Tag: Churches
Care about COVID, like Jesus

With the COVID pandemic out of control in Michigan, Bishop David Bard summarizes safety guidelines and urges individuals and churches to exercise patience and care.
Her passion is Christian education

When it comes to Christian education, relationships are more important than the curriculum’s content, says Kathy Pittenger, Coordinator of Children’s Initiatives for The Michigan Conference.
Applications open for Barrett Award

Every year the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan honors four churches with the Wayne C. Barrett Leader Award. Applications for 2021 are being taken through March 15.
Strategize giving like Super Bowl

Time to strategize for generosity. Ken Sloane, leader at Discipleship Ministries, offers five stewardship tips for 2021 borrowed from gridiron heroes.
A look back at 2020

This month-by-month review of 2020 in The Michigan Conference reports many challenges of COVID-19. It also tells the story of how God’s people met those challenges with determination and grace.
Feeding the hungry brings joy

The Society of St. Andrew seeks the donation of the crops that would otherwise be headed for landfills as garbage. Volunteers are the engine of feeding the hungry.
Churches hit by Hurricane Laura

“You know how the [United Methodist] connection is so wonderful,” remarked one pastor whose church took a big hit from Hurricane Laura.
Loss and learning

What does it take to remain faithful during a season of loss? Bishop David Bard asserts that, as followers of Jesus, learning about self-giving love is important.
Bishop clarifies face covering statement

Bishop Bard encourages Michigan congregations to wear face coverings for indoor, in-person gatherings and outdoor gatherings where proper social distancing is difficult.
Bishop responds to call by President

Bishop David Bard encourages local churches to seek the latest public health guidance in determining when to re-open safely. This in response to the recommendation by the President to open this weekend.