News-Archive
When not all borders can be overcome
For many years, the Miss Stone Center in Strumica (North Macedonia) has been a beacon of charity and hope - despite all the challenges that keep coming up. and that demand a lot of strength from those in charge and the staff.
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11 meters of charity
A storm that hit Serbia at the end of July 2023 caused extensive damage. The congregation of The United Methodist Church in Šid, which was also affected, did not stop at repairing the damage caused to its own church building.
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"In God is life and our hope"
This year's meeting of the Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in Poland was held in Katowice from June 2 to 4, 2023.
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16 Beds of healing and hope
Western Ukraine has so far been largely spared from the warlike actions. Nevertheless, the consequences of the war are also being felt here. Many internally displaced people have sought refuge - and need help. A small hospital built by volunteers has become a crucial place of healing and hope for many.
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Celebrating God’s Love - Giving Courage
The 94th Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in Austria met at Linz UMC from May 18-21, 2023.
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Setting the course in Czechia
The Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in Czechia met in Prague from May 12-14, 2023.
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When uncertainty gives way to new courage of faith
The United Methodist Church in North Africa is experiencing difficult times. However, signs of hope are becoming visible again and again.
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When spring is in the waiting
Stable. Unchanged. It is adjectives like these that are heard again and again when the United Methodist coordinators for the work with people who have fled Ukraine try to assess the situation in their respective countries.
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Your word keeps me alive
From April 13-16, 2023, this year's session of the Annual Conference Hungary took place in Szeged (Hungary) and Comsesti (Romania) together with delegates from The United Methodist Church in Romania.
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Behold, I make all things new
From March 30 to April 2, 2023, this year's gathering of the Serbia-North Macedonia-Albania Annual Conference was held in Padina (Serbia). Its motto reminded that, again and again, from what exists, something new grows.
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When the poor share what they have
Many people living in rural and sometimes very remote villages in Albania see no other way for themselves than to migrate and start anew in another place where the prospects for the future are better. The United Methodist Church (UMC) in Albania has open doors for these people in several cities of the country. But the Church also tries to reach out to those who want to stay in the places they call their home.
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A sad anniversary
Sowing and harvesting. Marveling and giving thanks. Celebrating and laughing. It could have been a year in which life blossomed. But it turned out differently.
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Is the new bishop actually already a bishop?
At the moment, the UMC in Central and Southern Europe is in a special situation as there are two bishops sharing the responsibility for this area. Or is it a little different again?
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Special honor for Methodist pastor
North Macedonia's President Stevo Pendarovski thanked the Churches shortly before Christmas for their commitment to peace and dialogue. A pastor of The United Methodist Church was also honored.
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Passing on the light
In North Macedonia, Christians are celebrating Christmas these days. But there is not only the grateful remembrance that Jesus came to this earth as the light of the world. There is also the encouragement to pass on the light and illuminate the darkness of these challenging times.
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Active Waiting and Preparing
People in Ukraine and the neighboring countries wait and long for peace. But it is a very active waiting and longing, focusing on meeting the needs of those suffering from this terrible war.
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Stefan Zürcher: New Bishop for a very diverse Episcopal Area
On November 20, Stefan Zürcher was consecrated bishop of The United Methodist Church (UMC) In this interview, he talks about the particular challenges of the current situation in his future Episcopal Area of Central and Southern Europe, a characteristic of his that could be especially helpful, and the future of his Church.
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Stefan Zürcher consecrated as bishop in Basel Cathedral
In a worship service on November 20, 2022, in Basel Cathedral, Rev. Stefan Zürcher (55) was consecrated as the new bishop for the UMC in Central and Southern Europe. He will succeed Bishop Patrick Streiff.
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Clear Yes to the Proposals of the Round Table
On Thursday, November 17, 2022, and Friday, November 18, 2022, delegates to the Central Conference of the UMC in Central and Southern Europe, meeting in Basel from November 16-20, 2022, considered a proposal developed by a Round Table. After lengthy, animated and at times emotional discussions and various additional loops, its proposals were accepted by a large majority.
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New bishop of the UMC in Central and Southern Europe
On November 18, delegates to the Central Conference in Basel elected Stefan Zürcher from Switzerland as bishop of the Evangelical Methodist Church in the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe. He received exactly the number of 41 votes needed for election in the 4th ballot.
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Results of the Fourth Ballot of the Election of a new Bishop
The 68 voting delegates to the extraordinary session of the Central and Southern Europe Central Conference held a fourth ballot for the election of a successor to Bishop Patrick Streiff on Friday evening, November 18, 2022.
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Results of the Third Ballot of the Election of a new Bishop
The 68 voting delegates to the extraordinary session of the Central and Southern Europe Central Conference held a third ballot for the election of a successor to Bishop Patrick Streiff on Friday evening, November 18, 2022.
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Results of the Second Ballot of the Election of a new Bishop
The 68 voting delegates to the extraordinary session of the Central and Southern Europe Central Conference held a second ballot for the election of a successor to Bishop Patrick Streiff on Friday evening, November 18, 2022.
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Results of the First Ballot of the Election of a new Bishop
The 68 voting delegates to the extraordinary session of the Central and Southern Europe Central Conference held a first ballot for the election of a successor to Bishop Patrick Streiff on Thursday evening, November 17, 2022.
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Empowered for community in turbulent times
Under the title "Empowered by the Spirit of Christ", Bishop Patrick Streiff presented today his last Episcopal Address as active United Methodist bishop of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe. He encouraged the members and friends to commit themselves to the renewing work of God’s Spirit.
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Where to - and under what leadership?
From November 16-20, 2022, nearly 100 Methodist delegates and guests from 20 countries in Europe, Africa and North America will meet in Basel, Switzerland, for an extraordinary session of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe. The most important topics are discussions and decisions on the future of the UMC in this region and the election of a new bishop.
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The District of Slovakia separates from The United Methodist Church
The district conference in Slovakia has decided on October 15, 2022, to leave the UMC and join the Global Methodist Church.
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"People got used to living with war."
In and outside Ukraine, war is becoming part of everyday life. It does, however, not lose its horror. People in the UMC in Ukraine and in neighboring countries continue to help. But the strength of the volunteers is dwindling.
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A venture in the name of God
The diaconal institution "Bethanien" in Zurich (Switzerland) celebrated its 111th anniversary in the summer of 2022. In a recently published brochure about the "Betania" in Novi Sad (Serbia), Christina Cekov from North Macedonia reminds us that its blessings reach far beyond Switzerland.
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Where Charity Defies the Waves of the Present
Strumica, a town in southeastern Macedonia, is far from any sea. Nevertheless, the Miss Stone Center, a social diaconal institution with close ties to The United Methodist Church, is facing big waves.
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Faithfulness is not Laziness
Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the leaders of the UMC in Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania have been involved in a variety of ways for refugees from Ukraine - regardless of whether these people are on their way to Western Europe, whether they want to stay in this neighboring country temporarily or long-term, or whether they are trying to return to their homeland.
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Simultaneous Short and Long-Distance Running
Facing the consequences of the war in Ukraine, Methodists in the war-torn country itself and in neighboring countries are challenged to do both – to respond to the immediate needs and to develop visions for a more long-term assistance.
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Outlook for the future
The UMC in Poland is not only at the beginning of the second century of its existence, but also had important decisions to make for the future at its Annual Conference gathering this year, held in Ełk from June 23-26, 2022.
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Because it is bright
When the duration of natural illumination from direct sunlight increases, it often has a positive effect on people - a fact also pointed out by men and women of the United Methodist Church who work with internally displaced persons in Ukraine and with refugees from Ukraine now living in neighboring countries.
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Celebrating the love of God
From May 26-29, 2022, the 93rd session of Austria Provisional Annual Conference took place in Salzburg.
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Fewer refugees - increasing need
The number of refugees is decreasing - also in Ukraine itself. But especially there, the supply situation is becoming increasingly precarious. Relief transports have therefore gained in importance in the work of the United Methodist Church.
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Annual conference in the tension between joy and consternation
The Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Czechia and Slovakia met in Bratislava from May 19-22, 2022, under the motto: "Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way!" (Isaiah 35:3).
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"Having open doors is part of our identity as Methodists".
Extraordinary aid campaigns and everyday togetherness: The commitment of Methodists to refugees in and from Ukraine does not follow a pattern. It is made possible by the staff on the ground - as well as donors worldwide.
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"Let's do what we can!"
Helping refugees over a longer period of time requires the cooperation of many. A small insight into the wide network of the UMC in Romania.
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First Annual Conference and Ordination in Albania
The joint Annual Conference session for the three countries Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania took place from 11 to 15 May 2022 – for the first time in Albania. At the same time, the first ordination of an Albanian pastor of the UMC was celebrated in the closing service.
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Continuous help for people in and from Ukraine
Is the war in Ukraine becoming "normality"? Not for the people of the UMC in the neighboring countries. Not even if their help is now more routine.
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New opportunities for meaningful help
The UMC in Poland, Czechia, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia is helping refugees on both sides of the border. As this help is continuing, both opportunities and challenges are emerging.
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Sharing the burden of the work on more shoulders
Work with Ukrainian refugees continues to dominate the agenda of many Methodists in countries directly or indirectly bordering Ukraine. The processes and structures that have been created are being refined. But the ongoing strain is also sapping strength.
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Open letter to the Wesleyan Covenant Association
In an open letter to the Wesleyan Covenant Association, the three European bishops Christian Alsted (Nordic + Baltic Area), Harald Rückert (Germany) and Patrick Streiff (Central and Southern Europe) have called for a preservation of mutual respect.
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"It's not enough just to give refugees a roof over their heads."
The war in Ukraine may already be taking a back seat for many in the West. However, more refugees are still arriving in countries near Ukraine. The most important task in many places is to give them their own access to and place in the respective society.
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A conscious decision
From April 7 to 10, 2022, the Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in Hungary took place in Budapest.
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Continuing the ministry to refugees
The context for the assistance Methodists provide in countries directly or indirectly bordering Ukraine is changing. Specialists are also raising awareness of possible psychological problems that could become more common in the future.
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Facilitating an orderly separation that is as consensual as possible.
In early April, Bulgaria and Romania decided to separate from the United Methodist Church (UMC). Bishop Patrick Streiff talks about the outstanding issues and the consequences for his Episcopal Area.
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Bulgaria and Romania have decided to leave the UMC
In an official letter dated April 7, 2022, Bishop Dr. Patrick Streiff commented on the fact that Bulgaria and Romania have decided to leave the UMC.
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"Many want to stay close to the border"
The situation in the countries near the border with Ukraine keeps changing. Many refugees hope to return quickly. However, the leaders of the UMC are focusing their relief efforts on the fact that the refugees will stay for a longer period of time.
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Help for refugees needs staying power
No matter whether their path continues or they want to stay: Together with governmental and non-governmental organizations, members and friends of the UMC help refugees from Ukraine. The task of supporting refugees who want to stay in their respective countries for a longer period of time has become more important.
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Joining personal resources to meet the great need
The number of refugees from Ukraine continues to increase. Members and friends of the UMC in the bordering countries are working in a coordinated and structured way. However, the challenges are great - and the personal resources limited.
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Methodist network of help
The war in Ukraine is driving more and more people to flee. People of the United Methodist Church are helping. This is also possible thanks to donations from the church's worldwide network. A look at Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, and Romania.
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Witness of a miracle
There are many Ukrainians and Russians living in Prague. Some Russians support the war, others do not. And even though the Czech Republic does not directly border Ukraine: The conflict is not far away - it is only a ten-hour drive to the Ukrainian border.
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Miroslava - born while fleeing
The number of people who have fled from Ukraine to neighboring countries in the west already exceeds 2 million. And yet: these are not simply "streams" or "waves". They are an unimaginable number of individual people, each with their own identity and history, who have set out to seek protection and refuge in a safe place.
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Rescue operation for Ukrainian orphans in Romania
33 orphans from a home in Kiev have now arrived safely at a Methodist facility in Sibiu, Romania. Their journey sheds an oppressive light on how vulnerable the refugees are.
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Great willingness to help
Methodists in countries bordering Ukraine are opening their churches and homes to give refugees a safe place to stay, temporarily or longer.
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Methodists in Romania offer shelter to Ukrainian refugees
Cluj-Napoca United Methodist (Romania) opened a new community center last year. Now the former hotel is once again hosting "guests" who had to flee Ukraine.
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Historical moment in Miskolc (Hungary)
On Saturday, February 5, 2022, the new church building of the United Methodist congregation of Miskolc was dedicated.
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Recognizing and doing what is possible
How have the comparatively young local churches of the UMC in Albania come through the second year of the Covid pandemic? To an open eye, the challenges facing the Church are not hidden. But there is also much that is encouraging and hopeful to be discovered.
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Rising numbers
In many European countries, the media focus is on the rising numbers of infections caused by the Omicron mutation and the measures prescribed to combat them. However, a report from North Macedonia shows that other numbers are also rising.
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Designation of a new superintendent for the UMC in Bulgaria
Pastor Erdzhan Madzharov has been designated by Bishop Patrick Streiff as the new superintendent of The United Methodist Church in Bulgaria starting in spring 2022.
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Sometimes a heartbeat is enough
Many young people in North Macedonia see no future in their country and leave their home because they hope for better prospects elsewhere. Despite this – or perhaps precisely because of it – Dejan Vasilev is committed to helping young people and young adults with a wide heart.
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The Support of the UMC Family
The Reverend Zbigniew Kaminski’s experiences as a pastor in Poland during and after communist rule demonstrate the value of an interconnected church and faith community.
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Historical Election in the Czech Republic
United Methodist Superintendent Ivana Prochazkova was elected the first vice-president of the Ecumenical Council of Churches in the Czech Republic.
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100+1 years of the UMC in the Czech Republic
This year's gathering of the Czech and Slovak Republics Annual Conference was dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the UMC in the Czech Republic. Actually, it was already 100+1 years, because the anniversary celebration had to be postponed several times due to the Covid-19 pandemic. And even now, on Saturday, November 6, 2021, it could be held only with a reduced number of visitors.
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Gratefully into the new century
From October 28 to 31, 2021, not only a gathering of the Annual Conference of the UMC in Poland was held in Warsaw, but also a special anniversary was celebrated.
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Attentive listening and respectful conversations
From October 20-23, the Executive Committee of the Central and Southern Europe Central Conference of the UMC met in Budapest. The fact that the members of this governing body were able to have an in-person meeting for the first time in 18 months contributed significantly to a helpful atmosphere for conversation.
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A beacon of hope for 20 years
When Bishop Heinrich Bolleter, then in charge of the United Methodist Church in Central and Southern Europe, conducted an opening ceremony of the "Miss Stone Center" in 2001, it marked the official beginning of a trail of blessings that has since run through the lives of many hundreds of men and women.
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From three countries on a joint journey
An abbreviated Annual Conference for Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania was held on September 10-11, 2021. Due to increasing Covid infection numbers, it could not be held for all together in Strumica (North Macedonia). Therefore, the three countries were connected in an online meeting, and the bishop presided over itfrom Zurich.
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Growing in faith and acting out of love
This year's meeting of the Bulgaria-Romania Annual Conference was held from September 2-5, 2021, in Varna (Bulgaria).
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A new beginning with a heart full of dreams
When Pastor Dariusz Zuber and his wife Monika came to Elk in northeastern Poland in July 2012, they had many dreams. But they also had eyes that saw reality.
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New Campus Community Center gets under way in Romania
On June 27, 2021, a long-held dream of the «Way of Faith» UMC in Cluj-Napoca came true, when there was the official celebration and blessing of the new Campus Community Center.
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Retired UMC Pastor in Hungary Recounts Life in Ministry During, After Communist Rule
The call from Jeremiah to promote the welfare of the city serves as a life motto for the now-retired Hungarian pastor István Csernák. His service spanned more than four decades. In that time, he saw his country transition out of communism and toward a representative democracy. At the same time, his Church transitioned from one of reclusive worship to one able to openly share the Gospel of Christ.
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Welcome to stay
Due to continuing restrictions, this year's meeting of Switzerland-France-North Africa Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church took place in a hybrid format - about 100 people were present in Thun (Switzerland); the remaining members participated online.
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Sharing faith in challenging times
Of course, one can always look at what is NOT possible. But no one is forced to do so....
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Refuge in the former fortress
What began in the 14th century with a wooden fortress and a farm has developed into an important refuge on the eastern edge of Czechia’s capital Prague: the Center for Christian Aid in Horni Pocernice.
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Recognizing God's work in the unexpected
You have to allow the unexpected to happen in order to fully understand the miracle of life, Paulo Coelho once said. Zoltán Kurdi, pastor of the UMC in Hungary, has probably been blessed by the unexpected too many times to contradict the Brazilian writer.
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Thankfulness for the traces of blessing
During his ministry as pastor and Bishop, Heinrich Bolleter has left many traces of blessing. This is also underlined by the testimonies of some women and men who shared a piece of the path with him.
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We are on a good path
On Thursday, May 13, 2021, retired Bishop Heinrich Bolleter will celebrate his 80th birthday. He concluded many an exchange of views at conferences in his home country and abroad with the words "We are on a good path!" – and perhaps precisely in this way made it clear time and again that faith and trust are not a possession, but a process.
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Reasons for hope and gratitude
This year's meeting of the Annual Conference Hungary was held in an abbreviated and hybrid manner due to Corona. There was a session of clergy members on Friday, April 23, 2021, and an abbreviated one-day session on Saturday, April 24, 2021.
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Is there a common path for the time after the pandemic?
The UMC in Central and Southern Europe is affected by the impact of the current pandemic - and likewise, upcoming decisions on issues of human sexuality are putting the diverse relationships to the test.
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Further postponement of General Conference and its implications
Following a further postponement of General Conference 2020 to August 29-September 6, 2022, Bishop Patrick Streiff wrote a letter to the members and friends of the UMC in Central and Southern Europe, by which he shared his thoughts about the impact on his own episcopal ministry.
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Message of European Bishops
There is movement in the international debate about a threatening split of the UMC. Three European bishops plead for a respectful coexistence.
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Warmth and hope in Bulgaria
On the edge of Antarctica, Lyaskovets Peak (1473m) can be found - a mountain named after the small Bulgarian town of Lyaskovets. It is true that the average annual temperature in central Bulgaria is not -50° Celsius as it is in the Antarctic interior. But there is a coldness here and there that cannot be measured with a thermometer. A small Methodist church feels called to make a difference by sharing warmth and hope in Lyaskovets.
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Reliability in the midst of uncertainty
The year 2020 proved to be a considerable challenge for the leaders of the Miss Stone Center in Strumica (North Macedonia). Despite high caseloads, however, the UMC's diaconal facility was able to care for more than 200 people without interruption – and continues to do so.
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Trusting in God instead of despairing of Him
Her path led her from the Christ Church in Vrbas (Serbia) to the Peace Church in Konstanz (Germany). She could have often despaired in the face of circumstances, but instead, even in times of great need, she trusted that God would always be near her and never leave her. On November 29, 2020, she passed away in her 99th year: Maria Schwertfeger.
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The UMC in Germany preserves unity by respectful coexistence as a way forward
The United Methodist Church in Germany will become more open and inclusive on matters relating to human sexuality while providing structures aimed at accommodating those members and congregations from a more traditional, conservative perspective.
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What do we teach and how do we teach?
The Annual Conference meeting in Austria had to be postponed in May – as in all other countries of Central and Southern Europe. Nevertheless, there are interesting things to report about how the Methodists are doing in Austria in the current situation. An online study day on October 10, 2020, provided an opportunity for joint discussion.
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High Award for Bishop Patrick Streiff
On Tuesday, October 6, 2020, Bishop Patrick Streiff was honored for his long-standing commitment to the people of Hungary with the country's highest State Order also awarded to foreign citizens: the Hungarian Order of Merit.
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Hope Church in Budapest – Church of Hope
In Budapest (Hungary), there are three congregations of The United Methodist Church. The Hope Church is the smallest of them - but it has an amazing radiance, because it does not only carry hope in its name, but also lives it credibly.
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Representative of the UMC in the Czech Republic assumes ecumenical leadership position
Petr Procházka, Superintendent of the United Methodist Church in the Czech Republic, was elected Vice-President of the Ecumenical Council of Churches of his country.
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And suddenly the door is closed
Many refugees on their way to Western Europe have to realize after a long and troublesome journey that the situation has suddenly changed and that doors, which seemed to be open, are now closed.
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A Word to our United Methodist Churches
During a meeting on partnerships between United Methodist local churches in the United States and Central and Southern Europe, I heard the news of the terrorist attacks in Paris.
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National Harvest Thanksgiving Day and the Migrants
On Saturday, October 10, 2015, the National Harvest Thanksgiving Day took place at Budapest-Obuda UMC (Hungary).
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Helping today – and already thinking about tomorrow
Along the travel route of the refugees from various countries, members and friends of the UMC, together with many other people, are sharing hope and love of neighbor.
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Flexibility and love of neighbor
The current refugee crisis is marked by the reality that what was yesterday may be completely different tomorrow.
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Emergency aid on the long journey to Western Europe
They can be seen everywhere – the photos of people who have left their home in order to find, after a burdensome journey, refuge and help in Western Europe.
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Days of Renewal in Poland
The end of August is a special time for The United Methodist Church in Poland.
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70 years of witness and service in Masuria
When Polish Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church (UMC) met from June 26 to 28, 2015, it was not by chance that Ostroda was chosen as conference site.
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"Worthy Recipients» of the World Methodist Peace Award
On Friday, June 19, 2015, retired missionaries Hugh and Shirliann Johnson were honored with the World Methodist Peace Award of the World Methodist Council.
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Three Bishops of Central and Southern Europe
On Saturday, June 20, 2015, members of Switzerland-France-North Africa Annual Conferences and visitors experienced a touching moment.
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Our Hope in Christ
Czech Republic-Slovakia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church met from June 5 to 7, 2015, in Bratislava (Slovakia).
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«And he taught them» – Annual Conference in Austria
The 86th Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church in Austria took place from May 28 to 31, 2015, in Vienna.
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Pastoral Letter on Racism
The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church published a Pastoral Letter on Racism.
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Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors.
Slovakia and Serbia do not border on each other. But in both countries there are Slovak-speaking United Methodist ministries.
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Establishing new churches in Hungary
«Church planting» was the main theme of this year’s meeting of Hungary Provisional Annual Conference, which took place from April 23 to 26, 2015, in Budakeszi.
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Between cabbage and cucumbers – Annual Conference in Monospitovo (Macedonia)
For the first time after 26 years, the meeting of the Provisional Annual Conference Serbia-Macedonia took place in Monospitovo, a farm town in the Strumica Valley.
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International Roma Day
April 8 is the International Roma Day. What does this date mean, and what are the aims of this special day?
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The Church in the Contemporary World – Annual Conference Bulgaria-Romania
This year’s gathering of Bulgaria-Romania Provisional Annual Conference took place from April 2-5, 2015, in Shumen (Bulgaria).
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There is Room at the Table – Sharing the Gifts Together
From March 12-15, 2015, the annual meeting of the Executive Committee of Central and Southern Europe Central Conference of the UMC took place in Poland.
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No Name
These days a new project list of the Fund for Mission in Europe has been published - an opportunity to get to know various ministries throughout Europe.
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Relevant Relationships
In November 2014, the United Methodist congregation «Light from Light» was established in Sibiu (Romania).
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Training young leaders for the future
Growing out of a very dynamic youth ministry among Russian-speaking youth in Estonia, a new and groundbreaking program has been developed.
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Advent Meeting in Poland
Advent is a special time in the life of the United Methodist Church in Poland.
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Light of Light - UMC Sibiu (Romania)
On November 23, 2014, the second urban United Methodist Church in Romania was established in the beautiful city of Sibiu.
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Sharing an Advent Journey
Last year a number of men and women of the UMC in East Central Europe and in the Balkans had prepared a brochure with Advent meditations.
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The UMC in Romania grows
When the United Methodist Church was officially established in Romania in 2011, it consisted of two communities in Cluj and Micesti. However, the vision was to found other local churches. In Sibiu, this step can be done soon.
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Bishops release human sexuality statement
The Council of Bishops issued a statement concerning human sexuality, addressing their diverse perspectives and calling the people of The United Methodist Church to be in prayer, both for their leaders and for one another.
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Encounters of local churches strengthen the connection
On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe, 60 local churches participated in encounters
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Dedication of Roma Church in Alsozsolca (Hungary)
The dedication of the new church building of the United Methodist congregation in Alsozsolca was planned to take place on October 11, 2014
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2014 WMC Peace Award to Hugh and Shirliann Johnson
Dr. Hugh G. Johnson and his wife Shirliann have been named as co-recipients of the 2014 World Methodist Peace Award.
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Dobrich - three months after the flood
Three months ago heavy rains lead to a devastating flood in Dobrich/Bulgaria. Milen Stefanov reports about this sad day – and about what happened afterwards.
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A New Church in Gerlachov (Slovakia)
The three days from September 5 to 7, 2014, have become most memorable for Methodists in Slovakia.
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Oases of hope
How men and women in Serbia provide oases of hope for people of all generations.
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UMC building in Bulgaria collapsed
The first days of August once again brought heavy rains to Bulgaria, which caused severe floods in the area of Mizia. The UMC church house collapsed.
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UMC in Poland: Closer to God, Closer to the People...
From June 27-29, 2014, the Annual Conference of the UMC in Poland met in Klarysew near Warsaw.
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Commemorating World War I
On the occasion of the Centenary of the World War I the European Methodist Council has released a statement.
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Devastating Floods in Bulgaria
On Thursday, June 19, there have been hailstorms and heavy rain in several parts of Bulgaria. In the regions of Varna and Burgas, the equivalent of a month’s rain fell within 24 hours. This led to heavy floods.
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On the way to the people
About 60 lay members and pastors participated in this year’s Annual Conference of the UMC in the Czech Republic and in Slovakia.
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Annual Conference in Austria
With an impressive service on Sunday, May 25, 2014, the Annual Conference of the UMC in Austria came to an end.
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Grief and Sorrow in the Balkans
The disastrous floods in Bosnia-Hercegovina, Croatia, and Serbia are causing incredible devastations, and the long-term implications are only hardly assessable.
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Attracting attention by being a credible community
«If we walk in the light (…) we have fellowship with one another.» This verse from 1 John 1 is the motto of the UMC in Hungary in 2014, and it was also the motto of this year's Annual Conference.
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Reaching out to the people for 115 years
«Be holy!» was the theme of this year's meeting of the Provisional Annual Conference Serbia-Macedonia, which took place from April 3 to 6, 2014, in Kisač (Serbia).
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To Conquer New Frontiers
This year’s gathering of Bulgaria-Romania Provisional Annual Conference took place from March 21-23, 2014, in Varna (Bulgaria).
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…but you are allowed to love!
The annual meeting of the Executive Committee of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe (CC CSE) took place from March 13-16, 2014, in Sofia.
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Remembering the Faith of a Leader
February 26 is the day of remembrance of late President Boris Trajkovski's tragic death.
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So that Steps Can Be Taken
They were completely different. They did not know each other. But those who saw them quite accidentally could learn an important lesson.
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What does it mean to be a Methodist in Slovakia?
Donations from all over Europe helped strengthening the identity and the witness of the UMC in Slovakia.
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Training Leaders for the Future
In Estonia, the first Baltic School of Congregational Development took place – and with more than 100 participants it proved to be a real success
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Honor for Bishop Patrick Streiff
Within the frame of the «International Convocation» of Martin Methodist College in Pulaski (Tennessee) Bishop Patrick Streiff was honored...
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More than a Study Program
The theological education of future pastors in Eastern Central Europe and in the Balkans is an important priority...
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Days of Renewal in Poland
In late August 2013, about 230 people from 27 Methodist congregations participated in this year’s «Days of Renewal» of the United Methodist Church in Spała.
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Unity was preserved and will be carried on
The Annual Conference in Poland will remain part of the global United Methodist Church and change its internal regulations according to the Book of Discipline.
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Dignity would be if...
The Annual Conference Switzerland-France-North Africa met from June 6-9, 2013, in Berne (Switzerland).
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Mission and Identity in Czech Republic and Slovakia
The Czech and Slovak Republics Annual Conference met from May 31 to June 2, 2013, in Prague.
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Third World Conference on Inter-Religious and Inter-Civilization Dialogue
250 political and religious leaders met from May 10-12, 2013, in Skopje (Macedonia).
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Annual Conference 2013 in Hungary
«Younger, more educated and more caring», this could be the headlines on the Hungarian Methodists after the 2011 census.
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Stewards of the Good News
About 50 people participated in the 2013 session of the Provisional Annual Conference Bulgaria-Romania taking place from April 12-14, 2013, in Lyaskovets.
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Change in the Leadership of the UMC in Slovakia
In May 2007 Pastor Robert Zachar was appointed as superintendent of the United Methodist Church in Slovakia – after about six years of service he will hand over this responsibility to Professor Pavel Prochazka.
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Faith, Hope, Love - these three
From March 13-17, 2013, 110 delegates and guests from 20 countries gathered in Winterthur for the 17th session of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe.
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An Opportunity for Learning and Sharing
«Come and see!» This invitation has been extended countless times in the past 2000 years. People of all generations have been so much touched by God’s love that they wanted other people to have this experience as well.
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On the Way like Migrating Birds
The invitation to the 2013 session of Serbia/Macedonia Provisional Annual Conference included an illustration of migrating birds lighting on a wire for a stopover.
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Albania: Baptism in the Municipal Theatre
The people of Pogradec UMC had a very special second Sunday in Advent 2012: 29 men and women were baptized in the municipal theatre – the church hall was too small.
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Czech Republic: Restitution Bill passed
Twenty three years after the fall of communism the Czech Parliament passed an act restoring the property confiscated under communism to churches and regulating a gradual financial separation of the church from the state.
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Poland Annual Conference: Changes and Challenges
About 50 members of Poland Annual Conference gathered from May 31 to June 3, 2012, in the rooms of the former Theological Seminary in Klarysew (near Warsaw). The theme of the conference was «Invited! Changed... Changing?»
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To ground heaven – Annual Conference in Austria
The members of Austria Provisional Annual Conference met from May 17 to 20, 2012, in Linz under the motto «To ground heaven – our diaconal task».
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Slovakia: Meeting of the Annual Conference CZ/SK in Michalovce
The Annual Conference Czech Republic/Slovakia met from May 11 to 13, 2012, in Michalovce under the leadership of Bishop Patrick Streiff.
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Hungary: The Church's One Foundation is Jesus Christ!
About 55 members and guests participated in the annual meeting of Hungary Provisional Annual Conference taking place from April 11 to 14, 2012, in Szeged/Hungary.
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Bulgaria: «To be a Church together»
«To be a church together» – this was the motto of the Annual Conference meeting, which was held from March 30 to April 1, 2012, in Pleven/Bulgaria.
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Radical Hospitality in Kisač (Serbia)
For the first time, members of the Executive Committee of Central and Southern Europe Central Conference travelled to Serbia to hold their annual meeting.
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Hungary: UMC Regains State Recognition
The United Methodist Church in Hungary has regained official state recognition, after having been removed from the list of «privileged» religious groups by Parliament in the summer of 2011.
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Passing on the Love
Doing good in the name of God can result in fundamental changes – in the lives of those who receive help, but very often far beyond these lives, as well. This is also the experience of Liepa UMC in Latvia.
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Bishop Heinrich Bolleter retires as WMC Geneva Secretary
After five years of dedicated work, Bishop Heinrich Bolleter has retired as Geneva Secretary of the World Methodist Council, with effect from the end of January 2012.
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It is only with the heart that one can see rightly
«Seek the Lord with all your heart!» was the theme of this year’s meeting of Serbia/Macedonia AC, which took place from September 22-25, 2011, in Kisac (Serbia).
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Establishment of the UMC in Romania
The United Methodist Church in Romania was born during the morning worship service on September 4, 2011 in Cluj.
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Pleven/Bulgaria: A Culture of Persistence and Hope
On July 10, 2011, a hot summer day, the United Methodist Church building in Pleven (Bulgaria) was rededicated with the assistance of 20 Methodist guests from West Market Street UMC, Greensboro, NC (USA).
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Anniversary Conference in Poland
The 90th Annual Conference in Poland was characterized by the remembrance of the past and by an outlook into the future.
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Czech and Slovak Republics Annual Conference
The Czech and Slovak Republics Annual Conference met from May 27 to 29, 2011, in Prague.
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Meeting of the Annual Conference in Austria
«With heart, mouth and hands – believing, communicating and acting together.»
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The UMC in Albania - Hope in Times of Uncertainty
On the background of uncertainty the UMC in Albania is trying to light a beacon of hope.
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New members join the UMC in Strumica (Macedonia)
«What does it mean to be a member of the United Methodist Church?»
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Methodist e-Academy welcomes first full class
The Methodist e-Academy, a program using technology to provide theological studies to clergy and seminary students in Europe, expects a full class of 30 students to be enrolled for the first regular classes in October.
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...and they came, old and young
On Sunday, April 17, 2011, the Roma congregation of Alsószolca/Hungary celebrated the laying of the foundation stone of its new church building and community center.
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A young generation is taking over responsibility - Annual Conference in Hungary
The Provisional Annual Conference of the UMC in Hungary met from April 13 to 16, 2011, in Kaposvar/Hungary.
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«To live for Christ» - Annual Conference of the UMC in Bulgaria
The Provisional Annual Conference in Bulgaria met from April 8 to 10, 2011, in Sofia under the theme «To live for Christ».
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Consultation on the Ministry with Roma
The UMC in Hungary hosted an international Consultation on the Ministry with Roma in Central and Southern Europe.
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Holocaust Memorial Center for the Jews from Macedonia
On March 10, 2011, a Memorial Center for the Jews from Macedonia was officially opened.
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Tension and Uncertainty in Tunisia
The United Methodist missionaries Jacqueline and Isaac Agré witness the current situation of tension and uncertainty in Tunisia.
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Dedication of the new Church in Kovacica/Serbia
December 19, 2010, was the highlight of a very unique year for Kovacica UMC in Serbia: it was the day of the dedication of the new sanctuary and church building with a parsonage.
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Church Growth in Albania
The fourth Sunday in Advent was a special Sunday for the UMC in Pogradec.
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First Worship Service in the Renewed Church of Pleven
Sunday, December 19, 2010, was a special day for Pleven UMC: In the presence of Bishop Patrick Streiff the first worship service was celebrated in the renewed church building.
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Discontinuation of the Methodist work in Croatia
After 15 years of tireless efforts to establish a Methodist presence in Croatia the congregational work has been officially discontinued in Fall 2010.
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New Employee in the Office of the Bishop in Zurich
On September 15, 2010, Thomas Rodemeyer will take up employment in the Office of Bishop Patrick Streiff in Zurich.
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A historic Annual Conference in Poland
The 89th session of the Annual Conference in Poland, which took place from June 18 to 20, 2010, in Katowice, made history.
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Joyful signs of life of a courageous Church
The Austria Provisional Annual Conference met from June 3 to 6, 2010, in Vienna under the intentionally ambivalent theme «Living Christ».
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Characteristics of fruitful congregations
The Czech and Sloval Republics Annual Conference, which met from May 28 to 30, 2010, spent a vast amount of time thinking about the «Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations».
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Faith produces abundance
«Faith produces abundance» – this would probably be an appropriate headline for the Annual Conference in Hungary.
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Second World Conference on Inter-Faith and Inter-Civilization Dialogue in Macedonia
In the historic place of Ohrid a meeting of 500 political and religious leaders from 30 nations took place from May 6-9, 2010.
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Change of Generations in Bulgaria
From April 16 to 17, 2010, the 58th meeting of the Bulgaria Provisional Annual Conference took place in Russe.
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«God's renewed Creation» - Meditation and Action
From March 11 to 14, 2010, the Executive Committee of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe met in Birsfelden-Basel/Switzerland.
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News from Albania
The mission work of the United Methodist Church in Albania is challenged by difficult economic and social circumstances, but there are also positive developments:
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Annual Conference in Poland
The 88th session of the Annual Conference in Poland took place from June 19 to 21, 2009 in Ostroda. The theme of the Conference was «Seek God and you will live».
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Annual Conference in Switzerland
The Switzerland-France Annual Conference met from June 4 to 7, 2009, in Dübendorf and Zurich / Switzerland.
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Annual Conference in the Czech Republic
The Czech and Slovak Republics Annual Conference met from May 29 to 31, 2009, in Prague / Czech Republic.
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Annual Conference in Austria
The Austria Provisional Annual Conference met from May 21 to 24, 2009, in Graz / Austria.
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Annual Conference in Hungary
The Hungary Provisional Annual Conference met April 22-25, 2009, in Budapest.
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Annual Conference in Bulgaria
The Bulgaria Provisional Annual Conference met from April 3–5, 2009, in Veliko Tarnovo / Bulgaria.
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Small but Committed
When United Methodist Bishop Patrick Streiff spoke recently to church members from Central and Southern Europe, he used the well-known story of Jesus multiplying the loaves and fishes to illustrate their own situation.
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Special Award for the United Methodist Church in Macedonia
On Thursday, December 11, 2008, the «Miss Stone Centre» of the United Methodist Church in Macedonia was awarded with a special prize of the City of Strumica.
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Fire in Varna/Bulgaria
On August 14, 2007, there was a serious fire in Varna on which national TV and radio stations and newspaper but also Internet services reported.
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Registration of the UMC in Serbia
On Monday, February 5, 2007, the Superintendent of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Serbia, Ana Palik-Kuncak, was invited to a meeting with the Minister of Religion of the Republic of Serbia, Milan Radulovic.
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New Homepage about Methodism in Macedonia
Carol Partridge, missionary of the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church is assigned to the United Methodist Church in Macedonia as Director of Christian Education.
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A better future for Hungary?
It started with a speech of the Prime Minister in May 2006 which was released to the public some days ago - and which caused an eruption of frustration and disappointment.
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In Mission Together
Partnership can be much more than sending money from a «rich» partner church to a «poor» partner church.
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Second Inter-Confessional Meeting in Macedonia
Some significant changes are taking place among members of the various religious communities in the Republic of Macedonia.
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New Law on Religion in Serbia
At the end of April 2006 the Serbian president Boris Tadic signed a new Law on Churches and Religious Communities which separates the churches and communities in two categories.
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First-ever French United Methodist songbook
Recently the first-ever French-language United Methodist songbook entitled «Mille voix... pour Te chanter» (A Thousand Tongues to Sing to You) was published.
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Bishop Dr. Streiff entered upon office
Today, Dr. Patrick Streiff (Biel/Switzerland) entered upon office as the new Bishop of the United Methodist Church in the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe.
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Floods in South-Eastern Europe
The news from the floods in South-Eastern Europe may have disappeared from the big TV and newspaper headlines — however the situation for those living in this area is still very difficult.
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