Support UM News on World Press Freedom Day: Give to help sustain and expand the storytelling capacity of UM News. Your donation today will transform information into inspiration and ensure we can continue sharing stories of God’s work in the world through The UMC. Help us reach our $10,000 goal and keep this vital ministry fair, faithful, trusted and free for all!

Judicial Council elections

Two clergy, two laity and six alternate clergy and laity were elected on Monday to the Judicial Council, the denomination’s “highest judicial body.” It is composed of 9 members and reflects the diversity of The United Methodist Church. The Council determines the constitutionality of any act of the General Conference, proposed legislation, and shall “pass upon and affirm, modify, or reverse the decisions of law made by Bishops” among other duties and responsibilities.

Laity elected are: N. Oswald Tweh, Sr. and Beth Capen.

Lay alternates: Sandra Lutz, Kurt Glassco, Randall Miller, Deanell Reece Tacha, W, Warren Plowden, Jr., and Reynaldo V. Abdon.

Clergy elected are: J. Kabamba Kiboko and Dennis L. Blackwell.

Clergy alternates: Timothy K. Bruster, John E. Harnish, Susan Henry-Crow, Oyvind Helliesen, Jane A. Tews, and Laura B. Easto.

Listen to our latest story


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
General Conference
The Rev. Gabriel Banga Mususwa. Photo courtesy of the author.

An appeal to hold General Conference outside US

The United Methodist Church’s top assembly has never met in the central conferences; the decision to hold the 2028 gathering in Minneapolis should be rescinded.
Church Leadership
Caralyn Ware. Photo courtesy of the author.

When the shepherd strays: Addiction and clergy wellness

The United Methodist Church must act at every level to help pastors in crisis and create space for wellness.
Evangelism
Members of United Methodist Youth Fellowship in the Philippines participate in worship during a three-day workshop. Photo from video by Kyla Ragasa

Pananaw workshop teaches critical thinking for Filipino Youth

The United Methodist Youth Fellowship in the Philippines (UMYFP) recently conducted a “Pananaw” (Filipino term for ‘perspectives’) workshop is a three-day program centered on media literacy with focus on social media.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved