Partners in Haiti, in the Jan. 27 'Reporter'

Greetings e-Readers!

Two years after Haiti’s devastating earthquake, United Methodists are still involved in recovery efforts, and signs of progress are not hard to find. United Methodist News Service reports.
 
Bishop John Innis of the UMC’s Liberia Area is a veteran church leader. In a Q&A with the Reporter, he shares his thoughts on Liberia’s comeback from civil war; (fellow Liberian and United Methodist) Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s sharing in the Nobel Peace Prize; and the upcoming General Conference.
 
The U.S. Supreme Court recently handed down a major ruling on religious freedom. Our story looks at the UMC’s friend of the court brief, and quotes church sources about the case’s meaning.
 
Drew University has an exhibit on Methodism during the Civil War and Bridwell Library at Perkins School of Theology has one on centuries-old religious books for children. We have a story about those displays, as well as photos of particular entries.
 
The new book John & Charles Wesley, by Paul Wesley Chilcote of Asbury Theological Seminary, offers annotated excerpts from the works of Methodism’s founding brothers. We have a review.
 
In commentaries, the Rev. Joseph Stains argues that if the UMC is going to end guaranteed appointment for rank-and-file clergy, bishops should lose job security as well. The Rev. Andrew Thompson writes that while Tim Tebow may not have great statistics as an NFL quarterback, that’s no reason to question the sincerity of his displays of Christian faith.
 
Retired Bishop Woodie White asks whether the UMC has lost its commitment to inclusiveness. The Rev. Eric Van Meter writes that the “ugly ducklings” of the UMC need to stick together. Tom Locke, president of the Texas Methodist Foundation, offers Scripture-based tips for money management and Christian stewardship.
 
There’s plenty more in this edition, including C. Michael Hawn’s History of Hymns column, and a Q&A with Jimmy Carter about his new book of devotionals.
 
We welcome your comments and story tips, as well as brief, civil letters to the editor. Send to news@umr.org.
 
Thanks, as always, for keeping the faith with us. 
 
Sam Hodges, managing editor

P.S. Be sure to "like" us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to join in the conversation.