Internet opens door to world

The Rev. Carmen Cook, pastor of New Beginnings, a United Methodist Church in Beaverton and Gladwin, MI, learned the world is her parish on a teaching trip to Uganda.

Strategize giving like Super Bowl

Time to strategize for generosity. Ken Sloane, leader at Discipleship Ministries, offers five stewardship tips for 2021 borrowed from gridiron heroes.

Love is everywhere in our churches

This is the second in a series of reflections by District Superintendents of The Michigan Conference on life and faith during the COVID-19 era. The Rev. Dr. Margie Crawford shares… Continue Reading Love is everywhere in our churches

God with us during COVID-19

For ten months, churches have ministered in the shadow of COVID-19. It has been a time of great struggle and even greater faithfulness.

Care for pastors in stressful times

Traditions can’t be observed. Ministry is different and difficult. People feel isolated and afraid. COVID-19 has made leadership more stressful than ever. Share special care this Pastor Appreciation Month. 

Pastors with a badge advance reform

United Methodist police chaplains and pastors who serve in law enforcement discuss what changes might help both officers and the people they serve and protect.

Help for pastoral transitions

Michigan Conference staff, with the assistance of Michigan Conference Communication, are producing webinars with practical information on how to be in ministry during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Let’s organize a search party

The church, says Lay Leader Anne Soles, must make an intentional search for those “not there” as churches use electronic outreach during the pandemic. What other tools must we use?

Why a cross of ashes?

On Ash Wednesday pastors dip their thumbs into a bowl of ashes and draw a cross on worshipers’ foreheads. The practice is ancient. Learn why ashes connect people with God.

Survivor and pastoral leadership

The Rev. John Boley reflects on years of experience relating to pastors across the Michigan Area and watching the TV show, Survivor. The quality he finds of critical importance is… Continue Reading Survivor and pastoral leadership