A new year, a new stillness

United Methodists in the state have come through a year of change. Now January 1, 2019 is the official “first day” of the new Michigan Conference.

When things get ugly

The Rev. Dr. Glenn Wagner describes how “ugly” happens between persons, parties, and nations. God’s response to ugliness is Jesus.

Addiction and God’s grace

Children are born, grow up and then have babies of their own — one grandmother reflects on her blessings.

Living together in the tension

Rev. Bill Haggard keeps the core mission of The United Methodist Church in focus.

Unexpected grace

This month’s Perspectives on Hope remind us that life has some surprises along the way.

There is a gardener

“Perhaps a bent-over church or a bent-over nation, unable to stand up straight, needs Jesus,” says Bishop Christian Alsted.

Amazing race to Portland

Benton Heisler likens the 2016 General Conference to a race guided by God’s amazing grace.

Democracy and the politics of grace

Professor Darryl Stephens suggests that majority rule is not necessarily a sound theological authority.