Albany District and Conference News
July 14, 2022
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"No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.”
— Calvin Coolidge
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Please share with us how your church is making disciples for the transformation of the world!
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The mission of the United Methodist Church is creating disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. So, what is a disciple?
The Upper New York Conference has updated its website to better highlight the focus of our Conference—the tab for “our focus” is on our homepage— https://www.unyumc.org. In this section are listed six characteristics that define a disciple of Jesus Christ. Click here to read “Our Focus.”
Another great resource to learn more about creating disciples is the See all the People website, which is a movement to “stop fixing our church and start seeing all the people Christ calls us to reach.” #Seealllthepeople has dozens of resources on creating intentional discipleship systems and methods of building relationships.
Click here to learn more about the #SeeallthePeople movement and watch their four-minute video that defines a “disciple.”
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Step by step process for developing an Intentional Discipleship Plan
The Northern Flow District has created training resources for congregations and persons to walk through a “step-by-step” process for developing an Intentional Discipleship Plan.
Click here for steps 1 and 2 of the training; follow the guidance of the video trainers, use the provided PowerPoints and the resources (links) to enable your church and team to develop and implement your congregation’s Intentional Discipleship Plan.
Additional training steps will be provided over time. Imagine what God will do as more and more churches develop their process for Making Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World!
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Continued prayers are requested for Pastor Paul Sweet (Christ Church, Troy) who sustained injuries in an accident in May. He continues his rehabilitation. Christ Church shared these words from Paul in their weekly newsletter: "I am continuing to progress. On Tuesday (of last week) I was given permission to be on my feet again, on Wednesday I started outpatient PT, and I just got back from a 6-minute walk around the block that really tired me out. I still don't have any firm timeline for getting back to all things but I'm continuing to make progress. As ever I'm so appreciative of all the prayers cards and notes that have been sent my way."
Cards of care and concern can be sent to him c/o Rev. Rebekah B. Sweet, 208 East Court St., Ithaca, NY 14850, or you can send an email to beckieb.sweet@gmail.com
Please also pray for:
Rev. Dr. Camillus Mourice, who is having a lot of pain and problems with his knees, and also for his wife Clementine Mourice, who has health issues.
Rev. Judy Humphrey-Fox and her husband Tim.
If you'd like prayer for yourself or others, or you'd like to share a joy, please be in touch with Carrie (518) 608-1246 or albanydistrict@unyumc.org
Please know that we will need to contact folks to be sure they feel comfortable with us publishing their information.
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Conference Archives
could use your help!
The Conference Commission on Archives and History (CAH) manages the rooms at the Center that house all the records for the UNYUMC. WE NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS! We generally meet Tuesday afternoons. Here is the Summer Schedule:
July 26 1 to 4 PM
August 8-9 10 AM to 3 PM - Dr. Sarah Mount Elewononi from New England Conference assisting
August 23 1 to 4 PM
Anyone with an interest in history or church work please consider volunteering this summer. You can choose which days to come based on your individual schedule. Contact Susan Slenker, CAH Volunteer Coordinator, at jslenker@twcny.rr.com
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Looking ahead:
Red Bird Mission collection
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We are in the planning stages for this year's collection of shoeboxes and other items for the Red Bird Mission. We are looking for drop-off sites in the various districts where various churches could drop off their shoeboxes and/or other items that are going to the Red Bird Mission. We are looking for sites from Oct. 16 through Nov. 16. The trip is planned for Nov. 28 with the packing of the trucks on Saturday, Nov. 26.
The need for shoeboxes filled with personal hygiene supplies, backpacks, new blankets and sheet sets and diapers are in great need this year. The need for used clothing is not a critical need at this time as their warehouse is full. We will still take new clothes as they can be used at the Community Outreach Center for distribution. If your church can serve as a drop off site, please send an email to Dalexander4@stny.rr.com with a cc: to adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org, so a list can be made available in our future emails.
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Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center to offer Autism- Friendly Family Camp
The Autism Friendly Family Camp is a three-night experience for the whole family to participate together in all the fun camp has to offer. The camp will be held at Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center, a 200-acre site, nestled in the refreshing beauty of the Adirondacks. Children and adults with autism will have an opportunity to come together and experience the joys of camp. Similarly, their families will have the opportunity to join with others who also love and support a neurodivergent family member. Aldersgate's program offerings including swimming, boating, crafts, and outdoor games will all be available in a sensory conscious setting. There is no age requirement.
Autism Friendly Family Camp will be a wonderful, sensory-gentle experience.
Dates are August 21 - 24.
Rates are $65 per person per night.
Click here to learn how this camp was inspired by, Geneva First UMC pastor, the Rev. Emily Huyge’s desire to create an autism-friendly family camp for her six-year-old son, Jacob.
And read about how excited the Conference is to offer this camp.
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Listen to Faith Talks ... |
Faith Talks are monthly conversations with United Women in Faith exploring themes and resources that empower us to put faith, hope, and love into action.
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Scriptural reflections
for mental health
How many of the following symptoms have you ever personally encountered?
Depression… anxiety… inability to concentrate… mood changes… trouble relating to people… low energy… feeling hostile towards others… excessive worry… feeling unable to cope with stress… excessive drug or alcohol consumption…
Scripturally speaking, we are never invited to hide our mental hurts from God or from sharing in community. In fact, the scriptures cited in this article encourage us to recognize that which ails us and to share our burdens with God and community.
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The 2021 State of the Church report is now available to view online. The report asks the question: “Who do we say we are?” and celebrates the life-changing, diverse and global nature of The United Methodist Church.
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United Methodist Communications Training offers affordable online courses, with professional instruction available on YOUR time. We provide instruction on how to engage church members and seekers in your community, reach out beyond the church’s walls, and share God’s love through the latest digital tools.
The training courses offered here generally take 1-2 hours to complete, however the application and implementation of the course content and your new skills will likely require more time.
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Wisdom Talks: Empowering. Equipping. Engaging
Wisdom Talks is our monthly e-newsletter designed to communicate information to facilitate the advancement of women at all levels of The United Methodist Church, presented by The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women.
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Justice Talks:
The Social Principles
of The United Methodist Church
Learn how the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church guide and inform the mission and ministry of the General Board of Church and Society to work toward social justice.
Click here to watch a recorded webinar of experts discussing how the document of Social Principles can help local churches to integrate social justice into their church life.
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Download
the #BeUMC discussion guide
Did you know that the United Methodist Church has a free, downloadable 45-page discussion guide tied to the #BeUMC campaign? This is a great resource for your Sunday School class, Bible study, or small group to reflect on what it means to #BeUMC.
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Dismantling Racism Resource: Daily prayers for anti-racism
Our country and our Church must remain focused on the work required to help dismantle racism. Did you know that Discipleship Ministries sends out prayers for anti-racism via email every day? Click here to learn more, read some of the payers, and subscribe.
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Reminder: Safe Sanctuaries training coming up |
Safe Sanctuaries ZOOM training to be held August 6
(Perfect time to get your Sunday School, Youth Group, Nursery or any other Ministry Staff & Volunteers registered)
The standard Safe Sanctuaries training will be held: Saturday, August 6th from 9 AM to 12:30 PM. This will be held via ZOOM.
REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE: August 5, at 5 PM
If you are not registered by that time, you will not be able to attend this event.
Our next conference Zoom Safe Sanctuaries training is not scheduled until November 5, 2022!
Register below (see "Revisiting" section.)
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What's New from the Lewis Center |
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Understanding and honoring your congregation’s
unique culture
Roy Spore says every church has its own culture and a unique set of accumulated values. Productive leaders know how to identify these values and use them to drive decisions, inspire action, and move the congregation forward toward its vision.
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Youth ministry
by any other name
Kenda Creasy Dean writes that today ministry with young people often means finding young people where they live and work and embedding the church beside them as they seek meaning, purpose, and belonging. She says that Christian social innovation, especially, has become an alternate context for ministry with young people.
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Adirondack District Lay Servant courses
The Adirondack Lay Servant Ministries continues to offer the 7 courses required for Lay Speaker Certification, and are excited to be offering some new advanced courses to support you in your continuing faith journey.
Here are upcoming courses:
Basic Lay Servant Course
Mondays, July 18, 25, Aug. 1: 6-9pm
Thursdays July 21 and 28: 6-9 p.m.
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Facilitator: Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: Leading Prayer
Tuesdays: August 2, 9, 16, and 23: 6-9pm
Zoom: Fee $15
Facilitator: Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: Afire with God
Thursdays: August 4, 11, 18, and 25: 6-9pm
Zoom: Fee $15
Facilitator: Bruce Hazard
Advanced Course: Leading Worship
Mondays, August 8, 15, 22, 29: 6-9pm
Zoom: $15
Facilitator: Bruce Hazard
Advanced Course: Called to Preach
Thursdays, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 6-9pm
Zoom: Fee $15
Facilitators: Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: For the Common Good (Spiritual Gifts)
Oct., 4, 11, 20, 24, 27: 6-9pm
Zoom: Fee $15
Facilitators: Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: Opening Ourselves to Grace
Thursdays, Nov. 10 & 17: 6-9pm
Tuesday, Nov. 29, Dec. 6 & 13: 6-9pm
Zoom: $15
Facilitator: Jacqueline Kim
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Albany District Lay Servant Ministries
Please note that all sessions of a course must be attended to receive a Certificate of Completion!
Lay Servants Lead in Conflict Resolution
Saturdays, August 6, 13 via Zoom and in person at First UMC of East Greenbush
9:00 am-2:30 p.m.
Facilitator: Pastor Danyal Mohammadzadeh
Course Fee: $10
Transforming Evangelism
Saturdays, September 10 and September 17 via Zoom
9:00 am-2:30 p.m.
Course Fee: $10
Living Our United Methodist Beliefs (Heritage – Required Lay Speaker Course)
Mondays, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 via Zoom
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Course Fee: $10
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Lay Servant Courses Offered Around the Conference
Click here to find out when, where and how you can sign up for a lay servant course that you need or are interested in taking. This link connects you to all the Districts in UNY Conference that are offering courses.
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Save the date!
Fourth District Day
to be held Oct. 22 at
Saratoga Springs UMC
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The Adirondack and Albany District Day, "Informed to Transform,"
will be held from 8:30 AM to 3 PM Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Saratoga Springs UMC, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs.
A variety of workshops and discussions will be offered.
More details will be shared later this summer.
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FAQs from “Ask The UMC”
Ask The UMC has been answering an increasing number of questions from congregations wondering about the future of The United Methodist Church and whether they should consider disaffiliating from it. Among these have been some recurrent questions that reflect misperceptions or misinformation that some congregations are receiving as they are discerning their next steps.
Click here to learn more from the first article that Ask the UMC has published in what will become part of a series.
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Skye Farm offering summer programs that will appeal to all
Whether your child loves sports and games, diving deep into God’s natural creation, or doing wacky things like having ice cream for breakfast, Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center has something to offer them.
The COVID pandemic has hampered children’s opportunity to experience summer camp the past two summers. Following health departments’ advice, Upper New York is taking every measure possible to make sure that children and youth can safely enjoy camp this year.
This summer at Skye Farm, your child can enjoy several different types of camps. And back for the first time in many years are camps for children ages 3-7!
Click here to learn about all of the summer camp opportunities at Skye Farm starting in July!
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A message from UNY Camp and Retreat ministries |
The UNY Camp & Retreat site directors are so excited to be able to offer full programming at their sites for the first time since 2020.
Click here to hear the positive news from the site directors themselves in this video and learn how you can explore all the wonderful summer camp opportunities throughout the Conference.
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Upcoming Safe Sanctuaries
classes announced
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The Conference team has issued a new brochure announcing upcoming classes. Open the brochure by clicking on the link in the box above.
Classes will be held Aug. 6 and Nov. 5. See the brochure for registration information.
Our next training will be August 6, 2022 to prepare for the Fall Sunday School Season, so we recommend getting registered as soon as possible.
There will also be a Training of Trainer class on Oct. 22. This applies to those who wish to become a trainer in their local churches or Districts.
You will notice that the dates are strategic as the team wants to make training available prior to summer VBS programs, Fall Sunday school start up and a couple others in between.
Pastors and church office administrators: Please post the brochure in your churches!
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Leadership training at
Church of the Resurrection
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Looking for leadership training this fall? The Church of the Resurrection (Rev. Adam Hamilton’s church) is hosting their in-person or online Leadership Institute, a conference designed to equip, encourage, and inspire ministry leaders like you from all over the country and around the globe.
This conference will take place Sept. 28-30, 2022.
You’ll experience:
· meaningful worship
· eight powerful keynote speakers
· time for prayer, reflection, networking, team building, and more
Add the Pre-Institute option to your in-person Leadership Institute experience and choose from over 40 breakout sessions focused on specific ministry topics with practical ideas you can take back and adapt to your context regardless of your church’s size.
Early bird pricing until August 17.
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Mission u to be held in August |
The Upper New York United Women in Faith are holding an in-person Mission u event this summer.
Click here for the flyer and registration forms for the UNY UWF 2022 Mission u event, scheduled for August 18 - 20 at Fayetteville UMC, 601 Genesee St., Fayetteville, NY 13066. This is an intergenerational, in-person event. A separate Zoom event will be scheduled for a later date. Registration due Aug. 1.
Theme of the event is "Who Can We Be Together - Building Communities of Hope and Joy." There are three studies - Adult, Youth and Children's.
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Applications are now open for
2022 Mustard Seed Migration Grants
Every day, thousands of people flee their homes in search of a better life for their families.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) Mustard Seed Migration Grants, inspired by the well-known parable, are available to provide up to 50 congregations in the United States with up to $2,000 in funding to support one-time, community-based projects that assist refugees, asylum seekers, undocumented persons and migrants of all types.
Applications will be accepted at any time prior to the Sept. 1, 2022 deadline, and will be reviewed and processed within a month of receipt. Churches receiving grants in 2021 are not eligible for the 2022 program (review 2021 list here).
For information on the application process, including selection criteria, click here.
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Mission Central HUB in need of donations and volunteers
Mission Central HUB at the Conference center is looking for donations you can collect in your community and also for volunteers to come into the HUB for various projects. The HUB has been struggling to receive donations, and volunteers are few.
What do we do here you ask? We help folks in need when a natural disaster strikes their community. The HUB helps train and coordinate ERT (early response teams) and collects UMCOR supplies and kits. Mission Central HUB donates the supplies to organizations (Red Cross, fire departments, churches) in communities affected by a natural disaster. These items are often used by ERT as well. We not only help locally, but nation wide. Many UMCOR kits we receive are delivered to the Mission Central HUB in Mechanicsburg, PA. then distributed to folks in need. Or sometimes to Sager Brown, LA. Our main warehouse...nothing goes to waste! All is needed. Items not UMCOR approved are donated to local non-profits. Without you the HUB would not exist.
Projects for volunteers are but not limited to:
· Verification of UMCOR approved supplies
· Preparing for shipment
· Counting of supplies
· General needs that might arise in the HUB.
Please consider volunteering at Mission Central HUB! The need is now and everyday. Large groups, small groups, folks of all ages welcome even if just a few people are a big help. Contact Marybeth Ingalls at the Upper NY Mission Central HUB. She will be happy to set up a time for you or your group to volunteer for a few hours.
Please follow us on Face book. For more information visit our website.
Upper New York Conference
Mission Volunteer Coordinator
7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, N.Y. 13088
1-315-898-2064
1-315-372-0285
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UNY Young Adults Council wants to hear from UNY Young Adults! |
Are you a part of a young adult ministry in Upper NY? We want to hear about it.
The UNY Young Adult Council is collecting information about young adult (ages 18 to 35) ministries in our Conference, whether they're young adult-specific or just happen to include lots of young people. We want to spread the word about existing opportunities and help new young adult ministries get started! Send us a message on our Facebook Page: Upper NY Young Adults: click here, or send an email to youngadults@unyumc.org
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Support the UNY Taskforce on Peace with Justice
Affected by a third year of COVID-19, the Upper New York (UNY) Taskforce on Peace with Justice in Palestine/ Israel is not able to host their annual dinner—a dinner that supports the Gary Bergh scholarship.
Even though the dinner cannot happen, the Taskforce invites all people in the UNY Conference churches and friends who long for Palestinian peace with justice to join in an “imagined” Palestinian dinner with a donation in any amount in support of the Gary Bergh Scholarship so that, once again, young and “not-so-young” may respond to the Palestinian invitation to “come and see.”
Tax-deductible donations should be checks made out to “UNYAC” with “Gary Bergh Scholarship” on the memo line by July 30. Please mail to: Linda Bergh, 116 Edna Road, Syracuse, NY 13205 or Karen Peterson, 116 Greenridge Drive, Horseheads, NY. 14845.
This 27th Palestinian Dinner (imagined) is in honor of Leah Mae Carlisle who, in 2005, responded to the dinner speaker, well-known American Palestinian pastor, Alex Awad, to “come and see.”
Click here to learn more about the annual Palestinian dinners and Leah Mae’s work with the Taskforce.
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Justice in Israel–Palestine: Travel for Awareness through
the Gary Bergh Scholarship
The Gary Bergh Scholarship is offered especially to youth and young adults for travel to Palestine-Israel to witness the need and hear possible solutions toward justice, peace, and security for ALL in the Holy Land. This scholarship, a Conference Advance Special, (#932) is offered by the UNY Task Force on Peace w/ Justice in Palestine/ Israel (co-chaired by Linda Bergh: 315-492-8507 and Karen Peterson: 607-739-3141). It has enabled young adults and clergy to join “justice-seeking” delegations almost yearly since 2010.
This year, the UNY Task Force is offering two or three sizable scholarships to enable young adults to see for themselves the effects of Israel's military occupation of Palestinian lands (the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza,) the demolition of Palestinian homes and mistreatment of Palestinian children.
Click here to learn more about the scholarship and to read eye-witness accounts of UNY travelers to Palestine.
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CAMPUS MINISTER POSITION OPEN: The Protestant Campus Ministry at the University at Albany is searching for a new part-time Protestant Campus Minister. Candidates must be ordained and have a love for college students, mentoring, connecting with students, faculty and congregational partners, as well as an ability to embrace diversity. Skills include Microsoft Office, Social Media, grant writing and reporting. Send cover letter and resume to uacornerstone@gmail.com by August 15. Projected start date: January 1, 2023.
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2022 Annual Conference has been postponed until Oct. 6-8 and will now be virtual
This news item was released April 21 by the Upper New York Conference office.
The Sessions Committee of the Upper New York Conference gathered by Zoom on the morning of Thursday, April 21 to discuss growing concerns about the uptick in COVID-19 cases in Upstate New York and throughout the United States.
Annual Conference will be postponed to Oct. 6-8 and it will be a virtual gathering. The plan is to use the same technology that was used at the 2021 virtual Annual Conference gathering, which was relatively well received.
Anyone who has already registered for the planned in-person Annual Conference gathering will receive full refunds. The processing of refunds will start immediately but could take a couple of weeks to complete. If you made a hotel reservation, you should contact the hotel directly to cancel.
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UNY 2023 Ministry Share budget posted
The Upper New York Conference 2023 Ministry Share budget, is now available. The budget will be voted on at the 2022 Upper New York Annual Conference, which is scheduled to be held June 2-4 at the SRC Arena in Syracuse. Click here to view the budget
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UMC Clergy Education Offering Courses for Credit
ClergyEducation.com is a resource for clergy and church leaders, offering CEUs accepted by most United Methodist annual conferences.
Click here for a complete catalogue of recorded courses.
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Disaffiliating from the UNY Conference and the UMC |
During the Upper New York (UNY) Annual Conference held virtually in June of 2021, the body passed Resolution UNYAC2021.7 which created a Study Commission to examine the readiness in the UNYUMC for the Implementation of the Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation.
Last fall, the UNY Study Commission issued surveys to clergy and congregations in the UNY Conference about the Protocol. Despite there only being a 30 percent response rate, some congregations and clergy did report that if the Protocol passes, they will leave the United Methodist Church. Click here to read the survey report.
The Global Methodist Church launched on May 1, 2022. Click here to read the announcement.
Given these changes, the Conference Board of Trustees anticipated there would be congregations who might now desire to explore disaffiliation.
Click here to read an article that outlines the disaffiliation process.
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Supporting the humanitarian response in Ukraine
The General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church is deeply troubled by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the ominous implications it has for escalating tensions between Russia and Western nations. They join many Christian leaders and organizations worldwide in deploring the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, and they ardently pray for a redirection of military action toward diplomatic measures to resolve grievances.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), the humanitarian relief arm of Global Ministries, is in communication with partners in the region and actively exploring the coordination of humanitarian response in Ukraine. You can support UMCOR’s international disaster response efforts by writing a check to the Upper New York Conference with either Advance #982450/Ukraine or UMCOR/Ukraine written in the memo line.
Send checks to UNYAC, 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088.
Click here to read more about this response from Roland Fernandes, the General Secretary of Global Ministries and UMCOR.
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Other giving opportunities in response to the war in Ukraine
Individuals can give directly to the Ukrainian people through local church offerings by writing a check to the Upper New York Conference with Advance #14053A in the memo line of the checks. These checks can either be placed in an offering plate or sent directly to the Conference office at 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088.
The Ukraine UMC has created a crisis committee that will oversee all the global support that is coming in through UMCOR’s Advance #14053A “Eurasia In Mission Together - Ukraine and Moldova.” The money channeled through this Advance fund will go to the Ukraine UMC church account and decisions on how this will be used will be considered by the crisis committee, which includes pastors as well as lay leaders.
UMCOR also offers other opportunities for more specific giving to Ukrainian refugees in Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. You can designate giving by stating it is for "Ukrainian Refugee support" to the following Advance numbers.
- Hungary In Mission Together (Advance # 00175A)
- Poland In Mission Together (Advance # 00408A)
- Romania In Mission Together (Advance #00211A)
- Slovakia In Mission Together (Advance # 00236A)
Donations for Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia should be mailed directly to UMCOR Mission Together Advances at 458 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308.
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United Methodists
stand with Ukraine
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United Methodists across the globe condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stand in solidarity with those experiencing violence, displacement and suffering in the midst of war. Learn more about the ways United Methodist prayers, aid and witness are being directed to Ukraine.
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Trauma evident
in Ukrainian refugees
Many Methodist women and men in various countries prove to be wide-hearted and helpful. However, the longer people in Ukraine have to live with the war, the more psychological support will be required. Click here to read a summary of the Central Conference of Central and Southern Europe’s efforts to support Ukrainian refugees.
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United Methodists extend BSA charters through June 2022 |
Leaders in The United Methodist Church have reached an agreement with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to extend existing UMC-sponsored Scouting charters through June 30, 2022. This is an extension from the March 31, 2022 extension as legal proceedings continue in the BSA's bankruptcy case. This new extension provides uninterrupted ministry with young people through Scouting.
Churches do not need to take any action to extend their current organizational relationship with the BSA until June 30, 2022.
Click here to read more about how organizational leaders are working to develop a long-term solution regarding the church’s relationship with Scouting for future generations of young people.
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Boy Scouts of America settlement announced |
Pending court approval of a settlement agreement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) bankruptcy case, United Methodists have agreed to contribute $30 million to a $3 billion Survivor Trust Fund that will receive contributions from the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), insurance companies, and charter organizations. To read more, click here.
Click here to read a full press release to learn more about the Survivors Trust fund, the goals Upper New York United Methodists had through the mediation process, and the commitments they have made to help prevent abuse against children, youth, and vulnerable adults.
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Tending the Soul 2022-2024
A Two-year Training Program
for Lay and Clergy
What is it? Tending the Soul is a program designed to train individuals in Spiritual Direction and Congregational Formation.
The two-year training program offers learning and formational experiences in classroom and small group settings. The training includes home-based reading and reflection, experiential learning, and attention to the practice of spiritual disciplines. Participants will receive guidance in discerning their sense of giftedness and call to one-on-one spiritual direction and congregational direction and formation.
Where and When? All six training retreats will be held at Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center in Moravia, NY (campsandretreats.org). Attendance is required at all six retreats. Retreats will be held on: • November 14-17, 2022 • February 24-27, 2023 • April 17-20, 2023 • November 10-13, 2023 • February 19-22, 2024 • April 8-11, 2024
Click here for a glimpse of the most recent training that was completed last week and the lives that were transformed.
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Holy Land Trip 2023
The clergy team of Syracuse United Methodist Ministries (Revs. Andy Anderson, B.J. Norrix, Jee Hae Song, and Alicia Wood) invite you to join them on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Feb. 14 – Feb. 24, 2023.
You will explore, learn, and fellowship as you visit Caesarea, the Sea of Galilee, Cana, Nazareth, Samaria, Jacob's Well, the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and much more. The cost of the trip starts at $3,448, leaving from JFK, New York. There is also an option to extend your trip through Jordan for an additional cost.
You are encouraged to register immediately with only $100. Register by July 14 ($50 off), August 14 ($25 off). Brochures with more details and registration forms are available. Please contact Pastors B.J.: bjnorrix@gmail.com, 315-726-2815 (cell); Andy: andmcand@hotmail.com, 917-723-0901 (cell); Alicia: pastoraliciawood@gmail.com, 315-450-1632 (cell); or Jee Hae: jeehaesong611@gmail.com, 404-825-8025 (cell), for a brochure, online registration link, if you have any questions, or need more information.
There will also be an informational session on May 3 at Erwin First United Methodist Church that you can attend in-person or via Zoom.
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NYS HERO Act Update
On March 18, 2022, the NYS Department of Labor updated its NY HERO Act website to confirm the designation of COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health under the HERO Act ended. Private sector employers are no longer required to implement their workforce safety plans. No more health screens!
While this is great news, there are other obligations the NY HERO Act (NY Labor Law Section 218-b) that remain even when no designation is in effect. These obligations include creating an airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plan, giving a copy of the plan to employees within 30 days after its creation, giving a copy of the plan to any new employees when they are hired, posting the plan in each work site so employees can view it, and updating the plan as necessary.
Any questions about the NYS HERO Act obligations can be addressed to Upper New York Conference Director of Human Resources/Benefits, Susan Latessa at susanlatessa@unyumc.org or 315-898-2002.
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New York State required sexual harassment annual training prevention reminder
New York State Law requires that employers who have at least one or more employees must conduct sexual harassment prevention training for all employees on a yearly basis. The timing of when to hold the yearly training is up to the employer as long as it is completed annually. A notice of the employer’s sexual harassment policy must be provided to all employees during this time and the employer should maintain records of the training for audit purposes.
Safe Sanctuaries training does not exempt churches from the New York State sexual harassment prevention training requirements.
Click here to learn more about what’s required in the training, how to create a sexual harassment policy if you haven’t already, and free training opportunities offered by New York City that satisfy the state’s requirements.
If you have questions, you can contact Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Generalist in the Conference Office at (315) 898-2017 or via email at tracyrickett@unyumc.org
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Van needed for Restoration Ministry |
Restoration Ministry is a bilingual ministry in the Amsterdam/Fultonville/Gloversville area. It serves people from many Latin American backgrounds, including Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and Colombia. A significant number of the participants in the Ministry don't have cars or licenses. For the past few years they have been borrowing a van for their work. They have used it to transport people to Bible studies and worship services.They have also made weekly food deliveries to needy families, provided rides for medical appointments, and taken people shopping for groceries and other necessities. Many of the Ministry's activities would be impossible without the van. Soon the van will have to be returned to its owners. Restoration Ministry will need its own van. They are looking for a new or gently used 12 passenger van. Do you know of one that is available for free or for a greatly reduced price? Would you like to donate toward the purchase of a van? If you can help with this in any way, please call Pastor Jose' Rodrigues, the Ministry's Supervisor, at (315) 567-5990. Thank you for your help! |
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From the Conference Center |
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Please consider subscribing
to these links
These will keep you updated on all the news coming from the Conference.
UNY-Notes are targeted email blasts:
· From the Desk of Bishop Webb
· Alerts
· Announcements
· Prayer Requests
· Death Notices
· Camp & Retreat
Weekly Digest- will be sent every Wednesday. It will contain a round-up of that week’s UNY Notes, along with feature articles, direct links to several “hot spots” on the Conference website, photos, and more.
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Explore Volunteers-in-Mission opportunities |
Volunteers-in-Mission (VIM) is one way United Methodists offer their skills and talents for Christian Service at home or abroad on short-term assignments in areas affected by disasters and hardships. A missionary movement of the United Methodist Church, VIM sends short term volunteer teams into areas of need to work on construction and spiritual formation projects.
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CBOPHB delays enforcement of direct bill arrearage policy
Understanding the struggle faced by many congregations, the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits (CBOPHB) had voted to delay enforcement of the direct bill arrearage policy that went into effect Jan. 1, 2020, for years 2020 and 2021. The CBOPHB has approved to continue the delayed enforcement through Dec. 31, 2022, recognizing that there are churches that are still struggling financially.
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NY Paid Family leave
changes for 2022
New York State Paid Family Leave provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job protected, paid time off to bond with a new child, care for a family member with a serious health condition, or to assist loved ones when a family member is deployed abroad on active military service. This time can be taken all at once, or in increments of full days.
Paid Family Leave may also be available in some situations when an employee or their minor, dependent child is under an order of quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19.
Click here for all the details you need to know about 2022 Paid Family Leave in UNY.
If you have additional questions on the New York State Paid Family Leave benefit, please contact Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Generalist, at (315) 898-2017 or tracyrickett@unyumc.org. You may also contact Guardian directly at 1-800-268-2525.
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'CONAM' grants available
The Upper New York Committee of Native American Ministries (CONAM) is accepting grant applications to fund Native American missions, ministries, and communities to support native churches, community outreach, leadership training, education, and cultural survival projects.
The grants are funded through Native American Ministries Sunday offerings. Native American Ministries Sunday is one of six special church-wide Sunday offerings. There is no deadline for submission of an application. For further questions, contact Sharon Schmit at conam@unyumc.org.
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Positions Open with UNY Conference
The UNY Conference is seeking the following well-qualified applicants:
· Part time Maintenance Assistant – Skye Farm
· Reservation Specialist – Casowasco
· Summer Camp positions – Aldersgate, Asbury, Casowasco, Skye Farm, Sky Lake
Full Time Seasonal Food Service Manager: Skye Farm
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Handbook of spiritual practices |
Click here for a handbook of spiritual practices, written by the Rev. Nancy Dibelius. It was originally conceived as a supplement to the Conference spiritual direction training program, but Nancy is hopeful that it will find a broader use throughout the Conference. It provides history, Christian heritage, and basic how-to for a broad range of spiritual practices. To view it, click here.
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from United Methodist Communications
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Fall is the perfect time to invite people back to church and celebrate back-to-school time with customized banners, yard signs, sandwich board signs, postcards, invitation cards and more. Use coupon code UMCFA22 for $300 worth of free resources.
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Advocate 2022 Issue I available
The 2022 Issue I of the Advocate has been mailed to local churches. This issue focuses on youth and children’s ministries throughout Upper New York. These inspirational stories and resources illustrate ways to think outside-of-the-box to create vibrant youth and children’s programs at your church.
Click here to read or download the electronic version of the 2022 Issue I of the Advocate.
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Take advantage of Digital Discipleship membership
Your district superintendent has purchased a one-year membership for your continuing education on Digital Discipleship! This subscription is available to your church teams and volunteers who want to learn how to make the most of your online ministry.
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Learn from the
comfort of your couch!
United Methodist Communications offers a variety of free webinars to help you enhance your marketing and communications skills as well as to keep you informed about the latest resources and church initiatives. Click here to find upcoming as well as archived webinars.
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Crash courses in youth ministry
New Youth Ministry eBooks designed with the Youth Worker in mind.
Each eBook is loaded with practical tips and basic wisdom that you can read today and put into practice tomorrow! If you are a part-time or no-time (amazing volunteer!) youth worker, these crash courses are especially for you. Click here to learn more and download for FREE
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Start a conversation around social justice topics
Engage your adults in a conversation around social justice topics, like refugees and sexuality, to explore what these topics mean to individuals and your community.
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Mission Insite free to churches
A reminder that Mission Insite is a web-based demographics provider for local church use. In planning ministry, it is important to know the context.
Mission Insite provides demographic data that is updated on a regular basis and the reports are user friendly to the novice or experienced demographer.
The reports are free to the local church because the Annual Conferences is under contract with Mission Insite, but in order to access the website you will need to register your local church.
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Free shareable social graphics |
United Methodist Communications offers free shareable images for use in inspiring and informing your members year round.
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News Links From the Conference
If you want to keep in the know of what is happening in the Upper New York Conference and the United Methodist Church please consider these links.
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Start the day with Debbie
Our District Superintendent Debbie Earthrowl shares a devotion via Facebook Live at 7:30 AM every Monday through Saturday. The devotions are also posted on her Facebook page and our District Facebook page, so you can tune in at any time. I personally find this an inspirational way to start my day. I trust you will, as well. To view, click here:
or
Blessings to all,
Carrie B
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Albany District
of the Upper New York Conference
Rev. Deborah (Debbie) Earthrowl
District Superintendent
Ellen Mall-John
Albany District Lay Leader and District Associate
Carrie Boyer
Minister of Administration
Our office is located in the Newtonville UMC
568 Loudon Rd., Latham, NY 12110
Mailing Address:
PO Box 511, Newtonville, NY 12128
(518) 608-1246
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