Together for tomorrow
The Rev. Mary Thompson, executive director of Holston Conference Camp and Retreat Ministries, announces the results of a fundraising campaign to ensure future ministry. Read announcement.
Conference assumes management of megachurch
The North Georgia Conference announced that trustees are assuming oversight of the assets of Mt. Bethel UMC, the largest-membership congregation in the conference. This move comes amid continued strife over a new pastor's appointment to the church. From UM News. Read story.
Anti-racism campaign marks one year
The anti-racism work of The United Methodist Church is just getting started after the first year of the Dismantling Racism campaign. Upcoming initiatives include a social justice agenda, more educational materials and an Advent devotional series. From UM News. Read story.
Churches getting back to normal in Loudon
Activities and attendance are rising at Loudon UMC and other area churches after the pandemic caused more than a year of cancellations. "We’re still taking precautions. We’re still distancing," said the Rev. Amy Cook. From the News-Herald. Read story.
Tenn. Wesleyan plans lessened restrictions
Tennessee Wesleyan University plans to hold a more traditional fall semester as the COVID-19 pandemic recedes and restrictions loosen, said President Harley Knowles. He's urging students and staff to receive their vaccinations. From the The Advocate & Democrat. Read story.
McClure begins Beaver Ridge leadership
The Rev. Teresa McClure preached for the first time at her new appointment, Beaver Ridge UMC in Knoxville, amid a sanctuary under renovation. “It’s interesting to give a sermon with particle board and what-not lying about," she said. From KnoxTN Today. Read story.
What happens after a person dies?
In "Ask the UMC," United Methodist Communications answers common questions in its Death and Resurrection series. For example, when a person dies, do they go directly to heaven or hell or to a holding place until Christ returns? Read response.
Pretty enough to pay for an air conditioner
When the air conditioner went out at Calvary UMC, this small church decided to follow the lead of its larger sister church and develop a sweet treat to sell at the town's big peach festival. From The Call to Cook. Read story.
Photo of the Week
Every year, the Fourth of July parade marches right past Blountville United Methodist Church. Church member Margaret Eanes "wants people to feel welcome from the lawn to the pews," says Rev. Susan Arnold. So Eanes painted stars on the church lawn. "It was so simple but impactful," Arnold said, noting that parade spectators enjoyed getting their photos made among the stars. Church members also handed out water bottles with the "Blountville UMC" label.
In Memoriam
Rev. Rosa Slavik
Age 62, July 7, 2021, Abingdon, Va. See obituary.
Rev. Randy Morris
Age 77, July 10, 2021, Galax, Va. See obituary
Rev. Bryan Wyke
Age 45, July 13, 2021, Bristol, Tenn. See obituary.
Calendar
Church Street UMC
Summer Lecture Series: Through Aug. 1
Aug. 27: Memorial Service, Ordination Service
Aug. 28: In-Person Session
Holston United Methodist Women
Mission u: July 23-24
More Resources
Job Opportunities - 2 new jobs
The Call to Cook - 1 new post
Past Issues
The Call is Holston Conference's weekly newsletter for 850 United Methodist congregations in East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and North Georgia. Contact Annette Spence, editor, at thecall@holston.org.
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