Coronavirus resource page on Holston.org

Pastors and faith communities are in unique situations to lead as the U.S. responds to COVID-19. Holston Communications has created a web page to help you keep official announcements and resources at hand. Visit Holston.org/coronavirus.

Churches adapting to COVID-19 restrictions

As new developments emerge, many local United Methodist churches are adapting as fast as they can -- promoting preventative hygiene, learning the art of “social distancing” and suspending all in-person worship, activities and events.  From UM News. See the story.

Bishops ask postponement of GC2020 

With the coronavirus pandemic threatening lives around the globe, bishops are asking for a postponement of General Conference. The denomination’s top policymaking assembly is currently scheduled for May 5-15 in Minneapolis. From UM News. Read the story.

8 bishops join in planning new denomination 

A group of United Methodist leaders, including eight bishops, has issued a statement sharing its vision for a global traditionalist denomination focused on evangelism and the “primacy of Scripture.” From UM News. Read the story.

Split in the path: 3 Holston clergy in news video

Three Holston pastors help explain the denomination's current divide over human sexuality to viewers in the Tri-Cities. “What holds us together is so much stronger than any opinion we might have on any topic.” From WJHL. See the story.

Houston megachurch pastor pleads guilty 

The longtime pastor of the UMC's largest congregation has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in what federal authorities called a multimillion-dollar investment scheme. The Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell, pastor of the 18,000-member Windsor Village UMC, entered his plea March 11. From UM News. Read the story.

Holston continues aid to tornado survivors

Some churches responded quickly -- including Emory UMC in Kingsport and Fairview UMC in Maryville -- after March 2-3 tornadoes destroyed parts of middle Tennessee. Others are responding now to a call for relief supplies and financial donations. Read the story.

Roe networks to help Cookeville within hours

After Holly Roe learned her family and friends were safe from the middle Tennessee tornadoes, her heart was broken for those who were not. She connected businesses and churches to quickly fill a trailer with critical supplies for Cookeville Community Center. Read her story.