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
Mission and Ministry
Holly Petti and her dog Paisley chat with people entering the Sanctuary at Pinnacle View United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Ark. The church has a designated dog greeter every Sunday in addition to numerous pet outreach ministries the congregation offers. Image from video by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Dog church welcomes people and pets

A United Methodist church in Little Rock celebrates Earth Day by recognizing God’s care for his people and the pets they love.
Faith Sharing
Image by sebastiano iervolino from Pixabay; graphic by Laurens Glass, UM News

Social media graphics from UM News

Graphic for Pentecost available to download and share on social media.
Local Church
Participants stretch during a yoga class at First Church Fort Pierce, a United Methodist Congregation in Florida. Photo by Lilla Marigza UM News.

Yoga ministry stretches beyond church walls

At a United Methodist church in Florida, a free yoga class is helping people feel good and do good in their community and beyond.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2026 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved