Spark 2023: Spark 2023 is a wrap! Over 300 youth and their leaders spent last weekend worshiping, learning, praying and having fun together. See photo album.
In Focus Publication Now Available Online: In Focus, a publication of the WPAUMC communications department, brings news and feature stories from around Western PA, messages from our Bishop and other leaders, and information on upcoming events. Five editions will be published in 2023. See latest edition.
Two Complete Foundation's Laity Leadership Academy: In 2019 the United Methodist Foundation of Pennsylvania School of Leadership launched a Laity Leadership Academy designed to empower laity to lead the churches of our Connection in the ever-changing landscape of congregational life. This month, two individuals received certificates for completing the program. Read more.
Lenten Devotional: The communications team is compiling a Lenten devotional written by the clergy and laity of the Western PA Annual Conference. There is still space available, so please send your submission to communications@wpaumc.org by this Friday, February 3.
Is The UMC Really… In the eighth part of this series, Ask The UMC addresses questions surrounding the disaffiliation process in central conferences and “extended” or “alternative” disaffiliation policies beyond 2023 in four annual conferences in the United States. Read more.
Church Leaders Mourn Tyre Nichols, Seek Change: United Methodists across the U.S. have joined in grief and prayers for Tyre Nichols and his family in the days since the release of video footage showing Memphis police beating him. Some called for the passage of federal legislation to change law enforcement practices. Some recalled their own experience with police violence. All called for justice and the recognition of Black people’s humanity. Read more.
Black Church History: Trinity Asbury Legacy Continues: In this blog post first published in 2021, Rev. Dr. Susan Moudry details the history of Western Pennsylvania Methodism and one of its historically black congregations, rich with history: Trinity Asbury in Johnstown. The church was founded in 1921 by the Rev. C.O. Brady and originally met in a private home, with the parsonage upstairs and the worship space on the first floor. Read story.
Black History Month Resources: Black History month has begun! Check out the Conference Resource page for resources, including links to Resource UMC, the National History Museum of African American Culture and History, and the African American Methodist Heritage Center. See resources.
Stand Up! Songs of Social Justice Concert: A Community-wide Concert will take place on Saturday, February 11th, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Faith UMC, featuring the Essence of Joy Alumni Singers. Learn more.
Lent resources: The Lenten season begins in three weeks and we have compiled resources for your congregational and personal use. Continue to check back for additions. See resources.
Communications Survey: The communications team of the Western PA Conference is interested in hearing your input! Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey so that we may better tailor our efforts to your communications needs. Take survey.
What’s Going on in Your Congregation? The WPAUMC Communications team is always looking to highlight the amazing mission and ministry happening in our local churches. Something special happening soon? Is there an exciting ministry you want to share with the connection? We want to hear from you. Email us your tips and stories at communications@wpaumc.org.