NEXT ISSUE September 22nd |
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Words From DS Sherri Rood |
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“Don’t stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:25
The pandemic has reminded us of the value and blessing of meeting together, being in the same space, looking one another in the eye, maybe even sharing a handshake or hug. God created human beings to be communal – to be community with and for one another. As followers of Jesus, we are the Body of Christ. Every time we gather together, we re-member the Body. (1 Corinthians 12:27) We use our gifts to build up the Body of Christ and bring about God’s beloved community.
We have some opportunities to be The Body of Christ in the next few weeks:
Mountain View Fall Pastor’s Meeting
Tuesday, September 20th at 9 am
New Beginnings United Methodist Church Elmira
We will gather at 9 am for coffee, spend some time together in worship and celebrate Communion, encourage one another and then hear some important information. Pastors and CLMs and lay supply serving churches - your attendance is strongly encouraged (bi-vocational persons are excused). Pastors and persons serving churches will have an opportunity to select the time and date of their church conference. I’m making every effort to preside at all the church conferences this year so I can get to know the congregations across the district. If you are unable to attend the Fall Pastor’s meeting because you are working or out of town, please call Patti Gridley to arrange for your church conference time.
Church Conferences
My goal is to preside at each church/charge for their church conference this year. This gives me an opportunity to meet and talk with people as well as hear concerns and answer questions. Dates and times will be selected at the Fall Pastor’s meeting on September 20th. Pastors and church leaders, if you are part of a two- or three-point charge, please have all the churches meet together at one church for your church conference. I will do my best to visit the other church(es) on the charge in the future. Time slots will be available at 4 pm and 7 pm Monday through Thursday during the week and following worship, 2 pm and 6 pm on Sunday. If your congregation is predominantly retired persons, please consider taking a 4 pm slot during the week so that churches with working persons may attend at 7 or on Sunday. If you select the “following worship” slot on Sunday, please allow me to worship with your congregation. I don’t expect to preach - I want to hear pastors preach and be in worship with the congregation. If you have questions, please contact me or Patti Gridley in the District Office.
District Superintendent Installation
Sunday, October 2nd at 4:00 pm at Centenary United Methodist Church in Bath
The UMC has a tradition of gathering together in worship to celebrate the appointment of a new district superintendent. The focus of our time together will be to worship God and give thanks for all that God has done and will do through our work together as the Mountain View District. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend! I’m inviting you to wear your sneakers to worship as well as bring a new or gently used pair of sneakers (children or adult) to be donated through the outreach ministries of the Mountain View District.
I’m looking forward to all of these events as we gather together to worship, encourage one another and listen for God’s voice leading us forward in our next faithful step.
I’m praying for you, please pray for me!
Grace and peace,
Sherri
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From the Desk of Reverend Michael J Kelly,
Mountain View District Associate
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Blessings Friends,
Friends here we are in the season as we prepare for charge conferences. Many look at all of the forms as nothing short of drudgery, painful things that the United Methodist Church requires us to report every single year. And part of that is true. As your District Associate, I have had an opportunity to assist some churches to complete these forms, while I have had a chance to look at others that have been completed.
I may look at these forms differently than many. Yes, they are required, so I just do them anyway. But more than that, I look at some these forms as a way to celebrate and acknowledge the ministries that we’ve been doing. So many of you have truly amazing ministries and while you aren’t looking for an opportunity brag about them, it is good to celebrate them, in fact, I believe that it is part of our intentional discipleship programs. And also believe that you just may find others that are prompted to either participate in those ministries or find the impetus to develop their calling.
Two of the forms in particular that I feel often never get enough attention are the Report of the Pastor and the Outreach and Volunteers in Mission Report. Not meant to be in a bragging fashion, but I am proud of every opportunity that we take to do ministry and mission, realizing that it’s not ours but we are fulfilling His work, His calling. Be the example for others. Some of the best ministries and missions have started from very small grassroots efforts and have grown and remember all for His Kingdom. So when you complete these forms, gather people together, receive input, get excited and celebrate the ministries of your church.
Celebrate Church
Be a blessing and be blessed,
Mike
9/8/22
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INFORMATION ON HOW TO CONTACT US |
District Office contact Patti at:
607-962-8047
District Superintendent contact Rev. Sherri Rood
315-898-2077
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UPDATED: IMPORTANT INFORMATION |
The Conference Website is now up and running again!!! Thank you for the grace shown during the hiccup.
AND........................
FOR those of you that would like to get a head start on your charge conference forms.....click here for access to them.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
If you have downloaded a 2022-2023 Comp Sheet prior to receiving this note....DO NOT USE THAT FORM!!!! The correct compensation forms are not yet available. We will notify you when they are on the Conference Website.
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New Beginnings UMC- Lunch & Learn Series |
WHEN: Sept. 7, 14 & Oct. 4, 18, 25, 2022
WHERE: New Beginnings UMC
300 E. Miller St.
Elmira, NY 14904
TIME:12-2pm
REGISTRATION REQUESTED: 607-734-2293
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LEARNING AND GROWING OPPORTUNITY
Starting in September
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We invite you to a book study and discussion group as we look at A Disciple’s Path: Deepening Your Relationship With Christ and the Church, by James Harnish with Justin Larosa.
Feeling distracted, isolated, uncertain, or apathetic? Want to feel connected to a community of Christ followers and be inspired to a closer walk with Christ? Wherever you are in your faith journey, you are invited to consider the next faithful steps along the path of discipleship. As we examine this book, we hope you’ll develop your spiritual practices, discover your unique gifts, deepen your relationship with Christ, and engage in ministry that brings transformation to your own life and to the lives of others. Come join our discussions and sharing as we love God and one another. Starting Sept. 15th.
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Mountain View District's United Women in Faith
Annual Meeting
"Reaching Out to ALL!"
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WHEN: Sat. Sept. 17th, 2022
WHERE:Corning Grace UMC
199 Bridge St.
Corning, NY 14830
TIME:9:30am-2pm
MENU:Participants are asked to bring their own bag lunch. Beverages and desserts will be
Participants are encouraged to bring a friend who is not yet part of their unit. We will hold a short business meeting, and will be remembering those in our units who passed away in 2021-2022, with communion to end the day.
8.25.22
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RUMMAGE SALE + FOOD & BAKED GOODS |
WHEN: Sat. Sept. 24th, 2022
WHERE: Corning Grace UMC
191 Bridge St.
Corning, NY 14830
TIME: 8:30am-3:30pm
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HURRY!!!!! Registration Closes Sept. 16th |
The Thirteenth Session is scheduled to be held remotely Oct. 6-8.
Registration will close Sept. 16th for the 2022 Upper New York Annual Conference session, Click here to register. If you need to be excused from Annual Conference,
All eligible voting members must preregister to be able to participate and vote. Registrations cannot be accepted after Sept. 16 due to online voting.
This year, there is a small registration fee to help cover the cost of virtual meeting support and voting.
If you have any questions, call (315) 898-2000.
9.8.22
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Save the Date for Bishop Webb’s Farewell Gathering |
You Are Invited to Attend
WHEN: Sat., Nov. 19th, 2022
WHERE: UNY Conference Center
7481 Henry Clay Blvd.
Liverpool, NY
TIME: 1-4pm
Join others throughout the Conference to celebrate Bishop Webb’s 10 years of ministry as Bishop of the UNY Conference. More details will be released once they become available.
9.8.22
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UPPER NY CONFERENCE
UNITED METHODIST HISTORICAL SOCIETY
and the COMMISSION ON ARCHIVES AND HISTORY
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ANNUAL MEETING
OPEN MEETING ON ZOOM
(This meeting is open to the public as well as members)
September 15, 2022
7 PM on ZOOM
9.8.22
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Mountain View District Lay Servant Fall-Winter Classes
PLUS A 7 Session Book Study Is Being Offered
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Courses Being Offered Are:
- Ministry With the Forgotten
- Teaching Biblical Faith
- Basic Lay Servant
9.8.22
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Equitable Compensation Application for Jan.-June 2023 Available |
The Commission on Equitable Compensation has issued guidelines and application forms for salary grants to local churches for the period Jan. to June 2023. Salary grants are available only to churches with a pastor under full-time appointment.
To apply for salary assistance from the Equitable Compensation Fund, applicants should review the policies and procedures in the application document for guidance, and then complete the application according to the directions provided. Completed applications should be submitted to your District Superintendent by the Oct. 14, 2022 deadline.
Click here for more information and the application.
9.8.22
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Register Now for Pre-Retirement Workshop This Fall
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All clergy looking to retire in the next year are encouraged to attend a pre-retirement workshop. The next workshop is scheduled to be held in-person on Friday, Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. at the United Methodist Center in Liverpool, NY. It may be moved to a virtual format if there is a rise in COVID positivity rates.
Join Upper New York Benefits Administrator Julie Valeski and Wespath representatives Robert Christophel and Todd Creviston for this workshop that highlights and explains the benefits available through The United Methodist Church to retiring clergy. They’ll discuss the current pension plan, health insurance options, Social Security, and any moving assistance available.
Registration is open through Oct. 28, 2022. If you are seeking to have a private consultation with a benefits educator, you can indicate that on the registration page.
9.8.22
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Prepare for the Celebration of Advent
with Adam Hamilton and Susan Robb
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Advent is a time of waiting, preparation, and celebration. In this webinar, Amplify Media presents two new studies to help you, your small group, and your congregation prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.
In Prepare the Way for the Lord: Advent and the Message of John the Baptist, Adam Hamilton explores the Advent themes of John’s life and ministry, and how John calls all followers of Jesus to prepare our hearts for his coming.
In The Angels of Christmas: Hearing God’s Voice in Advent, Susan Robb explores the four angelic visits surrounding the birth of Jesus with Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds.
Join Adam Hamilton and Susan Robb on Thursday, Sept. 15 at 12 p.m. EST as they converse with each other about their new studies and help us anticipate and get ready for Advent.
9.8.22
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Young People Needed for Church Study |
The United Methodist Communications Research Team is still looking for 15- to 22-year-olds to participate in a three-day online discussion board. United Methodist youth from the U.S. will be asked about their spiritual journey, values, goals, desires, and more. The study offers a $150 incentive.
UMC Communications is partnering with Aspen Finn, an independent market research company, to host a 3-day online discussion board from Sept. 13-15. Participants will see and respond to questions at their convenience each day. Each day's interaction will take about 30-45 minutes.
If you qualify, you will receive a $150 prepaid gift card for your time and complete participation. Click here for a five-minute survey to determine if you qualify.
9.8.22
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Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month at your church |
National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from Sept. 15-Oct. 15.
During National Hispanic Heritage Month—and throughout the year—The United Methodist Church is called to incorporate and listen to Hispanic voices and speak out in support of them to be heard. The church must structure itself in such a way that it is able to include Hispanics/Latinos at the table, dialogue with them and include them in the mainstream of church life. United Methodists also must be in solidarity with them as they struggle to have a voice in the public forum.
Click here for resources to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month in your church.
9.8.22
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Rev. John R Tyson, Ph.D. Offering a Teaching Event |
Rev. John R Tyson will be hosting "Teaching Event" on Methodist history and theology over at Webster UMC, Oct. 21-23, 2022. The focus will be upon a socio-economic analysis of the beginnings of Methodism as a lens for making sense of the relevance of it today. These lectures will reflect (to some degree) the course of interpretation he has taken in his recent book Born in Crisis (the relevant history of Methodism). Tickets can be purchased at www.umcwebster.org, click on the Resources tab. Click here for brochure
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Previous Information Shared |
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Registration for the Thirteenth Session of Annual Conference Opens Aug. 15-Sept. 16, 2022 |
The Thirteenth Session is scheduled to be held remotely Oct. 6-8.
Who: All clergy and laity representatives to the Annual Conference Session
What: Thirteenth Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church
When: Oct. 6-8
Where: Virtually
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, 2022. To be excused from Annual Conference, click here and submit this form.
Details for the Virtual Annual Conference. Click here
8.11.22
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Fluorescent Tubes and Ballasts Available |
The Avoca United Methodist Church has numerous four-foot fluorescent tubes and two-tube ballasts available to whoever can use them.
If you are interested, please email AvocaUMChurch@gmail.com or phone (607) 566-4045 and leave a message. We will get back to you ASAP. 8.11.22
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We are in the planning stages for this years 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 October 16 thru November 16. The trip is planned for November 28 with the packing of the trucks on Saturday, November 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 cloths as they can be used at the Community Outreach Center for distribution. If there are Churches that can be drop off sites, please send an email to Dalexander4@stny.rr.com , so a list can be made available in our future emails.
Your help in this project is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, I can be reached by email or you can call 607-743-8955. Thank you for helping us start the process of getting things ready to take to the Red Bird Mission.
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United Methodist Hymnals Available
They Are The Red Cover Ones
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If you are in need of UMC Hymnals (these are the red hymnals) please contact the Cornerstone District office at cornerstonedistrict@unyumc.org or you can call 607-962-8047 Please note that these are located in Jamestown.
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Course of Study Through Wesley Seminary:
Fall 2022-Spring 2023
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Licensed local Pastors....are you are planning to take COS for the Fall, Winter or Spring Weekends? If you are, please consider filling out your registration form and get it to the District office to have the DS sign it and then I will get it to the registrar.
The deadline for registration for the Fall-Sept.1st of 2022. (Reminder that the District office is CLOSED on Fridays)
Please, DO NOT WAIT to the last minute to register. When a class is filled, Wesley closes the registration for that class and there is no wiggle room.
I am putting this out now as one of the busiest times of the year is coming soon. There is no need for you to miss out on getting your course requirements met. There is NO MONEY due at the time of registration. You can register NOW for both Winter and Spring and if something comes up....you can cancel.
IF you need a specific class.....sign up now ....you need to remember that these courses are not just for UNY Conference....these are open to other Conferences as well. SO, sign up now. Click here for all the information you need for COS Satellite School. You will find all the forms you need here as well.
The steps to get registered:
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Get registration form-click here
- Fill out the form, print it, YOU sign it.
- Scan & email to your District Office
- District AA will get the DS to sign it and will send it to COS Registrar
- Registrar will fill out her part and get it to Sara Shephard.
- Sara Shephard will send the Registrar a confirmation of your registration.
- Registrar will send confirmation to the District AA
There is no reason to wait to the last minute because there is no money that needs to be sent with your registration. So, please sign up now!!
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Disaffiliation Information-From Wespath
Understanding Pension Liabilities-For Local Churches Considering Disaffiliation
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Watch this video for easy-to-understand answers to complex questions related to pension plan funding and the withdrawal liability payment required for local churches that disaffiliate from the UMC.
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Download the #BeUMC Discussion Guide |
Did you know that the United Methodist Church has a free, downloadable 45-page discussion guide tied to the #BeUMC campaign? This is a great resource for your Sunday School class, Bible study, or small group to reflect on what it means to #BeUMC.
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MOUNTAIN VIEW DISTRICT OFFICE |
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35 Wilkes Ave. (Physical location)
PO Box 706 (Mailing Address)
Bath, NY 14810
607-962-8047
Mon.-Thurs.
In Person by APPOINTMENT ONLY
District Superintendent: Rev. Dr. Sherri Rood
District Associate: Pastor Mike Kelly
District Lay Leader: Ann Welch Wood
District Administrative Assistant: Patti Gridley
If the office is closed and you have an emergency please call 315-898-2077 and leave a message or email Sherri at sherrirood@unyumc.org
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