With the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, organizers hope to improve proceedings at General Conference 2020. Among the adjustments that delegates can expect are stricter requirements for their credentials after an investigation…
Wespath using financial clout for climate change
The agency that administers UMC pension and benefits programs is making progress toward improving the effects of church investments on the environment, but some believe changes are coming too slowly. Read more…
Latina pastor to lead Eastern PA’s Latino Ministries
The Rev. Lillian “Luky” Cotto is the Eastern PA Conference’s new part-time Latino Ministries Coordinator, effective August 1. She succeeds the Rev. Brunilda Martinez, who had served in that role since mid-2017. A longtime member of Eastern PA’s Latino Commission, …
Learn to care for Creation at EarthKeepers training
The EarthKeepers training, August 8-11 at Arch Street UMC in Philadelphia, is “an incredible learning opportunity,” says Dr. Sara Fernsler, to make a positive impact on the health of our planet.
Mobilize Your Church for a Better Ministry Story
Two top leadership coaches offer UMs a fee discount to learn how to do effective outreach ministry using high-tech and high-touch tactics July 31, at a Philadelphia seminary.
Postscripts from Annual Conference 2019
Our Annual Conference celebrated and heard from the coming generation. But controversies over a resolution and election of 2020 delegates also challenged our unity in Christ. Our bishop responds to some concerns.
Why do UM pastors change churches?
Our unique system of deploying pastors began in Methodism’s earliest days. John Wesley believed itinerant preachers were more effective than those who settled in, grew comfortable and “wore out what they had to say.” Learn more…
Exiting congregations face hefty price tag
For congregations that want to leave the UMC because of disagreement with new church laws regarding the rights of LGBTQ people in the church, a breakup could get very expensive. Continue reading at umnews.org.
Saved by accepting God’s grace: suddenly or gradually?
United Methodists understand that people have different experiences of awakening and turning to God. Some may have a sudden, powerful experience… Read more at umc.org
We’re getting a new pastor! What can I do?
One Sunday during worship, you notice a visitor who looks vaguely familiar. Suddenly the pastor invites her forward to address the congregation. Now you remember. She is your District Superintendent. Oh no! Why is she here?