Tag: Church

Hard realities and beautiful dreams

We may be exhausted, but United Methodists can still dream dreams of new life.  The Rev. Paul Perez, new Director of Connectional Ministry for The Michigan Conference, offers hope.

Liberian women rise above COVID

UMW in Liberia is training women to make soaps and sanitary pads to generate income and provide needed products in rural villages. 

When things in life are different

Many things in our lives are different than they were five months ago. Pastor Devin Smith looks at what Matthew’s gospel teaches about children and suggests that different can be a good and holy thing.

Time to wade into the waves

Ten years ago the Heisler family spent time in the waves of Lake Michigan. Much has changed but individuals and congregations continue to ride the waves of change. “Put on your gear!”

Making the impossible doable

COVID-19 has presented challenges that seemed impossible. However, notes the Rev. Jerome DeVine, trust in a God who makes things new has helped congregations redesign for a new day.

The old man in the family

The Hebrew people have a term for the old one in each family, Go-el. The Rev. Glenn Wagner talks about how family, church, and the Bible have prepared him for that role.

Multi-ethnic dialogue: listen first

Multi-ethnic communication begins by actively listening to the different voices and experiences in your church and community.

The long, meandering trek

The struggle for God’s justice may be long but, says the Rev. John Hice, “This is not an excuse to put it off and abide injustices for even a minute.” 

Owning the disaster of racism

The Rev. Benton Heisler lifts the mission of The Michigan Conference as a means of aligning attention and resources in the long-haul battle against racism.

Church is a place that matters

Audrey Mangum, active at Brightmoor Aldersgate UMC, describes her experience in that place …”things we hold in our hearts wherever we go.”