Germany Central Conference

The Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters, an international United Methodist leadership body, gathers in front of the entrance to a medieval castle in Braunfels, Germany. During a meeting in Braunfels, the group discussed the challenges facing its proposed Africa Comprehensive Plan, which would add five more bishops to the continent. Photo by Klaus Ulrich Ruof, Germany Central Conference.

Plan to add 5 African bishops faces challenges

An international United Methodist group has long been working to increase the number of bishops on the African continent but learned of financial and other difficulties now facing the plan.

General Church

The three European central conferences of The United Methodist Church covering 32 countries and 10 time zones are making plans for a proposed denomination-wide split. Four bishops (clockwise from top left), Edward Khegay, Christian Alsted, Harald Rückert and Patrick Streiff, have drafted next steps should a separation plan win General Conference approval. Image courtesy of the bishops.

Europeans make plans for separation

Under a proposed separation plan, some European churchgoers expect to remain with The United Methodist Church while others join a new traditionalist denomination.

Human Sexuality

The Executive Committee of the United Methodist Church in Germany agreed to become more open and inclusive on matters relating to human sexuality during a video meeting Nov. 20-21. The decision seeks to preserve unity through a perspective of respectful coexistence as a way forward. Photo by Klaus Ulrich Ruof, United Methodist Communications Germany.

Norway, Germany move to more inclusivity

Top committee of German church agrees to be more open on human sexuality matters, while Norway Conference plans to issue a public apology to LGBTQ people.

Mission and Ministry

Clergy and lay leaders from the Northern Nigeria Conference hold portable torches outside the conference office in Gombe State, Nigeria. “Almost 90% of the Nigeria population is facing power challenges, and these solar lanterns will help clergy in terms of devotion, Bible studies and other church activities,” said Nigeria Area Bishop John Wesley Yohanna. Photo by Daniel Garba, UM News.

Solar lamps ease work of clergy, students in Nigeria

The four conferences of the Nigeria Episcopal Area received hundreds of solar systems to be used in United Methodist churches, homes and schools.

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