Bishop calls UMs to slow COVID spread

In this pastoral letter to Michigan United Methodists, Bishop David Bard encourages pastors and laity to care for the well-being of themselves and others as COVID caseloads increase in the… Continue Reading Bishop calls UMs to slow COVID spread

Vaccination named missional priority

The Connectional Table, a United Methodist leadership body, calls denomination to address COVID-19 vaccination inequities as a “missional priority.”

The importance of listening well

Rev. Dr. Jennifer Browne asserts, “Listening well changes you. It can change your mind, change your decision-making, even change your life. When you’re asked to listen, really listen!”

Rural churches emerging from coronavirus

Members of Oakton UMC, in rural Kentucky, look forward to their first group hug post-pandemic. The congregation in Hickman County numbered seven at a recent in-person worship service.

Michigan seniors cope with COVID

Quarantine precautions to avoid the spread of the coronavirus were first implemented in Michigan retirement communities a year ago. Seniors are grateful that administrators and staff kept them safe.

How do we observe Ash Wednesday?

From the Bishop’s Office come these suggestions on how to minimize risk as persons participate in the Ash Wednesday rituals that mark the beginning of Lent 2021.

Getting free of COVID-19

Reflecting on vaccine hesitancy in African American communities, the Rev. Kennetha Bigham-Tsai calls for trust and encourages others to join her in rolling up their sleeves to be free of… Continue Reading Getting free of COVID-19

Salvaging Christmas amid coronavirus

After a nine-month struggle to do ministry in a pandemic, pastors use creativity and flexibility to celebrate Advent safe from the coronavirus.

Bishop Bard on World Communion Day

Bishop David Bard encourages the safe celebration of World Communion Sunday. He also speaks about the United Methodist stance and his views of Communion on-line.

Small moments

A morning TV show reminds Bishop David Bard of the importance of small moments for happiness. He expresses gratitude for such times he has experienced in the weeks just past.