In the Church
Practicing Faith
Emotional Connection and Gratitude
Sharing an emotional connection with someone can serve as a bridge between cultures in social situations, writes the Rev. Jack Shitama. After so much trauma in recent life, it's just nice to experience it. Read more
May 10, 2021
4:27 PM
Muscle Memory
Muscle memory is a great metaphor for how we're going to fumble, stumble and use new social practices as we return to in-person church gatherings. Read more
May 6, 2021
12:32 PM
Shifting Terrain
There is a deep grief that comes when the terrain no longer feels familiar; when beloved traditions are changed; when the land or the church doesn’t feel like it always has. This is what the disciples must have felt, following Jesus' crucifixion. Read more
May 3, 2021
3:13 PM
Can Peace-Making Include Protest?
People of faith, particularly Christians, seem to be conflicted about whether protests do any good, or even if protests are “Christian.” Aren’t we supposed to be peace-lovers, even peace-makers? Read more
May 4, 2021
3:57 PM
Global Nature
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The Perils and Promises of Economic Analysis of Religion
One potential pitfall of taking an economic approach to the study of religion is that it becomes reductionist in nature. One must be careful not to imply that money is the only thing that matters when it comes to driving religion Read more
May 6, 2021
12:33 PM
David N. Field on Models of Methodism and the Unity of the Church
In the paper, David Field outlines six different understandings of church within United Methodism. Read more
May 6, 2021
12:32 PM
Recommended Viewing: UMW Voices from the Field
United Methodist Women will host another segment of its "Voices from the Field" video series on May 10. The series features the work that UMW does in partnership with its regional missionaries and other partners around the world. Read more
May 3, 2021
3:12 PM
Ordained Ministry
Why Are We Standing There Looking Up Toward Heaven?
Ascension Sunday is an excellent reminder that Jesus is no longer here physically to do the work of the Kingdom of God. That work depends on us. Because of the Ascension, Jesus now works through us. Read more
May 11, 2021
Lancaster Seminary to Hold Course on Bivocational Ministry
The Pennsylvania seminary's online course will educate lay leaders and clergy alike about the benefits and drawbacks of part-time pastorates and bivocational ministry. Read more
May 12, 2021
Local Church
Time to tell the Good News, says Bishop Swanson
Instead of focusing on what’s wrong in the denomination, Bishop James Swanson suggested to United Methodist Scouting leaders that "we focus on actions in local churches and units of United Methodist Men where so many good things are going on.” Read more
May 10, 2021
Finance and Administration
Bishops’ Election Plans Draw Mixed Reaction
United Methodist bishops are no longer pushing for a hold on all U.S. episcopal elections, but church voters still have differing views on when those elections should take place. Read more
May 12, 2021
Publishing House Rebounds
The COVID-19 pandemic clobbered the Publishing House as churches — unable to meet in person — chose to limit or forgo orders for Sunday school and vacation Bible school curriculum and other materials. Read more
May 11, 2021
Corbin Payne Photo by Corbin Payne, Greater N
Judicial Council Releases More Decisions
The new Judicial Council rulings cover decisions of law made by Bishop John Schol during the conference’s Oct. 26, 2019, special session regarding the inclusion of LGBTQ persons in local congregations in the annual conference. Read more
May 6, 2021
