Join in a weekly 30-minute prayer meeting on Zoom, Tuesdays at 12 noon. It’s for all conference members and guests, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. But all prayer concerns are welcome.
Despite calls to end pandemic shutdown, most leaders say wait
By John W. Coleman Story updated April 18, 2020, with new information. Pennsylvania reported 1,706 additional positive cases of the new coronavirus Friday, April 17, bringing the statewide total to 29,441. There were also 49 new deaths among positive cases, …
Modeling non-anxious leadership during pandemic
The statistics are grim, but United Methodists in the U.S. have engaged the COVID-19 pandemic by emphasizing good information, helping those in need and offering inspiration… Learn more…
Unprecedented Easter?
An angel of the Lord descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. – Matthew 28:20
Of all the gospel’s scenes depicting Easter’s empty tomb, this one is my favorite. Dawn. The two Marys, their eyes mistier than the early morning…
Doing ministry in the midst of coronavirus
Behold, I am doing a new thing;now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wildernessand rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19 (ESV). Are you doing a new thing? Is your church making a way…
Online prayer groups seek healing despite social distancing
By John W. Coleman Churches and church groups are busily using online videoconferencing services—especially Zoom—and also free conference call services during these social distancing days for worship, meetings, Bible study classes, and increasingly, for prayer. Now, even larger groups are …
2020 ‘Bridge Walk for Peace’ marches on virtually
Since 2008, the Rev. David W. Brown, a deacon in the Eastern PA Conference, has led a special, early dawn walk across Ben Franklin Bridge in Central Philadelphia to commemorate the tragic day the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was …
UM agencies resourcing pandemic-affected churches
By John W. Coleman In the spirit of connectionalism, United Methodist general agencies continue to try to help local churches connect with members and survive the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Such connection is crucial for continuing worship, financial …
Serving the Community: A Tribute to Pastoral Leadership in Norristown
Church sanctuaries are empty. Christians are quarantined at home. Social distancing and isolation is taking a toll. How can church leaders help combat loneliness among their flocks, families and even themselves? Read more
Remembering Holy Week & Easter Worship
A recording of the April 8 Holy Week worship service led by Bishop Peggy Johnson and her Cabinet is available above, and also on our Facebook page and YouTube Channel. In addition, Bishop Johnson preached two video-recorded sermons for Good …