First United Methodist of Harrisburg

As more young people shun physical spaces of worship like the mosque or church, some turn to social media to explore their faith; however researchers say that this does not encourage inter-faith dialogue. (via BBC Stories) https://bbc.in/2VbwxHG

QuikLINK - Navigate: Unleashing The Leader In You and more! - https://mailchi.mp/98310d9d86b8/quiklink-may10-419891

We are delighted that Mayor Eric Papenfuse and Dauphin County Commissioners Jeff Haste, Mike Pries, and George Hartwick all have expressed their support for eff...orts to forestall the closure of these three important Harrisburg churches: Grace United Methodist, Derry Street United Methodist and Camp Curtin Memorial-Mitchell United Methodist, all seen here. These churches provide vital community services and they are among Pennsylvania's most prominent historic landmarks. Historic Harrisburg Association has assembled a strong consortium of friends and allies who are committed to helping these churches develop new plans and strategies for future sustainability. These and six other United Methodist churches in the Harrisburg area are required to vote on Sunday, March 17, whether to close and merge into a new centralized future location or seek a reprieve. Unfortunately, many parishioners are confused or intimidated by the voting arrangements. It is our sincere hope that more time will be granted by the Susquehanna United Methodist Conference to allow full discussion and complete strategic planning efforts to occur at each of the three churches - while keeping them open and serving the community - rather than abruptly padlocking the churches after Easter Sunday. National statistics show that less than 5% of closed churches, of any denomination, reopen once they have been closed and boarded up. Interested friends are invited to visit these churches during the Sunday services and show support. You do not need to be a church member to attend. The fact that our Mayor and our County Commissioners oppose the wholesale closure of churches and support our efforts to seek more time indicates that the best interests of the Harrisburg community are NOT being served by the hasty process in which the Susquehanna Conference is trying to expedite closure of these churches. If strategic planning proves fruitless, then - so be it - set the closing process in motion. But do not deliberately do it in such a short time frame that makes planning impossible.

Merry Christmas

Emily Watkins shares her tips for practicing faith at home. http://www.growchristians.org//three-keys-to-living-the-l/

Change the fundamental way you do church.