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Church History

Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. Although Ash Wednesday has ancient roots, it does not appear in the rituals of The United Methodist Church or our predecessor denominations until the 20th century.

Ask The UMC: When did Ash Wednesday begin and why do we celebrate it?
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.
Mission and Ministry
A Bible coated in mud lays outside Fenwick (W. Va.) United Methodist Church following heavy flooding. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS

Ask The UMC: How should we dispose of Bibles?
When so worn or damaged as to be no longer useable, Bibles should be disposed of with reverence and with appropriate ritual action.
The Rev. Elaine A. Robinson. Photo by Shevaun Williams.

Commentary: Thoughts upon GC2019 via Methodist history
The history of The United Methodist Church and its predecessor denominations offers insights on what the future might hold, writes Elaine A. Robinson.
General Church
United Methodist and Episcopal leaders discuss the work toward full communion during the Council of Bishops meeting on St. Simons Island, Ga. From left are United Methodist Bishop Gregory V. Palmer of the West Ohio Conference, the Rev. Canon C.K. Robertson of the Episcopal Church and the Rev. Margaret Rose of the Episcopal Church. Photo by Heather Hahn, UMNS.

Bishops strengthen ties with Episcopalians
Two Christian traditions with historic ties to John Wesley’s Church of England are moving closer to full communion.

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