“It’s a matter of accountability and a matter of empowering our bishops to do what they think they need to do with each and every appointment.” — Lonnie Brooks, Alaska Conference lay leader, on the effort to end guaranteed appointment for ordained elders.
Lay leaders seek end to guaranteed appointment
DALLAS (UMNS) — At the 2016 General Conference, the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders will renew the fight to end guaranteed appointment for ordained elders of The United Methodist Church. It will require amending the denomination’s constitution — a high hurdle. Sam Hodges reports.
Filipina deaconess focuses on women confronting violence
QUEZON CITY, Philippines (UMNS) — When states commit human rights violations, it’s often women who must find a way to pick up the pieces and hold their families together. Darlene Marquez-Caramanzana, a United Methodist deaconess, has won an award for documenting how women fight for justice for human-rights victims. Gladys Mangiduyos reports.
New mission station dedicated in Liberia
BOPOLU CITY, Liberia (UMNS) — The United Methodist Church in Liberia dedicated a mission station in Gbarpolu County in northwestern Liberia on Easter Sunday. E. Julu Swen reports.
UMCOR takes stock, looks to future
NEW YORK (UMNS) — Over the past four years, the United Methodist Committee on Relief has tripled its response to disasters large and small around the world, the Rev. Denise Honeycutt recently told UMCOR’s board of directors. Linda Unger has the story for UMCOR.
United Methodist pastor joins Lilly Endowment
INDIANAPOLIS (UMNS) — The Lilly Endowment Inc. has named the Rev. Brian Williams, a United Methodist pastor, as a program director working in the areas of religion and community development. Chanon Ross, a graduate of United Methodist Duke Divinity School and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, also has been hired by Lilly and will join its effort to help congregations engage youth more effectively.
At 90, laywoman still leads her congregation
TAZEWELL, Va. (UMNS) — At 90, Jackie Cecil is still working hard to get people into Wilbur Memorial United Methodist Church, to serve people in her community and to lift up United Methodist history. “She’s the one who makes everything happen. She makes the wheels turn,” her pastor says. Annette Spence has the story for the Holston Conference’s The Call.
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.
Monday, April 4
Prophetic Ministry: Institute on Organizing and Preaching for Social Justice — Methodist Theological School in Ohio, 3081 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio. This event is devoted to equipping and inspiring faith and nonprofit leaders, community organizers and activists for prophetic ministry. The event includes workshops with five activist scholars. A $50 registration fee covers all sessions, including lunch and dinner, and provides one continuing education unit. Advance registration is required. Register
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