Send us your events and classifieds: albanydistrict@unyumc.org

Tuesday, Oct. 31


District Office hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays; 8 AM to 5:30 PM except Thursdays, 8 AM to 2:30 PM. Call Carrie Boyer @ (518) 608-1246 or send an email to albanydistrict@unyumc.org

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Don't Miss Any Important News/Announcements from the Conference Office

To ensure that you don't miss any important information,

please consider subscribing to the following:

 

Click here to subscribe to UNY Notes.

Click here to subscribe to the Weekly Digest

 

UNY Notes are simple text-based emails that will immediately alert you to important news and events of the Upper New York Conference. UNY Notes are targeted e-mail blasts in nine categories:

·    From the Desk of Bishop Hector

·    Alerts

·    Announcements

·    Prayer Requests

·    Death Notices

·    Camp & Retreat



If you prefer fewer e-mails, remember that all of the week's UNY Notes are included in the Weekly Digest, published on Wednesdays. 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.

Red Bird Shoebox Mission


The Mission team at Endwell UMC in the Binghamton District is again coordinating the collection and delivery of shoeboxes for the Red Bird Mission, located in Beverly, Kentucky. The Red Bird Missionary Conference is one of three United Methodist missionary conferences in the United States. It is the most comprehensive mission effort of the United Methodist Church, providing outreach and services that minister to the whole person-spiritual, physical, social, and economic.


To read more, click here.


Calvary UMC, 15 Ridge Place, Latham has volunteered to be the local collection center for the Red Bird Mission this year. They have revised the document from Endwell UMC to include this and other important information, which is attached hereThe additions and revisions in yellow. This year, the collection will be coordinated by Cecelia Broomhead from Calvary. Her contact information is 518-785-5801(house) or by cell phone at 518-577-0985; or by email at ccb1018@nycap.rr.com.  


You can also drop shoe boxes off to the Albany District Office, 568 Loudon Rd., Latham. Enter the parking lot from Maxwell Rd. Please call Carrie Boyer to arrange a drop-off time. (518) 608-1246.


Please plan to drop off your shoe boxes to the designated locations by Nov. 5.


Note from David Alexander with an update on donations, drop-offs: Click here.

Fall Church Conference Schedules


I am glad for another opportunity to gather with you for our fall Church Conferences! This year, nearly all will be held jointly with other area United Methodist congregations so that, in addition to caring for the ordering of ministry for the coming year as individual congregations, we may look at some possibilities for collaborative ministry that might strengthen and broaden our mission and ministry. Since most of the “business” of the Church Conference is prepared beforehand by various teams within the church to receive final vote at the Church Conference, the majority of our time together will be spent on collaboration.

Blessings! Rev. Debbie Earthrowl, Adirondack and Albany District Superintendent


Click on the links below to view the schedules. Any changes from the original schedule are highlighted in yellow.


Albany District Church Conferences
Adirondack District Church Conferences

(Reminder) Church conference forms due 15 days before your conference


Most of our church conferences have been held. There are a few more coming up in November. A reminder to pastors that several church conference forms are due 15 days before your conference. Click here to view the list and to download the forms. I would appreciate them being sent as separate documents via email so that I can download them into our new system. Please send them to carrieboyer@unyumc.org or albanydistrict@unyumc.org


Pastors and SPRC chairs: The Church Profile and Advisory Form and the Pastor/SPRC Covenant form is due on Nov. 1. They must be completed online. If you need your sign-in information, please contact Carrie @ (518) 608-1246 or carrieboyer@unyumc.org Click here to sign in.

Lay Servant Course offered in the

Albany District:

All are welcome


COURSE OFFERING:


Basic course to be held on Zoom on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 PM, January 3 through 31. Contact Melanie Keith, (518) 779-6004, melakeith@icloud.com. Cost is $10 per person, check payable to UNYAC. Mail completed form and check to Melanie Keith, 299 Edwards Rd, Wynantskill, NY 12198, no later than December 21. Please note that attendance is mandatory for all classes.

Form is attached here.


OCTOBER 31, 2023

Gifts of Love

Claudia Marianela Vicioso Melo (Dominican Republic)


Link


READING FOR THE DAY    

1 John 5:1-5


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”

(Romans 6:23)


TODAY'S PRAYER 

Eternal God, your love for us is beyond our understanding. In everything we give thanks to you. Amen.

Seasons - Part 4


The change of Seasons brings with it anticipation of what lies ahead. If are really enjoying the current season, our anticipation of the coming season may be tinged with sadness over what we are losing and even dread for what lies ahead. For others though, the coming season may be eagerly anticipated as one looks forward to enjoying new activities.

As we move through life it can be difficult to accept the changes that are part of the circle of life. It is frustrating to not be able to do some of our favorite activities. We mourn the loss of the companionship of relatives and friends.

Yet like the seasons of the year, there are blessings to the seasons of life. While we may not be ready to run a marathon, age often brings increased time to spend with family and engage in volunteer activities that share God’s love with our neighbor. One volunteer activity that is always in high demand is being willing to spend time listening to others and showing them that they are indeed one of God’s precious children.

So many of our world’s problems are the result of our being unwilling to simply respect and listen to one another.

Finally, the dreaded loss of relatives and friends need not be solely a curse. They can be moments that remind us of the preciousness of time. They can also be a time to remember and celebrate the fact that death is not our complete destruction but rather a time of transition, a time to celebrate that not even death can separate us from God’s love in Jesus. A time to remember that the limitations that are a product of aging are not permanent.

Today’s image was taken October 27th at Mayfield United Methodist Church.



Shalom,


David E. Smith, Pastor

Mayfield & Northampton at Fish House United Methodist Churches


Phone or Text: 518-572-4051

Email: revdavid76@gmail.com


You can find this and other devotions in my blog at www.adirondacksights.wordpress.com. You can also find more of my pictures on my web site www.revdavidimages.com

 

You are invited to join us for our Monday evening Prayer Group at 7:00 pm and our Wednesday Bible Study at 7 PM. Both are being offered in person at the Mayfield UMC and on Zoom which can be accessed using the following link on your computer, tablet, smart phone or by calling in on the provided phone number.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7356408548

Phone Call In: 1-929-205-6099 Meeting ID: 735 640 8548

Local Church Events

EVENTS and ANNOUNCEMENTS


(New) Scholarship offered to 2024 Tamarac High School graduates


Center Brunswick UMC in Troy has announced that a $500 scholarship will be awarded to a 2024 graduate of Tamarac High School in memory of Harold and Mable Keyes. The student does not have to be a member of the church. To read the letter, click here.


Rev. Steve Smith's journey as a parent of a transgender child, Wednesday, Nov. 1, First UMC of East Greenbush


Rev. Steven M. Smith will be talking about his journey and experiences as a clergy person in the United Methodist Church as the parent of a transgender child. Steve has served in ministry in the Troy and Upper New York Conferences for over 26 years, in urban and suburban settings in the Capital Region. A longtime advocate for justice ministries, he has a deep commitment to diversity and inclusivity, though being the parent of a trans child has created new challenges and opportunities in ministry. Serving the church is a family endeavor for Steve, as his spouse and (now young adult) children have all been involved at the Local, District, Annual Conference, and General levels of the church. Steve will be with us at 7 PM Wednesday, Nov. 1 at the church, 1 Gilligan Rd., East Greenbush.


Albany District United Women in Faith Fall Gathering, Saturday, Nov. 4, St. Paul's UMC, Castleton


All are invited to the Albany District United Women in Faith Fall Meeting, on Saturday, Nov. 4 at the St. Paul's UMC, 1583 Carney Rd., Castleton. Registration begins at 8:45 AM; fellowship time from 9 AM to 9:30 AM. Guest speaker is Robin Ford of the Sidewalk Warriors of Troy. Their Mission: "We see each individual as a person deserving a life of dignity and worthy of support in their journey. Each week we provide availability of assistance to those who may be in a volatile situation, along with offering each person hearty meals, essentials and a vast variety of other necessities to make their week a little easier." Items to bring: Sidewalk Warriors of Troy are looking for donations of all kinds, including cleaning supplies, mops, brooms, dustpans, glass cleaner, disinfectant sprays, oven cleaner, dish detergent, laundry soap, sponges, rags, wipes, buckets, gloves, dishcloths, disposable wipes, etc. Also, any paper products like paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, etc. To view the Burning Bush, the Albany District United Women in Faith newsletter, click here.


Thrift Shop, Pine Grove UMC, open monthly:

Next date: Saturday, Nov. 4

 

Pine Grove UMC, 1580 Central Ave. in Colonie opened its new Thrift Shop, "Seconds to Go," on June 3. It will be open once a month. Remaining dates for 2023 are November 4 and December 2. We hope to see you there! The shop will be open from 9 AM to 1 PM on those dates. Enter on the east side of the church (the left side - toward Albany) and use the doors near the back of the building. We have household treasures, glassware, cookbooks, toys, jewelry, dolls and more!


Baked Ham Dinner, Saturday, Nov. 4, Good Shepherd Church, Green Island


Join us for a Baked Ham Dinner from 4:30 to 6 PM (eat-in) or take-out/free delivery starting at 4 PM. Call (518) 273-5531, leave your name and phone number and you will receive a call back. Reservations required. Menu includes ham, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, green beans, roll, coleslaw, raisin gravy on the side and homemade dessert. Cost: $15.


Fall Craft and Vendor Fair, Saturday, Nov. 4, Center Brunswick UMC


Calling all Crafters and Artists! The Center Brunswick UMC's Annual Fall Craft & Vendor Fair will be on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9 AM to 2 PM at the church, located at 990 Hoosick Rd., Troy.


Safe Sanctuaries basic training is Nov. 4


The UNY Safe Sanctuaries Team has scheduled one more 3.5 hour Zoom basic training in 2023.


The Basic training will be held from 9 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturday, Nov. 4.


The Basic training is for all clergy and anyone working with children or vulnerable adults. The Training of Trainers is for anyone who would like to become a church or District Safe Sanctuaries trainer in the UNY Conference. You need to have taken the Basic Training first.


If you'd like to host an in-person training, please contact the District Office or send an email to the Safe Sanctuaries team (safesanctuaries@unyumc.org)


To register, click here.



For more information regarding Safe Sanctuaries, visit the Conference website: Click here.


Ham Dinner, Tuesday, Nov. 7, Melrose UMC


The Melrose UMC, 20 Church St., Melrose, will hold an Election Day Ham Dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Take-outs start at 4:30 PM. Dine-in seating is from 5 PM to 6:30 PM. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for children under 5.


Soup and Sandwich luncheon, Tuesday, Nov. 7, Center Brunswick UMC


This November 7th Elect to EAT!! The Center Brunswick UMC will be offering a Homemade Soup & Sandwich Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 7 from 11:30 AM – 1 PM at the church, located at 990 Hoosick Rd., Troy. Cast your Vote for all your Favorites:

SOUP CHOICES: New England Clam Chowder, Pasta Fagioli

SANDWICH CHOICES: (Comes with Chips & Pickle) Baked Ham & Cheese, Tuna Salad

DESSERT CHOICES: Apple Pie, Pecan Pie

BEVERAGE CHOICES: Coffee, Water

All items are Ala Carte.

Please call Sheryl with any questions at 518-469-7692.

We appreciate your VOTE!!!


Coping with Chronic Anxiety: Adaptive Leadership, ZOOM, Wednesday, Nov. 8, Samaritan Counseling Center


This is the fourth in a series of independent workshops presented for clergy and congregational leaders looking for ways to address the chronic anxiety, stress, and pressures faced in the ministry setting with regards to specific, difficult scenarios. The global pandemic required adaptive leadership to find ways to be church at a time that we couldn't do church as we always have. How can we build on those adaptive changes to provide effective leadership in the ever changing landscape of the church today?


Join us via ZOOM from 9:30 AM to Noon.


Click here for further information and to register.

Presenters:

The Rev. David Olsen, PhD, LCSW, LMFT - Samaritan Counseling Center Executive Director

The Rev. James Fenimore, PhD, DMin, LMFT - Director of Clergy and Congregational Care


(New) Mayan Hands Fair Trade Sale, Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10 and Nov. 11, Alplaus UMC (learn more at the UWF program on Nov. 9)


Looking for a unique gift for the holidays? The Alplaus UWF (United Women in Faith) is sponsoring a Mayan Hands Fair Trade Sale on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10 and Nov. 11 from 10 AM to 5 PM at the Alplaus UMC, 1 Brookside Place in Alplaus. These high-quality hand-woven items make beautiful gifts. The Mayan Hands is a fair-trade nonprofit organization that helps women in nine Guatemalan communities earn a fair return for their work. Your purchases of their handmade products will be greatly appreciated for helping to support these talented Guatemalan weavers. The Alplaus UWF will also have a variety of bagels available to purchase as a fundraiser at the same time. If you would like to learn more about the Mayan Hands Organization, please join us on Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Alplaus UMC at 12:30 PM for our monthly UWF meeting. Brenda from the Mayan Hands Organization will be our guest speaker. The Alplaus church building is handicapped accessible, with a ground-level entry and an elevator to the Fellowship Hall.


(New) Chicken Parmesan Community Dinner, Sunday, Nov. 12, Center Brunswick UMC


Center Brunswick UMC, 990 Hoosick Rd., Troy invites you to their Community Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 12 from 4 PM to 6 PM. Eat-in or Take-out. Menu includes: Chicken Parmesan, Tossed Salad with Choice of Dressing, Bread & Butter, Beverage and Dessert. A free-will offering will be taken for the church and Community Outreach Programs. Cares Closet Open 4 PM to 6 PM! New and gently used items free for all! Includes, clothing, household goods, children’s toys and much more! Take what you need or donate items to be shared with others. Questions: Call Jill 518-258-2164


Community Dinner and Organ concert to Celebrate our Military Veterans, Sunday, Nov. 12, Hope UMC, Troy

Jason Comet, organist and teacher, will be at Hope UMC (566 Brunswick Rd., Troy) on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 12, to present a recital of organ music laced with hymns and patriotic tunes beginning at 5 PM. Prior to the concert, Hope UMC will host a community pot-luck dinner beginning at 3:45 PM. It is our intent this year to fill the church for this wonderfully moving and fun event. If you are a veteran, or have ties to a veteran's group, let them know that all are invited. We would like to see all branches of the Armed forces represented so they can be honored for their service and the service of all who are presently serving. There will be a free will offering to cover the expenses of the organist who "wowed" us last year by making our beautiful organ sing. Please mark your calendars for this amazing time of singing and listening for the men and women who have and continue to keep our country free. For information and to let us know your coming call (518) 779-2553.


(New) Red Cross Blood Drive, Tuesday, Nov. 14, First UMC of East Greenbush


There will be a Red Cross Blood Drive at First UMC, 1 Gilligan Rd., East Greenbush on Tuesday, Nov. 14. They are scheduling both “blood” and “power red” donations. You can add your name to the list of donors by contacting the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED CROSS.


(New) Holiday Coffee House, Friday, Nov. 17, First UMC of East Greenbush


The Holiday Coffee House will be held Friday, Nov. 17 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Friday, Nov. 17 in the Fellowship Hall at First UMC of East Greenbush, 1 Gilligan Rd. We have a talented roster of performers, delicious snacks, and our enthusiastic audience. Contributions at entry help support struggling families in our community. Hope to see you there.


Christmas Decoration and Cookie Sale, Saturday, Dec. 2, Melrose UMC


The Melrose UMC, 20 Church St., Melrose, will hold a Christmas decoration and cookie sale fundraiser from 10 AM to 3 PM on Saturday, Dec. 2. A variety of Christmas decorations, as well as assortments of Christmas cookies, will be available for purchase. All are welcome to attend.


Christmas Bazaar, Saturday, Dec. 2, Church of the Covenant: Averill Park


Join us for our Christmas Bazaar, 9 AM to 3 PM Saturday, Dec. 2 at Church of the Covenant, “The Round Church,” 3055 NY 43, Averill Park, (518) 674-3664  www.cocumc.org


Happenings at First UMC of Delmar

 

The church is located at 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar

Farmers Market: Every Tuesday until November from 2:30 PM to 6 PM

Shed Sales (gently used furniture, larger garage sale type items, such as pictures, lamps, chairs, etc): Every Tuesday until November from 2:30 PM to 6 PM

Blessed Bargains Shop: Every Tuesday (year round) 10 AM to 5 PM

Treasure Cove Thrift Shop: (Open Year Round) Tuesdays from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturdays from 10AM to 1 PM

 

Please refer to our website for more information: https://www.delmarmethodist.org/

 

Bible Study, ongoing, Jonesville UMC

 

Bible study, 11 AM to 12:30 PM Sundays, Jonesville UMC, 963 Main St., Clifton Park. During the church's STAHL (Stigma Takes Away Hope and Life) Ministry's planning for National Recovery Month, a decision was made to begin a Bible Study for the recovery community titled "Dancing with Jesus One Step at a Time." A favorite Bible among the recovery community is called the Life Recovery Bible This is the Bible that will be used for this study, as it is relevant to the Twelve Steps. Step One through Twelve will be covered along with a 13th study of the Serenity Prayer. The study will be led on a rotating basis by members of the church who are in long term Twelve Step recovery and Jonesville United Methodist Church's Pastor Youngjae Jee. You do not need to be a member of our church or even go to the church service at 9:30 a.m. prior to the Study For more information, contact Phyllis Mullaney at pam31ny@aol.com


There is something happening every Thursday at St. Paul’s Church in Castleton!

 

Our church is located at 1583 Carney Rd., Castleton. 

 

Every Thursday we gather for fellowship and to Recharge. Recharge is a simple worship service for busy people who are hungry to spend time with God. This informal 30-minute worship begins at 6 PM. We sing, reflect on God’s word, and eat a meal together. After dinner is time to talk, play games, or work on an art project. It’s great to share our thoughts and experiences of God’s grace! All are welcome; come as you are and hang out as long as you wish through 8 PM.

 

In months with a fifth Thursday, we do an all-church mission to help those in need throughout the community and throughout the world. These specifics are announced in person and on social media at https://www.facebook.com/StPaulsCastleton/

 

For more information, contact Aimee Croft at anbcroft@gmail.com