Advent wreath at 61st Avenue UMC in Nashville, Tennessee

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Advent

Receive & share hope, love, joy, peace

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Who we are

God is at work in our lives before we know it, often through the love others show us. Photo by Kathleen Barry, United Methodist Communications.

What We Believe

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The connections we find in our faith communities, both in local United Methodist churches and in our global denomination, are special gifts from God.

Our favorite stories of 2022

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Is Advent just an early Christmas season?

It seems that the Advent season is being eclipsed by Christmas, a season that doesn’t actually begin until December 25. So, if Advent isn’t just about Christmas, what is it all about? Watch and learn about the history and true meaning of Advent, as well as ways this season can be a time for spiritual growth.

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United Methodist Now

Find inspiration for daily living. Twice each month, our e-newsletter offers examples of Christian living, messages of hope, and information on what it means to be a United Methodist.

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The Rev. Cindy Serio leads "Get Your Spirit in Shape" listeners through a  guided meditation in recognition of Longest Night/Blue Christmas.

‘Tis the season for all things merry and bright. Except when you’re feeling sad, lonely and perhaps grieving. The Rev. Cindy Serio shares a Blue Christmas guided meditation to offer encouragement, even on the longest night. Learn more.

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Nativity-UMCGiving block December 2022  Photo by Gareth Harper on Unsplash
Your Impact

Generosity impacts mission

United Methodists make an incredible impact on the world. We serve millions of people across the globe, support thousands of local ministries and advocate for the “least of these.” Generosity is the heart of our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!

Behind each ministry is a story of hope, restoration and the immeasurable effect of your generosity. Read impact stories.

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Updated 06/15/2021

Featured stories

Worship & Devotion

The popular Christmas song "O Holy Night" has an intriguing history of scandal, politics and ground-breaking moments. Photo by Canva.

The intriguing history of 'O Holy Night'

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Rethink Church

Advent is a time of anticipation for the world is becoming.

What is Advent about?

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Ways we Grow

A Nativity set featuring a coconut stable or shelter and figures hand-made from clay, purchased during JoAnn Hall's first mission trip to Haiti. Photo by JoAnn Hall.

Preparing for Christmas: Tips for keeping the holiday season holy

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Holiday recipes

cookies and holiday treats artwork

Cookies and Holiday Treats

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C. Wesley's Birthday 12/18

Image of Charles Wesley. Courtesy of United Methodist Commission on Archives and History.

Charles Wesley's Gift of Music

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Family resource

Ten Ways to Grow a Generous Spirit in Your Family. Courtesy of Discipleship Ministries of The United Methodist Church

10 ways to grow generosity in your family

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Support & resources

Photo illustration by Kathleen Barry, UMNS

Committed to The UMC

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Share your story

The people of The United Methodist Church are generous.

#BeUMC

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Take a stand

Responding to Violence

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The Recap | Episode 3

Gain a better understanding of what is going on in The United Methodist Church, find inspiration in stories of ministry and learn how our denomination is transforming the world.

In this episode

Generous gifts support Ukraine war and natural disaster victims | UMC.org favorite content of 2022 | Dotson Institute for Music and Worship established | #BeUMC

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Ways we grow

The Rev. Susan Robb’s book, “The Angels of Christmas: Hearing God’s Voice in Advent,” is a four-week Advent study of the four angelic visits surrounding the birth of Jesus with Zechariah, Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. Book cover courtesy of Abingdon Press.

Exploring the role of angels at Christmas and beyond

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How we serve

Niurka Meléndez, a founder of Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid, offers practical information and advice to newcomers trying to navigate New York City. The aid group is a partner with the United Methodist Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew in assisting the recent influx of asylum seekers there. Photo by K Karpen.

Learning to 'live welcome' in response to human need

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Our people

United Methodist News honors notable church leaders and members who died over the past 12 months. Original image by S. Hermann / F. Richter, courtesy of Pixabay.

2022: Noteworthy United Methodists remembered

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