Stories

Cyclone Freddy aid reaches Madagascar
Funds from UMCOR provided food for more than 150 families affected by the deadly storm.
Blessing of the calima
The Rev. Dr. Krista Givens, a missionary in Torrevieja, Spain, reflects on a weather phenomenon that reminds her of the people of the Sahara Desert and the fact that God has a way of connecting us all across the earth.
A missionary’s transformation through 23 years of mission service
When missionaries are commissioned, they have useful gifts, skills and mindsets to help then serve. But as they continue to serve a community, God transforms them in ways they could not have imagined. The Rev. Jaehyoung Choi describes his mission journey and the transformations he’s undergone with God’s help.
Hope rooted in justice and peace
Missionary Joy Eva Bohol advocates for increased voice and vote in church and society for youth and young adults around the world, and particularly for Indigenous youth who walk a fine line between cultural traditions and professional aspirations.
Reinvestment in Yambasu Initiative projects leads to growth
Reinvestment, a key component and goal in Yambasu Agriculture Initiative projects, is yielding fruits leading to growth and expansion across Africa.
“Zero malaria” theme of World Malaria Day is the goal for UMC health work
Through various campaigns and long-term work in rural communities, United Methodist health practitioners in Africa have been working toward the goal of reducing malaria deaths and spreading affordable treatment options, information and prevention strategies across the communities most affected by the disease.
YAI transforms lives and gives hope to farming communities in Africa
Global Ministries Board of Directors approved an allocation of $5 million for the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative to provide grants to various African annual conferences throughout 2023.
Restoring a chapel and community in Dulac, Louisiana
Clanton Chapel in Dulac, Louisiana, leveraged a Global Ministries’ grant made possible by offerings received on Native American Ministries Sunday. Sunday April 23, 2023, is an opportunity for the wider United Methodist Church to accompany Native American communities in the United States as they strengthen their faith and reach out to their local neighborhoods in mission ministry.
Personal growth and church growth
On this Good Friday, traditionally a day of mourning and deep reflection, missionaries Francine Ilunga Mpanga Mufuk and the Rev. Dr. Jean Claude Masuka Maleka offer the good news of growth and church development in response to Christ’s great love and sacrifice.
Eye surgery mission project restores sight for patients in Angola
Dr. Leonardo Garcia, a missionary doctor serving in Angola, shares a reflection this Maundy Thursday on humility, gratefulness and the sheer wonder in God’s healing power. Despite his medical knowledge, Leo encounters many medical mysteries and acknowledges the miracles he sees in his daily work.
Songhai training ignites new drive in Yambasu Agriculture Initiative farmers
Yambasu Agriculture Initiative farmers who recently trained with the YAI program in Porto Novo, Benin, realize tremendous change and results in their farming skills upon returning home.
World Water Day focus: Methodist WASH projects in Bolivia and Ecuador
A Global Health partnership with Engineers in Action supplies rural Indigenous Methodist churches in Bolivia with restrooms and handwashing stations. In Ecuador, a new water source for nine communities nears completion