Will a Wesley win Lent Madness?

Methodism could score a victory as part of a unique Lenten practice created by an Episcopalian priest in Massachusetts. In 2010, Tim Schenck decided to play off the popular practice of creating brackets to predict the winner of the NCAA college basketball championship, a tradition called March Madness.  

In Lent Madness, saints, both ancient and modern, compete against each other for the coveted Golden Halo.  People can read the Lent Madness blog and vote for their favorites. 

National Public Radio featured this story.  Take a listen and please share your comments about the idea below.


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
Artist Ary Scheffer (1796-1858) / Wikimedia Commons; graphic by Laurens Glass, UM News

Social media graphics for Lent and Easter

Download art for Lent and Easter from United Methodist to share on social media.
Mission and Ministry
“Hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits.” Books requested by an inmate have been carefully packaged for shipping by Books to Prisons volunteers in Birmingham, Ala. Photo by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Ministry sends Books to Prisons

Unique ministry promotes literacy and spreads joy, one book at a time.
Faith Sharing
Photo by Charity Ponter; graphic by Laurens Glass, UM News. Luke 6:31

Social media graphics from UM News

Illustration for Luke 6:31 is available to download and share on social media.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved