Greetings, e-Readers!
We wish we could say, “It doesn’t happen here,” but sometimes it does: sexual misconduct and sexual abuse within the church. Fortunately, the connectional system of the United Methodist church offers ways for pastors and laypeople to share expertise and build awareness around preventing abuse and responding when it does occur. In this week’s cover story, Mary Jacobs gives a first-hand report on the denomination’s sexual ethics summit Do No Harm 2011 that met last month in Houston.
In the Dallas area, we have not only been dealing with wintery weather, icy roads and rolling blackouts but also the arrival of Super Bowl XLV to town. I have a story of area children using the Super Bowl to tackle hunger in North Texas and how they are inspiring their congregation.
We have two Q&A’s with United Methodist pastors this week. Mallory McCall spoke with Martin Thielen about his new book What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?. And a handful of newly appointed pastors spoke with UMNS’ Joey Butler on their challenges, surprises and triumphs in their first six months of ministry.
In commentaries: Marty Cauley warns churches to avoid lay leader burnout; Cynthia Weems feels United Methodist churches should foster a grace-based form of healing; Bishop White reflects on the significance of Black History Month; and Bishop Schnase says we must first accept God’s unconditional love and grace in order to become the person God calls us to be.
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Don’t miss the latest findings of grant misuse for the Global Fund. Stories on a national campaign by atheists promoting their messages of non-belief; a group that cares for newly deported U.S. immigrants; a review of Drew Holcomb and Neighbors new release Chasing Someday;History of Hymns and more!
Grace and peace,
Liz Applegate, New Media Associate
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