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Albany District and Conference News
December 31, 2022
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“And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been."
-- Rainer Maria Rilke
Albert Einstein
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Movies and resources helpful in conversation about racism:
Would appreciate your input!
We are wondering if your church has shown any movies, or if you've used specific study guides, that could be helpful in our conversation concerning racism.
From Diane Kendall:
Please check the United Women in Faith Reading Program. Here are 3 having to do with racism that are in the 2023 Reading Program: Click here
Other replies we've received:
Regarding movies that might help in racism conversations I am surprised no one has mentioned "Selma." In many of those mentioned in the newsletter there are white characters who have "heroic" roles in some way, whereas "Selma" is focused on the struggles and solutions of those impacted.
"The Eye on the Prize" may be somewhat dated, but is a good series on the civil rights movement. People need to understand systemic racism and how it has played a part in our upbringing and how we subconsciously see the world around us. We who have multi-racial family makeups know how difficult it is to look in the mirror some days and not be afraid for our children and grandchildren.
The movie "Crash" (2004, Lions Gate Films; 122 minutes; R for sexual content and violence) is the story of 8 persons unknown to each other whose lives intersect over a period of 36 hours in Los Angeles. Couples are white, Asian, Black, Latino, and mixed. Not easy to watch but very realistic in how we talk about each other and treat each other.
"Freedom Writers" is another great movie. It's based on a true story, focusing on a high school teacher in California who manages to unite groups of students who were divided into gangs based on their race. She manages to bring them together so that they actually feel like a family in the end.
Some churches have indicated that they have shown or encouraged folks to view movies such as "Hidden Figures" and "42." Others have plans to view "Till," which is now in theaters.
Someone suggested a documentary they saw a few years back called, "Emmanuel" about the shooting at Mother Emmanuel AME Zion church in Charleston. They also said they thought "The Blind Side" and "The Green Book" were also good examples.
Someone else shared this:
Last summer our church had an anti-racism study group, and among the films that we watched was a documentary called 13th, which is available on Netflix. It explores the history of racial inequality in our country, and focuses heavily on the prison system. It was very powerful.
And this:
"In the Heart of Texas" (Documentary 60 minutes) When tragedy pierces the heart of a small community on the quiet Texas plains, its townspeople witness what can happen when grace and forgiveness triumph over anguish and outrage.
We used it in an adult senior citizens Sunday school class of about 12 attendees. Click here for more information: www.heartoftexasthemovie.com
Please share your thoughts with Carrie, adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org
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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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Please continue to keep Rev. Kim Krause (Grace UMC, Ravena) and her family in your prayers. Kim's father, Jim Krause, died suddenly on Sunday, Nov. 27. There will be a celebration of his life in Liverpool next April.
Please keep Kathy Maker in your prayers. She fell and fractured her hip several weeks ago, and is still recovering. You can send cards of care and concern to Kathy at 19 Sunset Ct., Cohoes, NY 12047.
Please continue to hold Ann Chatterton, wife of the Rev. Dick Chatterton, in your prayers. Ann now resides at the Evergreen Commons Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in East Greenbush.
Please also pray for:
Rev. Dr. Camillus Mourice, who is having a lot of pain and problems with his knees, and also for his wife Clementine Mourice, who has health issues.
Rev. Judy Humphrey-Fox and her husband Tim.
If you'd like prayer for yourself or others, or you'd like to share a joy, please be in touch with Carrie (518) 608-1246 or albanydistrict@unyumc.org
Please know that we will need to contact folks to be sure they feel comfortable with us publishing their information.
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Program on Poverty, Tuesday, Jan. 24, Redeemer Church, Albany
Justice for Orphans, a local non-profit dealing with child-welfare is offering a Cost of Poverty Experience on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 1 PM at Redeemer Church, 183 Schoolhouse Rd., Albany. This is a 2.5 hour role play and debrief that helps you to better understand the realities of living in poverty. This training is beneficial to both church leaders and members who actively serve the community. Click here to view the flyer. JFO would be honored for you to attend this experience. There is a nominal cost of $15 per person. You can register at JusticeforOrphansNY.org/events
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What churches can do when students are home on break
When college students return home on break, some struggle to reconnect. These ideas will help United Methodist congregations make the most of that time.
To read more, click here.
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Make Epiphany come alive
with these 6 ideas
Because Epiphany happens 12 days after Christmas, it often gets lost in post-holiday fatigue. Here are some creative ideas to help this holy day shine.
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Downloadable prayers for the New Year
The new year is a great time for reflections, prayers, and getting together with families, friends, and loved ones. Use these printable posters to remind us of God's place in our lives.
To read more, click here.
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3 New Year’s resolutions
for church communicators
Online communication is constantly changing. If we don't adapt, we will be ignored or forgotten. Adopting these three resolutions will help you keep up with the techniques and approaches that bring results.
To read more, click here.
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#BeUMC resources
The #BeUMC Leader Toolkit includes new resources to help local churches embrace the #BeUMC campaign. New graphics and promotional videos were recently added to the toolkit.
Below you'll find featured downloads from our collection of promotional graphics and videos. These resources will help you promote awareness of the #BeUMC campaign to your congregation or group. Use these graphics on your social media channels and church website, in worship and other events, or on any electronic or print communication. Or create your own custom graphics using imagery from your community with the help of design assets.
To read more, click here.
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Lay Servant classes
Adirondack Lay Servant Ministries has scheduled the following courses beginning in January 2023.
Please remember that you MUST attend all class times and dates to receive credit.
No refunds or credit for courses will be given. All registrations and course fees MUST be in by the date due.
For a registration form or for more information, contact Arlene Schmidt, arlenedschmidt@gmail.com For more information about the courses (books, etc.) click here for the brochure.
*Basic Lay Servant Course
Wednesdays, January 11, 18 and 25, February 1 and 8, 6-9 pm
ZOOM: Course Fee: $15
Registration and course fees due by December 28
*Advanced Course: For the Common Good (Spiritual Gifts)
Thursdays, January 26, February 2, 9 and 16: 6-9 pm
ZOOM: Fee $15
Registration and course fees due by January 12
*Advanced Course: Leading Prayer
Wednesdays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29: 6-9pm
ZOOM: Fee $15
Registration and course fees due by February 15
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There’s still time to meet ministry share obligations for 2022
As 2022 winds down, there is still time to consider fulfilling your local church ministry share obligations.
Ministry share payments support not only the Upper New York (UNY) Conference, but also supports services around the world, including Camp and Retreat Ministries, disaster release assistance, New Faith Communities, Africa University, and more. Payments are being accepted until Jan. 9, 2023.
Click here to read the entire letter sent on behalf of UNY CF&A chair, Holly Roush, and Conference Treasurer, Bob Flask.
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Local Church Financial Training
to be offered Jan. 7 via Zoom
Rev. Susan Ranous, Director of Christian Stewardship and Deacon specializing in Stewardship, Church Finances and Clergy Tax is offering a ZOOM training from 10 AM to Noon on Saturday, Jan. 7.
If you're interested in participating, please contact Carrie Boyer in the District Office, adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org or (518) 608-1246 and she'll send you the link.
Workshop description:
Are you new to the financial areas of the local church? Maybe you’ve been a treasurer or financial secretary or finance chair? Do you need some help to understand what you have to do and how to do it? This workshop will give you the basic knowledge needed to understand what is needed and how to do the various financial tasks.
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All invited to Trustees training via ZOOM on Jan. 14
Whether you have been serving, or are new to the Trustees committee, you are encouraged to be a part of this training.
The 2020’s, as much as, or more than any other time in the past few decades, is a time when the ministry of this committee is vital to the health of the church.
This training is being offered via zoom, and is led by the Rev. Dr. Nancy Hale.
Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 10 AM
The link is below.
Please RSVP to Carrie in the Northern Flow District Office if you're able to attend. (518) 608-1246 or adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org
Topic: Trustee Training
Time: January 14th, 2023 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://unyumc.zoom.us/j/86924683624?pwd=RlNZdytmbE9FbUpzRC9kY3hnZllCZz09
Meeting ID: 869 2468 3624
Passcode: 602787
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,86924683624# US (New York)
+16469313860,,86924683624# US
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
Meeting ID: 869 2468 3624
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Human Relations Day Jan. 15
Global Ministries, the worldwide mission and development agency of The United Methodist Church, with the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), invites churches and individuals to celebrate Human Relations Day on Sunday, January 15, 2023.
One of the Special Sunday Offerings of The United Methodist Church, this collection benefits neighborhood ministries through community developers, supports community advocacy through United Methodist Voluntary Services and works with at-risk teens through the Youth Offender Rehabilitation Program.
To read more, click here.
For pastor and leader kit, click here.
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All invited to SPRC training via ZOOM on Jan. 24 or Jan. 25
All Staff/Pastor-Parish Relations Committee members are invited to a time of training, to be led by District Superintendent Debbie Earthrowl. This training was offered in the Spring via ZOOM and in person. If you missed it, or if you're new to the committee, you may find this training beneficial. Whether you have been serving, or are new to the committee, you are encouraged to be a part of this training.
The 2020’s, as much as, or more than any other time in the past few decades, is a time when the ministry of this committee is vital to the health of the church.
The training will be offered from 1 to 2:30 PM and 6:30 to 8 PM Tuesday, Jan. 24 and from 1 to 2:30 PM and 6:30 to 8 PM Wednesday, Jan. 25. The ZOOM link can be used for any of the four sessions. All sessions will be the same; you need only attend one session.
Please RSVP to Carrie in the District Office if you're able to attend. (518) 608-1246 or adirondackdistrict@unyumc.org
Topic: SPRC Training
Time: This is a recurring meeting - Join anytime
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86805488896?pwd=Z3NISUdFemNHMnpDbUwvcHNhdkNzdz09
Meeting ID: 868 0548 8896
Passcode: 850304
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,86805488896#,,,,*850304# US (New York)
+16469313860,,86805488896#,,,,*850304# US
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 868 0548 8896
Passcode: 850304
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdq0angvH
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2023 Safe Sanctuaries schedule announced
The UNY Safe Sanctuaries Team has schedule four 3.5 hour Zoom basic trainings in 2023. There are also two Training of Trainers sessions scheduled.
The Basic trainings will be held from 9 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturdays Feb. 4, May 6, Aug. 5 and Nov. 4. The Training of Trainers will be held from 9 AM to Noon on Saturdays March 4 and Oct. 7.
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 need training between these dates, or would like to host an in-person training, please contact the District Office or send an email to the Safe Sanctuaries team (safesanctuaries@unyumc.org)
Registration for the February training will open Jan. 4. Look for the link in upcoming announcements.
For more information regarding Safe Sanctuaries, visit the Conference website: Click here.
To view the poster, click here.
A Basic Training for Camp and Retreat Ministries only will be held via Zoom on June 10. To view the poster, click here.
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Bishop Héctor welcomes you
Starting Jan. 1, Bishop Héctor Burgos, who prefers to be addressed as Bishop Héctor, will be the new bishop of the Upper New York (UNY) Conference. Bishop Héctor is eager to meet laity and clergy throughout the Conference and has scheduled dates for regional meetings. The meetings will be as follows:
The clergy meetings will be from 1-3 p.m.
The laity meeting (and clergy unable to attend the earlier time) will be from 7- 8:30 p.m.
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Special session set to consider disaffiliations
The Upper New York Conference’s March 2023 Special Session of Annual Conference to consider disaffiliation requests will take place remotely on March 25 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Registration will open on Feb. 1, 2023, and close on March 10, 2023.
For information on the disaffiliation process, click here.
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What's New from the Lewis Center | |
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Top “Leading Ideas Talks“ Podcast Episodes of 2022
What was trending in 2022? These are the top “Leading Ideas Talks” podcast episodes of the year as chosen by our nearly 20,000 subscribers.
To learn more, click here.
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Predictors of youth returning to church as adults
Lovett Weems reviews a study of participation in church by adults who had dropped out of church as youth. Of all the variables studied, only one was predictive of whether these youth would be active as adults – the extent of their involvement in a youth group. This article was from 2004; still relevant today!
To learn more, click here.
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Boy Scouts of America Affiliation
and Building Use Agreements
Troops and local congregations seeking to continue or start a relationship will need to complete a new “BSA Affiliation Agreement” and “Facilities Use & Indemnity Agreement.” Click here to download the BSA Affiliation Agreement. Click here to download the Facilities Use & Indemnity Agreement.
All UNY local congregations seeking to be in relationship with a local troop should use these and only these forms.
In most areas, the affiliation agreements and facility use agreements are being implemented and the implementation is going well. There are BSA Councils that are not cooperating in a few Conferences and as the BSA learns of these, they reach out to those Councils to address issues.
If you are encountering such issues, please contact Jeffrey Hunt jeff.hunt@scouting.org of BSA, who oversees the BSA Councils across the United States.
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Report your church statistics on ACStats:
Replaces the Ezra system
Annual Church Statistics (ACStats) is the one-stop location for United Methodist data that tracks membership, expenses, and income. It's designed to help churches submit year-end statistics to the Upper New York (UNY) Conference digitally in a way that's cost-effective.
This user-friendly platform replaces Ezra as the method of reporting your church statistics.
March 17, 2023, is the deadline to complete the 2022 statistical report for your church; however, you cannot enter any data to the 2022 statistics tables until Jan. 3.
In the meantime, you may familiarize yourselves with the new ACStats platform by reviewing the user's guide for local churches. Translated reports are available in Spanish and Korean.
Click here to learn more.
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Updated New York State short-term disability forms
New York State recently updated the short-term disability claim forms. There are now two separate disability claim forms that need to be completed and submitted together to Guardian within 30 days of the start date of disability.
Click here to learn more and access the forms.
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No new elections needed for General Conference 2024
The United Methodist Church’s highest court ruled that new delegate elections “are not required” for the long-delayed and potentially pivotal General Conference, now set for 2024.
What this means is that the Upper New York (UNY) Conference delegates that were elected at the 2019 UNY Annual Conference for the originally slotted 2020 General Conference will be able to serve at the 2024 General Conference. There is no need for new elections.
The location and dates for the 2024 General Conference have also been announced—the event will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina from April 23 to May 3, 2024.
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Visit 'Spiritual Life" page on
Conference website
The intent of the spiritual life ministry is to support/nurture/companion individuals in their faith journey; to help individuals grow their relationship with God so they can be more faithful, obedient disciples of Christ. Developing our spiritual lives is about each of us living more fully into the person God created us to be and the life that God desires for us. This requires intentionality and attentiveness to God and God’s presence in all of our lives and joining together in community to support and nurture one another.
We invite you to explore the spiritual disciplines and practices that will draw you closer to God and deeper into a relationship with God. Explore with us workshops, retreats, training opportunities that will deepen your relationship as a disciple of Christ.
Click here to view the page on the Conference website.You will find links to many resources.
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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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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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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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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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From the Conference Center | |
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Job opportunities
UNY Conference announces job opportunities
-Maintenance Supervisor
Sky Lake Camp & Retreat Center
-- Site Director at Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center.
-Seasonal Camp Positions.
For more information and to apply, click here
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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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'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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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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Great resources available from
United Methodist Communications
United Methodist Communications has a menu of services and tools as extensive as the menu of dishes at The Cheesecake Factory. Greg Petree has assembled a list of the top-10 services United Methodist Communications offers for free to help local congregations reach out to their communities.
UMCOM measured what’s viewed and downloaded to identify what services/resources are most used by churches. To read more, click here.
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New presentation resource: We are the church. Together
Every United Methodist should take a moment to pause, rediscover and reconnect with what our global denomination is all about. A new presentation slide deck is available to help church leaders encourage congregations to root into our shared beliefs, history, mission and ministry in order to stand strong and face the future — together.
To view the presentation,click here.
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The #BeUMC campaign reminds us of who we are at our best. As people of God called The United Methodist Church, we’re faithful followers of Jesus seeking to make the world a better place.
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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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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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Advocate 2022 Issue I available
The 2022 Issue I of the Advocate has been mailed to local churches. This issue focuses on youth and children’s ministries throughout Upper New York. These inspirational stories and resources illustrate ways to think outside-of-the-box to create vibrant youth and children’s programs at your church.
Click here to read or download the electronic version of the 2022 Issue I of the Advocate.
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Take advantage of Digital Discipleship membership
Your district superintendent has purchased a one-year membership for your continuing education on Digital Discipleship! This subscription is available to your church teams and volunteers who want to learn how to make the most of your online ministry.
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Learn from the
comfort of your couch!
United Methodist Communications offers a variety of free webinars to help you enhance your marketing and communications skills as well as to keep you informed about the latest resources and church initiatives. Click here to find upcoming as well as archived webinars.
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Crash courses in youth ministry
New Youth Ministry eBooks designed with the Youth Worker in mind.
Each eBook is loaded with practical tips and basic wisdom that you can read today and put into practice tomorrow! If you are a part-time or no-time (amazing volunteer!) youth worker, these crash courses are especially for you. Click here to learn more and download for FREE
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Start a conversation around social justice topics
Engage your adults in a conversation around social justice topics, like refugees and sexuality, to explore what these topics mean to individuals and your community.
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Mission Insite free to churches
A reminder that Mission Insite is a web-based demographics provider for local church use. In planning ministry, it is important to know the context.
Mission Insite provides demographic data that is updated on a regular basis and the reports are user friendly to the novice or experienced demographer.
The reports are free to the local church because the Annual Conferences is under contract with Mission Insite, but in order to access the website you will need to register your local church.
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Free shareable social graphics |
United Methodist Communications offers free shareable images for use in inspiring and informing your members year round.
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News Links From the Conference
If you want to keep in the know of what is happening in the Upper New York Conference and the United Methodist Church please consider these links.
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Start the day with Debbie
Our District Superintendent Debbie Earthrowl shares a devotion via Facebook Live at 7:30 AM every Monday through Saturday. The devotions are also posted on her Facebook page and our District Facebook page, so you can tune in at any time. I personally find this an inspirational way to start my day. I trust you will, as well. To view, click here:
or
Blessings to all,
Carrie B
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Albany District
of the Upper New York Conference
Rev. Deborah (Debbie) Earthrowl
District Superintendent
Ellen Mall-John
District Associate and District Lay Leader
Carrie Boyer
Minister of Administration
Our office is located in the Newtonville UMC
568 Loudon Rd., Latham, NY 12110
Mailing Address:
PO Box 511, Newtonville, NY 12128
(518) 608-1246
albanydistrict@unyumc.org
debbieearthrowl@unyumc.org
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