The Greater Northwest Episcopal Area

Last weekend the first Table Talks were held in three locations across the Greater Northwest Area. These opportunities to engage the church’s current discussion of human sexuality and the work of the Commission on a Way Forward were largely appreciated, and well attended, according to reporting by Kristen Caldwell. More events are planned throughout the coming months.

By Patrick Scriven As 2019 was drawing to a close, Laura Velonza was beginning a new role as a part of the Pacific Northwest Conference's District...

It’s a critical time for The United Methodist Church in today’s challenging world, but leaders in the Greater Northwest Episcopal Area believe churches can...

Courtesy of WSDOT: "Rain will become heavy at times today across Western Washington in advance of a strengthening low pressure system approaching the region.  Steady...

Attendees of the quadrennial Leadership Summit close worship in prayer before beginning workshops. This year, the summit was held at Vancouver: First UMC. The Leadership...

A federal judge in Texas struck down the Indian Child Welfare Act a few short days before many communities, and several states, celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day this year. This confluence of events prompted some good questions and this reflection from Kristina Gonzalez, Director of Innovation for an Inclusive Church for the Greater Northwest Area of The United Methodist Church.

Next week, the questions raised over Bishop Karen Oliveto's election last July will come before the #UMC Judicial Council. Bishop Elaine Stanovsky writes to keep members of the Greater NW Area informed about this important matter involving the Western Jurisdiction.

We Pray With Her, a book of devotionals and prayers meant to offer support to women in leadership, was released earlier this month by Abingdon Press. It includes contributions from two Greater Northwest Area clergywomen, Revs. Karen Puckett Hernandez and Elizabeth Ingram Schindler.

"It is after much prayer, study and discernment that we share with you that we believe that the One Church Plan is the best way forward for the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church." Members of the Western Jurisdiction's Mission Cabinet have endorsed the One Church Plan, noting their commitment to the full inclusion of LGBTQ persons in the church now, and a recognition of the need to create "generous space" for all to live faithfully their conscience as they follow Jesus.

Bishop Elaine J.W. Stanovsky intends to appoint the Rev. Richenda Fairhurst as Pastor of Ashland First United Methodist Church in Ashland, Oregon beginning July...