Coronavirus

Concord United Methodist Church in Lewisville, N.C., is presenting an outdoor Stations of the Cross this year for people at the church and the community to walk through different reminders of Christ’s passion. In this second year of the pandemic, churches continue to be creative while safely observing this holy season in the Christian calendar. Photos by Teresa Reece, Concord United Methodist Church.

Lingering pandemic enlivens Easter creativity

In this second year of the COVID-19 menace, United Methodist churches are embracing new ways to help people connect with Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection.

General Church

Bishops process into worship on Feb. 24, 2019, at the special session of General Conference, held in St. Louis. A group of delegates is urging bishops to rethink their plans for a special virtual General Conference on May 8 and a hold on U.S. bishop elections this year. File photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News; computer image by Michael Gaida, courtesy of Pixabay.

Delegates: Bishops' plan oversteps bounds

A group of U.S. delegates urges bishops to rethink the special called General Conference and especially plans to delay any U.S. bishop elections until 2024.

Mission and Ministry

Gospel musicians record a song for an online worship service at Chisipiti United Methodist Church in Harare, Zimbabwe. United Methodists across the country are using music to provide strength and comfort during the pandemic. Seated, from left, are: Patricia Mapani, Christine Anesu Hove and Ricky Mapani. At rear is Ali White. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

Gospel music sparks hope amid COVID-19

Across Zimbabwe congregations, United Methodists keep music alive, offering solace and uplifting spirits.

General Church

Bishop Elaine J.W. Stanovsky presides as delegates hone their electronic voting skills during a practice election at the 2016 General Conference in Portland, Ore. In response to the Commission on the General Conference’s decision to further postpone the 2020 General Conference until 2022, the Council of Bishops has called a special session of the General Conference to be convened online on May 8, 2021. File photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News.

General Conference postponed until 2022

Organizers have postponed the full General Conference, including proposals for a church split, until 2022 when delegates can meet in person. A special one-day, virtual General Conference is planned for May 8.

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