Desire Niyonkuru is preparing for a class in the Styberg Libary at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. Niyonkuru will finish his master’s degree in pastoral care and counseling this spring, thanks in part to financial assistance from a scholarship funded by Michigan United Methodists. This is just one example of the blessings from God through United Methodist connections that he has received in his life. ~ photo courtesy Sarah Pressley

Retired pastor Glenn Wagner tells the story of a refugee’s courageous life that attests to the connectional spirit that is central to Methodism.

In this first half of a two-part article, Glenn Wagner shares ideas from his four decades as a United Methodist pastor to help clergy and congregations better say goodbye and welcome during seasons of pastoral transition.

United Methodists belong to a larger disaster response network that serves the mission of Jesus Christ here in Michigan and beyond.

Glenn Wagner recently returned to his hometown for a pandemic-delayed high school reunion and Sunday morning worship in his home church. He shares his experience of this first extended homecoming in fifty years and gives thanks for the church and the people who nurtured his faith.