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Daily Digest - March 12, 2020

“My prayer is that in this season of uncertainty and discernment, we will engage deeply in prayer and respectful conversation with one another to hear God’s call and honor one another’s response to that call.” — United Methodist Bishop Mark J. Webb, on signing a vision statement for a new traditionalist denomination.


NEWS AND FEATURES

8 Bishops join in planning new denomination

ATLANTA (UM News) — A group of United Methodist leaders, including eight bishops, has issued a statement sharing its vision for a new traditionalist denomination. Texas Conference Bishop Scott Jones helped convene the meeting that led to the statement. He said he wanted to provide good options should delegates to the 2020 General Conference vote for the protocol plan. Sam Hodges and Heather Hahn have the story.
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‘Sacred Trust’ report touts local church leadership
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — United Methodism should consider returning to its roots by relying more on lay people and ordained local ministers, according to a ministry study commission report. Jim Patterson reports.
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Yamika Herald-Republic
‘Wish-cycling’ problematic for church volunteers 

YAMIKA, Wash. — The problem of leaving inappropriate items at a recycling site has gotten so bad it has a name: “wish-cycling.” At Wesley United Methodist Church, the Rev. Shane Moore says volunteers put in 40 hours a week, and sifting through unwanted items makes the job harder. Lex Talamo has the story. 
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South Carolina Conference
Gearing up for Earth Day at 50

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A group of Christian environmentalists, including United Methodists, is planning a major awareness, education and action event to help people be good stewards of God’s creation. The South Carolina Statehouse event will be April 22, the 50th Earth Day. Jessica Brodie has the story. 
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Oklahoma Conference
An ally to Native churches

OKLAHOMA CITY — Many Native United Methodist churches today are among the few places contemporary tribal people can hear and speak their languages. The Rev. David Wilson said communities are changing and small towns are disappearing, however, the Native churches of the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference remain a constant in those areas. Ginny Underwood looks at the history of the missionary conference and what lies ahead for Native ministries, as well as tips for supporting indigenous peoples.
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