United Methodist leaders have adopted a new vision for the denomination to “love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.” "This new vision is not simply a statement or a plan, it is a catalyst for transformation,” said Bishop Tracy Smith Malone, President of the Council of Bishops - The United Methodist Church. Leaders prayerfully led listening sessions across The UMC and drew on the counsel of Bible passages in crafting the statement. It is designed to complement The UMC's nearly 30-year-old mission statement: "The mission of The United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." Find out more: https://www.umnews.org/en/news/bishops-unveil-vision-for-united-methodist-church Connectional Table (fb)

On this #BlessingDay and #GlobalLoveDay, we're happy to share in the blessed joy of God's love... which extends to us all. In this picture: A sign at Hamptons United Methodist Church in Southampton, N.Y., provides a message of love 24-7, 365 days a year to contrast local messages of bigotry and hate. Photo courtesy of the Rev. Joanne Utley, Hamptons United Methodist Church. Read more about churches building bridges of love: https://www.umnews.org/en/news/churches-build-bridges-to-counter-hate Hamptons United Methodist Church (fb)