.Adirondack District,
Local Church
and Conference News
Resources and Information
April 28, 2021
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"I am extraordinarily patient provided I get my own way in the end.”
― Margaret Thatcher
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Send us your news!
Call Carrie with questions, 518-480-4866.
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The District Office is open
We are now back in the office. We are adhering to guidelines on safety and social distancing. If you need to stop by, please call ahead. You'll need to wear a mask, and follow safety protocols. Call Carrie at (518) 480-4866.
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Please note
Much of the information in the newsletter is repeated from past weeks. Wanted to leave it in, as there are resources that you can continue to use. Anything that is updated from last week is noted. Please be in touch with questions or concerns to Carrie: (518) 480-4866 or adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org or to District Superintendent Rev. Debbie Earthrowl: (518) 391-3215 or debbieearthrowl@unyumc.org
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Please keep family and friends of Pastor Gaylord “Jake” Campbell (retired) in your prayers. Pastor Campbell, 84, died on April 21. He served several Upper New York churches, including Pownal UMC, Boyntonville UMC, Petersburg UMC and Tomhannock UMC in the former Troy Conference. Click here to read Jake’s full obituary.
If you'd like prayer for yourself or others, or you'd like to share a joy, please be in touch with Carrie (518) 480-4866 or adirondackdistrict@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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Mission Opportunity in Memory of Rev. Art Hagy
The Rev. Art Hagy had a mission near and dear to his heart: The United Methodist Economic Ministry in Salem, ME. Click here to read more about an undertaking that will benefit UMEM and honor Rev. Hagy at the same time.
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Local Church Events and Classifieds |
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Click here to view Local Church Events and Classifieds.
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Bishop Webb announces clergy appointments
Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the Upper New York Conference announce one ad interim appointment, six appointments, and three retirements pending approval of clergy session. View the full list of changes here.
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The spiritual discipline of Lectio Divina
Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Upper New York Assistant Director of Vital Congregations for Spiritual Life, the Rev. Nancy Dibelius, has been providing videos of helpful spiritual practices to help deepen people’s relationship to God during this difficult time.
For 2021, Rev. Dibelius is zeroing in on spiritual disciplines. She explains that spiritual disciplines are a way to get away with Jesus, walk with Jesus, and learn from Jesus.
Click here for Rev. Dibelius’s latest spiritual discipline exploration, revisiting the discipline of Lectio Divina.
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Is my District Superintendent emailing me?
Have you recently received emails your District Superintendent, your pastor, or other leader asking for gift cards/money or perhaps informing you of an urgent request? Please be aware that these are phishing schemes—they are SPAM emails. Do NOT send buy or send gift cards! Over the past year, there has been an increase in these types of emails world-wide, and, just like everyone else, we have seen an increase in Upper New York. Here are some identifiers of these types of emails:
· First and foremost, your DS or another leader would not request gift cards or money from you in an email.
· If the email has a picture or your DS or the person requesting gift cards or money, don’t fall for this scam. It is extremely rare for someone to include their photo in an email!
· If the email says it is urgent or a favor is needed, not mentioning what and asks you not to call but to reply by email, it is likely a phishing email.
If you get emails like these, simply delete them and/or mark it as SPAM.
Click here for a good five-minute video clip on what to look for in phishing emails.
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Camps and retreats are back in UNY
The Upper New York Camp and Retreat Ministry Area is excited to welcome back campers and guests for summer programs at all five sites. Safety precautions (including limiting capacity) will be in place to ensure the safety of all, as life-long memories are made in our fun and supportive environments.
Click here for more information on the programs being offered this summer, which is also where you will find the link to register.
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10 easy ways to take time for you and why you should
As a church leader, it’s imperative that you take care of yourself. Unfortunately, that goes against the grain for many pastors and ministry servants who feel on call 24/7 and feel guilty for needing time off. Even Jesus needed solitude, and he encouraged his disciples to get away for a break.
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Dismantling racism resource: The grace to admit fragility
The UMC is leading a sustained and coordinated effort to actively engage in the ministry of dismantling racism and promoting racial justice. The UNY Conference Communications team will regularly share worship, advocacy, and educational resources to help with this important campaign.
This week we share with you an article, written by the Rev. Marti Swords-Horrell, pastor at Oneonta First UMC, about white fragility.
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Bishop's Retreat postponed until 2022
Due to the coronavirus, the 2020 Bishop's Retreat, originally scheduled for Oct. 20-22, 2020, at the Radisson Hotel in Corning, NY is being postponed until Sept. 27-29, 2022. It will also be held at the Radisson Hotel in Corning. The theme is, “Sharing Our Faith Boldly” and the keynote speaker is Debi Nixon, Executive Director of Development and ShareChurch at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. Registration will open following the completion of the 2022 Annual Conference session.
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New 'Bridge' available
The May 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. The stories that are featured in the Bridge can also be accessed from the news section of the Upper New York (UNY) Conference website for easy copying and pasting for those who wish to electronically distribute news featured in the Bridge. Click here to access the UNY Conference news items.
This issue announces the new team of leaders available to help people plant New Faith Communities. It also includes information about a campaign dedicated to Hispanic and Latino New Faith Communities and an announcement about the “new” New Faith Community, Church in the Wild.
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What Approach to Digital Worship is Best for Your Church?
Tim Snyder of the Lewis Center staff outlines the pluses and minuses of two platforms commonly used for digital worship — broadcast platforms and video conferencing. Each has its own logic, possibilities, and limitations that must be considered in deciding what is right in your setting.
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5 Rules for Engaging Taboo Subjects in Churches
Are certain topics off limits in your church? If so, people may feel their real-life problems and concerns simply aren’t welcome in the church.Here are five rules for engaging tough topics bravely, honestly and openly.
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More on Imagining a Hybrid Future
How can a church develop hybrid ministry that connects both with those in the room and those who will never enter your church building? Ann Michel of the Lewis Center staff interviews Rosario Picardo, one of the authors of a new book on ministry in the digital age. They discuss how churches can continue to develop online ministry while resuming in-person ministries in the post-pandemic age.
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Two-day Workshop: Developing and Maintaining
An Outward Heartset & Mindset
Our Objective:
To help the people in our churches and communities to see themselves and every human being as a beloved child of God in order to be better prepared to be part of making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
We invite teams, individuals, lay & clergy leadership to participate in a workshop that brings us to a renewed awareness of ways to use deeper insight to strengthen relationships and ministry.
Many have commented that this workshop has reawakened their God-given longing to genuinely appreciate, support, and learn from all, so that we are better able to be in ministry together.
Workshop Leaders: Rev. Bill Mudge and Rev. Debbie Earthrowl
The workshop runs from 6 PM to 9 PM on Friday, May 7 and from 9 AM to Noon and from 1 PM to 4 PM on Saturday, May 8.
The cost is $130 for materials; some scholarship assistance is available.
Deadline to register is Friday, April 30.
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Annual Conference 2021 to be held June 17-19, remotely
After consultation with the Upper New York (UNY) Committee on Sessions, Conference Leadership Team, Board of Ordained Ministry Executive Committee, and the Upper New York Board of Trustees, Resident Bishop, Mark J. Webb and the Upper New York Cabinet are announcing that the UNY 2021 Annual Conference (AC2021) session will be held remotely.
The dates for this year’s Annual Conference will be June 17-19.
Registration is now open. Registration closes June 1.
Click here for more Annual Conference News, compliments of Patti Gridley, administrative assistant for the Mountain View District.
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Save a date to attend Pre-Conference training
It would be a good idea to pencil in one of the days below to attend a Pre-Conference training—the UNY Cabinet and the executive staff have secured different days and times for this training in hopes of accommodating as many people as possible to attend.
Choose one of the following dates and times:
- May 8 - 9 - 11 a.m.
- May 13 - 6 - 8 p.m.
- May 20 - 9 - 11 a.m.
At these trainings, first, Dave Wood from GNTV (this year’s technology support) will offer a presentation and tutorial on how the platform will work for this year’s virtual conference.
GNTV has offered their services to many Conferences throughout the country and along with accolades and high recommendations, GNTV also received awards at the United Methodist Association of Communicators Awards gala.
This training will then move on to the Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, UNY Director of Connectional Ministries and Executive Assistant to the Bishop, and other Conference leaders previewing the agenda of the 2021 Annual Conference. There will also be a time for questions and answers.
Zoom links will be posted on the Conference website and sent via email as the training gets closer.
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For Certified Safe Sanctuaries Trainers Only:
Zoom Review of Revised Trainers Manual and Final Curriculum
2 training opportunities:
(both sessions will be the same, please only sign up for one)
Tuesday, May 18th, 7pm-9pm
Wednesday, May 26th, 7pm-9pm
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United Methodist Men's Spring retreat
The UNY Conference United Methodist Men invite men to their annual Spring Retreat, which will be held at the Aldersgate UMC camp (https://aldersgateny.org/) 4 PM Friday, April 30 through 3 PM Saturday, May 1.
To help us promote this annual event, there is a descriptive flier available on our www.unyumm.org website - Click here for the flyer.
Any questions, contact Conference President Mark Jones at (315) 749-3700.
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Peace with Justice grant deadline is April 30
As we look toward our next Peace with Justice Grant application deadline – April 30 – Heather Smith wanted to highlight the ministries that received Peace with Justice Grants in 2020.
In May, the Social Holiness Team awarded Niagara Frontier City Ministries a grant to help them support their work to provide masks, cleaning supplies, and hygiene products to the underserved in their area around Buffalo and Niagara Falls. This area and especially the homeless population was particularly hard hit in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In November, the Social Holiness Team was able to grant the New York State Poor People’s Campaign for the development of a podcast entitled Getting into Step. The goal of the podcast is to connect activists and spiritual leaders and provide training and support for those doing the work of the of this national movement.
The Social Holiness Team looks forward to receiving this next round of applications and supporting emerging justice ministries. Click here for an application and contact Heather Smith (peacewithjustice@unyumc.org) with any questions. April 30 is the deadline to submit your application.
Finally, Peace with Justice Sunday is May 30th, please don’t forget this important giving opportunity – half of all the money donated in our Conference stays right here to support the ministries we are starting! Click here for resources for worship.
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2020 Audits due
The 2020 audits were due Monday, March 15. Please send them to Carrie via email or snail mail (adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org or PO Box 590, Glens Falls, NY 12801.)
These reports were due Feb. 15:
2021 Budget (your format)
2020 Year-end financial report (your format)
If you have questions, please be in touch with Carrie (518) 480-4866.
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Can churches require proof of vaccination for visitors
at worship or a church event?
With vaccination eligibility available for so many now, a lot of New Yorker’s are starting to return to more regular participation in various activities as they are vaccinated. This includes going to church.
Accordingly, there are a lot of questions about if it is okay to require that visitors show proof of vaccination when attending church events, including weekly worship. Current legal guidance advises against requiring visitors to show proof of vaccination. Click here to learn why.
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Updated COVID-19 guidelines
As of Feb. 2, 2021, New York State (NYS) allows any church not in a restricted cluster to worship at 50% capacity. Click here for details. All other COVID protocols remain in place:
· Social distancing of 6 ft/12 ft for singer
· Masks required
· Disinfecting required
Based on current guidance from the NYS and CDC, vaccination status does not change the requirements.
Effective April 1, 2021, NYS will no longer require domestic travelers without symptoms to quarantine on arrival in NY for 14 days. Click here for details.
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Information needed for lawsuits filed against the Conference
under the Child’s Victims Act
In response to lawsuits filed against the Conference under the Child Victims Act, the Conference Board of Trustees is seeking to identify insurance carriers, agents, or brokers used by any of UNY’s former Conferences (North Central New York, Troy, Western New York, and Wyoming Conferences) in the time period 1960 – 1990. Any information would be helpful and can be sent to info@unyumc.org.
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Toolkit supports efforts to engage your community
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Jason Moore’s follow-up workshop offers tips on 'hybrid' worship
Jason Moore recently offered an hour of follow-up on Zoom to recap the Zoom workshop he hosted in Dec. 2020 (Both/And), including what he has learned in the last four months on how to offer successful worship and engagement on digital platforms. There was also a time for questions from the 41 attendees. Click here to access this recording.
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Intentional discipleship systems in a pandemic
In 2019, the Rev. Dr. Aaron Bowens, the UNY Director of Vital Congregations, wrote an article on what it means to have an intentional discipleship system. Click here to read it.
How do we create disciples during a pandemic? Click here for insight from Ellen Mall John, Albany District Associate. She offers excellent ways to develop disciples at this difficult time through weekly worship/biblical engagement, accountable relationships, and a missional life. Her advice can prove helpful now and even beyond the pandemic.
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Online Giving
Visit the Conference website to learn about online giving: Click here
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Reminder regarding New York State
required annual training for sexual harassment prevention
As previously communicated, New York State employers must adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy and provide training on sexual harassment prevention to their employees on an annual basis.
Each New York State employer is required to have a sexual harassment prevention policy in place. The employer's sexual harassment prevention policy must be provided to the employee at the time of hire and during each annual training. The policy can be provided electronically as long as the employee is able to print the policy for their records.
It is recommended you obtain a signed acknowledgment from the employee affirming they have received and read the employer's sexual harassment prevention policy.
There are various free or low-cost online sexual harassment prevention trainings available to your employees.
If you have questions on this topic, please contact Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Generalist, at tracyrickett@unyumc.org or (315) 898-2017.We are now back in the office. We are adhering to guidelines on safety and social distancing. If you need to stop by, please call ahead. You'll need to wear a mask, and follow safety protocols. Call Carrie at (518) 480-4866.
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Adirondack District
Lay Servant Classes
The following courses are the 2021 cycle for certification as Lay Servant or Lay Speaker. The courses are open to all Districts.
If you are interested in Certified Lay Ministry, the prerequisites are the Basic Course, and Spiritual Gifts. However, it is highly recommended that the five additional required Lay Speaker courses be taken.
Basic Course: Basic Lay Servant
Thursdays, May 13 and 27: 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: 9 am-1 p.m.
Monday, June 7: 6-9 p.m.
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Instructors: Arlene Schmidt and Jamiee Ross
Advanced Course: Spiritual Gifts
Mondays June 14 and 21: 6-9 pm
Saturday, June 26: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thursday, July 1: 6-9 pm
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Instructors: Bruce Hazard, Arlene Schmidt and Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: Leading Worship
Wednesdays: July 14, 21, 28: 6-9 p.m.
Saturday: August 7: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Instructors: Bruce Hazard, Arlene Schmidt and Jacqueline Kim
Advanced Course: Polity
Tuesdays August 17, 24, 31: 6-9 pm
Saturday, August 28: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Instructors: Bruce Hazard, Arlene Schmidt and Jacqueline Kim
For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here
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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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News/Resources
From the Conference
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Media Resource Center
The Media Resource Center is a free lending library supported through your ministry share dollars.
A multitude of DVD studies, curriculum, and support materials for your use! Resources available to help with small group studies, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, church-wide studies, and special events. Consultations are always available. Not only can you order resources in person, it's also easy to order resources through the online catalog, by email at karencampolieto@unyumc.org, or by phone (315) 898-2027 and they will be mailed right to your church. Order for preview or for the length of your study. It only takes a couple of days to receive the materials.
For more information about the Media Resource Center, click here.
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Fraudulent unemployment claims
The Upper NY Conference office has seen an increase in fraudulent unemployment claims for conference staff. We have received a few calls from churches who participate in unemployment insurance that they have as well.
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Direct bill arrearage policy delayed enforcement extended
In 2020, the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits (CBOPHB) had approved delayed enforcement of the direct bill arrearage policy through December 31, 2020. Understanding the continued struggle faced by many congregations, the Board has approved to extend that delay through Dec. 31, 2021. If your church is still able to pay their direct bills, they should. If a church is experiencing financial hardship as a result of reduced giving during this time, the church is asked to notify their District Superintendent as well as the Benefits office (Susan Latessa) to discuss their situation. The Upper New York Conference will work with churches on a case-by-case basis.
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2020 UNY Journal Vol. II available for download or purchase
The 2020 Upper New York Conference Journal, Vol. II is now available for download as a free PDF and for purchase through online publisher Lulu.com. This comprehensive book provides all the details of Annual Conference for the year of 2020.
Click here for options to either view an online version or download a copy from Issuu or to purchase it for $16.96 (plus shipping and applicable sales tax) from Lulu.com.
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Conference Commission on Religion and Race offering courses
The Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) will offer Imagine No Racism courses on ZOOM as the need arises. People interested and looking for an INR group may contact Blenda Smith at bsmith@binghamton.edu Clergy may receive 1 CEU, and Lay Servants may receive advance course credit. If you have formed a group on your own, please let Carrie know (adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org).
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Real Property Tax Exemption reminder
All churches must renew their real property tax exemption every year. Renewal forms must reach your assessor’s office by the deadline date, which for most towns is March 1. Check with your local assessor’s office to confirm the date for your location. This deadline is critical.
Missing the deadline date may result in the denial or revocation of your church’s real property tax exemption. This filing includes all church buildings, parsonages, and all other parcels used for religious purposes. For more information, contact Pat Toukatly, UNY Conference Property Specialist, at (315) 898-2000 Ext. 2010 or at pattoukatly@unyumc.org.
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Paid Family Leave Update
Effective January 1, 2021, there are changes to the New York State Paid Family Leave benefit.To view the document, click here.
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New York State Paid Sick Leave Law
All private sector workers in New York State are covered under New York State’s paid sick leave law. If a person is issued a W-2 year-end tax form, they are eligible for the New York State paid sick leave. Non-profit and religious organizations are not exempt from this law. Click here for information on the New York State paid sick leave law.
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Certificates of Insurance in the UNY Conference
If your church is seeking certificates of insurance for disability insurance coverage (DB 120.1) and/or workers’ compensation insurance coverage (C105.2), the Upper New York Conference’s Human Resources Generalist, Tracy Rickett, has compiled some helpful information for you. Click here for more information.
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Tap into Mission Insite
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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Digital discipleship
The Upper New York Conference is launching the Digital Discipleship Ministry to provide churches, large and small, with the proper resources to keep people connected.
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Stewardship with Susan Ranous
Connect with the Rev. Susan Ranous, deacon serving as Director of Christian Stewardship for the UNY Conference.
Click here for the blog that she usually publishes on Thursdays about stewardship, creation care, finances, money, generosity, and many other topics. Be sure to check it out!
Click here to visit her Facebook page, "Stewardship with Susan Ranous."
Rev. Ranous can be contacted through your District Superintendent or directly via phone (315) 427-3668 or email: susanranous@unyumc.org.
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Sign up for the Skye Farm newsletter!
Click here to sign up for the Skye Farm Camp and Retreat Center's newsletter, "Pass it On." To read past issues, visit the archives: click here
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List of online worship services
The Conference website offers links to online services.
To view, or to add your service to the list, click here.
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Live-streaming and licensing
For information on live-streaming and licensing information: Click here.
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Visit Conference website for updates on COVID-19
The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic. The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church is actively determining the best way to balance ministry while protecting the health of all clergy and laity.
We have created a resource page designed to support leaders in our Conference as they make critical decisions in a situation that is quickly changing.
Click here for the webpage. Please note that by scrolling down on this link, you will see the latest news on COVID-19 and on the right side, you will see links to FAQs, webinars, live streaming, video conferencing, and more.
If you have a question about COVID-19 and how it affects your church or need assistance, please contact UNY Communications at (315) 898-2012 or COVID-19response@unyumc.org and someone will contact you.
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Updated wedding guidelines
Guidelines for worship in Upper New York haven’t changed (50% capacity, masks, social distancing), but there are new guidelines for receptions.
The updated guidance for wedding receptions will go into place March 15 and will require the following:
- Testing for all that attend the event.
- 50% capacity - up to 150 attendees.
- Must be approved by local health department.
Click here to see all FAQs related to the coronavirus and your church.
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Tune in to webinars
The Conference website has webinars to assist you with the following:
How to Facebook Live
Using ZOOM to keep church connection
Online Giving
Streaming worship online.
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Tips for streaming your services
Many churches are brainstorming ways to record or stream their services during the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here to check out our Resource page where we describe different services you can use for video recording or live streaming your services.
One popular live streaming platform that churches are using is Facebook Live.
Click here for a very useful video by Baptist pastor Bobby Gillstrap, showing you how to use Facebook Live.
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Web site for COVID "hot spot" zones
Click here to see if your address is in one of the "hot spot" zones according to New York State's website.
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Other Resources and Information
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United Methodist Communications offers free graphics downloads
Download free social media graphics designed to help you share uplifting messages with your community.
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UMCOR issuing grants to churches to help refugees and migrants
UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) is providing $2,000 "mustard seed" migration grants to UM churches in the US to help fund their new or existing programs designed to help refugees and migrants.
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Online courses offered through Resource UMC
Courses include Worship Planning for a New Time, Caring for Yourself: The Caregiver, Rediscovering our Spiritual Gifts and many more. For links to online courses through Feb. 1, click here.
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Webinars on Mental Health
This year, because of COVID-19 and the inequalities it has exacerbated, adults are reporting considerably higher mental stress. According to the CDC, “younger adults, racial/ethnic minorities, essential workers, and unpaid adult caregivers reported having experienced disproportionately worse mental health outcomes, increased substance use, and elevated suicidal ideation.”
From sadness and anger to depression and suicidal thoughts, this series will help pastors and individuals understand and better cope with the heightened stress this year has brought.
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Find daily, weekly devotions online
Devotional resources to share with members and other congregants is one of the needs identified by pastors and other local church leaders in recent research conducted by United Methodist Communications. For a list of resources, click here.
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Leading small groups during social distancing
Small groups and Sunday school classes form one of the most powerful connections and means of support for members.
Many people are asking: What happens to these connections during times of social distancing? How can leaders maintain these essential care mechanisms in the lives of members?
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Resourcing men's ministries
Are you interested in establishing a men's ministry in your church?
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Keeping church property safe when closed
Even if your church building is seeing little use these days, the property still faces risk of damage or burglary. Explore tips from United Methodist Insurance that will help local churches keep people safe and make the most of limited visits to the building.
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Adirondack District
of the Upper New York Conference
Rev. Deborah (Debbie) Earthrowl
District Superintendent
Gracie Lynn Besse and
Linda Sheeran
Adirondack District Lay Leaders
Carrie Boyer
Minister of Administration
Our office is located in the South Glens Falls UMC
15 Maplewood Parkway, South Glens Falls (12803)
Mailing Address:
PO Box 590, Glens Falls, NY 12801
(518) 480-4866
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