'Safe Gatherings' prevents abuse in the church

Holston Conference has opened an account with a company to streamline background checks and training of clergy, staff and volunteers. The goal is to help prevent the abuse of children, youth, and vulnerable adults. Read the report.

Cooking class for youth: Big hit in Kingsport 

At Colonial Heights UMC this summer, students learned firsthand about the "lost art" of cooking. Finished products were shared with shut-ins and elderly members of the church. From the Kingsport Times-News. Read the story.

Burks volunteers prepare for natural disaster 

Every few months, Burks UMC sends a group of volunteers from Hixson, Tennessee, to Decatur, Alabama. Their mission is to help this UMCOR warehouse get ready for about six disasters a year. From Times Free Press. Read the story.

Smyth Chapel project springs back to life

In Emory, Virginia, plans to convert this historic chapel into a multi-use community center are gaining momentum. The chapel has been sitting empty since the congregation disbanded in the early 2000s. From Washington County News. Read the story.

Community effort brings blood drive to Floyd

Blood drives are held every two months in the basement of Floyd United Methodist Church, a group effort of many churches and organizations. “My husband had cancer and required so much blood, I just wanted to help,” said Iletta Slusher. From SWVa Today. Read the story.

United Methodist Men pledge continued ministry

No matter what actions the 2020 General Conference takes, the Commission on United Methodist Men issued a statement that its ministry to men and young people will continue. Bishop James Swanson presided over the commission's August meeting. Read the report.

Commentary: Bishop returns to scriptures

Bishop Richard Wilke, co-author of the popular Disciple Bible Study, writes about how learning his daughter is gay led him to examine the Scriptures about homosexuality more closely. From UMNews. Read the commentary.

13 ways to stay connected to college students

Going to college brings significant change to a young person’s life. Local churches can help students maintain their connection to God and a faith community. From ResourceUMC. Read the list.