Category: Michigan Area Leadership
When clarity is kindness

In this op-ed, Rev. Jeremy Wicks says eligible voting members should vote yes on the proposed constitutional amendment to Paragraph 35, Article IV (Ballot #4), because it focuses on clarity,… Continue Reading When clarity is kindness
Plumb the depths of our rich history

As we near Easter, Bishop David Bard asks us to proclaim the message of a loving and redeeming God who remains ever near, the same message that has been carried… Continue Reading Plumb the depths of our rich history
A Lenten practice for days like these

Rev. LuAnn Rourke, superintendent of the Heritage District, writes about the Lenten practice of “spiritual location” she has adopted, reminding her to pause in every situation and consider how and… Continue Reading A Lenten practice for days like these
Christian discipleship is a full-time job

Inspired by Bishop Bard’s listening tour, Denny Wissinger, the Michigan Conference’s Co-Lay Leader, encourages local churches to challenge the laity within their congregations to dive into discipleship, the call Christ… Continue Reading Christian discipleship is a full-time job
‘The world needs this kind of people’

As Lent begins, Bishop David Bard calls us to pay close attention to our humanness in all its complexity and develop character qualities befitting such self-knowledge.
Continuing the adventure

As his time as superintendent of the Northern Skies District draws to a close, Rev. Scott Harmon reflects on the evolving adventure of ministry. Sometimes it’s holding on, sometimes it’s… Continue Reading Continuing the adventure
Open-eyed and resilient

In a chaotic world, Bishop David Bard invites us to stay grounded in resilient love as we care for one another, even in disagreement.
Let’s be the change we want to see

Rev. Darryl Totty, superintendent of the Greater Detroit District, reflects on the message of love that Martin Luther King, Jr. embodied, which can also be ours today.
Ways to speak prophetically

In his first blog of 2025, Bishop David Bard outlines how to speak prophetically as people of Christian faith in a world where moral speech is rapidly labeled partisan.
Grateful to God, looking forward

Rev. Paul Perez, co-chair of the Michigan Conference delegation to General Conference, reviews and reflects upon the many changes 2024 brought to The United Methodist Church.