Tag: Hope

A song of hope for a crazy world

Admitting that the times we live in can be terrifying, Bishop David Bard turns to a Country Western song and a poem to wish The Michigan Area a blessed Thanksgiving.

Fall wind brings new beginnings

The Michigan Conference Lay Leader reflects on the life of trees and the life of churches. She encourages congregations in transition to consider The New Beginnings program.

Time to give your best

This is the first article in a new series, “For a time such as this.” The theme is based on Rev. Jennie Browne’s sermon at the 2019 Michigan Annual Conference. 

Make some good, old lemonade

Somedays life can seem like one huge grove of sour lemons. Then a friend provides a hug, and God bestows a blessing. That’s a recipe for the most delicious lemonade of life.

Coming home to grace, hope, and love

Rev. Kennetha Bigham-Tsai chairs the UMC’s Connectional Table. She shares about rich connections she experienced at her home Annual Conference.

A verse from Northern Waters

Rev. Anita Hahn, Superintendent of Northern Waters District, reflects on her life verse and the value of joy, patience and prayer. She encourages others to have a life verse, too.

Reflections of a family camper

Her experience of Lake Michigan Camp began in the 1980s. Part of the Jackson First UMC Family group since 2007, she looks forward to another summer.

Hope caked with mud

Bishop David Bard anticipates Easter blessings and talks about grief and hope in this month’s edition of A Joyful Journey.

In times of upheaval

The Rev. John Boley takes a long look at our present day stress in church and world, through the lens of scripture, theology and history. He offers words of assurance and hope. 

Feelings ran high on Tuesday of GC2019

Michigan delegates and observers came together on Tuesday, a day of momentous decision, with a variety of emotions. For some it was the Fourth of July, for others Good Friday.