Sexuality

The Executive Committee of the United Methodist Church in Germany agreed to become more open and inclusive on matters relating to human sexuality during a video meeting Nov. 20-21. The decision seeks to preserve unity through a perspective of respectful coexistence as a way forward. Photo by Klaus Ulrich Ruof, United Methodist Communications Germany.

Norway, Germany move to more inclusivity

Top committee of German church agrees to be more open on human sexuality matters, while Norway Conference plans to issue a public apology to LGBTQ people.

Human Rights

Miguel A. De La Torre (left) and the Rev. Traci C. West (right) join moderator Erin Hawkins during the latest online United Methodist panel discussion about racism. Screenshot from video by UM News.

Panel: Racial and sexual parity linked

A new online forum about racism focuses on intersectionality, or how nobody can truly be free until all are free.

Social Concerns

Perpetual Makadzange talks to her three children, (from left) 6-year-old Tizzelyn, 7-year-old Tanatswa and 12-year-old Tsepang, at their home in Zimunya, Zimbabwe. The United Methodist schools that the children attend remain closed to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News .

Pandemic leads more girls to early marriages

United Methodist schools in Zimbabwe see more early marriages, other risky behavior as schools remain closed amid COVID-19.

Local Church

Donald “Bud” Heckman, accused of sexual misconduct and abuse, withdrew under complaint from membership in the West Ohio Conference, effective June 10, 2020. Photo courtesy of the Religion Communicators Council.

#MeToo case ends with surrendered credentials

Donald “Bud” Heckman has left ordained ministry under complaint after facing an earlier complaint of sexual misconduct and abuse brought by four women.

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