"I believe that there is a vibrant, warmhearted spirit at the heart of many if not most of our congregations that is deeply committed to the core affirmations of our Wesleyan spiritual and theological tradition, our denominational mission and our way of living in connection with one another." — The Rev. Jim Harnish on a gathering of "Methodist middle" church leaders.
'Methodist middle' committed to living together
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — A group of “Methodist middle” church leaders gathered to talk about keeping the denomination strong despite debates around division. Kathy L. Gilbert reports.
Read story
Church leaders connect with Norway's big day
OSLO, Norway (UMNS) — The Connectional Table opened its meeting in Oslo on the nation’s constitution day and got to experience a bit of Norwegian Methodism. Heather Hahn has the story.
Read story
Study guide to help church discuss sexuality
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A new study guide, “The Unity of the Church and Human Sexuality: Toward a Faithful United Methodist Witness,” has been released in support of the Commission on a Way Forward. The United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the Association of United Methodist Theological Schools prepared the four-week guide to help the church hold conversations about sexuality.
Read press release
How faith helps parents as children leave
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — Parents throughout history have had to adjust as their children age. A United Methodist counselor shares ideas for navigating the changes, including how faith can help. The Rev. Joe Iovino has the story.
Read story
Minnesota ecumenical leader retires
MINNEAPOLIS —The Rev. Peg Chemberlin is retiring as CEO of the Minnesota Council of Churches after building it into “one of the most active and complex (councils) in the country,” said Jim Winkler, a United Methodist and president of the National Council of Churches. Jean Hopfensperger reports for the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Read story
Commentary: Having 'ability' to belong at church
CHICAGO — For Sharon McCart, adding the word “ability” to Article 4, Paragraph 4 of The United Methodist Church’s constitution means everyone can fully participate in a local church. That includes an autistic young man whose experience she describes in a blog for the United Methodist Commission on the Status and Role of Women.
Read blog
Five constitutional amendments head to vote
LOOKING AHEAD
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, May 22-Monday, May 29
Creating a digital ministry — This online workshop offers a beginner’s overview of creating a digital/online ministry, such as a YouTube Bible Study, a text message prayer chain, a Google+ video discussion group or a website blog. Participants should come into the workshop with an idea for a ministry that they would like to create. The workshop will focus on what media will work best for that idea, how to show professional excellence, how to keep the ministry secure and what to expect financially. This course from BeADisciple is eligible for 0.5 CEU and the cost is $50. Details
See more United Methodist events
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.