Central Conferences

Bishop David Bard, who leads the Michigan and Illinois Great Rivers conferences, talks to Volunteers in Mission leaders about the theology behind regionalization, a package of amendments to the denomination’s constitution up for possible ratification this year. Joining Bard in discussing regionalization were Mountain Sky Conference Bishop Kristin Stoneking (left) and Bishop Robin Dease, who leads the North Georgia and South Georgia conferences. Photo by Heather Hahn, UM News.

What regionalization means for mission

Three United Methodist bishops discussed what regionalization would mean for the denomination’s global mission work if ratified.

Church Growth

Bishop Knut Refsdal, who leads the Nordic-Baltic-Ukraine Area, baptizes Aksel, as the baby’s parents, Håkon and Astri Helen Madland, look on. The newly elected bishop chose Flekkefjord, Norway, as his first visit in a strong sign of solidarity with the United Methodists there. Photo by Karl Anders Ellingsen, UM News.

After division, church sees new life and local honor

After General Conference, a United Methodist church in Norway saw much of its congregation leave. Now, the church is rebounding and receiving recognition for its inclusive stance.

Evangelism

Danny Dube (left), a regular member of Morning Service in Nyanyadzi, Zimbabwe, talks with the Rev. Godfrey Gaga, Nyanyadzi Circuit pastor-in-charge, after a funeral. The 7 a.m. church service has transformed Dube, who had been known in the community for drinking and causing disturbances. “The circuit is meeting people where they are, offering a safe space for transformation and showing that the church is a place of healing rather than judgment,” says Bishop Gift K. Machinga. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

'Morning Service' revives farming community

From humble beginnings three years ago, a church service in Nyanyadzi, Zimbabwe, is sparking a quiet revolution by meeting struggling people where they are.

Mission and Ministry

Elie Etako Wembo, coordinator of the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative in the East Congo Episcopal Area, and Omanga Sebastien, a zoo technician, inspect a pig with an injured ear at a United Methodist farm funded by the initiative near Kindu, Congo. The United Methodist Board of Global Ministries program has financed the construction of two buildings for pig farming, which can accommodate up to 300 animals. Photo by Chadrack Tambwe Londe, UM News.

Yambasu farm fosters hope in Congo

A mixed-use farm funded through the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative strengthens local food security, creates jobs and generates sustainable income for the community and The United Methodist Church in eastern Congo.

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