Adirondack District and Conference News
August 10, 2022
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“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision." -- Helen Keller |
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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 UMC, Troy) who sustained injuries in an accident in May. The church reports that Christ Church had a joint service with the First United Presbyterian Church on Sunday, with Pastor Paul and Rev. Amanda Wagner leading the service together. Pastor Paul will be leading worship this Sunday. . He still has a long road to full recovery. Cards of care and concern can be sent to him c/o Christ Church UMC, 35 State St., Troy, NY 12180.
Please keep Debbie Robinson in your prayers as she struggles with Parkinson's Disease. Debbie is the daughter of Doug Baker (lay supply at Raceville UMC). Cards can be sent to Debbie in care of Doug @ 5 Madison St., Apt. E, Granville, NY 12832.
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 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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What to do when people leave your church |
Ron Edmondson writes that people leave churches for all kinds of reasons, but it’s still hard not to take it personally. He shares five tips to ease the pain of losing those in whom you’ve invested.
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Job opening at the Conference Office |
A new job opening has been posted to the Conference website for an Administrative/Accounting Services Specialist. Please apply online through the Conference website. Click here.
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Grants for Accessibility/Inclusion
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Grants available to help strengthen the ethnic local church
Discipleship Ministries is pleased to offer the Racial Ethnic Local Church Concerns (RELCC) Grant, which provides funding to support the ethnic local church through leadership training, small groups, worship, stewardship, and spiritual formation as it engages in developing disciple-making systems inside the church walls and in the community.
Applications are due September 10, 2022.
Two grants per jurisdiction, of up to $10,000 each, are available. Please click the link below to see eligibility criteria and apply.
Priority will be given to new programs/ministries that move churches to places where disciples are formed, grow, and make new disciples of Jesus Christ who will transform the world.
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Dismantling racism: Podcast on decentering whiteness
The latest episode of The Unfinished Church podcast features Willie Jennings, a poet and Yale Divinity School professor sharing his vision of "decentering whiteness" and how justice, mercy, and humility compel us to dismantle systems of oppression. United Methodist Bishops LaTrelle Easterling, Michael McKee, and Gregory Palmer host the podcast.
Click here to listen to this important 33-minute podcast.
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Francis Asbury writings discovered
Writings by legendary Methodist Francis Asbury were discovered by an archivist for The United Methodist Church. The works, found in a manila folder that probably hasn't been opened since the 1960s, include a "state of the denomination" speech. Archivist the Rev. Bonnie McCubbin said the notebook was written two days before Asbury's death in 1816. Jonathan M. Pitts has the story.
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Five stewardship lessons from a homecoming
Ken Sloane, the Director of Stewardship & Generosity for Discipleship Ministries, recently visited the church where he grew up; he was disappointed in the visit. Reflecting on his experience, Ken put together a list of five important lessons pastors need to put to use for guests to have a positive experience.
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What's New from the Lewis Center |
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Doing planning differently
What if you focused on making already-planned ministry events better rather than creating new events? Olu Brown offers three planning strategies for Doing Church Differently™ and returning to simplicity.
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Building your
stewardship team
Ann Michel of the Lewis Center staff says forming a lay-led stewardship team is key to a successful stewardship campaign and to fostering a culture of generosity within your church. She outlines the need, benefits, and implementation steps for creating such a group.
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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:
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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(New) New Director of Lay Servant Ministries - Albany District:
Leading, Caring, Communicating
After serving 5 1/2 years as Director of Lay Servant Ministries for the Albany District, Nancy Goddard, Certified Lay Minister, has stepped down. We thank Nancy for her caring, leadership and disciplined attention to the Lay Servant Ministries program. The new Director of Lay Servant Ministries is Darlene V. Suto, Certified Lay Speaker, and a member of the Lay Servant Ministries team. Darlene is a member of Hope UMC in Brunswick and serves as the Lay Leader and Lay Member to Conference. She has been involved in Lay Servant Ministries since 2000. We are so thankful that Darlene gave this prayerful consideration, and agreed to serve in this way. You can reach Darlene at DarleneAnne01@gmail.com or at (518) 495-2248.
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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!
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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UNY Annual Conference registration opens Aug. 15
Mark your calendars! On Aug. 15, registration for the 2022 UNY Annual Conference, to be held online from Oct. 6-Oct. 8, opens. The registration deadline is Sept. 16. The registration link will be shared on all UNY communications platforms once it opens.
Theme: The theme will be It is Well – Keeping Hope Alive.
We acknowledge all that we have faced in the last two years, and through it all, we are well, and God’s hope is alive.
Click here to read why the event was postponed and will now be held remotely Oct. 6-8.
To be excused from Annual Conference, click here and submit the form.
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Zoom book study
begins Sept. 12 OR Sept. 14
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Plattsburgh United Methodist Church will be offering a Fall Zoom Book Study: Brian McLaren's "Do I Stay Christian?" It will begin the week of Sept. 12 (Monday) OR Sept. 14 (Wednesday). If you plan to join us, please register with Rev. Sally White at Pastorgrammy10@yahoo.com, and let her know if you prefer the Monday 7 PM PM study or the Wednesday 1 PM study. You will need to purchase the book.
Do I Stay Christian? addresses in public the powerful question that surprising numbers of people―including pastors, priests, and other religious leaders―are asking in private. Picking up where Faith After Doubt leaves off, Do I Stay Christian? is not McLaren's attempt to persuade Christians to dig in their heels or run for the exit. Instead, he combines his own experience with that of thousands of people who have confided in him over the years to help readers make a responsible, honest, ethical decision about their religious identity.
There is a way to say both yes and no to the question of staying Christian, McLaren says, by shifting the focus from whether we stay Christian to how we stay human. If Do I Stay Christian? is the question you're asking―or if it's a question that someone you love is asking―this is the book you've been waiting for.
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In-person book study begins
Sept. 15 at Plattsburgh UMC
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An in-person book study, "Saving Jesus Redux," begins @ 7 PM Thursday, Sept. 15 and runs Thursdays @ 7 PM through Dec. 15 at the at Plattsburgh UMC, 127 Beekman St., Plattsburgh. To register, contact Rev. Phil Richards @ pastorphils@gmail.com
Ever feel like Jesus has been kidnapped by the Christian Right and discarded by the Secular Left? Saving Jesus Redux is a small group exploration of a credible Jesus for the third millennium. New contributors including Brian McLaren, Diana Butler Bass, and Robin Meyers join Marcus Borg, Walter Brueggemann, John Dominic Crossan, Matthew Fox, Amy-Jill Levine, and a host of others for a conversation around the relevance of Jesus for today.
“We’re having a culture war and Jesus happens to be one of the weapons tossed about by both sides.” — Amy-Jill Levine
The 12-session program includes a downloadable/printable participant reader guide and a facilitator guide with discussion questions. The basic format for each 90-minute session includes conversation around the readings, a 30-minute video segment and guided discussion.
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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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Grant applications being accepted
Applications are being accepted for three grant programs operated by United Methodist Church and Society. The deadline is Sept. 16 to apply for Ethnic Local Church, Human Relations Day and Peace with Justice grants, which range from $2,000 to $5,000. Applicants must be a United Methodist church, district, conference or other affiliated organization, or an ecumenical group or organization with a formal partnership with The United Methodist Church.
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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. There is one more date on the summer schedule:
August 23 1 to 4 PM
Anyone with an interest in history or church work please consider volunteering. Contact Susan Slenker, CAH Volunteer Coordinator, at jslenker@twcny.rr.com
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Church's part of BSA bankruptcy approved
United Methodist leaders greeted with cautious optimism a judge’s partial approval of the Boy Scouts of America’s bankruptcy reorganization plan. The denomination’s $30 million commitment to a fund for survivors of Scouting-related sex abuse gained the judge’s OK in a lengthy ruling issued July 29. Sam Hodges reports.
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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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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.
One church has responded: Shoeboxes can be dropped off at the South Glens Falls UMC, 15 Maplewood Parkway from 9 AM to Noon Monday through Thursday. Please call Ronna Woodhams if you can't make it during those hours (518) 793-1152.
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Positions open at the Methodist missionary vacation home in Chautauqua, NY
Seeking host and hostess couple to open and close the home, process reservations, supervise a staff of four, and all operations of the house, including kitchen, laundry, maintenance, and care of the lawn. Host and Hostess should be on site from May 15 to Sept. 15 starting in 2023.
Salary, plus room and board, gate pass, parking.
Please send resumes to: Marie Follett, 331 West Academy Street, Albion, New York 14411 by Aug. 15, 2022. Phone 585-589-4202. Email: mfollettny@yahoo.com.
A more detailed list of duties will be available to interested parties.
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Record Retention handbook |
Click here for a document titled "Guidelines for Managing Records of the Local Church." It is a handbook on record retention.
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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.
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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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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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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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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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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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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 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.
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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 year-round Maintenance Assistant – Skye Farm
· Reservation Specialist – Casowasco
· Summer Camp positions – Aldersgate, Asbury, Casowasco, Skye Farm, Sky Lake
(new) Administrative/Accounting Services Specialist.
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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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Course helps churches create impactful imagery
A new course from United Methodist Communications aims to equip church leaders to easily create graphic designs and videos for social media, presentations and more. "Outreach and Design Using Canva" is scheduled for Aug. 15-Sept. 9. Designed with busy schedules in mind, the course will be delivered in a self-paced online format. Optional live web session gatherings are set for 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Registration will run through Aug. 10.
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Guide offers discounts, resources for ministry
The General Council on Finance and Administration has released its updated Ministry Resource Guide. The free guide features special offers, discounts and programs from vetted ministry partners and is designed to help local churches and other United Methodist ministries.
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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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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 Newtonville UMC
568 Loudon Rd., Latham, NY 12110
Mailing Address:
PO Box 753, Newtonville, NY 12128
(518) 608-1246
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