Topic: Responding to Violence

On any given day, United Methodists respond to tragedy by offering prayers and support. We recognize that sometimes it can seem the world is full of evil and it can be a challenge to keep the faith.

Below you will find resources for helping people cope with violent events; news coverage of how the church is working to respond with peace in a world of violence; and stories about how individuals as well as ministries can make a positive difference even in the most difficult of times.


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Mission and Ministry
Bishop João Sambo of Mozambique (right) and Bishop Emmanuel Sinzohagera of Burundi (center) distribute cans of vegetable oil at the Musenyi camp in Burundi. The bishops were among a United Methodist delegation who visited the camp in March to offer physical and spiritual support to refugees fleeing conflict in eastern Congo. Global Missionary Abro Patrick stands to the left. Photo courtesy of the communications department of the Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area.

Church supports Congolese refugees in Burundi

The United Methodist Church, with support from UMCOR, provides vital infrastructure and food to the Musenyi camp, which has doubled its population because of ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo.
Violence
The Rev. Joseph M. De Castro is the pastor at First United Methodist Church in Dubai. His congregation of mostly migrant workers and others who live in the United Arab Emirates and surrounding countries have been caught in the middle of war. Photo courtesy of the TFUMC Dubai Media Team.

Middle East United Methodists feel brunt of war

Filipino United Methodists who work and worship along the Arabian Peninsula have been caught in the crossfire of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran.
Violence
The Rev. Bob Anders (at left) leads a time of prayer on April 3, Good Friday at Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church in Cedaredge, Colo. The church displayed on its steps a memorial showing pairs of shoes to represent the 168 children and teachers killed Feb. 28 in the bombing of the girls’ school in Minab, Iran. Photos of the memorial went viral on social media. Amid the tenuous ceasefire, United Methodists continue to speak out against the war and especially threats of genocide. Photo courtesy of Anders, Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church.

United Methodists confront Iran war’s impact

With the ceasefire on shaky ground and no deal in sight, United Methodists are praying for peace as they’ve done since the beginning of the U.S.-Israel war against Iran. They also are speaking out against disregard for human life.

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