“By listening and through reflections, I have learned — in all humility — that unity, which seems so simple in the church, is fragile because each person has their own personality, their own cultural and religious context, their own education, their own life experiences, and their own truth.” — Hortense Aka, Way Forward Commission member from Côte d’Ivoire.
NEWS AND FEATURES
Way Forward prepares final report to bishops
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The Commission on a Way Forward met in Los Angeles to prepare a final report for United Methodist bishops, who later this spring will determine what proposals to submit for the church’s future. Heather Hahn reports.
Read story
Read press release
Related: Looking at Way Forward’s institutional impact
BMCR looks to the future
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (UMNS) — Black Methodists for Church Renewal recently gathered here in a mood of gratitude, but also of anticipation. "We give thanks for the past 50 years … but God is declaring there is a next level in our future," said the Rev. Antoine "Tony" Love, the group’s vice chairman, to more than 225 of the organization's members. Larry R. Hygh Jr. reports.
Read story
Church and Society grapples with migration, justice
BERLIN (UMNS) — The spring meeting of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society gathered in a city that is now a melting pot of cultures to consider issues such as global migration, justice and peace and poverty. "What might 12 million United Methodists be able to accomplish if working together for justice and peace?" asked the Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe, the board’s top executive. The Rev. Klaus U. Ruof and Tricia Bruckbauer have the story.
Read story
Read board press release
PRESS RELEASES
Board of Higher Education and Ministry
Theological education grants awarded
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Ninety-six grants totaling $2 million have been awarded to theological education projects in The United Methodist Church in Africa, Europe and the Philippines. The Central Conference Theological Education Fund grants went to a variety of projects, including libraries, pastor schools and the African Clergywomen’s Consultation.
Read press release
Read full list of grants
Board of Global Ministries
UMCOR to receive Home Depot rebate funds
ATLANTA — The United Methodist Committee on Relief has been designated by the denomination’s General Council on Finance and Administration as a beneficiary of the annual rebate program with The Home Depot. “The rebate program will make it possible for us to reinvest those rebate monies right back into the conferences spending UMCOR grants to help survivors in their local areas,” said Cathy Earl, UMCOR director for U.S. disaster response.
Read press release
RESOURCES
What do palm branches symbolize?
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — Did you know that Palm branches symbolized victory in the Roman Empire? Test your knowledge of Holy Week with a 10-question quiz.
Take the quiz
RECENT HEADLINES
'Christians only’ cottage ownership challenged
Revival in Nigeria brings back breakaway members
EVENTS
Here are some of the activities ahead for United Methodists across the connection. If you have a United Methodist event to share, you can add it to the calendar with this submission form.
Monday, April 2-Monday, April 16
Online course: Developing a dynamic church
Share your story or tips with us at [email protected].
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.