EPA’s Board of Ordained Ministry will again offer its study of the sacrament of Baptism this fall. By Water & the Spirit: Theology & Practice of Baptism will be presented via Zoom on two Saturdays, October 28 and November 11, …
Living into Baptism through Diakonia
Diakonia is a strange Greek word. It is often translated as service. But diakonia means much more than simply doing things for others. It is an essential part of Christian identity and discipleship. It is about who we are and …
Use new Breakthrough worship resources to celebrate Laity Sunday in October
The United Methodist Church will observe Laity Sunday October 15, and churches in Eastern PA and Greater New Jersey are invited to celebrate that special Sunday—on any convenient Sunday in October—with the theme “All the World Needs Our Witness.” Drawn …
‘In old age they still produce fruit’
‘In old age they still produce fruit…” —Psalm 92:14 My wife Joan and I, as we approach retirement, are venturing deep into the previously-foreign world of Social Security and Medicare. Mercy! Where did the last forty years go? I recently …
Creating a Culture of Calling to Ministry, Part 2
“As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” —John 20:21b After his resurrection Jesus’ demonstrated his own practice of leadership succession. He lingered with his disciples to further instruct and strengthen their personal faith. And he assured them …
EPA Awardees Honored for Evangelism, Urban Ministries
About 30 people gathered April 22 for the 2023 Eastern PA Annual Conference awards ceremony at Christ United Methodist Church in Fairless Hills—a 30-minute, video-recorded ceremony where plaques and framed certificates were given out and brief remarks were shared. A …
Spiritual retreats offer weary clergy respite, renewal
“Pastors need a break. We need some sense of support and nurture.” That’s how the Rev. Peter Jamieson, pastor of Richmond UMC in Bangor, described what brought 25 EPA clergy members to scenic Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat Center April …
Workshop will help churches prepare for pastoral transitions
The EPA Transition Workshop for New Pastoral Appointments, to help churches receive new pastors, will be offered twice, May 4, at 7:00 p.m., and May 6, at 9:00 a.m., both via Zoom. Each participating church should form a transition team to attend the …
Camps to host spiritual renewal retreats for clergy
All EPA clergy are invited to three upcoming, free spiritual renewal retreats. The first, titled Rhythms of Grace, will happen on Wednesday, April 19, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat Center in Cresco. The Rev. …
Tools for Ministry returns to onsite learning for leadership
The Eastern PA Conference will close its 2023 Tools for Ministry toolbox when the trio of leadership development events ends this Saturday where the sun sets, in the West District. It’s the first major, in-person training to occur there in …