United Methodists Unite to Change the World

Impact Your Community on April 24-25

Nashville: United Methodists everywhere are encouraged to begin planning now to join in Change the World, a church-wide event on April 24-25 that prompts members to join with others in the community to make a difference locally and globally.

During that weekend, United Methodist churches are encouraged to create and participate in a service or fundraising event that helps effect positive and long-lasting change, whether it’s revitalizing a food-pantry program, creating a new ministry to help the homeless, or increasing awareness of global health issues like malaria. Churches can utilize existing ministries or initiate a new outreach event.

“Change the World challenges the people of The United Methodist Church to see the world holistically by giving and serving beyond the four walls of sanctuaries and Sunday school classrooms,” said the Rev. Larry Hollon, chief executive of United Methodist Communications. “Our hope is that not only will church members participate, they will invite neighbors in the community to work side-by-side with them to make a sustainable difference in diverse ways.”

On April 25, World Malaria Day, The United Methodist Church will formally launch a $75 million campaign called Imagine No Malaria to eradicate deaths caused by malaria. Churches are being asked to host events such as camp-outs to experience sleeping under bed nets like families in Africa who rely on mosquito netting for protection against malaria. These events will help raise awareness and funds that support Imagine No Malaria.
[Read the complete press release here.]

What is your congregation doing on April 24 and 25? Let us know how you plan to join in Change the World by emailing bdixon@kyumc.org. We will share your ministry ideas on our web site. Learn more about Change the World at www.rethinkchurch.org/changetheworld.