August 12, 2021
NEWS & VIEWS
Aug. 28 Conference Youth Rally Cancelled
Eastern PA Conference youth ministry leaders are forced to cancel the Aug. 28 Youth Rally at Covenant UMC in Bath Township due to an increasing risk of COVID-19 infection in Northampton County--particularly the virus’s delta variant--especially among unvaccinated youth. The Rev. William Brawner, Conference Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministries, announced the cancellation this week. 

“It hurts to cancel this rally that so many youth have been looking forward to; but we can’t take the risk,” said Brawner. “Some parents have expressed concerns. And even though most of it would be outdoors, the youth would still have to wear masks all during the rally.” 

“This was a very tough call, but it is the right one,” said Michael Gold, Covenant UMC’s youth minister. The church hosted its first conference-wide youth rally, Camping at the Crossroads, in 2019. But the pandemic has now forced its cancellation for two years in a row. “We will replace this event with something much smaller for the community,” said Gold. “We’re working on offering a backpack giveaway drive that day, along with some music and food for up to two hours.” 

Departing bishop ponders memories--
some to keep, some to ‘cast away’
A Time to Keep and a Time to Cast Away is the title of Bishop Peggy Johnson’s final, farewell essay to her beloved Philadelphia Episcopal Area (Eastern PA and Peninsula-Delaware conferences). 

“The often quoted verses about time, in Ecclesiastes 3, come to mind as I prepare to retire and leave this beloved Philadelphia Area,” she writes. Indeed, the bishop moved to her new home in Virginia this week.

“Things I need to cast away include my disappointments and lack of wisdom at times, moments when people have been hurt because of my decisions,” she admits. “To those who have been wounded, I offer my sincere apologies. I give these things to God, who ‘works all things together for good’ in the midst of human frailty.”
  
While “casting away is a life-giving part of moving on,” she observes, “the things that I will keep are vastly more in number, and they will remain with me for the rest of my life.” Read her long list of memories she will keep and cherish. And then read the words of Zechariah 7:9-10, in which she found her “mandate from God” on her first day as a bishop here in September 2008. “I will keep these words in my heart and in my future life; and I leave them with you to follow as well.” Learn more…

Bishop’s Kudoboard still open to receive final farewells
The farewell comments posted to the online Kudoboard for Bishop Johnson’s retirement have been converted into a hardcover book and given to her. However, the Kudoboard remains open until the end of August for any further comments anyone wants to add. The electronic version of the full collection of comments will be presented to her after August 31. Learn more and comment
Conference Office visitors, please wear masks
Montgomery County is among those advised by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention to wear masks indoors due to increasing levels of COVID-19 Delta variant transmission. Thus, in an abundance of caution, the Eastern PA Conference Office staff asks non-staff visitors to please wear masks while in the building and try to maintain at least 3 feet of social distance.

The Delta variant is very contagious, even among vaccinated persons, although vaccination prevents most people from becoming very ill from the virus. Also, children under 12 cannot receive the vaccine yet; so they’re still at risk. And people who are immunocompromised might not be as protected by vaccines as others.

Persons who do not feel well, or who have a cough or fever should not come into the Conference Office. Thank you!
Phila. requires masks or COVID-19 vaccination proof indoors
The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that a new indoor mask mandate went into effect in Philadelphia Thursday for businesses, institutions and places where there are large gatherings, except for those that require proof of vaccination for all customers and staff. Churches are advised to require mask-wearing also. 

The spread of the COVID-19 virus, especially its delta variant, is “High” in several counties in our area and “Substantial” in others. Here’s what to know about the new rules. Also, these maps and graphics show how the coronavirus and delta variant are spreading across our region. Learn more...
Conference benefits staff veteran retires
Benefits Office Support Associate Madeline Gonzalez-Lopez will retire from her role at the Eastern PA Conference effective September 30. "Madeline has provided tremendous support for the clergy and laity of this conference for 15 years and will be greatly missed," said Jo Fielding, Executive Director, Board of Benefits.
Benefits board seeks new support staffer 
The Eastern PA Conference Board of Benefits is seeking to hire a new Support Associate for Benefits. This position has the primary responsibility of supporting the daily operations of the conference pension and health benefits program. The job description is attached. This is a full-time, non-exempt position with benefits. Resumes and cover letters should be sent to UMJobs@epaumc.org by noon on August 31.
Gov. Wolf asking for vaccine promotion help
Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam are asking for help in promoting COVID-19 vaccinations to communities across the state. They have disseminated a letter with a link to free resources at PA.gov/COVID. Currently, more than 63% of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated; and the state ranks fifth among all 50 states for total doses administered.

“Pennsylvania has had a lot of success in our vaccination efforts, but 63% is not the goal,” said Gov. Wolf. “(That) still leaves far too many...unvaccinated, which puts communities at risk. Vaccines are free, available and effective. I encourage every eligible Pennsylvanian who hasn’t gotten vaccinated to sign up today.” All Pennsylvanians age 12 and older are eligible to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine. Use Vaccine Finder to find a COVID-19 vaccine provider near you. 

The Governor is requiring COVID vaccinations or weekly tests for state employees who work or are hired to work in state health care facilities and high-risk congregate care facilities by Sept. 7. This initiative will affect approximately 25,000 employees working in 24-hour-operated state facilities including state hospitals, state homes for people with intellectual disabilities, veterans homes, community health centers, and state correctional institutions.
Read and share Gov. Wolf's letter. 
'Renaissance' Bishop Beverly Shamana dies
Bishop Beverly Shamana, who led the California-Nevada Conference from 2000 to 2008, has died at age 81. She was the second female African American elected to the United Methodist episcopacy. Bishop Grant Hagiya described her as a "renaissance person," given her talents as an artist and musician, as well as church leader. Read storyRead Council of Bishops press release
Faith leaders push worldwide vaccine access
WASHINGTON — As citizens in many countries remain unprotected from the coronavirus, United Methodists and other faith leaders view access to the COVID-19 vaccine as a human right, along with other basic health care needs.

The Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society, was among the religious leaders who met virtually Aug. 4 with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to express support for waiving vaccine patents to increase COVID vaccine access for developing countries. Linda Bloom reports. Read story
Don’t count out small, rural churches
While the demise of small, rural churches sometimes seems irreversible as United Methodist faithful grow older, strategies are out there to revitalize these congregations by focusing on what their communities most need. Small, rural churches can still thrive if they focus on the needs of their community. But a fixation on youth, contributions and attendance can be counterproductive. 

Rural churches have a better chance if they work from a sense of possibility rather than fear. And bigger and younger is not always better when it comes to churches, say UM experts who counsel that community connections and effective ministry are better measures of a congregation’s vitality.

Small, rural churches can be as impactful as megachurches, in some cases even more so, if people lose the fixation with attendance, giving and demographics, said the Rev. Allen T. Stanton, executive director of the Turner Center at Martin Methodist College. His book, Reclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations, was released in May. Learn more...
Don’t reply to fake texts from conference clergy
If anyone receives texts asking for a favor and requesting the purchase of gift cards to address some need, they are most certainly part of a periodic, widespread scam that is occurring once again. Such texts have been reported by persons identifying the senders as Eastern PA Conference clergy, including district superintendents.

Do not respond to these fake texts. Delete them immediately. Learn more…
LOCAL CHURCH MINISTRY NEWS
Wharton-Wesley's debut on opera stage   
Wharton-Wesley UMC in West Philadelphia is one of three congregations in the city to be featured in a new performance and film by Opera Philadelphia called "Organ Stops: A Musical Exploration of Conflict and Peace." The full program runs about 42 minutes long. "The music is incredible and the stories shared (including Wharton-Wesley’s) will lift your Spirit and soothe your soul," says the Rev. David Brown (above), Deacon and pastor.      
At 20:14 music played on historic Wharton-Wesley UMC's unique organ is featured. Opera Philadelphia sings "Pilgrim's Chorus" from Richard Wagner's opera Tannhauser (preceded a singer's narration of regathering for the performance experience and an onscreen definition of "Peace.") At 24:21 Rev. Brown speaks of the experience of enjoying the church's classic organ...

The program was streamed live on Opera Philadelphia's dedicated channel (but you can access it by hitting the link above). "We're looking forward to more partnerships that bring musical healing to a community that struggles to find its peace." said Brown.
LEARNING EVENTS
August book study features Woolverton's Mission Rift, about church conflict
There are two types of conflict in congregations: conflict that kills and conflict that cultivates growth. So argues the Rev. David Woolverton in his new book that is drawing much attention, Mission Rift: Leading through Church Conflict.
 
In Mission Rift, Dr. Woolverton reorients our view of congregational conflict, exploring why it is essential to discipleship, mission and effective leadership. He challenges leaders to create environments that utilize spiritual formation and family systems to facilitate growth in faith communities. Indeed, creative conflict can lead to spiritual growth; but the lack of it may reveal missional decline, rather than congregational unity.
 
Mission Rift is the conference Congregational Development Team’s CDT Book Club selection, which began this week. Woolverton, lead pastor at St. Paul’s Church, Elizabethtown, frequently teaches courses on overcoming church conflict in Eastern PA. He is leading the four-week study on Wednesdays, August 11 to Sept. 1, at 11 AM. Learn more and register… Read more about WoolvertonLearn more…

Online training on effective communications
Valuable information to help church leaders communicate better is available Aug. 24-25 during Moving the Church Forward Through Communication, a virtual conference led by United Methodist Communications. The ecumenical sessions will include insights on reaching different generations, orienting to the digital-first era and maximizing the effectiveness of online worship and engagement. The cost of the workshop is $50. Read press releaseRegister.
White Supremacy in American Christianity webinar, Aug. 19
Amplify Media, the UM Publishing House’s streaming service that provides access to video resources on multiple topics, will offer a webinar titled The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity on Thursday, Aug. 19 at 3 PM. See more information and register at https://amplifymedia.com/amplify-live/

Robert Jones, author of White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity, will discuss with author Jennifer Harvey why Christianity’s role in white supremacy cannot be overlooked any longer. Jones, who heads the Public Religion Research Institute, interprets public opinion surveys to show how deeply racist attitudes have become embedded in the identity of white Christianity.

He and Harvey, author of the bestselling Raising White Kids: Bringing Up Children in a Racially Unjust America, will discuss why and how Christians must confront these truths of our history and present to salvage the future of their faith. “This is an essential conversation for church leaders struggling with how to address equality in their congregations and work toward repairing our past.”
United's Leading Voices webinar on inspiring generosity, Aug. 19
United Theological Seminary’s Innovation Center will sponsor a live Leading Voices webinar on Thursday, Aug. 19, at 1 to 2:30 PM, featuring Rosario and Callie Picardo, co-authors of the new best-selling resource Money Talks: A Biblical Take on Earning, Saving, Spending and Giving. The 90-minute webinar will offer tools and life examples to help attendees deploy a godly approach to money and get answers to questions. A recording of the session will be available, plus a copy of the Picardos’ new book. Learn more and register at united.edu/leading-voices.
Bivocational & Small Church Network meeting to feature clergy coach, Sept. 14
The Rev. Steve Petty, a certified clergy coach and consultant, will lead a discussion at the next Bivocational & Small Church Network meeting on Tuesday, Sept.14, at 6:30 PM. Petty’s work is “Helping pastors and churches survive and thrive in these interesting times.” 

He will share wisdom from his November 2020 blog series “Understanding Your Church,” with relatable insights that compare churches to cats and collies. The network is a support group of part-time, bivocational pastors and lay members of small churches. It meets for about an hour every two months.

“There are many churches that have the characteristics of a Cat,” writes Petty, attributing such characteristics to about 27% of UM churches. “These churches have less than 35 in average Sunday attendance. They typically have been in existence a long time and been small a long time.  Usually the pastor stays around 2 to 3 years and moves on, so the congregation does not get very attached to the pastor. ... As a result they rarely take the pastor into their confidence. When someone goes to the hospital the pastor may be the last to know.” Learn more…

“Churches with an average attendance of 35 to 100 tend to act a lot like Collies,” writes Petty, citing about 37% of all UMC’s that may fit that description. “These creatures are warm and affectionate and respond well to love and attention. 
“Whereas the Cat has little interest in making their pastor happy, the Collie lives to make the pastor happy. When the pastor goes away on seminars or vacation, the collie is beside itself waiting for the pastor to return, and it wants to know everything the pastor did while away, and OH, YES, please tell me you missed me….
“The most effective pastor for this church is one who likes to build close relationships over long periods of time, a real people person.” Learn more… 

Lancaster Seminary offers fall ministry courses
The Rev. Darryl W. Stephens (Deacon), Director of Pennsylvania Academy of Ministry (PAM) and UM Studies at Lancaster Theological Seminary, announces two fall courses beginning in October that might interest Eastern PA Conference members:

Job-Hunting Field Guide: Bivocational Ministry and Beyond, Tuesday nights September 7October 12, via Zoom. $100 for 2.5 CEU credits. Packard Brown, a nationally known career consultant, will teach the course. Hands-on classes will equip you to create your own promotional package, develop and hone interview skills, find jobs before they are posted, and design your own job-search campaign. This class is beneficial for secular as well as ministerial job searches. Register by Aug 31.

Money and Ministry: A Theology for Congregational Leaders, Thursday, October 14, 7–8:30pm and Tuesdays, 7–8:30pm, Oct 19–Nov 16, 2021, via Zoom. Instructor: Mike Little, Director of Faith and Money Network. 2.5 CEUs. $325. Register by October 5.

Stealing the Earth: Doctrine of Discovery?
“Stealing the Earth: The Conquering of Indigenous People, the Role of Christianity, and What Can Bring about Justice” is a five-part discussion on the Doctrine of Discovery and the conquest of Native Americans and other and indigenous peoples.

The series of talks addresses a theological and legal doctrine that has legitimized the seizure of indigenous people's lands by those from so-called Christian nations. Participants will first discuss its impact in North America and then broaden their inquiry to Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Register here.
Churches to explore how to emerge from the pandemic, Sept. 20
Churches Emerging from the Pandemic, a virtual seminar via Zoom on Monday, Sept. 20, 9 AM-12 noon, will help church leaders “think more deeply about the challenges they are facing as their congregations emerge from the pandemic, and envision ways to address those challenges.”

Leadership consultant and coach Mike Bonem (right) will lead the seminar. An expert on ministry leadership and congregational effectiveness, he speaks to audiences nationally and internationally and is the author or co-author of several books: Leading from the Second Chair, Thriving in the Second Chair, In Pursuit of Great and Godly Leadership, and Leading Congregational Change.

Bonem spent 11 years as an executive pastor. With an MBA from Harvard Business School and a breadth of experience in ministry and business, he also has consulted with Fortune 100 companies and lead a start-up business.

Pastors, associate pastors, other staff and key lay leaders will all benefit from participating in this 3-hour event, which will include a presentation and interaction. Bonem will help attendees consider what is happening around us as we emerge from the pandemic, what it may mean to our congregations, and what it can mean for Christian leaders. 

Those considerations may include impacts and trends, challenges and characteristics of congregations seeking to survive and thrive as the pandemic wanes, and what steps to take now (even if the future is unclear). One impact to be considered is the overall health of church leaders in the wake of the pandemic. Please register today for this webinar. 
Advanced Financial Leadership Academy starts in October
The Mid-Atlantic UM Foundation has graduated over 200 clergy in three conferences from its Financial Leadership Academy (FLA) so far. Now it will help a cadre of those alumnae to further their financial wisdom in its first Advanced Financial Leadership Academy, starting in October. The advanced academy’s three sessions will end in September 2022.

Clergy recommended and selected for this next-level series of courses will be able to advance their financial leadership skills as they “prepare for the new world in church economics and for any future conference/executive level leadership” opportunities.

Continuing the FLA’s cohort learning model, clergy colleagues will address the need and possibilities for unique streams of income, trends and threats to watch out for in a post-COVID world, and how to find and develop resources for mission and ministry. Participants will receive coaching around key goals they establish and then watch their visionary goals and plans come to fruition.

Onsite accommodations for the three overnight sessions—October 11-12, 2021; March 7-8, 2022; and September 12-13, 2022—will be at the Eden Resort in Lancaster, PA. There will also be interim video-conferencing sessions offering with coaching for groups and individuals.

Curriculum topics will include:
1. Creating multiple streams of income to expand mission and ministry, including property development, starting nonprofit 501c3’s, and community engagement.
2. Changing the “culture of generosity” in the congregation: learn how to seek large gifts, maximize assets, and fund new staff for ministry expansion.
3. Enhancing the life-giving spirit of generosity: renew your spirit and perspective; hear great ideas about expanding generosity; present projects to the group.

Participants will have opportunities to create projects to benefit the life of their congregations. Completion of the program and the project will form the basis of consideration for a post-academy grant.

Enrollment is limited to 35 clergy; so register here now to secure your place. The cost is $1,200, to be paid in three installments. A $400 deposit is due at registration. Questions? Email Karin Walker at Karin.walker@fallstonumc.org.
Advanced Sexual Ethics course to examine pornography link to child sex trafficking 
The next Advance Sexual Ethics course will study The Impact of Pornography and the Intersection with Child Sex Trafficking and Abuse, Sept. 29, 10 AM to 1 PM, on Zoom. The cost is $35. 

The workshop will delve into the world of pornography and its impact on congregants, children, communities and ourselves. The workshop will focus on common types of pornography, trends in the use of porn and its impact on the human brain, and connections between pornography and the growing problems of domestic child sex trafficking and child sexual abuse.

Prior to the workshop, registrants will receive links to two videos to view and worksheets to complete. The facilitators are from Safe Communities Lancaster PA, including Linda Crockett, founder and director. Contact the Rev. Jacqueline Hines for more information at pastorjacquelineumc@gmail.com or 410-963-1721. Learn more…
Healing Communities Training on Zoom in Sept.
Co-sponsored by the Conference Prison Ministry and Restorative Justice Team and the West Chester Mission Link. 

3 ZOOM sessions in September:
  • Tuesday, Sept 21, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
  • Saturday, Sept 25, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Tuesday, Sept 28, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
  • 2 additional hours of homework to be completed outside of the Zoom sessions

1.0 CEU to be provided for CSM, CLM, and clergy, upon completioin of all 3 Zoom sezzions and the 2 hrs of out-of-class work. Cost: $10
October seminar to focus on domestic violence in marginalized communities
The Eastern PA Conference will explore this fall how domestic violence is experienced and addressed by people who face injustice, neglect and other disadvantages because of their race, ethnicity, disability, nationality and other circumstances that relegate them to the margins of society.

“Seeking Justice and Mercy: Social Justice for Marginalized Communities Experiencing Domestic Violence” will be the broad focus of a weekend Zoom webinar Oct. 15-16. The conference Domestic Violence (DV) Committee is organizing the Friday evening (7-9 PM) and Saturday morning (9 AM to 12:30 PM) online event.

Maria Sofia Gattorno, an attorney at HIAS PA's Domestic Violence Initiative, will keynote the webinar, following introductions and devotions on Friday at 7 PM. At HIAS she provides free legal services to immigrant and refugee survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault who reside in Chester County. 

“Voices of Survivors” will follow, featuring testimonies and reflections by a diverse panel of women—including one who is deaf—about their struggles for justice and equity in seeking help and healing to overcome domestic and intimate-partner violence. 

Saturday’s agenda will feature more panelists sharing how non-mainstream cultures may be uniquely impacted by domestic violence, and what needs to be done—in the faith community and beyond—to respond to their challenging needs and circumstances. Learn more… 
Moravian Seminary offers courses to laity
Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem will offer three courses to laity, both onsite and online through Zoom this fall, through the Crossroads program. Register and learn more at www.moravianseminary.edu/crossroads. Contact Dr. Jill Peters, Missional Leadership Developer, at petersj2@moravian.edu with any questions. The courses are held at 6 to 9 PM and cost $240 each. They are:
 
  • Traditions, a look at world religions and other Protestant denominations, on Mondays, Sept. 13–Nov. 1.
  • Creative Worship on Thursdays, Sept. 9–Oct. 28.
  • Unpacking the Scriptures, twice a week, Mondays and Thursdays, Nov. 4–Dec. 2.
 
More courses on Missional Leadership, Congregational Ethics, the Story of Christianity and Formative Spirituality will be offered during winter 2022.
 
"Moravian Theological Seminary is one of the schools of theology approved by our University Senate, where United Methodist students may earn their seminary degrees on the path to ordination,” said Bishop Peggy Johnson. It also offers continuing education classes and workshops. United Methodists and Moravians are in full communion. And John Wesley, our Methodist founding father, learned much from the Moravians during his time of spiritual formation. The ties have been strong ever since."
RESOURCES
Site offers photo resources for churches
In observance of World Photography Day on Aug. 19, United Methodist Communications has gathered photographic resources to help local churches tell their stories through compelling imagery. Tools available include a searchable media library of downloadable images, a training course on capturing better smartphone photos and a video tutorial on making photo slideshows. The new website also will feature an interview with United Methodist News photojournalist Mike DuBose, who shares stories, tips and examples to help viewers improve their picture-taking skills. Read press release. See resourcesRegister for smartphone training.
Connect with people God places before you
Churches can improve outreach efforts by focusing on people nearby, writes Ann Michel of the Lewis Center for Church Leadership. She points to building users, members' family and friends, and the church's immediate neighbors as people God has placed in a congregation's pathway. Read commentary
A Christian look at critical race theory
WASHINGTON — Critical race theory examines how laws in the United States have built and supported racial inequities. The United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race offers an online panel about the theory, featuring law and seminary professors. The agency also has an infographic that aims to separate myths from truth.  Watch panel discussion. Download infographic (PDF)

Church groups explore popular series about Christ, ‘The Chosen’
An eight-week study based on a popular TV series invites participants to glimpse Jesus Christ through the eyes of those who knew him. Groups around the country are viewing and discussing learnings from the program, which is crowdsource-funded and looking for new supporters. 

The Rev. C. Chappell Temple was impressed by its quality and depth. “The biggest benefit of the entire project is “to offer a portrayal of Jesus that is neither unduly weak or overly stern, but is instead almost inescapably attractive,” Temple says. His church, Christ UMC in Sugar Land, Texas, is gaining new insights into the Gospel stories of Jesus. 

A pilot for “The Chosen” aired in 2017. The first season, introducing Jesus and the calling of his first disciples, debuted in 2019. The second season, launched on Easter Sunday 2021, highlights the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and what happens as word of his ministry begins to spread.

“What has struck me the most,” said member Jan Randolph, “is feeling like I’ve had a personal time with Jesus. The way things are portrayed draws you in so you feel like he’s calling you.” Learn more… Also, Cokesbury is offering the David C. Cook curriculum titled “What Does It Mean to Be Chosen? An Interactive Bible Study Guide.” And to view “The Chosen” video trailer go to www.thechosen.tv/app. Watch the first episode free and find out more at https://watch.angelstudios.com/thechosen.  
Grants available to support ecumenism
WASHINGTON — The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church invites applications for the 2022 Local Initiatives Grants, which support ecumenical and interreligious work. The Council of Bishops offers three grants of $1,000 each to groups within conferences for special projects. The deadline is Sept. 17. Read press release. To apply (PDF)
Weekly conference prayer meetings
Join the dozen or more prayer warriors who show up each Tuesday at noon for a half-hour of personal sharing and compelling intercessory prayer. It’s a supportive community of believers in the power of prayer. Some sessions have featured meditative music, wisdom readings and poetry to stimulate creative reflection.

Upcoming Schedule of Prayer Leaders:
  • Aug 17 – Minster Fay P. Warner
  • Aug 24 – Judy Ehninger, Coordinator of Certified Lay Ministry
  • Aug 31 – Rev. Dawn Taylor-Storm, Director of Connectional Ministries

Here is the Zoom access information: Join at: https://epaumc.zoom.us/j/591129374?pwd=dElpMUdVd09VTTBoRDZxTm9zejVqdz09 
Meeting ID: 591 129 374 Or Call in: +1 646 558 8656 
AROUND THE UM CONNECTION
Scarritt Bennett leader stepping down
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Sarah Wilke, executive director of the Scarritt Bennett Center, plans to step down at the end of 2021. Wilke has led the independent nonprofit for five years. Scarritt Bennett, whose campus is owned by United Methodist Women, serves as a conference center and hub for women's empowerment, racial justice, spiritual formation and education of laity. The center is launching a search for a new executive director. Read press release.
Bringing together mysticism and Methodism
LAKE ODESSA, Mich. — The Rev. Paul Reissman, United Methodist pastor in the Michigan Conference, talks about his ministry, Mystic Winds. The Wesleyan contemplative community aims to bring together Christian mysticism and Wesleyan teachings. Reissman speaks with John Harrell of Ministry Incubators. Watch video. Learn more about Mystic Winds.
REMINDERS
See the newest page on our website: Institutional Relationships
The Eastern PA Conference works with or supports a number of institutions, organizations and agencies, some as affiliated partners of our conference and others merely as friends. For some, the conference is represented on their boards of directors.

We have created a new web page, titled Institutional Relationships in our Resources section, and we invite you to visit and view the page. Right now, the main content there is a list of our conference’s institutional partners and friends, a list that may grow as we become aware of more conference relationships. But we’ve added URL links to each entity on the list, so you can learn more about them from their websites. 

We’ve also published a link to the Methodist Services Thanks Bishop Peggy A. Johnson Upon Her Retirementflyer. (See the story below.) And we have published news about two local seminaries that we relate to and where some of our clergy and laity receive seminary education. Lancaster Theological Seminary and Moravian Theological Seminary just this week took procedural steps toward “affiliating” their institutions by sharing top leadership posts and trustee board members.
 
We look forward to publishing more news and information about our conference’s ministry partners and friends on this page in the future. Please send us information that you believe may be of interest and appropriate for this new page. Thanks!
Weekly Preaching Forum returns Sept. 7
The Preaching Forum, a popular presentation and discussion session offered to preachers weekly via Zoom, will return on Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 2 PM. The conference Congregational Development Team sponsors this growing ministry. The Rev. Jeff Raffauf (right), the longtime lead pastor of West Lawn UMC in Reading, will share his thoughts on one of the Revised Common Lectionary’s Year B Scripture readings for the following Sunday (Sept. 12). That may include sermon ideas, sources, preparation tactics and preaching pointers. 

A dozen more highly regarded preachers will follow weekly through Nov. 30. (Note: Year C begins Nov. 28 with the first Sunday in Advent.) Don’t miss this always enlightening encounter and generous exchange of ideas among preachers (that is of interest to non-preachers, too). Register now and add this special appointment to your weekly calendar.
Churches to mark Gun Violence Awareness Day, Sept. 19
St Matthew’s UMC of Valley Forge in Wayne will join other churches to observe Gun Violence Awareness Day on Sunday, Sept. 19, at 3:30 PM. Heeding God’s Call to End Gun Violence, the faith-based, grassroots organization based in Philadelphia, is collaborating with local faith communities to organize the event. 

Participants will gather at two other Valley Forge churches for an information forum, interfaith worship and a call to action. They will then do a “witness walk” to St. Matthew’s for an outdoor remembrance service amid colorful, standing t-shirts inscribed with the names of gun violence victims. The compelling display, known as the Memorial to the Lost, is a familiar feature of such Heeding God’s Call-led events. 

Following the service, participants will engage in advocacy by signing letters to send to state and federal lawmakers calling for common-sense gun legislation and better enforcement. The event’s goal is to educate faith institutions and mobilize advocates to change our nation’s gun-obsessed culture and to reduce the rampant gun trade and violence afflicting Philadelphia and other towns and cities. For more information contact St Matthew’s Eleanor Carroll at el.carroll@verizon.net. See and share the flyer.
Local Pastor Licensing School begins Oct. 1
The Eastern PA Conference's next Local Pastor Licensing School begins Oct. 1-2 and will run for eight weeks total but with two intervening weeks off for completion of assignments. That means six weekends of online class attendance, again via Zoom.

The total cost has been reduced from $1,100 to $800 to make it more affordable and to reflect cost savings. There is a $300 non-refundable deposit due at registration, and the remaining balance must be paid by the end of the program.

The first 2021 session of the newly designed school—historic in its use of video-conferencing and offering faster completion of classes— ran from Jan. 15 to Feb. 28 and graduated 15 students. Certificates of completion are being prepared now to award to graduates of both 2021 classes.

The Rev. Dan Lebo (above), Dean of the Licensing School for education and preparation of Local Pastors, wants to offer the courses twice a year, based on student interest and availability of faculty. Persons from other conferences are welcome to attend. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and convenience, all 2021 classes are meeting via Zoom.

Below is the Fall 2021 schedule that includes clergy-taught classes in: Educational Ministries; Mission and Evangelism; Pastoral Care; UM Tradition; Leadership and Administration; Spiritual Direction; and Preaching: Public Worship and Liturgy.


Fall 2021 Local Pastor Licensing School Schedule

Weeks 1 and 2 (October 1st-2nd and 8th- 9th):
Rev. Dr. Michael Roberts (Educational Ministries; Mission and Evangelism) and Rev. Dr. Truman Brooks (Pastoral Care)

Week 3 : Off

Weeks 4 and 5 (October 22nd-23rd and 29th-30):
Rev. Dr. Jim Todd (UM Tradition; Leadership and Administration) and Rev. Dr. Truman Brooks (Spiritual Direction)

Week 6: Off

Weeks 7 and 8 (November 12th-13th and 19th-20th):
Rev. Dr. Suzanne Duchesne (Preaching: Public Worship and Liturgy)
Celebrating Asbury’s voyage to Americas 250 years ago
Methodists in the U.S. and in Great Britain will simultaneously commemorate the 250th anniversary of the voyage and arrival of American Methodism’s first bishop, Francis Asbury, who journeyed here from our mother country in October 1771. He was sent by Methodism’s founder John Wesley to organize the new church in the British colonies. 

The Oct. 30-31 celebration at Historic St. George’s UMC in Philadelphia will feature a banquet and program Saturday, Oct. 30, at 2-4 PM, and a special commemorative worship service on Sunday, Oct. 31, at 10 AM.

The Asbury Crossing: Responding to Call celebration begins on Saturday with a banquet and keynote address by John Wigger, noted historian and author of American Saint: Francis Asbury and the Methodists. The Philadelphia UM Mass Choir, conducted by the Rev. Eric Carr, will perform music. And historical actor Peyton Dixon, who performs in St. George’s popular Time Traveler programs, will offer a dramatic portrayal of Francis Asbury. Learn more...
Social Media rules of engagement
Social media can be a place to share our faith while also finding like-minded persons who encourage us in our lives. Navigating these spaces, however, takes care and intention. Though he predated social media, John Wesley may have given us the simplest directive for how to interact on social media.

“As Methodists, we know the rules:  Do no harm, do good, communicate grace,” the Rev. Ryan Dunn, minister of online engagement for United Methodist Communications. reminds us. “If you do that, you’re fine.” Though he predated the likes of Facebook and Twitter, John Wesley offered a simple directive for how to interact on social media: do no harm, do good, communicate grace. Learn more and view a short video
2022 Annual Conference May 20-21
The 2022 Eastern PA Annual Conference will return to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA, May 20 21, with rehearsals on May 19. The brief, less-costly, two-day schedule may entail a number of changes, including scheduling Laity and Clergy sessions at a church in April, and not having a half-day teaching session next year. More information to come.
UM Men’s plans virtual national gathering for Aug. 28
The General Commission on United Methodist Men announces its 2021 Virtual National Men’s Gathering. The gathering will be held online August 28, from 11 AM to 5 PM. Keynote speakers will be the Rev. Dr. Ron Bell, pastor of Camphor Memorial UMC in St. Paul, Minn., and the Rev Tom Albin, who recently retired from The Upper Room as Director of Spiritual Formation and Congregational Life.

Albin now directs United Christian Ashrams International and is President of Albin Consulting and has authored or contributed to numerous books, articles, online courses and reference works. He will speak on Evangelism and Discipleship.

Bell, formerly a pastor in the Peninsula-Delaware Conference, provided key community leadership in the wake of George Floyd’s murder by police in Minneapolis, Minn. in 2020. He has written for several local and national publications, has a webinar series on Trauma and Empathy, and has published books about reaching Young Adults in ministry, Embracing Grief through Art, and his newest book, The Four Promises: Journeying through Past and Present Trauma. He will speak on “Combating and Healing the Trauma of Racism.” Learn more…  

Registration for the gathering is required. Download the flyer. Click here to register. If you have questions, call 615-620-7277 or email rvance@gcumm.org.
Orientation to Ministry training August 21
Register for the upcoming "Orientation to Ministry" training on Saturday August 21, 10 AM-12 PM, at Moravian Theological Seminary (60 W Locust St., Bethlehem PA 18018). The training will be led by Rev. Karyn Fisher, North District DCOM Registrar. Please note: This training will take place in person, and will not include the option to participate remotely.
 
“Orientation to Ministry” is an overview of the diverse ways in which one can enter into professional ministry in the United Methodist Church. It is designed to guide individuals in the process of answering a call to ministry. Those who take this class will gain an understanding of different categories of professional ministry as well as a practical step by step understanding of the candidacy process. This is a required course for all candidates for professional ministry in the Eastern PA Conference. To register, visit: https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/newreg.php?eventid=626300&
Update your church’s Find‑A‑Church page
Update your church’s Find‑A‑Church webpage to offer potential visitors current, helpful information. As people begin to seek in‑person connections once more, they’ll be searching online for information about local churches. Be prepared to welcome them with an updated Find‑A‑Church profile! Include a note about who you are as a congregation, links to your website and social media channels, location details and more.
Racial Ethnic Local Church grants available this fall
Grants up to $10,000 will be available this fall from Discipleship Ministries to strengthen leadership training, small groups, worship, stewardship and spiritual formation in racial-ethnic local United Methodist churches. The application deadline for Racial Ethnic Local Church Concerns (RELCC) grants is Sept. 1.

RELCC grants are available each year, with priority given to new programs. Funds are not provided for personnel, equipment or ongoing building costs.  

For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3vSgb5G or contact Naomi Hope Annandale, director of research and strategic evaluation, by phone at 615-340-1743 or by email at nannandale@umcdiscipleship.org.
 
Applicants must apply online at https://ypm-umc.smapply.io / and are encouraged to consult with Discipleship Ministries staff for guidance in preparing the application. Learn more about grant qualifications.
Conference Leadership Opportunities for all!
The Conference Leadership Committee asks all clergy and lay members to use this Leadership and Service Interest Form to indicate how and where they are willing to serve on. Learn more...
Visit our Local Church Resources webpage
Do you find yourself wondering where you can obtain a 501(c)3 letter? Clergy W-2s? Various other bits of information that is crucial for churches? Look no further than the Local Church Resources page under the Administration tab on the EPA website and you can answer these questions.
Let's stay connected. Send us your newsletters
Please add our Communications Office to your church newsletter's digital and/or print mailing lists. We find much of our news in church newsletters (when we find time to read them), and we try to report local church news and events as much as possible. (We also love seeing Conference news reported in your newsletters. Thanks!) However, we want to receive only your church newsletters please, not other e-mailed church announcements. Thanks!
Update your Find-A-Church profile
Developed by United Methodist Communications, Find-A-Church helps your church connect with people who may be looking online for a church to provide worship, fellowship, spiritual nurture and other needs. If your church has a Website, having a church page in Find-A-Church doubles your local visibility to reach people searching by city, town or zip code. It is the official online directory of United Methodist churches in the United States and one of the most visited sections of UMC.org, averaging more than 1,000 page views a day. You'll achieve the best results from your Find-A-Church profile when you update your church's information. For video instructions on how, visit Video Tutorial: Find-A-Church Overview
Missed any past issues of NEWSpirit Digest?
You can still read or share informative, colorful back issues of our weekly e-newsletter on the Eastern PA Conference Website at www.epaumc.org/news-events/newspirit-digest. Share this link with others who might want to stay informed about our news, events, resources and concerns. And please encourage them to subscribe by e-mailing communications@epaumc.org. Thanks!
SAVE THE DATES
September
  • September 18: Welcome Celebration for Bishop John Schol, 10:30 AM, at West Chester UMC.
  • September 22, 25, 28: Healing Communities Training on Zoom. Sept. 21 & 28 at 6:30-8:30 PM. Sept. 25 at 8:30 AM-12:30 PM. 
  • September 29: Advanced Sexual Ethics, on Zoom. 10 AM - 1 PM. “Impact of Pornagraphy and the Intersection with Child Sex Trafficking and Abuse.” Register.

October
  • October 1 & 2: Implicit Bias Workshop. Friday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM to 12:45 PM, on Zoom. Download the flyer. Register.
  • October 1-2: 2021 Laity Academy - In-Person Sessions, at several church locations TBA. Learn More
  • October 1-3: IGNITE Conference for youth, grades 6-12, in Wildwood, NJ. Sponsored by the Greater New Jersey Conference with Next Generation Ministries. (Eastern PA youth are invited to register and attend.)
  • October 15 & 16: Domestic Violence Workshop. Friday October 15 from 7 PM – 9 PM & Saturday October 16th from 9 AM – 12 PM. Further details TBA.
  • October 23:  Faith Sharing Evangelism Training with Rev. Olu Brown
  • October 23:  UMW Annual Celebration
  • October 29 - Nov 1: Dismantling Racism, Level 1, Virtual. Register.
  • Oct. 30 & 31: Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of Francis Asbury’s Arrival. 

November
  • November 6: Basic Sexual Ethics, on Zoom. 9 AM - 12 Noon. Cost: $35. 
  • November 13: Dismantling Racism II. Details TBA.
Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church
980 Madison Avenue, Norristown, PA 19403