Back to worship … what to expect

On June 1 Governor Whitmer and Bishop Bard lifted restrictions on in-person worship. But that doesn’t mean return to worship as usual in churches across the state. Be ready for… Continue Reading Back to worship … what to expect

US churches practice caution in reopening

United Methodist bishops in the U.S., including Bishop David Bard of Michigan, are setting guidelines for appropriate ways for reopening churches in their conferences.

What does reopening look like?

Social distancing measures forced churches to transition to online worship and ministry. As states lift shelter-in-place orders, churches must consider how — or when— to return to in-person worship.

Online worship is a weekly lifeline

Michigan’s United Methodists have been in worship from home since March 15. These five pastors report how technology has enabled the spread of the gospel to members and to neighbors.

Prepare now for first Sunday back

When state health officials deem it safe, restrictions on in-person worship will be lifted. In the meantime, here are guidelines to help prepare for re-opening.

Get ready. Easter’s coming!

“We have and are giving up a lot,” says Bishop David Bard to the United Methodists in Michigan. He encourages churches to plan now to be ready to return to… Continue Reading Get ready. Easter’s coming!

Executive order extended to May 15

As Governor Gretchen Whitmer extended her Executive, Bishop David Bard advises local churches to continue to refrain from in-person activities, including worship.

‘No-gathering’ extended to April 30

Michigan now has the fourth-highest number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.  At advice of government and public health officials, Bishop Bard calls for no in-person gatherings through April 30,… Continue Reading ‘No-gathering’ extended to April 30

Closed on Friday, connected on Sunday

On Friday, March 13, Bishop David Bard asked all Michigan churches in his care to be closed to in-person events. On Sunday, less than 48 hours later, congregations came together… Continue Reading Closed on Friday, connected on Sunday

Bishop’s appeal to suspend gatherings

Bishop David Bard is recommending that Michigan United Methodist Churches refrain from all in-person gatherings for the remainder of March. May we remain bound together in the Spirit of love.… Continue Reading Bishop’s appeal to suspend gatherings