Tennessee Annual Conference

Parishioners sit apart from one another during worship at Franklin (Tenn.) First United Methodist Church. The church, which recently returned to in-person worship, has adopted safety protocols, including social distancing, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Churches begin returning to in-person worship

Progress made with virtual worship will remain a part of the church experience as some sanctuaries reopen for Sunday services.

Mission and Ministry

Custodian James Jimmerson disinfects the chancel area to prevent any possible spread of the coronavirus at Belmont United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn., on Sunday, May 10, 2020, after online worship, which is recorded in the chapel. Bishops are setting guidelines, including standards for cleaning, and recommending what they think are appropriate times for the churches in their conference to reopen. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Churches practice caution before reopening

United Methodist bishops are setting guidelines and recommending times for the churches in their conference to reopen — recommendations that are not necessarily the same as what their state governments are allowing.

Mission and Ministry

Over 30,000 pounds of food provided by Feed America First is distributed to those in need in Wilson County, Tenn. Lebanon First United Methodist Church in Lebanon, Tenn. was able to restock its food pantry as well as help provide a week’s worth of food to over 350 families. Pictured are John Stephens and Laura Headley, members of Lebanon First United Methodist Church. Photo by the Rev. Ryan Bennett.

Prayers, donations help in aftermath of storms

March storms left behind lots of damage, but because of COVID-19, church leaders are urging safety first, cleanup later.

Mission and Ministry

Donna Barnett and daughter Jessica Garrett are hugged and given a prayer by Lindsey Holloway and Melody Montgomery Wednesday, March 4, 2020, in Cookeville, Tenn., after a tornado touched down earlier in the week. © Shelley Mays/The Tennessean – USA TODAY Network via Imagn Content Services, LLC.

Retired pastor’s home lost to tornado

United Methodists in and around Cookeville, Tennessee, among those suffering from March 3 tornadoes.

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