The Messenger

• United in Impact (Jan 4): The year begins with a focus on the UMC as a connected church, inviting congregations to live into their covenant by supporting shared ministries that no single church could handle alone.

• Korean Ministry Plan (Jan 11): Highlighting the support for Korean and Korean American congregations, honoring the covenant of a diverse, connected church.

• Human Relations Day (Jan 18): A special Sunday strengthening UMC outreach to communities, with a focus on social justice and at-risk youth, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision.

• Africa University (Jan 25): Spotlighting the UMC-related institution in Zimbabwe as a primary example of global connectional ministry.

February: Community & Support

• Scouting Sunday (Feb 8): An opportunity for the church to connect with and support youth through scouting programs.

• Disability Awareness Sunday (Feb 1): Focused on making churches more accessible and welcoming, often involving special offerings to support inclusion.

• Methodist Home for Children Sunday (Feb 15): A day to support children in crisis, offering them a path to stability and care.

March: Compassion & Global Relief

• UMCOR Sunday (March 15): Formerly known as One Great Hour of Sharing, this is a major Q1 focus on the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), providing resources for disaster response, food, and shelter worldwide.

• Lenten Studies/Themes: Many ministries will align with Lenten, focusing on spiritual renewal, with some regions (e.g., Cal-Nevada) utilizing, for example, “Healing the World” themes

Ash Wednesday/Lent  (The Beginning): February 18-April 2, 2026

The Season of Lent (40 Days)

This day serves as a call to “observe a holy Lent” through prayer, fasting, self-denial, and repentance. It is a time for humbling oneself before God, acknowledging that “you are dust, and to dust you shall return”. The ashes are typically made from burned palm branches from the previous year’s Palm Sunday.

Representing the time Jesus spent in the wilderness, Lent is not just about giving something up, but also about focusing on spiritual disciplines. It is a journey toward the resurrection of Easter.

Observing a Holy Lent:

United Methodists are encouraged to:

• Self-Examination: Reflecting on one’s life, habits, and relationship with God.

• Repentance: Acknowledging sins and turning back toward God.

• Fasting and Self-Denial: Giving up luxuries or habits (e.g., social media, sweets) to reorient toward God.

• Prayer and Scripture: Dedicated time for meditation and reading God’s word.

• Giving to Those in Need: Acts of charity and service.

Role of Sundays: