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Baptism

Church Growth
Bishop Knut Refsdal, who leads the Nordic-Baltic-Ukraine Area, baptizes Aksel, as the baby’s parents, Håkon and Astri Helen Madland, look on. The newly elected bishop chose Flekkefjord, Norway, as his first visit in a strong sign of solidarity with the United Methodists there. Photo by Karl Anders Ellingsen, UM News.

After division, church sees new life and local honor

After General Conference, a United Methodist church in Norway saw much of its congregation leave. Now, the church is rebounding and receiving recognition for its inclusive stance.
Bishops
Father Emmanuel Katongole, a Catholic priest and theologian who previously worked at Duke Divinity School, addresses the United Methodist Council of Bishops, meeting this week at Epworth by the Sea Conference Center in St. Simons Island, Ga. At the invitation of the bishops’ Anti-Racism Leadership Team, Katongole spoke of the challenges racism and tribalism present to Christians. Photo by Rick Wolcott, Council of Bishops.

Bishops hear call to be an ‘Ephesians church’

On U.S. Election Day, United Methodist bishops heard about the ongoing work of overcoming racism and tribalism. A theologian urged them to look to the Bible for guidance.
Evangelism
The Rev. Jenny Smith (right) and Director of Youth Ministries, Tim McKenzie (left) baptize a young person at Patapsco River in Eldersburg, Md., on Oct. 1. Photo by Brenda Bowman, Wesley Freedom United Methodist Church.

Youth answer invitation to baptism

On World Communion Sunday, Oct. 1, the Rev. Jenny Smith, pastor of Wesley Freedom United Methodist Church, waded into the Patapsco River to baptize 12 young people. It began with one youth at church camp who asked to be baptized.
Local Church
“Brother Jean” Aime Ratovohery, founding leader of the congregation, participates in a congregational conference to officially organize the first United Methodist church in Madagascar. Photo by the Rev. Gustavo Vasquez, UM News.

A snapshot of United Methodism in Madagascar

A delegation led by Bishop Joaquina Filipe Nhanala made a historic visit to Madagascar Feb. 21-28 to formalize the opening of The United Methodist Church in that country. During the service, the bishop confirmed new members, baptized 91 people and administered Holy Communion.

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