BY JOHN W. COLEMAN Our society is undergoing dramatic changes in how we see and respond to gender realities and relationships—from fluid sexual identities to the #metoo movement. One stubborn change that many should welcome—including many in the church—is in …
Time to share Christmas greetings with inmates again
BY MARILYN SCHNEIDER Imagine what it would be like to be behind bars this Christmas, with limited contact with family and friends. Receiving a card with an encouraging note from someone “outside” would be such a meaningful gift! Last year …
Two historic Phila. churches mark milestone anniversaries
Two historic Phila. churches mark milestone anniversaries Two of the most historic United Methodist churches in America—Historic St. George’s UMC and Mother African Zoar UMC—will celebrate milestone anniversaries in November in grand and humble ways. Sharing the same month may …
Bishop promotes Evangelism in District Meetings
At five district meetings, 9/23 to 10/2, Bishop Peggy Johnson will urge churches to engage their communities in outreach for Christ and also discuss General Conference 2020 concerns.
Turning to God in Days of Trouble
Life brings good days and bad. But God is always there to comfort us. On days that end in “why,” this prayer reminds us of God’s constant presence in our lives.
Why do many churches have red doors?
The centuries-old tradition of red church doors may symbolize the sacrificial blood of Christ, or Christians martyred for their faith, or the Holy Spirit. It may also signal a refuge for safety. Learn more…
Remembering 9/11
Greetings in Christ Jesus. Last evening, it was my privilege to participate in an interfaith prayer service commemorating 9/11. I found it meaningful and moving to be with people of goodwill–driven by faith to cross barriers real and perceived — to …
First church in Africa becomes reconciling
A 180-member United Methodist church in Kenya unanimously voted to identify as reconciling and join the Reconciling Ministries Network—making it the first African congregation to do so. Learn more…
Hopewell UMC’s “Planting Seeds for Ministry Growth,” 9/21
Transformative leadership training for lay and clergy, designed to empower local congregations. Keynote Speaker: Jen Hatmaker, American Christian author. Worship Leader: Dr. Tony Compolo.
It’s time to make a plan for World Communion Sunday
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, lives in you.” — 2 Timothy 1:5 NRSV United Methodists will join Christians of different …