Our World - Social & Cultural

What was the star of Bethlehem?
Some astronomers have speculated it was a planetary conjunction, a nova or some other celestial body. Nick Strobel has his own ideas. Advent Week Four: A Season of Love
“Love isn’t just a feeling — it’s about going to difficult places … standing with those who are hurt. We need this kind of love today.” Shepherd of today relates to nativity
Glen Fisher has watched over flocks for more than 30 years. He delights that those in his profession were among the first to hear the good news. Advent Week Three: Season of Joy
Joy is not a given for everyone. But believing and understanding the meaning of Advent can bring joy in the midst of despair or loss. Speaking of hope with Rudy Rasmus
Pastor of a congregation that includes over 3,000 homeless speaks of “the possibility that tomorrow just might be better than the day before.” Advent Week Two: Peace among us
Worshipping with friends in Cuba taught a young pastor, “God sends the Prince of Peace not to be distinct from us but to be one of us.” Capitol Hill Chrismon tree
"Christi Monogramma," means "monogram of Christ." Chrismons represent Jesus’ life and many now decorate a tree near the U.S. Capitol. FAQ: What is an Advent wreath?
What are the two types of wreaths used during the observation of Advent? When should each of the candles be lit? What is the Christ candle? Advent app joins online devotional resources
A new mobile app, an online retreat and devotions delivered via email offer digital ways to prepare spiritually to remember Christ’s birth. Advent Week One: Will we sing with Mary?
The first Advent candle represents hope. Shane Stanford writes that Mary of Nazareth sang about it. Mary of Joplin did, too. Do we? When Cross and Crescent Meet
When a Muslim congregation asked to use Woodridge United Methodist Church facilities for worship, it didn't take long for the church to say yes. Actually, that’s not in the Bible
Did Satan tempt Eve to eat an apple or is “Cleanliness is next to godliness” from Proverbs? You’re not alone if you’re uncertain of the answers. Christians worldwide reach out to Norway
Faith leaders worldwide speak out and call for prayers after bombing and mass shooting that leave more than 90 dead. Phil Campbell changed Phil Campbells
Shared name brought them together but disaster bonded them in life-changing effort to rebuild. Calling all Phil Campbells!
Alaska United Methodist pastor joins his namesakes to build a Habitat house in tornado-hit Phil Campbell, Ala.