Ep. 187: United Methodists, Pastors Sue Their Churches, And A Church Lending Scam

On today’s program, a former pastor and two accomplices defraud churches of more than $3-million.  United Methodists continue to look for ways to split amiably, but some are becoming impatient.  And we take you on the ground to Romania for a look at churches who are helping in Ukraine.  We begin today with the story of a Colorado pastor who is suing his congregation for defamation.

 A couple of housekeeping items, you might say.  First, I’m on the Pilgrim Radio Network this week to discuss the role journalism can play in reforming the Evangelical Church.  The Pilgrim Radio Network has ten stations and more than 30 translators in communities in Wyoming, Montana, Nevada, and California.  So if you can listen to a Pilgrim station, check out that conversation.  I’ll also be sending a link around in our daily emails.

I also appeared with my friend Jason Jimenez on his podcast “Challenging Conversations,” discussing a biblical response to scandal in the church.  You can find that conversation by going to StandStrongMinistries.org and hitting the podcast tab at the top of the page.

Finally, I want you to know that this program wouldn’t exist without the support of people like you.  We take no money from the ministries we cover.  We don’t charge a subscription or have a paywall.  We are 100 percent donor supported.  And now, you can now give via text. If this is your preferred way of giving, just text @ministrywatch to 52014.  Again, that’s @ministrywatch to 52014.  I tried it myself, and it was pretty easy. So if I can do it, anyone can.

Also, if you have a story you’d like us to cover, or a ministry that you think needs a closer look, please email us.  Our email is [email protected].  That will come directly to my desk, and we’ll take it from there.

And a reminder that you can help the program by leaving us a rating on your podcast app.  The  more ratings we get, the easier it is for others to find us.  It’s a quick, easy, and free way you can support MinistryWatch.

The producers for today’s program are Rich Roszel and Jeff McIntosh.  We get database and other technical support from Cathy Goddard, Stephen DuBarry, Emily Kern, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth.  Writers who contributed to today’s program include Anne Stych, Kim Roberts, Yonat Shimron, Steve Rabey, Adelle Banks, Erik Tryggestad, Rod Pitzer, and Christina Darnell.

Special thanks to The Christian Chronicle for contributing material for this week’s podcast.

Until next time, may God bless you.

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