Church Growth

Faith Sharing
Members of Second Chance take a selfie in the courtyard of Franklinton High School in Columbus, Ohio, on Sept. 21. Second Chance is a new United Methodist faith community focused on people recovering from addictions. It frequently worships in the building, which previously housed a United Methodist church. Photo by Jim Patterson, UM News.

2 church plants bloom on different paths

Husband-wife United Methodist pastors are helping to revive the denomination in Columbus, Ohio, using different approaches. One of them has authored a book explaining how others can start successful churches.
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.
Faith Stories
Ethiopian Episcopal Church Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana (in black) congratulates 102-year-old Janet Gowe (seated) on the realization of her decades-long dream for a United Methodist church in her farm community of Murewa, Zimbabwe. United Methodist Bishop Gift K. Machinga (left) led the dedication of Hoyuyu United Methodist Church’s Nzira Sanctuary on May 25. At right is Kingston Kajese, Gowe’s son, who spearheaded the construction of the sanctuary. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.

102-year-old church planter fulfills sanctuary dream

After more than three decades of pushing to have a permanent United Methodist church built in her Zimbabwe community, a mother’s dream became reality.
Church Growth
The Rev. Alexander von Wascinski receives a blessing from his congregation at Peace Church United Methodist in Munich, Germany. Photo courtesy of Peace Church United Methodist, via Facebook. Facebook.

Peace Church offers ‘home for everyone’

A congregation in Germany is a thriving, diverse church community that welcomes people of all faith traditions, including many who are new to the country.

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