"We will agree on some things and disagree on other things. It’s important to recognize that it’s not about us; it’s about how we seek to be faithful and recognize other people doing that, too." — Bishop Warner H. Brown Jr., president of the Council of Bishops.
Bishops meet in Oklahoma City
OKLAHOMA CITY (UMNS) — United Methodist bishops from Africa, Europe, Asia and the United States will gather in Oklahoma City for the Council of Bishops meeting, Nov. 2-7. The meeting will include an address by Bishop Warner H. Brown Jr., council president, that will be streamed live online at 10:45 a.m. CT Monday, Nov. 3.
After two years, ‘hidden’ Sandy survivors
NEW YORK (UMNS) — After two years, where are the hidden Hurricane Sandy survivors, the ones we don't hear about? The short answer: They are still recovering. Susan Kim writes for the United Methodist Committee on Relief on how people in various areas are coping.
Jacobs give largest gift in Central Methodist’s history
FAYETTE, Mo. (UMNS) — A $3.6 million donation, the largest gift in the 160-year history of Central Methodist University, will support a $20 million capital campaign. The donors, Jay and Kelly Jacobs of Laguna Niguel, California, requested that the new allied health building be named The James and Helen Thogmorton Center after a longtime faculty member and his wife.
Ecumenical push to repeal Massachusetts gambling plan
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (UMNS) — Four bishops, including United Methodist Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar of the New England Conference, have signed a joint statement urging Massachusetts voters to repeal the 2011 expanded gambling legislation, which would allow for three casinos and a slots parlor in the state. Masslive.com reports.
Perkins, Asbury share $1 million for seminary scholarships
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Stan Horwood, a lifelong United Methodist, has donated $1 million for scholarships for students from the planned Rio Texas Conference who are attending Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University or Asbury Theological Seminary. Each seminary will receive half the gift for its scholarship endowments. The United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s Marcie Smeck has the story.
Mission agency offers Advent resources
NEW YORK (UMNS) — Resources for celebrating Christmas and the preceding four Sundays in Advent are available online from the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries.
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.
Friday, Oct. 31
Reformation Day — Celebrate the anniversary of what many historians consider the start of the Protestant movement, when Martin Luther publicly displayed his 95 Theses. United Methodist Discipleship Ministries has worship resources.
Saturday, Nov. 1
All Saints Day — United Methodist Discipleship Ministries offers prayers and a family litany for this day when Christians celebrate the people who have joined the Church Triumphant.
You can see more educational opportunities and other upcoming events in the life of the church here.
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