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Fixing to begin a new year
Traditionally, Holston Conference clergy appointments are official when the bishop bangs the gavel at the conclusion of a four-day Annual Conference in Lake Junaluska. This year, however, the "fixing" was a little different, and pastors took to social media to finally announce their news. From The Call. Read story.
Virtual Annual Conference: Today at 1 p.m.
Today's virtual session of the Holston Annual Conference begins at 1 p.m. EST. For more information and a link to the live stream, visit AC.Holston.org.
Bishop Taylor announces retirement
On June 3, Bishop Mary Virginia "Dindy" Taylor announced her retirement, effective Sept. 1, 2021. Read statement.
How sweet it is: United Methodists and bees
Holston has a few beekeepers of its own, who will probably enjoy this story and video from UM News. "I never feel more connected to the earth and to God than when I'm surrounded by a million venomous insects," says Jay Williams. See story, video.
Hanke looks back at UM Men tenure
The chief executive of United Methodist Men, who is preparing to retire, looks back over his decade-plus tenure. Gilbert C. Hanke's accomplishments include establishing regular virtual class meetings for thousands of men. From UM News. Read story.
6 ways white people can observe Juneteenth
Juneteenth (June 19) marks the day in 1865 when U.S. federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to take control of the state and ensure all African Americans were freed. The General Commission on Religion and Race offers background and tips for honoring the holiday. Read article.
Saying 'I'm proud of you' to LGBTQ youth
The Rev. Catherine Nance remembers how her father was always so proud of her and worries about the LGBTQ youth who don't have the same. Research shows suicide risk is higher in LGBTQ youth, yet acceptance from an adult lowers the risk. From Church Street UMC and The Call. Read commentary.
Photo of the Week
This year's Annual Conference image was photographed by the Rev. Sarah Slack at Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. The theme was chosen by the planning team because "God has remained in the midst of us through the pandemic," Slack said. The light streaming through Magnolia Avenue's window reflects that. Slack is associate pastor at First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee.
In Memoriam
Rev. William Shupe
Age 69, June 3, Fries, Va. See obituary.
Rev. Missy Shelton Belote
Age 44, June 4, Kingsport, Tenn. See obituary.
Age 69, June 3, Fries, Va. See obituary.
Rev. Missy Shelton Belote
Age 44, June 4, Kingsport, Tenn. See obituary.
Calendar
Annual Conference
June 12: Virtual Session
Aug. 27: Memorial Service, Ordination Service
Aug. 28: In-Person Session
Holston Youth Ministry
Assembly: June 28-July 2
Holston United Methodist Women
Mission u: July 23-24
Holston Calendar
UMC Calendar
June 12: Virtual Session
Aug. 27: Memorial Service, Ordination Service
Aug. 28: In-Person Session
Holston Youth Ministry
Assembly: June 28-July 2
Holston United Methodist Women
Mission u: July 23-24
Holston Calendar
UMC Calendar
More Resources
Job Opportunities - 2 new jobs
The Call to Cook - 1 new post
Holston Conference
United Methodist News Service
The United Methodist Church
The Call to Cook - 1 new post
Holston Conference
United Methodist News Service
The United Methodist Church
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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