“I’ve chased death around the world to report on humanitarian aid, but today the game is changing. By empowering people to speak in their own voice, we are able to release life in the world.” – The Rev. Larry Hollon, in his speech at the Game Changers Summit.
Leveraging information for development
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — More than 240 participants from nine countries gathered in Nashville to hear from experts in the fields of solar power, Internet technology, global health, and economic empowerment at Game Changers Summit 2014 hosted by United Methodist Communications.
Median age of clergy climbs to 56
DALLAS (UMNS) — The median age of United Methodist clergy has hit 56 — a new high — and the percentage of older clergy continues to rise, according to an annual study by the Lewis Center for Church Leadership. But the study also found that the denomination has seen modest growth in the percentage of clergy under age 35.
Read Q&A on Texas Conference’s strategy for supporting young clergy
Cracks in the ‘stained-glass ceiling’
WASHINGTON (UMNS) — Three women, in quick succession, were chosen this year to lead historic tall-steeple churches in Chicago, New York City and Washington. They include the Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli, who now leads Foundry United Methodist Church in the nation’s capital. Adelle Banks of Religion News Service shares how the women see their ministry.
United Methodist Men by the numbers
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — This year, United Methodist Men chartered 56 new units, distributed 10,000 New Testaments to Boy Scouts and saw nearly 24,000 United Methodist youngsters receive PRAY (Programs of Religious Activities with Youth) Awards. Those are just some of the numbers that help tell the story of men’s ministry in the denomination.
Michigan churches turn lot into urban farm
BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (UMNS) — Eight United Methodist churches are working to turn a 3.5-acre lot into an urban farm. The bounty from the project, called The Gleaning, will be donated to area food pantries, the homeless shelter and meal distributors in town. The Battle Creek Enquirer reports.
What not to say when someone has lost a job
MONUMENT, Colo. (UMNS) — No matter how you put it — downsized, let go, terminated, eliminated, pink-slipped — hearing from a friend who lost their job means a difficult day. It’s in our United Methodist DNA to want to help, but you may worry about saying the wrong thing. Joe Iovino, a freelance writer and blogger who is associate pastor of Tri-Lakes United Methodist Church, has some tips on what NOT to say to someone who is unemployed.
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