Ministry Study Archive
This section contains articles published prior to the 2012 General Conference regarding United Methodist ministry. It is not currently updated. For current articles please see our Issues section.
Ministry Study
RSS
Features
United Methodist News Service Photo by Jill Shirley, Minnesota Annual Conference.
Church Systems Study Aims to Make UMC a Less Unhealthy Workplace
The Church Systems Study reveals a workplace culture in The United Methodist Church in which clergy are asked to do monumental tasks of ministry for low salaries and little support, leading to major health problems and high insurance costs. more »
Mar 27, 2012 by Cynthia B. Astle in Ministry Study (5 Comments)
United Methodist News Service Photo by Mike DuBose
Ministry Study Recommends End to Guaranteed Clergy Appointment
A commission to study United Methodist ministry has recommended doing away with the practice of guaranteeing an annual appointment for clergy. more »
Mar 27, 2012 by Kathy Gilbert in Ministry Study (1 Comments)
United Methodist Insight Illustration
Church Vitality and the Toxic UMC
The Church Systems Study provides the most accurate and highly disturbing portrait of The United Methodist Church, and gives sensible recommendations for how to relieve unhealthy stress on clergy. more »
Mar 27, 2012 by Cynthia B. Astle in Perspectives
Wikimedia Commons Photo
Eastern Pennsylvania Deacons Oppose Changes
United Methodist deacons in the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference write to General Conference delegates asking them to vote down proposed changes in their status. more »
Jan 31, 2012 by Compiled by United Methodist Insight in Ministry Study (4 Comments)
Photo courtesy of Inquistr.com
Where Do We Find God's Spirit in Our System?
Taking a cue from the spirit-filled movie, "Ghostbusters II," the Rev. Jerry Eckert ponders where the United Methodist system allows for the guidance of God's Holy Spirit. more »
Mar 22, 2012 by Jerry Eckert in Perspectives (1 Comments)
Will Restructuring Cut Vital Ministry?
UMNS Photo
Top executives of United Methodist general agencies question the wisdom of the proposed restructuring of the church.
General Conference Resources
A list of documents related to various study reports scheduled to come before the 2012 General Conference.
The Folly of Form-Focus
The Rev. Dan Dick points out that the form of something, such as ministry, should follow its function.