Support UM News on World Press Freedom Day: Give to help sustain and expand the storytelling capacity of UM News. Your donation today will transform information into inspiration and ensure we can continue sharing stories of God’s work in the world through The UMC. Help us reach our $10,000 goal and keep this vital ministry fair, faithful, trusted and free for all!

Daily Digest - October 14, 2019

NEWS AND FEATURES

California-Nevada Conference
Power cuts remind survivors of deadly fires

SANTA ROSA, Calif. — Red-flag fire warnings and power outages across Northern California — aimed at preventing wildfires sparked by electrical lines — have brought back anxious memories for survivors of past deadly fires. Power was restored Oct. 14. Cate Monaghan reports on the reaction from United Methodists.  
Read story
California-Pacific Conference response to fires

South Central Jurisdiction
Bishops speak out on border crisis
 
DALLAS — Active and retired bishops of the South Central Jurisdiction have called for more attention to the humanitarian crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. They offer priorities in their joint letter, including “safe and humane care for undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers.”
Read letter

South Georgia Conference
Church activity mats help dementia patients

SPARKS, Ga. — When Pat Scrogham’s mother, Margery Resser, was living with dementia, Scrogham looked high and low for something to keep her mother’s hands busy. The Joyful Stitchers at Sparks United Methodist Church created the activity mat she envisioned and gave rise to a new ministry. Kara Witherow reports. 
Read story

Texas Conference
Houston church bouncing back after fire

HOUSTON — Historic St. Mark’s United Methodist Church is working on recovery after a Sept. 20 fire caused structural and smoke damage. The Rev. Emily Chapman said the congregation has found temporary worship space in nearby schools and is working with a restoration firm to get the sanctuary usable again. Lindsay Peyton reports.
Read story

The Spokesman-Review
Classic tunes, dumplings fuel church fundraiser

GREEN BLUFF, Wash. — The Apple Festival in Green Bluff is a chance to celebrate fall with pumpkin and apple picking, famous pumpkin doughnuts and fresh produce from the small family farms in the area. Green Bluff Community United Methodist Church makes the event possible. Emma Epperly has the story.
Read story


PRESS RELEASES

Council of Bishops
Felder lauded by Council of Bishops

WASHINGTON — The legacy of the Rev. Cain Hope Felder is being honored by the Council of Bishops, which in a statement said he touched millions with his work as a pastor, scholar, professor and advocate. The council especially noted his work as the first executive director of Black Methodists for Church Renewal.
Read press release
Read UM News obituary


RECENT HEADLINES

Challenges stack up for United Methodist school
 

Faith communities provide respite care for immigrants 


EVENTS

Monday, Oct. 28

Free online class: How to start small groups 

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.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now

UM News Digest - May 30, 2025

Bishops offer Pentecost gift to the church; Historic church offers new vision for housing; An appeal to hold General Conference outside US

UM News Digest - May 28, 2025

Joy of singing aids people with Parkinson’s; Asian American clergy affirm roles at gathering; Reflecting 5 years after George Floyd’s death

UM News Digest - May 23, 2025

Ohio leaders mark 140 years of Korean mission; Bishop, pastor deal with tornado’s wreckage; Explainer: Voting on constitutional amendments

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved