“The level of conversation, the discussions around the table and the frankness and openness with which bishops addressed issues were unprecedented.” — Bishop John Yambasu, talking about the Africa College of Bishops retreat.
African bishops recommend 7 central conferences
MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — The Africa College of Bishops has proposed the creation of seven central conferences in Africa, which now has three, according to Bishop John Yambasu, president of the college. The plan has been recommended to the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters. Eveline Chikwanah has the story.
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Ohio pastor charged with disobedience
WORTHINGTON, Ohio (UMNS) — A committee in the West Ohio Conference has certified a charge against the Rev. David Meredith of “disobedience to the order and discipline of The United Methodist Church.” Heather Hahn reports.
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U2’s Bono champions Dreamers in video
SPRINGFIELD, Va. — Famed U2 frontman and philanthropist Bono has been an outspoken advocate for immigrant justice for many years. Justice for Our Neighbors Nebraska, part of the United Methodist ministry National Justice for Our Neighbors, asked him to speak on behalf of Dreamers, unauthorized immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, and he agreed.
Watch 'We Are All Dreamers' video
Learn about National Justice for Our Neighbors
Small mission grants, big impact
ATLANTA — Small grants totaling $868,170 will allow The United Methodist Church and its mission partners in 52 countries outside of the United States to supplement mission personnel needs next year. The 2018 allocation for the “Nationals in Mission” program was approved by directors of the Board of Global Ministries. Elliott Wright reports.
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Paying tribute to a benefactor of missionaries
ATLANTA — Maribeth Wilson Collins was the matriarch of a family whose timber harvest income has provided support to United Methodist missionaries for decades. Collins, who died one month shy of her 99th birthday on Oct. 4, was remembered by the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries. Elliott Wright has the story.
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Agency recognizes 2 for service
MADISON, N.J. — The United Methodist Commission on Archives and History recognized Jerry Gill and Paul McCleary as 2017 recipients of its Distinguished Service Award. The board also approved grants and launched efforts to celebrate The United Methodist Church’s 50th birthday next year.
Read press release
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.
Friday, Oct. 20-Sunday, Oct. 22
Choir Music Weekend — Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center will play host to small- and medium-size church choirs at this weekend of music and worship. Participants learn and perform eight anthems, attend workshops and celebrate the colors of autumn at the lake. Lodging and meal packages are available. The theme is “Worthy the Lamb: Music for the Church Year.” Details
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