Arkansas Annual Conference

Custodian James Jimmerson disinfects pews to prevent any possible spread of the coronavirus at Belmont United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn. on Sunday, May 10, 2020, after online worship, which was recorded in the sanctuary. As churches consider returning to in-person worship, cleaning measures are one of many factors leaders will need to consider. “I believe my job, my part in this, is to make sure people are safe in here,” Jimmerson said. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Churches have much to consider before reopening

As many states’ shelter-in-place orders are being lifted, churches contemplate how — or whether — to return to in-person worship.

Mission and Ministry

Over 30,000 pounds of food provided by Feed America First is distributed to those in need in Wilson County, Tenn. Lebanon First United Methodist Church in Lebanon, Tenn. was able to restock its food pantry as well as help provide a week’s worth of food to over 350 families. Pictured are John Stephens and Laura Headley, members of Lebanon First United Methodist Church. Photo by the Rev. Ryan Bennett.

Prayers, donations help in aftermath of storms

March storms left behind lots of damage, but because of COVID-19, church leaders are urging safety first, cleanup later.

General Church

Bishop John K. Yambasu of Sierra Leone addresses a meeting of the Africa College of Bishops in Mutare, Zimbabwe. The bishops said the church would continue in Africa after General Conference 2020. Photo by Tim Tanton, UM News.

African bishops oppose separation plans

In a statement at the close of the Africa College of Bishops retreat, the bishops said the church would continue in Africa after GC2020.

Evangelism

The Rev. Casey Turner baptizes a man trying to overcome addiction at the Breaking Bonds Ministries campus in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Photo courtesy of Breaking Bonds Ministries.

Successful evangelism includes trusting the call

2019 Denman Award winners the Revs. Casey Turner and Thacker Haynes talk about ministries to people addicted to drugs and alcohol and a rodeo team at a Texas college.

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