Recent News

S.L.A.M. Trips – K’wya-am-timt = Honesty, being truthful

Each summer, youth from United Methodist churches across the Greater Northwest Area join S.L.A.M. Trips on the Yakama Reservation to learn, serve, and grow in faith. The 2025 theme, K’wya-am-timt (“honesty”), invited participants to face hard truths and listen deeply to Indigenous voices. Save the dates for July 28 – July 3, 2026, and read on to learn more.

Caring for God’s creation: 17 EarthKeepers commissioned across the Greater Northwest

Recently commissioned Global Ministries EarthKeepers completed training in environmental stewardship and faithful action. This cohort included EarthKeepers from both the Oregon-Idaho and Pacific Northwest Conferences, who are now developing community-based creation care projects. A recording of the commissioning service is now available for congregations and individuals to watch.

UMC Bishops finish canvassing of amendments; all four are ratified

The United Methodist Council of Bishops has completed canvassing the votes of annual conferences on the four constitutional amendments that were approved by the 2024 General Conference. All four amendments were ratified.

Connecting Neighbors workshop builds preparedness in the PNW

The Pacific Northwest Conference trained new Connecting Neighbors disaster preparedness Ambassadors during a UMCOR-led workshop at Edmonds UMC. Participants from churches and community groups learned practical ways to strengthen resilience before disaster strikes. “Planning ahead reduces recovery time and helps save lives and protect property,” said Kathy Bryson, PNWUMC Disaster Response Coordinator.

New video resource on community microgrids, a first step in becoming a resilience hub

Several PNW churches are exploring ways to become resilience hubs—trusted community spaces that support neighbors before, during, and after emergencies. A key step is developing community microgrids through solar and battery storage. The Clean Energy Group’s new video explains how, offering a great starting point for congregations considering this vital form of climate and disaster preparedness.

Pepper spray and pastoral presence in Portland

Outrage can open our eyes—but compassion moves our feet. Rev. Paul Graves found that truth in observing how clergy colleagues in Hillsboro, Oregon, support immigrant families through the Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice. Their Accompaniment Program pairs volunteers with people navigating our complex immigration system, reminding everyone involved that love and presence are powerful forms of resistance.

‘Waters That Hold Us’ devotional film available for local church use

Originally created for the Global Ministries EarthKeepers Training, “Waters That Hold Us” is now available for United Methodist congregations everywhere. In this short film, Rev. David Valera reflects on the sacred connections between land, sea, and spirit—calling us to listen to God’s voice in creation and respond with compassion, stewardship, and hope.

Hospitality, hard work, and hope

Camp Indianola director Rev. David Collins reflects on a season of transition, renewal, and growing ministry on the shores of the Salish Sea. From revitalizing hospitality and facilities to deepening relationships with churches and volunteers, Collins shares the joys and challenges of stewarding this sacred place—and his hopeful vision for expanding year-round camp and retreat experiences that nurture faith and community.

Alaska Conference

Oregon-Idaho Conference

Caring for God’s creation: 17 EarthKeepers commissioned across the Greater Northwest

Recently commissioned Global Ministries EarthKeepers completed training in environmental stewardship and faithful action. This cohort included EarthKeepers from both the Oregon-Idaho and Pacific Northwest Conferences, who are now developing community-based creation care projects. A recording of the commissioning service is now available for congregations and individuals to watch.

Pacific Northwest Conference

Hospitality, hard work, and hope

Camp Indianola director Rev. David Collins reflects on a season of transition, renewal, and growing ministry on the shores of the Salish Sea. From revitalizing hospitality and facilities to deepening relationships with churches and volunteers, Collins shares the joys and challenges of stewarding this sacred place—and his hopeful vision for expanding year-round camp and retreat experiences that nurture faith and community.

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