Coronavirus

Dozens gather for the burial of the Rev. Themba Siwela of Gutu Mupandawana Circuit Masvingo District. Many did not wear face masks or maintain social distancing. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

Close ties challenge rural Africa COVID-19 fight

Close relationships in rural Africa make social and physical distancing to avoid COVID-19 culturally difficult.

The Rev. Michelle Wilson offers sack lunches from the door of the church van as part of the Hands of Hope food security program at Gordon Memorial United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn. The church received a Sheltering in Love grant from the United Methodist Committee on Relief that has enabled it to expand existing food security ministries with seniors and persons experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

In trying times, churches extend their reach

Grants from the United Methodist Committee on Relief allow churches to expand programs, increase capacity during pandemic.

Mission and Ministry

The Nyadire Social Committee distributes food to families at The United Methodist Church’s Nyadire Mission in Mutoko, Zimbabwe. The Nyadire Connection, an all-volunteer group founded by individuals from a network of United Methodist churches in Pittsburgh, raised more than $25,000 for food relief at the mission. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

Donations pour in for church hospitals, missions

United Methodist hospitals in Zimbabwe receive protective gear for front-line workers, while mission families get food relief from Nyadire Connection.

Mission and Ministry

A woman in protective gear holds out a swab to a woman who has come for COVID-19 testing at Cochran Chapel United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas. Cars lined up early for the June 29 opportunity. Photo by Matt Jacob, North Texas Conference.

Church parking lots fill for COVID-19 testing

More United Methodist congregations are offering space for screenings, hoping to reach groups at special risk.

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