Clergy

The Rev. Chad Parmalee has found knitting, especially making items for others, a way to relax amid the stresses of pandemic ministry. Parmalee leads Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Battle Creek, Mich. Photo by Roschenne Parmalee.

Clergy care a priority in pandemic year

Pastors, backed by annual conferences, have taken steps to prevent burnout during long public health emergency.

The Rev. John Makaniko (left) gathers in fellowship with teenage members from Hatfield United Methodist Church circuit in Harare, Zimbabwe. Makaniko said young people are not immune to the stress and anxiety of COVID-19. Photo by Chenayi Kumuterera, UM News.

Pastors reveal emotional toll of COVID-19

Church leaders in Zimbabwe help counsel traumatized families, while also dealing with their own fears and anxiety amid pandemic.

Central Conferences

The Rev. Moore Ganda, senior pastor, prays for the congregation at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Harare, Zimbabwe. Due to COVID-19 and the country’s economic crisis, the congregation is being asked to help augment clergy salaries. Photo by Priscilla Muzerengwa, UM News.

Laity giving pastors a boost during pandemic

Lay leaders in the Zimbabwe East Conference are asking all church members to contribute $1 per month to help augment pastors’ salaries during COVID-19.

Church Growth

The Rev. Lovett H. Weems Jr. Photo courtesy of Wesley Theological Seminary.

Young elder numbers near historic low

United Methodist clergy age study shows modest growth period has been followed by drops in the number of both men and women elders under age 35.

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