As we gather this Sunday after a momentous election, our nation continues to process varied emotions and reactions to the results. Some feel elated, others disappointed; some hopeful, others uncertain. In times of such division, Jonah’s story speaks powerfully to us. Like today, his world knew deep social and political fractures. He faced the challenge […]
The Paralympic Games begin on Wednesday in Paris. Athletes will take their marks, set their stance, and launch into action. Today, we find the disciples in a similar position at the beginning of the book of Acts – poised on the starting blocks of a world-changing mission. But unlike those Olympians who relied on years […]
As we gather on this Back to School Sunday, having blessed our students’ backpacks, we’re reminded of new beginnings, the excitement—and yes, sometimes fear—of stepping into the unknown. Today, we begin our journey in a new worship series – “Do Unto Others: A Campaign for Kindness.” We hope this is a timely series as we […]
I recently had the opportunity to serve as a reserve delegate from the Great Plains Annual Conference at the 2020(4) United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. This historic gathering brought together delegates from around the world to make important decisions that will impact the future of our church. When I returned, a Sunday […]
Day 10 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) began with the commissioning of global missionaries during worship, highlighting the core of Methodism as a missionary movement. The celebration of the Mission Bicentennial emphasized that mission belongs to God, and we are all invited to participate in it. The afternoon session started with the final portion […]
Day 9 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) started with an early morning prayer for Bishop David Wilson from the Great Plains as he prepared to preach during morning worship. Bishop Wilson’s message emphasized the common ground we share as United Methodists and the importance of making decisions that will positively impact the next seven […]
Day 8 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) was an ecumenical day, with guests from various ecumenical connections worldwide. During morning worship, we recognized full communion with the Moravian church, which is significant in Western North Carolina. Rev. Dr. Jerry Pillay, the general secretary of the World Council of Churches, delivered a powerful message during […]
Day 7 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) began with worship led by Bishop Karen Oliveto, who delivered a powerful message. She reminded us that religious leaders sometimes focus on law instead of love and regulations instead of relationships. Bishop Oliveto challenged us to see the image of God in every person, not just those […]
Day 6 of the UMC General Conference 2020(4) was a Sabbath day, offering a much-needed break from the busy schedule of the conference. While taking a true Sabbath can be challenging for me, as I often find comfort in checking tasks off a list during my time off from professional church work, I felt the […]
Day 5 of the UMC General Conference began with a powerful worship service led by Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa, whose message resonated deeply with those gathered. His words served as a poignant reminder that there is no room for competition in the kingdom of God. Instead, we should focus on reaching out to those who still […]
Day 4 of the UMC General Conference began with an inspiring worship service led by Bishop Sharma D. Lewis. She emphasized the crucial role of God’s guidance in our conference agenda and reminded us that while we may not always trust each other, we can trust the Lord as we navigate the next seven days […]
Day 3 of the UMC General Conference began with a soul-soothing worship experience for me, which included “The Goodness of God” in Spanish. I arrived early to help save seats for other reserves in our delegation, which allowed me to catch the end of the soundcheck and preview what we would sing together later. Bishop […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 