Daily Digest - September 9, 2019

“We African bishops and the galaxy of informed clergy across this continent must set the agenda for the church in Africa rather than allow others to draft it on our behalf for us to rubber stamp and seal it.”Bishop John K. Yambasu, president of the Africa College of Bishops.


NEWS AND FEATURES

African bishops oppose separation plans

MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UM News) — Bishops in Africa have resolved not to support any proposed legislation or plans that may result in a split or dissolution of The United Methodist Church. In a statement at the close of the Africa College of Bishops retreat Sept. 2-6, the bishops said the church would continue in Africa after the 2020 General Conference. Eveline Chikwanah reports.
Read story
Read Africa College of Bishops statement

First church in Africa becomes reconciling
MOHETO, Kenya (UM News) — A United Methodist congregation in southwestern Kenya unanimously voted to work toward full equality of LGBTQ people in the life of the church. Heather Hahn has the story.
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Minnesota Conference
Haitian pastor serves St. Paul

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Rev. Mickson Deronvil preached his first sermon at 13 but went on to a career as a pharmacy technician until his father-in-law, a United Methodist pastor, persuaded him to follow God’s call. Today he serves at Rapha Tabernacle of Glory — a thriving United Methodist church that caters to St. Paul’s Haitian population. Christa Meland reports.
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PRESS RELEASES 

Wespath
Wespath board plans listening session

GLENVIEW, Ill. — Wespath Benefits and Investments, the United Methodist pension agency, invites interested participants and constituents to address its board Sept. 28 at Hilton Chicago/Northbrook, 2855 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, Illinois. To be part of the agenda, contact Lisa Drew by Sept. 18. Her email is [email protected].
Read press release 


RESOURCES

United Methodist Communications
Churches invited to unwrap Christmas

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — United Methodist Communications is launching its 2019 Unwrap Christmas event campaign, which is designed to help local churches offer meaningful places — such as cocoa stands and toy giveaways — for people to connect with one another throughout the Advent season. Churches can apply for event grants. A limited number of $300 grants also are available for customizable Advent invitation resources. 
Read press release
Apply for event grants
Advent invitation resources


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