Different hands hold up the Cross and Flame of The United Methodist Church. Photo illustration by Kathleen Barry, United Methodist Communications.

Debate looming on how low budget should go
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — The two bodies that develop the denomination-wide budget that goes before General Conference agree that deep cuts are needed. However, disagreements are brewing between the Connectional Table and General Council on Finance and Administration board on what stewardship requires in a time of mounting church disaffiliations. Heather Hahn reports. 
Read story | Read General Council on Finance and Administration press release

Ask The UMC| What is the communion of saints? 
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — What is the “communion of saints” United Methodists say they believe in when reciting the Apostles Creed? Hint: It’s not something mysterious. In honor of All Saints Day this week, Ask The UMC has more on the creed and Christian fellowship.  Read story | Read more about Ask The UMC

Africa University celebrates 30 years

 During Africa University’s 30th anniversary celebration, guests lauded the United Methodist institution’s accomplishments over the past three decades and shared their hopes for the future. The Oct. 22 festivities drew more than 3,000 people, including bishops, clergy, laity, and guests from around the world. From UM News. Read story.

Bishop Laurie Haller message before North Central Jurisdiction
Bishop Laurie Haller sent a message to United Methodists in Iowa. "I have decided to retire at the of 2022 after serving six years as the episcopal leader in Iowa. One of those years I also served as the interim episcopal leader in the Dakotas. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have had to meet and work alongside amazing clergy and lay leaders across the jurisdiction and entire United Methodist connection."   Read the entire message. 

Church court declines to take up bishop's case
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — United Methodist Bishop Minerva Carcaño has been suspended under complaint since March. While not naming the bishop, The United Methodist Church’s top court released a memorandum on Oct. 26 that declined to take up the bishop’s case at this stage of the judicial complaint process. Four Judicial Council members joined in a dissent. Heather Hahn reports. Read the article. Read a letter from the Western Jurisdiction College of Bishops.

New website coming for UWF
NEW YORK — A new member website will debut in the spring and an e-store site should be up and running by the end of the year, United Women in Faith board members were told at their virtual semiannual meeting on Oct. 7-8. The board approved a total operating budget of $25.8 million for 2023, including more than $4.1 million in grants and scholarships and more than $5.5 million for membership programs and resources. Tara Barnes reports.  Read story