Four leaders from the Northern Illinois-Wisconsin Episcopal Area will participate in the Council of Bishops’ Leadership Gathering Oct. 20–24 in Calgary, Canada, joining United Methodists from around the world to envision the denomination’s future. Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer and Rev. Jeremiah Cottrell-Duebner share their ministry journeys, perspectives and hopes for a more welcoming, inclusive and faithful church.
Read MoreIn a pastoral letter to United Methodists around the world, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., writing on behalf of the Council of Bishops, opposes plans to livestream the execution of the man responsible for the 2009 Fort Hood shootings. The letter calls on Christians to reject vengeance and the public spectacle of death, uphold the dignity of every human life, and stand against the scapegoating of religious minorities and migrants. It urges U.S. leaders to end plans for the livestreamed execution and invites congregations worldwide to pray for victims, survivors, and all those affected by violence.
Read MoreIn this brief word of encouragement, Bishop Dan Schwerin acknowledges the division, fear, and difficult realities surrounding us while reminding us that God is with us for good. Inviting us to “tune your eyes to awe,” he encourages us to notice the simple signs of God’s wonder and providence, share those moments with one another, and continue practicing hope together.
Read MoreIn his reflection for Hispanic Heritage Month, Bishop Daniel Schwerin calls United Methodists to celebrate the faith, resilience and leadership of Hispanic/Latinx congregations while confronting the realities of racism and the challenges facing immigrant communities. He encourages churches to pray, build relationships across differences, support immigrant neighbors and respond with genuine love.
Read More"Our sacraments are baptism and the Eucharist," Bishop Dan Schwerin says. "They are gifts for pilgrims, a bath and a meal. Surely walking alongside is another ancient embodiment of Jesus." Read about how to engage in honest conversation with the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Read More"Mutual benefit is breaking out and ubuntu steps are among us each day," says Bishop Dan Schwerin. In this article he includes some tanka, a form of poetry that comes from Japan. These keep an eye on the small as signs of hope.
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