UMC Featured News & Stories

Prayer event focuses on human rights in Philippines
Stories of brutal killings in the Philippines are shared during a World Day of Prayer worship service in Sacramento, Calif. Native American events planned with new leader
The Rev. Anita Phillips is helping United Methodists view Native Americans as partners in ministry. United Methodist Bishop Carl Sanders dies at 94
A bishop to the Birmingham area before retiring, he served the church in many capacities. United Methodist Women explore mercury dangers
The use of mercury as a preservative in some vaccines and medicines is the subject of a June conference in Atlanta. United Methodists criticize Japan leader's denials
Church leaders denounce the prime minister’s recent remarks over Japan’s coercion of ‘comfort women’ during WWII. Church helps teens become better moms
Through its Teen MOPS ministry, an Indiana church is providing instruction and encouragement to young moms and pregnant teens. Churches heal emotions after Enterprise tornadoes
After a deadly twister killed eight teens at Enterprise High School, churches have reached out through worship, service and ministry. Controversial Native American mascot retired
While the University of Illinois has dropped Chief Illiniwek, church leaders want more care over the use of Native American imagery. Native American leader shares pain over mascots
“Native people struggle every day to be recognized and respected in this culture, even among church folks,” says Suanne Ware-Diaz. Jones to leave commission, return to Arkansas
As the agency’s top executive, he advocated and monitored The United Methodist Church for racial inclusiveness. Latin American, Caribbean Methodists share insights
A consultation in Panama explores the relationship between the denomination and independent Methodist churches. Mavula becomes United Methodist bishop of Nigeria
An ordained deacon and experienced educator faces the challenge of unifying the church in Nigeria. Christian bands set to rock Youth 2007
Fusebox, The Katinas and Superchic[k] are among cutting-edge Christian bands scheduled to perform. UMCOR provides water through Humane Borders
An immigration-related ministry lives out Jesus’ words ‘I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.’ Youth 2007 brings together United Methodist teens
Thousands of youth and church youth leaders will converge this summer in Greensboro, N.C., for the church’s largest youth event. 'E-learning' to enhance theology studies in Europe
In an effort to widen United Methodist pastoral education opportunities, students soon can take online courses in German and English. Commentary: Philippine murders linked to military
The Rev. Randy Day says the Philippine government should address a report that suggests military personnel are behind political killings. Mozambique struggles under flooding, cyclone
United Methodist leaders are asking for urgent assistance for one of the world’s poorest nations. Church leaders seek U.S. intervention in Philippines
U.S. and Filipino church leaders are urging the U.S. Congress to address human rights violations and killings in the Philippines. Coalition wants FDA authority over tobacco
United Methodists are among faith leaders backing a proposed U.S. law targeting tobacco products. Ministry commission hears survey results on report
A report recommending "profound" changes to the ministerial leadership of The United Methodist Church was meant to spur conversations. It has done its job. United Methodists host Nets partners in Angola
Professional basketball stars join United Nations officials to see “what the face of malaria looks like” in Africa. Consultation examines ruling on pastoral authority
A 2005 ruling by the church’s highest court brings church scholars together for a focused conversation on its impact. Igniting Ministry ads reach Koreans in United States
Korean-language TV, radio and newspaper ads are changing the way Korean Americans see The United Methodist Church. United Methodists help in Arkansas tornado relief
A weekend tornado devastates the Delta town of Dumas, followed by an outpouring of love and caring from the church and others. Georgia lay leader is General Conference speaker
Lyn Powell of the North Georgia Conference is to give the Laity Address when the church’s top lawmaking body meets in 2008 in Texas. U.S. religious leaders say Iranians want peace
Church executive says diplomacy, not military action, is the solution to tensions between the United States and Iran. Town learns about its rich and storied black heritage
After two years of research, two Georgia women have recorded the legacy of African Americans for their town. Medical ministry shares crutches, wheelchairs, more
For almost 50 years, a United Methodist Men’s group has loaned free medical equipment to needy people in Pennsylvania. Pastor to guide Bible society into technology age
A United Methodist minister is poised to become the first female head of the 198-year-old Massachusetts Bible Society. U.S., Iranian religious leaders promote peace
Talks begin in Iran to find common ground among faith groups as political tensions grow between the two nations. Chaplains offer ideas, resources for churches
Chaplains brainstorm on ideas and resources to help churches understand, welcome and support returning soldiers. Chaplains: Church must support returning soldiers
Pastors to military personnel say returning from war is a journey—and being back doesn't mean being home. Pastor's compassion gives rabbi gift of life
In the ultimate spirit of interfaith cooperation, a United Methodist pastor donates her kidney to a rabbi. 'U2charist' combines U2 music, Eucharist
A Vermont church draws believers and seekers with a worship experience including the spiritually evocative songs of U2. Faith reigns for new Miss America
Lauren Nelson says growing up in The United Methodist Church has given her roots for her journey ahead. Three bishops urge new U.S. budget priorities
President Bush and Congress should consider the needs of children and the poor, the bishops say in a letter. Deacons celebrate milestones as their role evolves
Today’s deacons take ministry beyond the church walls and into fields such as health care, education and social work. Pan-Methodist bishops to reflect on work together
Methodist leaders from five denominations will address mutual concerns when they meet in March. Touchdown! Sermon on Super Bowl ads scores
A pastor in Texas looks at the big game’s TV commercials through the lens of faith. U.S. religious leaders promote peace dialogue in Iran
A United Methodist leader will be part of a U.S. religious delegation visiting Iran to build a bridge of peace. Christian Churches Together launches, targets poverty
The United Methodist Church is among 36 founding members of a new ecumenical body emphasizing conversation over advocacy. Hiwassee College advances in accreditation efforts
A federal judge sides with a United Methodist-related college in Tennessee in its legal efforts to stay accredited. Liberia’s Ganta Hospital rebuilds in 2006
A hospital gutted during civil unrest rebounds with help from a United Methodist church in Peoria, Ill. Soldier’s little sister sings in YouTube hit
A video showing 6-year-old Heather Martin singing in her Oklahoma church is one of YouTube’s most requested videos ever. Advocates rally for children in Arkansas
Concern for children brings together four diverse church groups to lobby state lawmakers. Bishops distribute $2 million to Gulf Coast
Churches and pastors affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will benefit from new allocations. Bishops: Church transcends national borders
Becoming personally involved with immigrants and their families is key to understanding issues of immigration, say two bishops. Immigration meeting urges hospitality to 'strangers'
United Methodist leaders urge immigration reform and remind that hospitality is one of God’s greatest gifts. New logo reflects discipleship agency’s new vision
‘Equipping World-Changing Disciples’ is new tagline for GBOD.

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