By the Rev. Gustavo Vasquez and Linda Bloom Oct. 5, 2017 | UMNS The Methodist Church of Puerto Rico has activated an emergency strategy to respond to community needs following Hurricane Maria. “My definition of the situation is the same …
Let’s celebrate ‘Hispanic Provision & Care Month’
This is one of the saddest Hispanic Heritage months (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) that I have experienced since I came to live in Pennsylvania. Celebration is not the same since we heard about Puerto Rico being hit by Hurricanes Irma and …
Bishop, supporters advocate for DREAMers
As usual, Bishop Peggy Johnson is receiving both impassioned agreement and vehement opposition to her advocacy for justice and mercy for undocumented immigrants. Some or those voicing the latter sentiment typically tell her she should stay away from politics and …
Church leaders seek ways to respond to end of DACA
President Donald Trump’s decision to end DACA, the federal program that shields from deportation nearly a million young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally by their parents, will affect just a few members of Casa del Pueblo, a Latino/a ministry …
Elim: A new Latino faith community birthed in Coatesville
As it celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, Olivet UMC in Coatesville is once again a cradle welcoming a new birth. A small group gathered there on Monday, May 1, to celebrate the advent of what they hope will be …
Latino group’s Holy Convocation to focus on immigration
The Eastern PA Conference Latino Commission will hold its annual Holy Convocation (Santo Convocacion) on Saturday, April 15, from 7 AM to 3 PM, at Buen Samaritano UMC (at West Chester UMC) in West Chester, Pa. With the theme “Cristo el Immigrante” (“Christ the Immigrant”), …
Bishop, UMs lead prayer vigil for detained ‘Berks Madres’
Bishop Peggy Johnson shared a message of hope and solidarity for Latina immigrant detainees at the Berks County Residential Center Sunday, March 12, surrounded by about 90 people who gathered to worship and witness for justice and mercy. The hour-long, …
Advocacy groups urge justice, mercy for immigrants at risk
A Call to Justice and Mercy in Response to Anti-Immigrant Federal Policies Nine social justice advocacy groups in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference together have issued a formal statement expressing urgent concern over recent law enforcement actions that threaten the peace …
Bishop to lead prayer vigil for detained ‘Berks Madres’ March 12
Bishop Peggy Johnson will speak at a prayer vigil outside the Berks County Residential Center (1040 Berks Road, Leesport PA) on Sunday, March 12, at 3:30 PM, and some members of the Eastern PA Conference are expected to join her …
Latino ministry offers food, faith and the gift of music
By John W. Coleman Casa del Pueblo, the Latino Ministry of Lehman UMC in Hatboro, served more than 140 people, including dine-in and take-out orders, at its International Dinner on Friday, Sept. 16. A banquet of savory dishes from more …