UMNS Weekly Digest
September 18, 2009
NOTE: This is a digest of news features provided by United Methodist Communications for Sept. 14-18. It includes summaries of stories, UMTV video reports and additional briefs from United Methodist News Service. Full versions of the stories with photographs and related features can be found at http://umns.umc.org.
Stories this week:
Plus:
UMTV:
Scholarships are top priority for Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—The hardest task for Africa University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira this fall semester has been facing crying mothers who don’t have the money to send their children back to school. More than 300 students have not been able to register at Africa University for the 2009-2010 academic year. The school itself has seen its endowment drop $9 million as a result of the international economic downturn, Tagwira reported Sept. 12 at an advisory development committee meeting. {377}
Zimbabweans step up to help students
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe. But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school. Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships. The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said. {378}
Words have power to bless or curse, analysts say
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Public displays of rude behavior seem to roll out daily, leading many to wonder if civility and good manners are dead or at least on life support. The Internet, television and newspapers are ablaze with opinions on the intemperate remarks of musician Kanye West, tennis star Serena Wilson and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. How should their actions be judged? The church and the world must hold each other accountable “for the stewardship of words,” says United Methodist Bishop Ken Carder, professor of Christian ministry at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School. {379}
Churches find new ways to say, ‘Y’all come back now!’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (UMNS)—Would a homemade pecan pie be enough of an incentive to check out a new church on Sunday morning? Across Arkansas, United Methodist churches are embracing creative ways to make newcomers feel welcome and invite them into a deeper relationship with Christ. Some congregations “mug” their visitors, giving away coffee cups with the church’s name on it. Others offer free DVDs that showcase the church’s ministries. And many others do what hostesses have done for centuries: Make sure no guest goes away hungry. {380}
South Central Jurisdiction will realign, drop bishop in 2012
DALLAS (UMNS)—Responding to a directive from the denomination’s top legislative body, United Methodists in the South Central region of the United States will make do with one less bishop in 2012. Through a Sept. 18 webcast, the 6,400 local churches in the South Central Jurisdiction – representing about 1.83 million members -- learned that the Nebraska, Kansas East and Kansas West annual (regional) conferences will be combined into one episcopal area at that time. Dallas Area Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe, president of the jurisdiction’s college of bishops, reminded viewers that the 2008 General Conference had directed that body to reduce its numbers from 11 to 10 bishops. At least three South Central bishops will be reach the mandatory retirement age of 68 by 2012. {381}
CROP walk season begins
NEW YORK (UMNS)—September marks the opening of the 40th season of CROP Hunger Walks, sponsored by Church World Service. The walks draw participants, including many United Methodists, from some 2,000 U.S. communities. The walks raise around $16 million annually to fight hunger on both local and global levels. This year's theme - "Enough for All" - has added significance as people in the United States and abroad face increasing joblessness and hunger in an ailing global economy. More information is available at www.cropwalk.org.
Study guide explores faith and politics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—In a new study guide, “Seeing Gray: Where Faith & Politics Meet,” the Rev. Adam Hamilton takes a look at the gray area between the two sides even on lightning-rod issues such as health care, stem cell research and immigration. It is a companion to his book “Gray in a World of Black and White.” Hamilton is pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan.
Native American gathering to honor women leaders
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS)—Four Native American United Methodist women will be celebrated at the first Native Women’s Gathering and Conference Oct. 16-18. The Rev. Cynthia Abrams of the Board of Church and Society, Cynthia Kent, former executive for the Board of Global Ministries, Anne Marshall, chair of the Native American International Caucus, and the Rev. Suanne Ware-Diaz of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race will be honored. The theme of the event is “Re-Defining Our Place: Native Women Speak!” Further information is available online at Native American Women’s Gathering.
Relief agency depots need supplies
NEW YORK (UMNS)—The United Methodist Committee on Relief is calling on church members to help replenish its stock of supplies at the relief agency’s depots, UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City. During the summer, volunteers worked at both locations to assemble international shipments of relief supplies worth more than $100,000 to people around the world. In particular, UMCOR West, which provides opportunities for kit ministry at churches in the Western Jurisdiction, can use help in filling the shelves of its 22,000-square-foot warehouse. More information about needed supplies can be found online at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/.
Black church ministry charting new course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, an initiative of The United Methodist Church, will introduce a new method of teaching and learning to nearly 100 pastors and key congregational leaders Sept. 24. The meeting will unveil a new Web site, logo and e-learning portal. “We are creating methods to enable the development of a catalog of training that is conducted from our various training events from across the country and delivered to other partner churches or congregational resource center teams via the Web site,” said Fred Allen, national director of the initiative.
Resettled refugees featured in Million Minutes for Peace video
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Somali refugees resettled to Pennsylvania by Church World Service are featured in a “webisode” as part of the Odyssey Networks’ Million Minutes for Peace Campaign. The campaign is working to collect pledges from a million people to join in one minute of prayer for peace at noon Sept. 21 in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Further information is available at www.odysseynetworks.org.
CBS special looks at ‘Religion, Politics and Advocacy’
NEW YORK (UMNS)—A half-hour television documentary on "Religion, Politics and Advocacy” will air nationwide Sept. 27 on CBS affiliates. The show examines how faith groups help shape policy. "We're not trying to seek legislation here that benefits any of our faith groups,” says Jim Winkler, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. “This is really for the society as a whole, and that has power that trumps, in the end, the power of money." The special is produced by the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission with the cooperation of the National Council of Churches, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Islamic Society of North America, Union for Reform Judaism and the New York Board of Rabbis.
Book explores landscapes of Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—“Thy Wonders Displayed: Africa University,” a new book published by the Africa University Development Office, describes the geological, biological and human landscapes of the United Methodist-related school in eastern Zimbabwe. The book is about faith, hope, and stewardship, writes Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey in the foreword. “The lovingly crafted text is complemented by a striking collection of photographs of the geological landscape, flora, wildlife and operating farm that bring the Africa University campus alive with its witness to the goodness, wonder and beauty of God’s creation." Further information is available at http://www.support-africauniversity.org/Page.aspx?pid=325.
United Methodists moving toward greater unity
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Buoyed by the new relationship between United Methodists and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Stephen J. Sidorak Jr., top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, expects that his denomination can continue to move toward the vision of unity. “All six church bodies of the Pan Methodist Commission have expressed their intent to enter into full communion, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has already voted affirmatively,” he noted when the commission met Sept. 9-12 in New York. For the Rev. W. Robert Johnson III, a commission member and top official in the AME Zion church, such intentions are precisely “what Jesus prayed about.”
Interactive workshop looks at God’s calling
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(UMNS)—Clergy and lay leaders of United Methodist congregations will have an opportunity to look closely at God’s call for them during “Turn Aside and See,” an interactive day-long experience offered by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. The multisensory experience will include art, biblical reflection, drama, music and video. Registration is under way for the event, which will be conducted at a church site in each jurisdiction in September and November. Further information is available at www.gbod.org/du/turn_aside.
UMTV: Three generations go green
PLEASANT VIEW, Tenn. (UMTV)—Most of us are all for “saving the planet,” but we wonder what one person can do to have an impact. Dr. J. Matthew Sleeth strongly believes that individual support is the key to a healthier Earth. On a recent visit to Pleasant View (Tenn.) United Methodist Church, Sleeth inspired one family to find small ways to “go green.” UMTV's "Three generations go green" is available to view at http://www.umtv.org/archives/three generations go green.htm. UMTV stories are also available on YouTube, Tangle and GoogleVideo by typing "UMTV" in the keyword search.
UMNS Weekly Digest
September 18, 2009
NOTE: This is a digest of news features provided by United Methodist Communications for Sept. 14-18. It includes summaries of stories, UMTV video reports and additional briefs from United Methodist News Service. Full versions of the stories with photographs and related features can be found at http://umns.umc.org.
Stories this week:
Plus:
UMTV:
Scholarships are top priority for Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—The hardest task for Africa University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira this fall semester has been facing crying mothers who don’t have the money to send their children back to school. More than 300 students have not been able to register at Africa University for the 2009-2010 academic year. The school itself has seen its endowment drop $9 million as a result of the international economic downturn, Tagwira reported Sept. 12 at an advisory development committee meeting. {377}
Zimbabweans step up to help students
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe. But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school. Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships. The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said. {378}
Words have power to bless or curse, analysts say
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Public displays of rude behavior seem to roll out daily, leading many to wonder if civility and good manners are dead or at least on life support. The Internet, television and newspapers are ablaze with opinions on the intemperate remarks of musician Kanye West, tennis star Serena Wilson and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. How should their actions be judged? The church and the world must hold each other accountable “for the stewardship of words,” says United Methodist Bishop Ken Carder, professor of Christian ministry at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School. {379}
Churches find new ways to say, ‘Y’all come back now!’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (UMNS)—Would a homemade pecan pie be enough of an incentive to check out a new church on Sunday morning? Across Arkansas, United Methodist churches are embracing creative ways to make newcomers feel welcome and invite them into a deeper relationship with Christ. Some congregations “mug” their visitors, giving away coffee cups with the church’s name on it. Others offer free DVDs that showcase the church’s ministries. And many others do what hostesses have done for centuries: Make sure no guest goes away hungry. {380}
South Central Jurisdiction will realign, drop bishop in 2012
DALLAS (UMNS)—Responding to a directive from the denomination’s top legislative body, United Methodists in the South Central region of the United States will make do with one less bishop in 2012. Through a Sept. 18 webcast, the 6,400 local churches in the South Central Jurisdiction – representing about 1.83 million members -- learned that the Nebraska, Kansas East and Kansas West annual (regional) conferences will be combined into one episcopal area at that time. Dallas Area Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe, president of the jurisdiction’s college of bishops, reminded viewers that the 2008 General Conference had directed that body to reduce its numbers from 11 to 10 bishops. At least three South Central bishops will be reach the mandatory retirement age of 68 by 2012. {381}
CROP walk season begins
NEW YORK (UMNS)—September marks the opening of the 40th season of CROP Hunger Walks, sponsored by Church World Service. The walks draw participants, including many United Methodists, from some 2,000 U.S. communities. The walks raise around $16 million annually to fight hunger on both local and global levels. This year's theme - "Enough for All" - has added significance as people in the United States and abroad face increasing joblessness and hunger in an ailing global economy. More information is available at www.cropwalk.org.
Study guide explores faith and politics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—In a new study guide, “Seeing Gray: Where Faith & Politics Meet,” the Rev. Adam Hamilton takes a look at the gray area between the two sides even on lightning-rod issues such as health care, stem cell research and immigration. It is a companion to his book “Gray in a World of Black and White.” Hamilton is pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan.
Native American gathering to honor women leaders
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS)—Four Native American United Methodist women will be celebrated at the first Native Women’s Gathering and Conference Oct. 16-18. The Rev. Cynthia Abrams of the Board of Church and Society, Cynthia Kent, former executive for the Board of Global Ministries, Anne Marshall, chair of the Native American International Caucus, and the Rev. Suanne Ware-Diaz of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race will be honored. The theme of the event is “Re-Defining Our Place: Native Women Speak!” Further information is available online at Native American Women’s Gathering.
Relief agency depots need supplies
NEW YORK (UMNS)—The United Methodist Committee on Relief is calling on church members to help replenish its stock of supplies at the relief agency’s depots, UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City. During the summer, volunteers worked at both locations to assemble international shipments of relief supplies worth more than $100,000 to people around the world. In particular, UMCOR West, which provides opportunities for kit ministry at churches in the Western Jurisdiction, can use help in filling the shelves of its 22,000-square-foot warehouse. More information about needed supplies can be found online at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/.
Black church ministry charting new course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, an initiative of The United Methodist Church, will introduce a new method of teaching and learning to nearly 100 pastors and key congregational leaders Sept. 24. The meeting will unveil a new Web site, logo and e-learning portal. “We are creating methods to enable the development of a catalog of training that is conducted from our various training events from across the country and delivered to other partner churches or congregational resource center teams via the Web site,” said Fred Allen, national director of the initiative.
Resettled refugees featured in Million Minutes for Peace video
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Somali refugees resettled to Pennsylvania by Church World Service are featured in a “webisode” as part of the Odyssey Networks’ Million Minutes for Peace Campaign. The campaign is working to collect pledges from a million people to join in one minute of prayer for peace at noon Sept. 21 in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Further information is available at www.odysseynetworks.org.
CBS special looks at ‘Religion, Politics and Advocacy’
NEW YORK (UMNS)—A half-hour television documentary on "Religion, Politics and Advocacy” will air nationwide Sept. 27 on CBS affiliates. The show examines how faith groups help shape policy. "We're not trying to seek legislation here that benefits any of our faith groups,” says Jim Winkler, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. “This is really for the society as a whole, and that has power that trumps, in the end, the power of money." The special is produced by the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission with the cooperation of the National Council of Churches, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Islamic Society of North America, Union for Reform Judaism and the New York Board of Rabbis.
Book explores landscapes of Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—“Thy Wonders Displayed: Africa University,” a new book published by the Africa University Development Office, describes the geological, biological and human landscapes of the United Methodist-related school in eastern Zimbabwe. The book is about faith, hope, and stewardship, writes Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey in the foreword. “The lovingly crafted text is complemented by a striking collection of photographs of the geological landscape, flora, wildlife and operating farm that bring the Africa University campus alive with its witness to the goodness, wonder and beauty of God’s creation." Further information is available at http://www.support-africauniversity.org/Page.aspx?pid=325.
United Methodists moving toward greater unity
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Buoyed by the new relationship between United Methodists and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Stephen J. Sidorak Jr., top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, expects that his denomination can continue to move toward the vision of unity. “All six church bodies of the Pan Methodist Commission have expressed their intent to enter into full communion, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has already voted affirmatively,” he noted when the commission met Sept. 9-12 in New York. For the Rev. W. Robert Johnson III, a commission member and top official in the AME Zion church, such intentions are precisely “what Jesus prayed about.”
Interactive workshop looks at God’s calling
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(UMNS)—Clergy and lay leaders of United Methodist congregations will have an opportunity to look closely at God’s call for them during “Turn Aside and See,” an interactive day-long experience offered by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. The multisensory experience will include art, biblical reflection, drama, music and video. Registration is under way for the event, which will be conducted at a church site in each jurisdiction in September and November. Further information is available at www.gbod.org/du/turn_aside.
UMTV: Three generations go green
PLEASANT VIEW, Tenn. (UMTV)—Most of us are all for “saving the planet,” but we wonder what one person can do to have an impact. Dr. J. Matthew Sleeth strongly believes that individual support is the key to a healthier Earth. On a recent visit to Pleasant View (Tenn.) United Methodist Church, Sleeth inspired one family to find small ways to “go green.” UMTV's "Three generations go green" is available to view at http://www.umtv.org/archives/three generations go green.htm. UMTV stories are also available on YouTube, Tangle and GoogleVideo by typing "UMTV" in the keyword search.
UMNS Weekly Digest
September 18, 2009
NOTE: This is a digest of news features provided by United Methodist Communications for Sept. 14-18. It includes summaries of stories, UMTV video reports and additional briefs from United Methodist News Service. Full versions of the stories with photographs and related features can be found at http://umns.umc.org.
Stories this week:
Plus:
UMTV:
Scholarships are top priority for Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—The hardest task for Africa University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira this fall semester has been facing crying mothers who don’t have the money to send their children back to school. More than 300 students have not been able to register at Africa University for the 2009-2010 academic year. The school itself has seen its endowment drop $9 million as a result of the international economic downturn, Tagwira reported Sept. 12 at an advisory development committee meeting. {377}
Zimbabweans step up to help students
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe. But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school. Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships. The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said. {378}
Words have power to bless or curse, analysts say
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Public displays of rude behavior seem to roll out daily, leading many to wonder if civility and good manners are dead or at least on life support. The Internet, television and newspapers are ablaze with opinions on the intemperate remarks of musician Kanye West, tennis star Serena Wilson and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. How should their actions be judged? The church and the world must hold each other accountable “for the stewardship of words,” says United Methodist Bishop Ken Carder, professor of Christian ministry at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School. {379}
Churches find new ways to say, ‘Y’all come back now!’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (UMNS)—Would a homemade pecan pie be enough of an incentive to check out a new church on Sunday morning? Across Arkansas, United Methodist churches are embracing creative ways to make newcomers feel welcome and invite them into a deeper relationship with Christ. Some congregations “mug” their visitors, giving away coffee cups with the church’s name on it. Others offer free DVDs that showcase the church’s ministries. And many others do what hostesses have done for centuries: Make sure no guest goes away hungry. {380}
South Central Jurisdiction will realign, drop bishop in 2012
DALLAS (UMNS)—Responding to a directive from the denomination’s top legislative body, United Methodists in the South Central region of the United States will make do with one less bishop in 2012. Through a Sept. 18 webcast, the 6,400 local churches in the South Central Jurisdiction – representing about 1.83 million members -- learned that the Nebraska, Kansas East and Kansas West annual (regional) conferences will be combined into one episcopal area at that time. Dallas Area Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe, president of the jurisdiction’s college of bishops, reminded viewers that the 2008 General Conference had directed that body to reduce its numbers from 11 to 10 bishops. At least three South Central bishops will be reach the mandatory retirement age of 68 by 2012. {381}
CROP walk season begins
NEW YORK (UMNS)—September marks the opening of the 40th season of CROP Hunger Walks, sponsored by Church World Service. The walks draw participants, including many United Methodists, from some 2,000 U.S. communities. The walks raise around $16 million annually to fight hunger on both local and global levels. This year's theme - "Enough for All" - has added significance as people in the United States and abroad face increasing joblessness and hunger in an ailing global economy. More information is available at www.cropwalk.org.
Study guide explores faith and politics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—In a new study guide, “Seeing Gray: Where Faith & Politics Meet,” the Rev. Adam Hamilton takes a look at the gray area between the two sides even on lightning-rod issues such as health care, stem cell research and immigration. It is a companion to his book “Gray in a World of Black and White.” Hamilton is pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan.
Native American gathering to honor women leaders
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS)—Four Native American United Methodist women will be celebrated at the first Native Women’s Gathering and Conference Oct. 16-18. The Rev. Cynthia Abrams of the Board of Church and Society, Cynthia Kent, former executive for the Board of Global Ministries, Anne Marshall, chair of the Native American International Caucus, and the Rev. Suanne Ware-Diaz of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race will be honored. The theme of the event is “Re-Defining Our Place: Native Women Speak!” Further information is available online at Native American Women’s Gathering.
Relief agency depots need supplies
NEW YORK (UMNS)—The United Methodist Committee on Relief is calling on church members to help replenish its stock of supplies at the relief agency’s depots, UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City. During the summer, volunteers worked at both locations to assemble international shipments of relief supplies worth more than $100,000 to people around the world. In particular, UMCOR West, which provides opportunities for kit ministry at churches in the Western Jurisdiction, can use help in filling the shelves of its 22,000-square-foot warehouse. More information about needed supplies can be found online at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/.
Black church ministry charting new course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, an initiative of The United Methodist Church, will introduce a new method of teaching and learning to nearly 100 pastors and key congregational leaders Sept. 24. The meeting will unveil a new Web site, logo and e-learning portal. “We are creating methods to enable the development of a catalog of training that is conducted from our various training events from across the country and delivered to other partner churches or congregational resource center teams via the Web site,” said Fred Allen, national director of the initiative.
Resettled refugees featured in Million Minutes for Peace video
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Somali refugees resettled to Pennsylvania by Church World Service are featured in a “webisode” as part of the Odyssey Networks’ Million Minutes for Peace Campaign. The campaign is working to collect pledges from a million people to join in one minute of prayer for peace at noon Sept. 21 in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Further information is available at www.odysseynetworks.org.
CBS special looks at ‘Religion, Politics and Advocacy’
NEW YORK (UMNS)—A half-hour television documentary on "Religion, Politics and Advocacy” will air nationwide Sept. 27 on CBS affiliates. The show examines how faith groups help shape policy. "We're not trying to seek legislation here that benefits any of our faith groups,” says Jim Winkler, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. “This is really for the society as a whole, and that has power that trumps, in the end, the power of money." The special is produced by the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission with the cooperation of the National Council of Churches, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Islamic Society of North America, Union for Reform Judaism and the New York Board of Rabbis.
Book explores landscapes of Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—“Thy Wonders Displayed: Africa University,” a new book published by the Africa University Development Office, describes the geological, biological and human landscapes of the United Methodist-related school in eastern Zimbabwe. The book is about faith, hope, and stewardship, writes Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey in the foreword. “The lovingly crafted text is complemented by a striking collection of photographs of the geological landscape, flora, wildlife and operating farm that bring the Africa University campus alive with its witness to the goodness, wonder and beauty of God’s creation." Further information is available at http://www.support-africauniversity.org/Page.aspx?pid=325.
United Methodists moving toward greater unity
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Buoyed by the new relationship between United Methodists and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Stephen J. Sidorak Jr., top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, expects that his denomination can continue to move toward the vision of unity. “All six church bodies of the Pan Methodist Commission have expressed their intent to enter into full communion, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has already voted affirmatively,” he noted when the commission met Sept. 9-12 in New York. For the Rev. W. Robert Johnson III, a commission member and top official in the AME Zion church, such intentions are precisely “what Jesus prayed about.”
Interactive workshop looks at God’s calling
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(UMNS)—Clergy and lay leaders of United Methodist congregations will have an opportunity to look closely at God’s call for them during “Turn Aside and See,” an interactive day-long experience offered by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. The multisensory experience will include art, biblical reflection, drama, music and video. Registration is under way for the event, which will be conducted at a church site in each jurisdiction in September and November. Further information is available at www.gbod.org/du/turn_aside.
UMTV: Three generations go green
PLEASANT VIEW, Tenn. (UMTV)—Most of us are all for “saving the planet,” but we wonder what one person can do to have an impact. Dr. J. Matthew Sleeth strongly believes that individual support is the key to a healthier Earth. On a recent visit to Pleasant View (Tenn.) United Methodist Church, Sleeth inspired one family to find small ways to “go green.” UMTV's "Three generations go green" is available to view at http://www.umtv.org/archives/three generations go green.htm. UMTV stories are also available on YouTube, Tangle and GoogleVideo by typing "UMTV" in the keyword search.
UMNS Weekly Digest
September 18, 2009
NOTE: This is a digest of news features provided by United Methodist Communications for Sept. 14-18. It includes summaries of stories, UMTV video reports and additional briefs from United Methodist News Service. Full versions of the stories with photographs and related features can be found at http://umns.umc.org.
Stories this week:
Plus:
UMTV:
Scholarships are top priority for Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—The hardest task for Africa University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira this fall semester has been facing crying mothers who don’t have the money to send their children back to school. More than 300 students have not been able to register at Africa University for the 2009-2010 academic year. The school itself has seen its endowment drop $9 million as a result of the international economic downturn, Tagwira reported Sept. 12 at an advisory development committee meeting. {377}
Zimbabweans step up to help students
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe. But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school. Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships. The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said. {378}
Words have power to bless or curse, analysts say
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Public displays of rude behavior seem to roll out daily, leading many to wonder if civility and good manners are dead or at least on life support. The Internet, television and newspapers are ablaze with opinions on the intemperate remarks of musician Kanye West, tennis star Serena Wilson and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. How should their actions be judged? The church and the world must hold each other accountable “for the stewardship of words,” says United Methodist Bishop Ken Carder, professor of Christian ministry at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School. {379}
Churches find new ways to say, ‘Y’all come back now!’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (UMNS)—Would a homemade pecan pie be enough of an incentive to check out a new church on Sunday morning? Across Arkansas, United Methodist churches are embracing creative ways to make newcomers feel welcome and invite them into a deeper relationship with Christ. Some congregations “mug” their visitors, giving away coffee cups with the church’s name on it. Others offer free DVDs that showcase the church’s ministries. And many others do what hostesses have done for centuries: Make sure no guest goes away hungry. {380}
South Central Jurisdiction will realign, drop bishop in 2012
DALLAS (UMNS)—Responding to a directive from the denomination’s top legislative body, United Methodists in the South Central region of the United States will make do with one less bishop in 2012. Through a Sept. 18 webcast, the 6,400 local churches in the South Central Jurisdiction – representing about 1.83 million members -- learned that the Nebraska, Kansas East and Kansas West annual (regional) conferences will be combined into one episcopal area at that time. Dallas Area Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe, president of the jurisdiction’s college of bishops, reminded viewers that the 2008 General Conference had directed that body to reduce its numbers from 11 to 10 bishops. At least three South Central bishops will be reach the mandatory retirement age of 68 by 2012. {381}
CROP walk season begins
NEW YORK (UMNS)—September marks the opening of the 40th season of CROP Hunger Walks, sponsored by Church World Service. The walks draw participants, including many United Methodists, from some 2,000 U.S. communities. The walks raise around $16 million annually to fight hunger on both local and global levels. This year's theme - "Enough for All" - has added significance as people in the United States and abroad face increasing joblessness and hunger in an ailing global economy. More information is available at www.cropwalk.org.
Study guide explores faith and politics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—In a new study guide, “Seeing Gray: Where Faith & Politics Meet,” the Rev. Adam Hamilton takes a look at the gray area between the two sides even on lightning-rod issues such as health care, stem cell research and immigration. It is a companion to his book “Gray in a World of Black and White.” Hamilton is pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan.
Native American gathering to honor women leaders
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS)—Four Native American United Methodist women will be celebrated at the first Native Women’s Gathering and Conference Oct. 16-18. The Rev. Cynthia Abrams of the Board of Church and Society, Cynthia Kent, former executive for the Board of Global Ministries, Anne Marshall, chair of the Native American International Caucus, and the Rev. Suanne Ware-Diaz of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race will be honored. The theme of the event is “Re-Defining Our Place: Native Women Speak!” Further information is available online at Native American Women’s Gathering.
Relief agency depots need supplies
NEW YORK (UMNS)—The United Methodist Committee on Relief is calling on church members to help replenish its stock of supplies at the relief agency’s depots, UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City. During the summer, volunteers worked at both locations to assemble international shipments of relief supplies worth more than $100,000 to people around the world. In particular, UMCOR West, which provides opportunities for kit ministry at churches in the Western Jurisdiction, can use help in filling the shelves of its 22,000-square-foot warehouse. More information about needed supplies can be found online at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/.
Black church ministry charting new course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, an initiative of The United Methodist Church, will introduce a new method of teaching and learning to nearly 100 pastors and key congregational leaders Sept. 24. The meeting will unveil a new Web site, logo and e-learning portal. “We are creating methods to enable the development of a catalog of training that is conducted from our various training events from across the country and delivered to other partner churches or congregational resource center teams via the Web site,” said Fred Allen, national director of the initiative.
Resettled refugees featured in Million Minutes for Peace video
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Somali refugees resettled to Pennsylvania by Church World Service are featured in a “webisode” as part of the Odyssey Networks’ Million Minutes for Peace Campaign. The campaign is working to collect pledges from a million people to join in one minute of prayer for peace at noon Sept. 21 in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Further information is available at www.odysseynetworks.org.
CBS special looks at ‘Religion, Politics and Advocacy’
NEW YORK (UMNS)—A half-hour television documentary on "Religion, Politics and Advocacy” will air nationwide Sept. 27 on CBS affiliates. The show examines how faith groups help shape policy. "We're not trying to seek legislation here that benefits any of our faith groups,” says Jim Winkler, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. “This is really for the society as a whole, and that has power that trumps, in the end, the power of money." The special is produced by the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission with the cooperation of the National Council of Churches, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Islamic Society of North America, Union for Reform Judaism and the New York Board of Rabbis.
Book explores landscapes of Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—“Thy Wonders Displayed: Africa University,” a new book published by the Africa University Development Office, describes the geological, biological and human landscapes of the United Methodist-related school in eastern Zimbabwe. The book is about faith, hope, and stewardship, writes Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey in the foreword. “The lovingly crafted text is complemented by a striking collection of photographs of the geological landscape, flora, wildlife and operating farm that bring the Africa University campus alive with its witness to the goodness, wonder and beauty of God’s creation." Further information is available at http://www.support-africauniversity.org/Page.aspx?pid=325.
United Methodists moving toward greater unity
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Buoyed by the new relationship between United Methodists and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Stephen J. Sidorak Jr., top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, expects that his denomination can continue to move toward the vision of unity. “All six church bodies of the Pan Methodist Commission have expressed their intent to enter into full communion, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has already voted affirmatively,” he noted when the commission met Sept. 9-12 in New York. For the Rev. W. Robert Johnson III, a commission member and top official in the AME Zion church, such intentions are precisely “what Jesus prayed about.”
Interactive workshop looks at God’s calling
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(UMNS)—Clergy and lay leaders of United Methodist congregations will have an opportunity to look closely at God’s call for them during “Turn Aside and See,” an interactive day-long experience offered by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. The multisensory experience will include art, biblical reflection, drama, music and video. Registration is under way for the event, which will be conducted at a church site in each jurisdiction in September and November. Further information is available at www.gbod.org/du/turn_aside.
UMTV: Three generations go green
PLEASANT VIEW, Tenn. (UMTV)—Most of us are all for “saving the planet,” but we wonder what one person can do to have an impact. Dr. J. Matthew Sleeth strongly believes that individual support is the key to a healthier Earth. On a recent visit to Pleasant View (Tenn.) United Methodist Church, Sleeth inspired one family to find small ways to “go green.” UMTV's "Three generations go green" is available to view at http://www.umtv.org/archives/three generations go green.htm. UMTV stories are also available on YouTube, Tangle and GoogleVideo by typing "UMTV" in the keyword search.
UMNS Weekly Digest
September 18, 2009
NOTE: This is a digest of news features provided by United Methodist Communications for Sept. 14-18. It includes summaries of stories, UMTV video reports and additional briefs from United Methodist News Service. Full versions of the stories with photographs and related features can be found at http://umns.umc.org.
Stories this week:
Plus:
UMTV:
Scholarships are top priority for Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—The hardest task for Africa University Vice Chancellor Fanuel Tagwira this fall semester has been facing crying mothers who don’t have the money to send their children back to school. More than 300 students have not been able to register at Africa University for the 2009-2010 academic year. The school itself has seen its endowment drop $9 million as a result of the international economic downturn, Tagwira reported Sept. 12 at an advisory development committee meeting. {377}
Zimbabweans step up to help students
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe. But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school. Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships. The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said. {378}
Words have power to bless or curse, analysts say
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Public displays of rude behavior seem to roll out daily, leading many to wonder if civility and good manners are dead or at least on life support. The Internet, television and newspapers are ablaze with opinions on the intemperate remarks of musician Kanye West, tennis star Serena Wilson and U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson. How should their actions be judged? The church and the world must hold each other accountable “for the stewardship of words,” says United Methodist Bishop Ken Carder, professor of Christian ministry at United Methodist-related Duke Divinity School. {379}
Churches find new ways to say, ‘Y’all come back now!’
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (UMNS)—Would a homemade pecan pie be enough of an incentive to check out a new church on Sunday morning? Across Arkansas, United Methodist churches are embracing creative ways to make newcomers feel welcome and invite them into a deeper relationship with Christ. Some congregations “mug” their visitors, giving away coffee cups with the church’s name on it. Others offer free DVDs that showcase the church’s ministries. And many others do what hostesses have done for centuries: Make sure no guest goes away hungry. {380}
South Central Jurisdiction will realign, drop bishop in 2012
DALLAS (UMNS)—Responding to a directive from the denomination’s top legislative body, United Methodists in the South Central region of the United States will make do with one less bishop in 2012. Through a Sept. 18 webcast, the 6,400 local churches in the South Central Jurisdiction – representing about 1.83 million members -- learned that the Nebraska, Kansas East and Kansas West annual (regional) conferences will be combined into one episcopal area at that time. Dallas Area Bishop W. Earl Bledsoe, president of the jurisdiction’s college of bishops, reminded viewers that the 2008 General Conference had directed that body to reduce its numbers from 11 to 10 bishops. At least three South Central bishops will be reach the mandatory retirement age of 68 by 2012. {381}
CROP walk season begins
NEW YORK (UMNS)—September marks the opening of the 40th season of CROP Hunger Walks, sponsored by Church World Service. The walks draw participants, including many United Methodists, from some 2,000 U.S. communities. The walks raise around $16 million annually to fight hunger on both local and global levels. This year's theme - "Enough for All" - has added significance as people in the United States and abroad face increasing joblessness and hunger in an ailing global economy. More information is available at www.cropwalk.org.
Study guide explores faith and politics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—In a new study guide, “Seeing Gray: Where Faith & Politics Meet,” the Rev. Adam Hamilton takes a look at the gray area between the two sides even on lightning-rod issues such as health care, stem cell research and immigration. It is a companion to his book “Gray in a World of Black and White.” Hamilton is pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan.
Native American gathering to honor women leaders
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (UMNS)—Four Native American United Methodist women will be celebrated at the first Native Women’s Gathering and Conference Oct. 16-18. The Rev. Cynthia Abrams of the Board of Church and Society, Cynthia Kent, former executive for the Board of Global Ministries, Anne Marshall, chair of the Native American International Caucus, and the Rev. Suanne Ware-Diaz of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race will be honored. The theme of the event is “Re-Defining Our Place: Native Women Speak!” Further information is available online at Native American Women’s Gathering.
Relief agency depots need supplies
NEW YORK (UMNS)—The United Methodist Committee on Relief is calling on church members to help replenish its stock of supplies at the relief agency’s depots, UMCOR Sager Brown in Baldwin, La., and UMCOR West in Salt Lake City. During the summer, volunteers worked at both locations to assemble international shipments of relief supplies worth more than $100,000 to people around the world. In particular, UMCOR West, which provides opportunities for kit ministry at churches in the Western Jurisdiction, can use help in filling the shelves of its 22,000-square-foot warehouse. More information about needed supplies can be found online at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/.
Black church ministry charting new course
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, an initiative of The United Methodist Church, will introduce a new method of teaching and learning to nearly 100 pastors and key congregational leaders Sept. 24. The meeting will unveil a new Web site, logo and e-learning portal. “We are creating methods to enable the development of a catalog of training that is conducted from our various training events from across the country and delivered to other partner churches or congregational resource center teams via the Web site,” said Fred Allen, national director of the initiative.
Resettled refugees featured in Million Minutes for Peace video
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Somali refugees resettled to Pennsylvania by Church World Service are featured in a “webisode” as part of the Odyssey Networks’ Million Minutes for Peace Campaign. The campaign is working to collect pledges from a million people to join in one minute of prayer for peace at noon Sept. 21 in observance of the United Nations International Day of Peace. Further information is available at www.odysseynetworks.org.
CBS special looks at ‘Religion, Politics and Advocacy’
NEW YORK (UMNS)—A half-hour television documentary on "Religion, Politics and Advocacy” will air nationwide Sept. 27 on CBS affiliates. The show examines how faith groups help shape policy. "We're not trying to seek legislation here that benefits any of our faith groups,” says Jim Winkler, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. “This is really for the society as a whole, and that has power that trumps, in the end, the power of money." The special is produced by the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission with the cooperation of the National Council of Churches, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Islamic Society of North America, Union for Reform Judaism and the New York Board of Rabbis.
Book explores landscapes of Africa University
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)—“Thy Wonders Displayed: Africa University,” a new book published by the Africa University Development Office, describes the geological, biological and human landscapes of the United Methodist-related school in eastern Zimbabwe. The book is about faith, hope, and stewardship, writes Bishop J. Lawrence McCleskey in the foreword. “The lovingly crafted text is complemented by a striking collection of photographs of the geological landscape, flora, wildlife and operating farm that bring the Africa University campus alive with its witness to the goodness, wonder and beauty of God’s creation." Further information is available at http://www.support-africauniversity.org/Page.aspx?pid=325.
United Methodists moving toward greater unity
NEW YORK (UMNS)—Buoyed by the new relationship between United Methodists and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rev. Stephen J. Sidorak Jr., top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, expects that his denomination can continue to move toward the vision of unity. “All six church bodies of the Pan Methodist Commission have expressed their intent to enter into full communion, and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has already voted affirmatively,” he noted when the commission met Sept. 9-12 in New York. For the Rev. W. Robert Johnson III, a commission member and top official in the AME Zion church, such intentions are precisely “what Jesus prayed about.”
Interactive workshop looks at God’s calling
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(UMNS)—Clergy and lay leaders of United Methodist congregations will have an opportunity to look closely at God’s call for them during “Turn Aside and See,” an interactive day-long experience offered by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. The multisensory experience will include art, biblical reflection, drama, music and video. Registration is under way for the event, which will be conducted at a church site in each jurisdiction in September and November. Further information is available at www.gbod.org/du/turn_aside.
UMTV: Three generations go green
PLEASANT VIEW, Tenn. (UMTV)—Most of us are all for “saving the planet,” but we wonder what one person can do to have an impact. Dr. J. Matthew Sleeth strongly believes that individual support is the key to a healthier Earth. On a recent visit to Pleasant View (Tenn.) United Methodist Church, Sleeth inspired one family to find small ways to “go green.” UMTV's "Three generations go green" is available to view at http://www.umtv.org/archives/three generations go green.htm. UMTV stories are also available on YouTube, Tangle and GoogleVideo by typing "UMTV" in the keyword search. | 
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