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Council of Bishops - Bishops urge prayerful action amid shutdown

WASHINGTON — In a pastoral letter, the Council of Bishops laments how the ongoing U.S. government shutdown is causing harm to countless families, workers and communities. “This moment calls for our collective compassion, advocacy, and prayerful action,” says Council of Bishops President Tracy S. Malone in the letter on behalf of the bishops. The letter calls on members of the U.S. Congress and elected leaders to set aside partisanship and work for the common good.

Letter: COB Pastoral Letter on US Government Shutdown

Council of Bishops

The United Methodist Church

October 23, 2025

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As a people called United Methodists, who proclaim God’s justice, peace, and care for all people, we lament the ongoing government shutdown in the United States and the harm it is causing to countless families, workers, and communities. Many individuals are without income, vital social services are being disrupted, and many who are already living in vulnerable situations are being placed in greater distress.

This moment calls for our collective compassion, advocacy, and prayerful action.

This government shutdown is not only affecting families and communities in the United States but also impacting people and partners across the world who depend on the stability and aid of the United States.

“We urge those elected or appointed to public posts or holding other positions in government to act as responsible leaders and stewards of the authority and resources entrusted to them. We call on all government officials to aspire to the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Furthermore, we urge all governments to adopt policies and practices that guarantee accountability and transparency in fostering and maintaining the trust of the public.” (UMC Social Principles ¶163, The Political Community).

We call on members of the United States Congress and all elected leaders to set aside partisanship, seek common ground, work together toward a just resolution and act responsibly for the sake of the welfare of all people who they have been elected to serve.

We call on the people of The United Methodist Church to join together in prayer —for our elected leaders to act with wisdom and courage, for individuals and families whose livelihoods are at risk, and for justice and compassion to prevail.

Finally we reclaim our call to be attentive to the needs of people within our communities. May we respond with tangible acts of compassion and kindness to those experiencing hardship during this time.

Scripture reminds us: “Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). May this be our ongoing collective witness as a people of faith and hope—trusting that God is able to bring unity out of division, justice out of oppression and peace out of chaos.

Yours in the name of Jesus the risen Christ,

Bishop Tracy S. Malone

President – Council of Bishops

The United Methodist Church

New Iowa UM Advance Special #384: The Diversity Service Center of Iowa - October 21, 2025

The Iowa Annual Conference has approved the Diversity Service Center of Iowa (DSCI) in Muscatine as a new Advance Special (#384)—a practical, people-first ministry serving immigrants and seniors in eastern Iowa.

Founded as a 501(c)(3), DSCI walks alongside families navigating the U.S. immigration system and provides wraparound support for seniors age 60+.

Many clients face language barriers, limited digital access, and unfamiliarity with complex government processes. DSCI meets those challenges with trusted, affordable help—and a ministry of dignity.

Through its Educational Outreach Program, DSCI offers:

-Consultations and legal form preparation

-Representation before immigration offices

The U.S. Department of Justice nationally recognizes DSCI, and its staff are accredited to assist the public with immigration issues. Executive Director Rosa Mendoza brings 31 years of experience; Irma Rodriguez brings 20 years.

By keeping fees minimal, DSCI helps neighbors move forward toward lawful status and the everyday opportunities that follow—such as obtaining Social Security numbers, driver’s licenses, employment and health benefits, banking and credit, higher education, and the ability to file tax returns—becoming fully active members of their communities.

DSCI’s Senior Citizens Program is a collaborative, client-centered approach that helps older adults aged 60 and above navigate social services through case management, interpretation, and translation. Alicia Mendoza, bilingual in Spanish and English, has 20 years of experience advocating for seniors and assisting with applications for:

-Food Assistance (SNAP) and reviews

-Social Security/Retirement

-Medicaid and Medicare enrollment, supplements, and premium waivers

-Rent reimbursement, low-income housing, and heating/financial assistance

-Homestead Tax Credit, Powers of Attorney, and more

To combat hunger and isolation, DSCI also hosts a Hispanic Meal Site twice each month—offering a warm, authentic meal, social connection, and short, practical education on health, food safety, prevention, exercise, and available resources. Free transportation is provided to and from meal-site activities.

DSCI embodies the United Methodist vision to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. Congregations partnering with DSCI help neighbors move from fear to stability and from isolation to community—right here in Iowa.

How churches can partner:

-Pray for immigrant families and seniors served by DSCI.

-Share this story in worship, e-news, and social media.

-Invite DSCI staff to speak at your mission Sunday or small-group gathering.

-Give a special offering designated “Advance Special #384 — Diversity Service Center of Iowa.”

-Volunteer to help with meal-site days, interpretation, transportation support, or hospitality.

Contact & Learn More:

Diversity Service Center of Iowa (DSCI)

1514 Isett Avenue, Ste. 2 • PO Box 1096 • Muscatine, IA 52761

Executive Director: Rosa Mendoza

Phone: 563-264-8883

Email: dscimuscatine@gmail.com

Web: dscionline.org

As an Advance Special, every gift to #384 directly supports this ministry’s hands-on work. Thank you for helping Iowa United Methodists extend welcome, wisdom, and hope to our immigrant and elder neighbors.

Christmas Families

Our church is once again sponsoring Christmas families. The display with the gift tags will be available soon in the fellowship hall. If you don’t care to shop monetary donations are greatly appreciated. You may leave your donation at the church office or give to Brenda James or Marci Klinkefus.

Open Hands Food Pantry

Open Hands Food Pantry is held Tuesdays at the West Union United Methodist Church from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. The door is around to the back of the church and down the sidewalk. You can email openhandswu@gmail.com or find Open Hands Food Pantry on Facebook for more information.

Mobile Food Pantry

The Mobile Food Pantry is now being held the second Monday of every month from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Crossfire Church.