Practices

General Church
The Rev. Christopher T. McAlilly prays during morning worship Oct. 22 at the United Methodist Leadership Gathering at Knox United Church in Calgary, Canada. Participants spent their second full day together moving from naming the realities facing The United Methodist Church to reflecting on practices to help it thrive. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Gathering explores new practices for church

Participants at the Council of Bishops Leadership Gathering spent their second full day together moving from naming the realities facing The United Methodist Church to reflecting on ways to help it thrive.
Church History
Children and youth often serve as acolytes in The United Methodist Church. They may carry in the light of Christ, the processional cross, banners or Bible. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMCom.

Ask The UMC: Where did the use of acolytes originate?

Is the role of acolytes to carry the light of the Lord into the world?

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