UMC copes with financial strain

U.S. conferences — like the congregations they serve — are feeling the financial pinch. But they are finding ways to offer churches relief and strengthen ministry in these lean times.

Meet Darryl Totty, new leader of CLC

The Conference Leadership Council is the place where Michigan’s leaders meet to shape the direction of United Methodist ministry and mission in the state. The Rev. Dr. Darryl Totty is… Continue Reading Meet Darryl Totty, new leader of CLC

Fresh recipes and resources for laity

Conference Lay Leader Annette Erbes finds home delivery meal kits and recipes offer important lessons for ministry during the time of pandemic.

A call to United Methodist laity

The following is an open letter to laity from the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders (AACLLC). It is a reminder of Jesus’ Great Commandment during this troubled time.

Rural parishes are a gift

Allen Stanton says, “Rural churches are places where people ask serious questions, explore their faith and seek to live it out in meaningful ways.”

Picking the fruit of kindness

The Rev. Benton Heisler invites pastors and laity to stay focused on our common mission as we approach the Virtual 2020 Michigan Annual Conference.

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.

Acting as the Body of Christ

Laura Witkowski, celebrates the way churches are adapting creatively to the challenges of the pandemic and calls for strengthening connection as the Body of Christ.

Bishop Bard proclaims, ‘Easter is coming!’

Bishop David Bard celebrates the creativity of Michigan United Methodists ministering in the shadow of the coronavirus crisis. He offers new possibilities for Easter worship during this ongoing stay-at-home season.

UMs show church is not a building

Both bishop and governor have encouraged Michiganders to stay-at-home. We are finding that church really does happen outside the building.