A with The Dallas Morning News.
New Connectional Giving training course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — United Methodist Communications has revised its free training course, “Creating a Culture of Generosity,” which empowers training participants to become storytellers who can inspire others to give generously by sharing honest, compelling accounts of ministry. “Connectional giving is vital to the church’s work around the world,” said Dan Krause, chief executive of United Methodist Communications.
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Should I use an emoji in church communications?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Emoji are those small, cartoony icons used in texting and online communications to express emotions and ideas, among other things. When are they appropriate in a church context? Jon Watson of United Methodist Communications offers tips.
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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, March 16
Discount deadline for Congregational Care Ministry Seminar at United Methodist Church of the Resurrection — The event is Thursday-Saturday, April 7-9 for pastors and church staff looking to become congregational care ministers. The gathering will be at Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Ave., Leawood, Kansas. Topics include prayer, theology of care, boundaries, listening, visitation, death and grief, and organization. $160 until March 16. Details
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