Archives: Articles related to the 50th Anniversary of The United Methodist Church

50 reasons to celebrate The United Methodist Church

United Methodists have a rich heritage. Here's a list of some of the ways the world is better thanks to the witness and work of the people of the UMC. More

Otterbein ministered to German-speaking Americans. Image via United Methodist Archives and History.

A Founding Brethren: Facts for United Methodists about Otterbein

Born June 3, this co-founder of the United Brethren may not be well known by United Methodists. His faithfulness to Jesus and the Church still inspires. Read More

Photo from the 1968 General Conference, held April 21-May 4, 1968, Dallas. Racial segregation was one of the main issues confronting the merger that created The United Methodist Church. Photo courtesy of United Methodist Commission on Archives and History.

50 years on, Central Jurisdiction’s shadow looms

The union that created The United Methodist Church also abolished its racially segregated institution. That history is a reminder that the church still struggles with race relations. Read More

The Rev. Albert C. Outler’s papers at Bridwell Library include a draft of the sermon he preached on April 23, 1968, during the uniting service of the Uniting Conference, officially creating The United Methodist Church. Photo courtesy of Bridwell Library Special Collections, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.

Uniting Conference sermon still talked about

A stirring 1968 address by the Rev. Albert C. Outler celebrated the creation of The United Methodist Church, but also laid down challenges. Read More

GBHEM Milestones

Since 1866, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry has driven innovative strategies in leadership development for The United Methodist Church. Read More

Artwork for the 50th Anniversary of The United Methodist Church. Design and production by Troy Dossett, United Methodist Communications

The United Methodist Church Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Historic Merger

Congregations across the connection are invited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the April 23, 1968, event when the Evangelical United Brethren Church and The Methodist Church merged into a new denomination,... Read More

United Methodist Numbers Quiz

How well do you know The United Methodist Church "by the numbers?" Take our quiz and see your final score. Be sure to share this quiz on social media! Read More

a copy of the United Methodist Book of Discipline, photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS

United Methodism as a World Church, 1968-

When The United Methodist Church was created in 1968, it had approximately 11 million members, making it one of the largest Protestant churches in the world. Read More