Methodists in Britain have been told by their president that the future holds a mixed prospects for both renewal and demise for. The Rev Dr Martyn Atkins was speaking at a large Pentecost rally in the heart of the capital.

Today's world "lives with death and resurrection in many ways and in many places", says the president of the Methodist Conference in Britain. The duty of the church is to be with them in this and to point to the hope of the gospel.

The United Reformed Church has appointed the Rev Roberta Rominger as its general secretary. She becomes the first woman to hold the senior post in the Church, or in any of its predecessor denominations.

Leading British Methodist Ruby Beech's "day job" is a position that dates back to at least the 15th century, reports Kathleen LaCamera. As an assistant sergeant at arms in the UK Parliament, she helps look after the security and administration of the House of Commons.

The Christmas message is that God in Jesus commits to transforming human ordinariness, not to fantasies about a super-hero figure or military conquerer, the President of the Methodist Conference has said in his seasonal message.

The new leaders of the Methodist Church have launched a weblog to create a conversation with them among grassroots Christians during their year in office. The Rev Martyn Atkins, President of the Conference, and Vice President Ms Ruby Beech, will use the weblog to open their thoughts for comment.