"I vote, because I know voting can make a difference in my community, nation and the lives of others. I vote, not only because it is my civic duty as a United States citizen, but also because I have vowed, as a Christian, to do no harm and to do good." — The Rev. Elizabeth Murray.
How does The United Methodist Church live with integrity amid sexuality debate?
OKLAHOMA CITY (UMNS) – A video submitted by a mother whose gay son committed suicide after facing condemnation in the church was one of four personal stories viewed and discussed by a panel on sexuality in The United Methodist Church. The mother’s video sparked the most vehement reaction from the panel of six bishops and the head of the denomination’s publishing house during the Nov. 1 live webcast. Heather Hahn has the story.
What United Methodists need to know about voting
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Sporting an “I voted” sticker yet? On Tuesday, Nov. 4, many citizens across the United States will head to the polls. Others will stay at home, arguing, “My vote won’t make a difference.” Two young United Methodist pastors say voting can make a difference and that people of faith have a moral responsibility to cast their ballot. Barbara Dunlap-Berg reports.
Couple pledges $15 million to Garrett-Evangelical
EVANSTON, Ill. (UMNS) — Jerre and Mary Joy Stead of Scottsdale, Arizona, are giving a total of $15 million to United Methodist Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary’s capital campaign. Jerre Stead is chair of the seminary’s board and co-chair of its Forging our Future capital campaign.
Resources for United Methodist Student Day
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — United Methodist Student Day invites the church to support students with an offering that provides scholarships for qualified United Methodist applicants. Student Day is Nov. 30 this year, but churches can choose to observe it at any time.
Search on for new head of United Methodist Publishing House
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The United Methodist Publishing House board has launched a search committee to find its next president and chief executive officer. The board plans to divide the duties currently assigned to Neil Alexander, the publishing house’s president and publisher. Once the president is installed, the search for a new publisher will begin. Alexander previously announced his plans to retire after the 2016 General Conference.
Pennsylvania church launches new campus in West Virginia
WEIRTON, W. Va. (UMNS) — Crossroads United Methodist Church, a multi-site church in the Western Pennsylvania Conference, just launched a new campus in another state. The West Virginia campus is about 25 miles from the site in Oakdale, Pennsylvania. Jackie Campbell has the story.
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.
Tuesday, Nov. 4
Deadline to register for six online courses from United Methodist Communications — United Methodist Communications will offer the following courses Nov. 5-Dec. 17. “Communicating Faith in the 21st Century,” “Connectional Giving,” “Moodle 200 — Advanced Training,” "Tools for Increasing Your Church's Vitality," United Methodism 101” and “Welcoming Ministry 100.” Costs vary. Connectional Giving is free.Details.
Friday-Sunday, Nov. 7-9
United Methodist young adult gathering "Imagine What's NEXT" — Conference for young adults includes discernment, fellowship, worship and inspiration in Denver, sponsored by the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry. $175. Details.
You can see more educational opportunities and other upcoming events in the life of the church here.
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