Arkansas United Methodist
The Arkansas United Methodist is the monthly publication of the Arkansas Conference, designed to bring the good news of the faith and witness of United Methodists across our state.
School bus stop ministry keeps kids happy and full
For Andrea Gentry, a former teacher, kids have always been near and dear to her heart. “I love helping people, and this was a neat and ongoing experience where I could help kids on a regular basis and eventually develop relationships with these kids,” Gentry said....
Love & Immigration
How two people from different countries found love and navigated the complicated U.S. immigration system
The Rev. Taylor Loy didn’t realize it yet, but he was about to meet his future wife. At the time, Taylor was a seminary student at Duke Divinity School. Part of the academic requirements for students is to enter into an internship program to get practical ministry...
Spring symbols remind us of Resurrection
When the weather turns warmer and the grass grows greener, it’s easier to understand the promise of new life and renewed hope that Christians proclaim as “Easter people.” The reminders are all around us so be sure to keep an eye out on your next spring stroll. Birds...
A life-changing experience at Perkins School for the Laity
When I received the email inviting me to apply for one of the scholarships offered via the Arkansas United Methodist Church foundation to attend the Perkins Theological School for the Laity, I didn’t hesitate. Yes, I wrote back, I was most definitely interested. It...
Getting Up and Giving Back
Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter – when you see...
Lifting up singles in the church
A few simple ways to help singles feel more welcome and wanted
On my last Sunday in my first appointment, my family drove to attend my last church service there and to accompany me on my move to a new city. After worship, several members approached my parents with well wishes and compliments. However, a few well-intentioned...
United Methodist Women celebrate 150 years of service
On March 23, 2019, the United Methodist Women celebrated its 150th anniversary with a special Day of Giving and reflection on the many strong female leaders that have been a part of the organization since its inception. The beginning of UMW, as we know it today, came...
A time, and a season, for everything
Like many wonderful things in life, there are two sides to every coin. Spring is no exception. On the one hand, I love the warmer weather. I love hearing the sounds of birds singing again, and the vibrant green growth popping up all over Arkansas on once bare and cold...
2019 Arkansas Conference Ordinands and Provisional Members
The 2019 Ordinands and Provisional Members will be ordained and commissioned at this year’s Annual Conference. Read about the 2019 ordinands and provisional members on the next few pages. 2019 Ordinands Katye...
The “Realer” Life of the Resurrection
I’ve been thinking a lot about real life. Things like cancer, the opioid crisis, sex trafficking, my own mortality, and what the division in the United Methodist Church means for the future. I’ll be honest, doing this can be hazardous for my spiritual health; or, at...