Category: Michigan Area Leadership
Embracing the change we see
![Sunlight hitting a lake](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/harmon_blog_TOP.png)
Rev. Scott Harmon, superintendent of the Northern Waters District, says the church is changing, and there is room for God’s Spirit to work in all of our hearts.
Consider the whole of our history
![Fireworks](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/july_4_blog_TOP.png)
In our July 4 celebrations, says Bishop David Bard, may we remember the complexities of our history and enlarge our memory so that our future might be better than our… Continue Reading Consider the whole of our history
Conferencing as a means of grace
![Bishop leading discussion](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/bard_ac_2024.png)
In this conferencing season, says Bishop David Bard, may we strive to become conduits of God’s grace for one another.
Deacons gain sacramental authority
![Deacons at an event](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/pethoud_TOP-jpg.webp)
Rev. Sue Pethoud reviews the passing of significant General Conference legislation impacting how deacons serve the church.
Witnessing the dawn of a new day
![Sunrise over the city of Charlotte](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/devine_TOP-jpg.webp)
As a monitor for the General Commission on Religion and Race at General Conference, Rev. Jerry DeVine examines the historic event and wonders how the UMC will live into connectionalism… Continue Reading Witnessing the dawn of a new day
‘May we not love alike?’
![People holding hands and singing](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/bishop_gc_blog_TOP.jpg)
We are finding new ways to live in the Wesleyan spirit, says Bishop David Bard as he reflects on a General Conference unlike any other he has attended.
Will we go to where the people are?
![Migrant children holding water bottles](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/bagley_blog_TOP.jpg)
Rev. Dwayne Bagley, superintendent of the Greater Southwest District, illustrates how churches in his district are compelled to take the gospel into their communities.
Trust in the risen Christ
![Shalom Gate at HAPI in Haiti](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/shalom_gate_HAPI_TOP.jpg)
With the humanitarian crisis in Haiti in mind, Bishop David Bard asks us to live out our resurrection faith and labor for a more peaceful and just world.
Casting our nets in faith
![Man casting a fishing net into water](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/casting_nets_TOP.jpg)
Rev. Margie Crawford, superintendent of the East Winds District, gives an update on a new Lenten mission opportunity her district started.
Awaiting resurrection
![Sunrise](https://michiganumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/resurrection_TOP.jpg)
Looking toward Easter, Bishop David Bard says evil causes us to yearn for a new world where hunger is a memory and war is ancient history.