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Last week in this space, I suggested that as part of our Lenten journey, particularly during Holy Week, we read through the passion narratives in each of the Gospels. If you haven't already done that, I encourage you to do so.
I'm reminded of a song written and recorded by one of my favorite Christian singers, Steve Green. It's called "Forgive Me," from his "Somewhere Between" CD ©2005. When Jesus walked the earth, the way one showed someone else that he or she was forgiven was to invite that person to dinner. That's what Jesus does for us, hence the words, "As I receive this sacrament, a holy mystery, I'm amazed You're sharing it with me..." I've used this song in the past as a prayer of confession at a Maundy Thursday service. . I simply offer it as we experience the events of the last week of Jesus' earthly life.
As I hold your broken body
And drink your bitter cup
Help me realize the depth
Of your redeeming love
And for all the sin in me
Any sin at all
Forgive me, forgive me
Through the constant struggle
That never seems to cease
As in life, so is the cross
It too was bittersweet
As I receive this sacrament
A holy mystery
I'm amazed you're sharing it with me
You were crushed
You were bruised
You were scorned
You were used
So here am I with nothing left
But praise for you
Praise for you
As I hold your broken body
And drink your bitter cup
Help me realize the depth
Of your redeeming love
And for all the sin in me
Any sin at all
Forgive me, forgive me, forgive me
With You in the Journey,
Nancy
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Bishop Webb announces clergy appointments
Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb has announced new appointments and retirements, pending approval at the 2017 Clergy Session during Annual Conference. View the full list of changes
here
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"Go Make A Difference" (Go M.A.D.)
"Go Make A Difference" (Go M.A.D.) Presentation
WHEN: Sunday, April 23rd, 2017
WHERE:
Penn Ave UMC
1238 Pennsylvania Ave., Pine City, NY 14871
TIME:
1 pm-5:30 pm
MORE INFORMATION:
Call 607-733-4485
Don Sunshine's "Make a Difference" presentation will equip us with easy, non-threatening ways to share our faith that truly make a difference...in other words, "Lifestyle Evangelism".
Lunch will be served at 1 PM with the presentation running from 1:30-5:30 PM with a dessert intermission. The lunch and event are free, but there will be a love offering collected to benefit Don Sunshine Ministries.
All are welcome...bring a friend!
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Financial Peace University (FPU)
Financial Peace University (FPU) 9 Week Class
WHEN: Mondays, beginning April 24th, 2017
WHERE:
Penn Ave UMC
1238 Pennsylvania Ave., Pine City, NY 14871
TIME:
6:30 pm
CONTACT:
Contact Cathy Hendrickson-607-425-8358 or email her at:cathyh@imagepackaging.com
Learn God's way of handling money with Dave Ramsey's Finance Peace University 9 week class.
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Job Posting - Office/HR Manager
Posting Date: 4/12/2017
Location: Liverpool, NY
The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church has an exciting opportunity for the right individual to join our mission-based team as an Office/HR Manager to facilitate the operations of our staff team and to manage our new office space in Liverpool, NY. This is a full time exempt position at approximately 37.5 hours per week, with an attractive benefit package including health insurance, paid time off, and 403b retirement savings plan. This position will be responsible for the administration of human resources functions as well as the day-to-day management of the office in general. The ideal candidate must have excellent interpersonal skills, be organized, and be able to work independently.
Main responsibilities include supervision of the Receptionist/Support Services Clerk and the Building Maintenance/ Custodian positions; performing all aspects of employee recruitment, orientation, retention, and exiting; salary administration; developing and implementing policies and procedures related to the workplace, ensuring alignment with federal and state employment law; being main contact person for workers compensation, disability and unemployment; and resourcing local churches on employment law/practices.
Qualified candidates will have a bachelor's degree (preferred) and three years' experience in office management and/or human resources. Complete responsibilities and qualifications are listed in the job description and online at:
http://www.unyumc.org/about/jobs.
Application Instructions: To be considered for this position, applicants must complete an application online at
http://www.unyumc.org/about/jobs, and include a resume and 3 professional references.
The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse team. We strongly encourage women and men from all races and backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
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Job Posting - Custodian/Building Maintenance Technician
Posting Date: 4/13/2017
Location: Liverpool, NY
The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church has an exciting new opportunity for the right individual to join our mission-based team as a Custodian/Building Maintenance Technician, to provide a clean, orderly, and safe environment for employees and visitors at our new office space in Liverpool, NY. This is a Full-time position with an attractive benefit package, performing a wide variety of custodial and maintenance duties. The ideal candidate must be able to work independently, have excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. The successful candidate will work approximately 37.5 hours per week but will be required to have some flexibility in work schedule to include early mornings and/or evenings, and occasional weekends.
Main responsibilities include extensive cleaning of bathroom, kitchen, office areas, and a large amount of glass (windows and walls); maintaining the custodial supply inventory; set up and tear down of tables for meetings; basic grounds maintenance including shoveling and litter removal; light carpentry; and building maintenance to include troubleshooting of maintenance issues involving electrical, structural, plumbing and equipment repair or replacement.
Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least one year of experience in facilities maintenance or custodial work. Basic knowledge of machinery, equipment, and tools necessary for the maintenance and repair of buildings is also required. Complete responsibilities and qualifications are listed in the job description and online at: http://www.unyumc.org/about/jobs.
Application Instructions: To be considered for this position, applicants must complete an application online at http://www.unyumc.org/about/jobs, and include a resume and 3 professional references.
The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse team. We strongly encourage women and men from all races and backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
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ERT Training and ERT Re-certification class - May 20
UMCOR's Early Response Team (ERT) training equips United Methodists to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. When disaster strikes, Early Response Teams (ERTs) fill a specific need to clean out flood-damaged homes, remove debris, place tarps on homes, and otherwise help to prevent further damage. The work provides a caring Christian presence in times of disaster.
ERTs are not a first-response group of emergency workers, nor are they recovery, rebuild, or repair teams. Under very specific guidelines, ERTs assist survivors, without causing further harm or being a burden to the affected community.
On May 20, two Early Response Team classes are being offered at First UMC of Fredonia. Early Response Team (ERT) training, is being taught by Tom and Linda Cooper. This basic ERT course is eight hours. For current ERT members whose UMCOR badges are expiring (badge dated before 2014), a four-hour re-certification class is being taught by Brian Greenwald. All three trainers have been approved by UMCOR and are experienced ERT responders.
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Register Now for Local Pastor License School
The 2017 Upper New York Conference Local Pastor License School (LPLS) is June 4-9 at Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center in Moravia. Registration takes place 4-5 p.m. Dinner is provided at 5:30 p.m., and students must be present for worship at 7 p.m. The school is in session from registration 4-5 p.m., Sunday, and continues through dinner on Friday.
The LPLS experience provides an opportunity to learn with other students about the basics of ministry, to interact with and share ministry practice with the faculty and students, and to be creative in beginning pastoral ministry.
Students in the LPLS should be in the process of completion or have completed the requirements for certified candidate. DS approval is needed for those without certification.
Click here to register
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ANNUAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION
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2017 Pre-Conference Briefing to be produced via video
In years prior, leading up to the Annual Conference, Pre-Conference Briefings were held across the UNY area to provide information about the budget, pensions and benefits, resolutions, constitutional amendments, and other details to help you feel prepared for Annual Conference. This year the Pre-Conference briefing will be conducted via video.
Click here to learn more.
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Registration for the Upper New York 2017 Annual Conference session opens
Registration is now open for the Upper New York Annual Conference session, held June 1-3 at the Oncenter in Syracuse.
Click here for the registration form and to obtain more information about the 2017 Annual Conference session, including the
registration and
event guidelines and the housing form.
Questions about registration can be addressed to Julie Valeski at
julievaleski@unyumc.org
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Display Tables AC 2017
Display tables are once again being offered at the Upper New York Annual Conference Session, held June 1-3 at the Oncenter in Syracuse. To request a display area at Annual Conference please fill out the attached form and return it (along with payment if applicable) by April 15. You will be advised, by April 30, as to the granting of display space for your group or organization. Request does not guarantee reservation. Direct all questions to Cherish McGowan or call her at (315) 898-2012.
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Visit the New Conference Center During Annual Conference
The United Methodist Center, 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, will host an Open House from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31, the day before the 2017 Upper New York Annual Conference.
The Open House will showcase the Media Resource Center, Mission Central, all office areas, and all meeting rooms. A service and dedication will follow at 7:30 p.m.
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25th Annual Palestinian Dinner- Plymouth Congregational Church
WHEN: Thursday, June 1, 2017
WHERE:
Plymouth Congregational Church
TIME: serving begins at conclusion of afternoon session
Authentic Palestinian food
Brief program centering on the plight of Palestinian children
COST:
$20.00
RESERVATIONS:
Linda Bergh (315) 492-8507, 116 Edna Rd., Syracuse, NY 13205, or Karen Peterson, (607) 739-3141, 116 Greenridge Dr., Horseheads, NY 14845.
Checks for $20.00 made out to "UNY Conference", with Palestinian Dinner" on the memo line/ an additional amount may be designated for the Gary Bergh Scholarship Fund, which enables young adults/ adults to travel to Palestine/ Israel to learn first-hand about peace and justice issues there.
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Pre-Registration for Blueprint for Wellness
Wespath Benefits and Investments and The Center For Health has again teamed up with Quest Diagnostics to offer "Blueprint for Wellness," a free health screening program for eligible participants* in the Upper New York Conference.
Quest Diagnostics will be at the Upper New York Annual Conference event at the OnCenter (Meeting Rooms 2/3) on Thursday, June 1, and Friday, June 2, from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Pre-Registration is strongly recommended; you can register for an appointment between now and May 18. Click here to learn more.
*IMPORTANT! Please note: The screening is only available to participants and spouses covered by the HealthFlex PPO B1000 and CDHP plans, and participants and spouses enrolled in One Exchange. The screening is not available to participants or spouses enrolled through AmWINS.
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Equitable Compensation Application
for July-December 2017 available
The Commission on Equitable Compensation has issued guidelines and an application form for salary grants to local churches for the period July 1 to December 31, 2017. Salary grants are available only to churches with a pastor under full
-
time appointment.
To apply for salary assistance from the Equitable Compensation Fund, applicants should review the policies and procedures in the application document for guidance, and then complete the application according to the directions provided by the April 14, 2017 deadline. Click here for the application form.
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A Note From Conference Commission
on Religion and Race
Dear Friends in Christ,
First God gave us the Beloved Son. Then God gave us each other. We celebrate the Connection that has grown up among us as we have lived our commitments to seeing the kin-dom of God grow strong in our generation. We celebrate, and we share our needs and visions.
We need your stories; let me explain. We write to you as members of the Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR). Our commission received an urgent calling from those who were given a vision from God during our Northeast Jurisdictional Meeting. Among other goals we believe that the Living God has commanded us to:
"Initiate ongoing internal and external conversations on white privilege, white supremacy, racism and oppression, including internalized oppression on every district, sub-district and within each local church." (NEJ Call to Action, July 2017)
Racism disrupts our right relationships with God and one another. Although this truth is commonly recognized, having the conversations that will uncover its hidden influence and lead to substantial change is difficult.
Yours in Christ Jesus,
Conference Commission on Religion and Race: Blenda Smith (Convener), Sandra Allen, Julius & Anola Archibald, Linda Hughes, David Heise, Scott Johnson, Aaron Moore, Shirley Readdean, Becky Sweet, Harold Wheat, & Georgia Whitney, Evelyn Woodring, Jay Yang.
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REMINDER
The 2016 Statistical Reporting & the Annual Audit of your church financial records are way PAST Due. If you have not done or sent these reports yet please do so as soon as possible. Also please make sure ALL signatures that are required are done. (Thank you)
Please Mail completed copy to the Mountain View District Office - 65 E. 1st Street, Corning, NY 14830
Click here
if you need the 2016 Annual Audit form.
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You Are Invited to the New Faith Communities Event
"You Are Invited to the New Faith Communities Event April 21-22, 2017 at Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center.
Each year, the New Faith Community Team of Upper NY Conference sponsors an event during the month of April to extend the movement of planting in Upper New York.
Who should attend? Any person who is planting a new faith community OR is interested in learning more about what is involved in planting a new faith community! For planters it is a great chance to come away with other like-minded people and network and learn together. For those who are curious about the planting movement, it will give you a chance to meet planters, learn from experts and pray about what God is calling you to do.
This year's event will feature Rev. Gary Shockley... long time church developer, coach, teacher, and artist from Western North Carolina. He will be sharing his unique SandArt worship experience (he made it to the final phase of America's Got Talent tryouts!), will lead us in some art-focused spiritual development, and will talk at length about innovative fund raising to support new faith community ministry. Click here for more details, information, and to register."
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There are so many reasons to celebrate Native American Ministries Sunday on April 30. On this day, United Methodists focus on the gifts and contributions made by Native Americans, both in the church and in communities.
The special offering received during the celebration supports Native American outreach ministries and provides scholarships for United Methodist Native American seminarians. When our churches support Native American Ministries Sunday, we empower Native American congregations to minister to their communities with the love of Christ.
To help your leadership team promote this Special Sunday, download the Native American Ministries Sunday Pastor and Leader's Kit. With resources including social media images, videos, an e-book and other tools, you'll have everything you need to get your congregation excited about this special celebration.
Let's all do our part to support the gifts and contributions of our Native American brothers and sisters.
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RIGHT START WORKSHOP
Binghamton & Mountain View District's
Because healthy moves are important for the life of the church, clergy and their families, Bishop Mark Webb and the Cabinet have scheduled "The Right Start: Beginning Ministry in a New Setting" workshops in our annual conference. These workshops will be led by the District Superintendents and provide the best practices to ensure a good move for everyone involved.
WHEN: Thursday, May 18, 2017
WHERE: Waverly UMC
158 Chemung Street, Waverly, NY 14892
TIME: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
RSVP Required: Rosemary at Binghamton District Office email
click here or call her at 607-748-0662. or Patti at Mountain View District Office email
click here
or call her at 607-962-8047
Lunch will be provided
Attendance at the
workshop is mandatory for all full-time clergy who are moving to a new appointment, retirement or extension ministry. Less than full-time clergy are welcome and encouraged to attend.
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Holy Land tour with Bishop Webb scheduled for Jan. 2018
Join Bishop Mark J. Webb and his wife, Jodi Webb, on an 11-day trip (January 9-19, 2018) to the Holy Land through Educational Opportunities Tours. This journey will deepen your experience and bring to life the Scriptures. You will have the opportunity to explore Jericho and Qumran; Bethlehem; Caesarea, Mount Carmel, and Megiddo; The Galilee; Cana, Nazareth, Samaria, and Jacob's Well; Jerusalem; and Ein Karem, Nebi Samuel, Emmaus, and the Valley of Elah. Click here to learn more, including the cost and ways to save.
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Attention Licensed Local Pastors and Mentors:
The Board of Ordained Ministry Course of Study Registrar has let us know that there is inaccuracy with some LLPs as they register for Course of Study. Please follow this procedure to avoid late registration fees and missing out on enrollment.
1. All LLPs or ministry candidates must be approved by their District's Committee on Ordained Ministry to enroll in COS. One cannot just decide to sign up for COS.
2. Please use the correct year's registration forms. Registration forms from previous years are not acceptable. Using old forms may cause delay and incur late fees. Using the wrong year's form doesn't excuse the applicant from paying a late fee.
3. Send the payment with the registration form.
4. COS registration must be filled in completely and have the District Superintendent's signature.
5. From that point, the student or DS office must mail the payment and signed registration form to the BOM COS Registrar for her to track and sign. Please include a stamped envelope addressed to your particular COS site. The address for the stamped envelope is on the application.
Here is the mailing info for the application signed by DS, check and stamped envelope:
Betsy O'Flynn
UNYBOM COS Registrar
1100 South Goodman St.
Rochester, NY 14620
Any questions about this, email the registrar
candidacy@unyumc.org
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2017 Camp & Retreat registration
Upper New York Camp & Retreat Ministries (CRM) is excited to announce that registration is now open for its 2017 Summer Camp & Retreat programs. Program details are available online and brochures were mailed this week! Brochures were sent to past participants and campers as well as all Upper New York Annual Conference churches.
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Download the April Issue II of the
Bridge
The April Issue I of the Bridge is now available for download. It is available in both color and black & white formats. Click here to select the version you prefer and make copies as necessary.
This Sunday, your congregation will likely be welcoming several visitors. This issue offers the comforting message that prayer can be simple; it doesn't need to be well-thought out or eloquent to reach God's listening ears.
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Apr. 14 Good Friday -Conference & District Office closed
Apr. 21-22
New Faith Community Annual Event Details
Apr. 27 2017 AC Session housing closes
Details
Apr. 30 Native American Ministries Sunday
Details
May 1 2017 AC registration closes
Details
May 18 Right Start Workshop at Waverly UMC
June 1-3 Annual Conference
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Rev. Nancy Adams
District Superintendent
Patti Gridley
Administrative Assistant
65 East First St., Corning, NY 14830
(607) 962-8047
Mountain View District Webpage click here
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Upper New York Annual Conference Contact Information
The United Methodist Center
of Upper New York
7481 Henry Clay Blvd.
Liverpool, NY 13088
(315) 898-2000
Toll-Free (855) 424-7878
Fax (315) 898-2150
The Resource Center Links
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