"We knew what we were doing and knew where we were going. We were focused on ministry to people in need." — Maxine Easom on why her church was able to rebuild and grow after a fire.
How a church fire sparked congregational growth
ATHENS, Ga. (UMNS) — After a fire gutted its building, small Oconee Street United Methodist Church resisted calls to merge with a larger neighbor. Instead, the congregation rebuilt and has seen its worship attendance grow. Heather Hahn reports on how the church’s experience might help other congregations dealing with disaster.
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Bishop: Churches should consider acts of mercy
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (UMNS) — Western North Carolina Bishop Paul Leeland called on churches to consider “acts of mercy within our own communities right now.” Leeland issued a statement in the wake of protests over the police shooting of Keith Lamont Scott, an African-American. The North Carolina governor declared a state of emergency after protests turned violent for two nights.
Read Bishop Leeland’s statement
Growing Hispanic congregation celebrates new home
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The congregation of Ministerio del Espiritu Santo, which began with 18 people in 2010, held a celebratory worship service with 269 people and Holston Conference Bishop Dindy Taylor in a new, larger home near the Dollywood theme park. Annette Spence reports for the conference.
6 Methodist historical figures to help with lessons
MOBILE, Ala. (UMCom) — The United Methodist Church is filled with deeply spiritual people like John Wesley. The Rev. Jeremy Steele, writing for United Methodist Communications, offers stories of six other Methodists to use as examples in lessons.
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United Methodist seminaries honored
CHICAGO (UMNS) — Seven United Methodist seminaries were named by the Center for Faith and Service to the fourth-annual Seminaries that Change the World list.
Read press release
Higher Education and Ministry board organizes
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — The directors of the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry organized its work for the next four years. The board elected Nashville (Tennessee) Area Bishop William T. McAlilly as president. The board also approved a $48.8 million budget for the agency’s work in 2017.
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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, Sept. 27
Webinar “Healthy Families Series: Five Dimensions of Health” — 3 p.m. EDT. This interactive webinar will discuss the five dimensions of health, highlighting how church leaders can nurture these aspects of health in their communities. Details
Wednesday, Sept. 28
Webinar “The Doctor of Ministry Degree at Candler School of Theology: Highlights and Reason for Being” — Noon EDT. Brent A. Strawn, professor of Old Testament and director of Candler’s Doctor of Ministry degree program, will present this free webinar. Registration is required. Details
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