United Methodist Publishing House to close retail stores
The United Methodist Publishing House announced Nov. 5 that it is closing all the Cokesbury retail stores to focus on it’s online presence, to be named CokesburyNext. CokesburyNext will be rolled out throughout 2013, and the last Cokesbury retail store is expected to close by Apr. 30, 2013. To read the entire news release, go to http://umph.com/.
2012 State of the Church Report has been posted
The newly-released 2012 State of the Church Report focuses not only on traditional statistics of The United Methodist Church but also highlights ways in which the denomination is moving to create vital congregations. The report was created in partnership with the United Methodist Connectional Table, the Council of Bishops and the General Council on Finance and Administration. To download the report, click here.
Hurricane Sandy relief resources now available
United Methodist Communications has partnered with United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to create a bulletin insert for churches to publicize the giving opportunities in the midst of Hurricane Sandy. Two files are attached: full color and grayscale. United Methodist News Service will continue to update information on recovery efforts as the information becomes available. Stay connected by viewing the blog UMC Connections and the website UMC.org.
Join DBOM for the “Freedom in Christ” dinner
Congregations and Disciple Bible Outreach Ministries (DBOM) supporters are invited to the “Freedom in Christ” Dinner to celebrate the 13-year-ministry of DBOM. DBOM is a Methodist ministry that creates partnerships between parish and prison to deepen Bible Study for all of Jesus’ disciples inside and outside prison walls. The dinner party will be Friday, Dec. 7 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Christ UMC in Chapel Hill. The dinner will feature testimonies from Disciple Bible participants, music, and the presentation of the Cross and Key Award for the outstanding volunteer of the year. Please RSVP your intention to participate to Cari Willis at: caridbom@gmail.com or via phone at 336-905-5441. To see other ways that churches can support this event, go to Disciple Bible Outreach.
Louisburg College student submits winning video
Congratulations to first-year student, Ashley Britton and Louisburg College for winning first place in the UMCYes! video contest, sponsored by National Association of Schools and Colleges of The United Methodist Church (NASCUMC). In the video, Britton did a series of student-on-campus interviews about why the United Methodist connection matters at Louisburg College. To read the entire article and to view the winning video, go to Louisburg College.
3DM Workshops to be held in NC Conference
The Conference Transition Team invites pastors and one lay leader from each church to attend a Mission & Discipleship Workshop from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. either Nov. 27 or 28 at Millbrook UMC, Raleigh, or on Nov. 29 at St James UMC, Greenville. The purpose is to learn more about the NC Conference pursuit of a new paradigm for ministry including the shift from 12 to eight districts. The workshop will also help laity understand how and why the role of the district superintendent in the NC Conference has been redefined. The workshop is free and lunch is included, but pre-registration is required. Participants should pre-register for one day only, choosing the date that best accommodates their needs.
Register for the Annual Trail Run at Chestnut Ridge
The Third Annual Trail Run is scheduled for Nov. 17 beginning at 10 a.m. This is a four-mile run along the camp’s scenic trails. Proceeds from the race will benefit the “Pass It On” Annual Fund which supports the camping ministry, enhances facilities and equipment, and helps send children and youth to camp through the campership scholarship program. To read all the details, go to Trail Run.
Conference Insurance Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment (OE) packets have been mailed to participants, clergy and many lay employees, active in the Conference Insurance program. Open Enrollment is held each year from Nov. 1 – 30. Participants can make changes to coverage during November for an effective date of Jan. 1, 2013. Two health plans will be offered in 2013 (rates the same as 2012). Participants who wish to remain in the same plan during 2013, do not need to take any action. The current BASE or Buy-Up election will carry forward. Those wishing to change plans for 2013, can refer to the instructions in the OE packet. New rules affecting Flexible and Medical Reimbursement Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care Account, and other detailed information can be accessed from the Conference Insurance page. For answers to any questions, please contact Caroline Thornton at 800-849-4433.