The Arkansas United Methodist is the twice-monthly newsletter of the Arkansas Conference that reaches more than 5,000 Arkansas Methodists across our state. Every other week, you’ll receive a newsletter in your inbox packed full of stories from around the Conference, and commentaries from the Bishop, the AUM Editor, clergy, laity and more!
Our goal is to bring hope and inspiration through stories of discipleship. Join us as we share the Good News!
Centershot Ministries Teaches Biblical Truths Through Bows and Arrows
Since the early 2010s, St. James UMC in Little Rock has hosted its Centershot Archery ministry for kids and adults of all ages who are interested in getting involved in the world of archery.
Understanding Our Diversity Leads to Changed Lives
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash“If I love you, I have to make you conscious of the things you don’t see” - James BaldwinWhen James Baldwin penned these words, he did so confessing the true love he had for his country, his city, and all people. But he also knew that...
Building the Kingdom of God Through Small Community Libraries
The library isn’t even open yet, but kids are arriving. They come in groups; some are dropped off by their designated grown-up, others arriving on bicycles, still more walking up to the doors. In Altheimer, a small, rural community in Jefferson County, the library has become the place to be for children who are out of school for the summer.
Ready, Set, Read Aims to Break the Summer Reading Slump
Paragould FUMC keeps kids reading when not at school
For nearly a decade, Paragould First UMC has aimed to break the summer reading slump with its Ready, Set, Read summer program, a weeklong event that encourages kids in the area to continue reading and learning during the summer months.
The View Is Always Better at the Top
Have you ever looked up from the bottom of a mountain and thought to yourself “there’s no way I’m getting up there”? Life is like that sometimes, too.
Reframe and Rename Volunteering
No matter the size of your church, staff are not hired to do it all! The church is a community of Christ-followers that work together to share and teach God’s love.
A Word Audit
When I find free moments to reflect on my life and ministry, I often think about the words I use to describe what I’m experiencing. If the words are positive, uplifting and energetic, I know I feel good about what’s going on. If they are negative, it’s equally obvious. And if they are snarky (and, yes, that’s a theologically appropriate term), I know there’s something going on in me I need to figure out.
The Arkansas Conference Staff Shares What They’ve Learned From Caste: The Origins of our Discontents
Staff book study furthers the discussion on racism and caste systems in the United States
Desiring to further explore issues of racism and caste in the United States after our study on implicit bias ended, the Arkansas Conference staff began a new book discussion series exploring author Isabel Wilkerson’s New York Times best-selling novel Caste: The Origins of our Discontents.
Jacksonville First Turns Sunday Morning Worship Into A Churchwide Vacation Bible School
Intergenerational worship is the goal of this year's VBS
Vacation Bible School is one of the hallmarks of summer vacation for kids, but oftentimes it takes place outside of the traditional church service, leading many parents and church members unaware of the wonderful ministry taking place inside their church. That’s why Jacksonville First UMC decided this year to make Vacation Bible School and Sunday morning worship one and the same, integrating a typically week-long VBS into a 5-week Sunday morning worship experience.
My Juneteenth
A personal reflection on why we celebrate June 19
June 19, 2021, marks my 52nd birthday. I imagine like most people, the idea of a birthday is filled with cake, candles, well wishes and, of course, who can forget the presents. As my son puts it, you’re “celebrating your first breath day.” The day should promote feelings of joy, relationship and reflection on how far you have come and how blessed you really are. However, despite the family, friends, gifts, and fellowship this day, June 19 has always held an extra significance in my life.