Racial groups speak out against racist oppression, violence

Three racial groups in the Eastern PA Conference have released anti-racism advocacy statements calling for an end to systemic oppression and violence against Black U.S. citizens, especially by police officers. The statements—by Philadelphia Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR), the Latino Commission and the Whites …

BMCR focuses on separation plans, leadership views

Much of the annual meeting of the African American caucus of The United Methodist Church focused on major changes being proposed to the now-delayed General Conference, as well as the views of black church leaders…

BMCR supports higher education, hurricane relief

By the Rev. Shayla L. Johnson* Chairperson, Black Methodists for Church Renewal, Philadelphia Caucus  The Eastern PA Conference caucus that represents African American members and churches has been actively supporting education and disaster response in 2019.   Philadelphia Black Methodists for Church Renewal …

BMCR, BUMP award annual scholarships to 3 new collegians

Leaders of BMCR and BUMP (Black Methodists for Church Renewal and Black UM Preachers) held their annual scholarship awards luncheon at the Conference Office in June. They awarded scholarships to three new college students from BMCR member churches: Lea Janay …

BMCR has a new webpage

Bishop speaks to caucus concerns BY JOHN W. COLEMAN Philadelphia Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR) has a new Web presence at www.epaumc.org/bmcr, hosted by the Eastern PA Conference website. The caucus represents interests and concerns of predominantly black Eastern …

Reflections on BMCR’s 51st General Meeting

By the Rev. Shayla Johnson

BMCR Philadelphia Coordinator

The 51st General Meeting of National Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR), March 13-17, in Sacramento, Calif., drew a smaller attendance than the 500 who came to the 2017, 50th anniversary meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio. About 162 registered persons attended this year’s meeting, where there was less pomp and circumstance but nonetheless, important matters and decisions to consider, along with celebrative worship and fellowship.

BMCR looks to the future

(UMNS)–Black Methodists for Church Renewal recently gathered here in a mood of gratitude, but also of anticipation. “We give thanks for the past 50 years … but God is declaring there is a next level in our future,” said the Rev. Antoine “Tony” Love, the group’s vice chairman…