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Adirondack District,
Local Church
and Conference News
Resources and Information
Aug. 12, 2020
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"The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?' "
-- Martin Luther King Jr.
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Send us your news!
Call Carrie with questions, 518-480-4866.
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The District Office is open
We are now back in the office. We are adhering to guidelines on safety and social distancing. If you need to stop by, please call ahead. You'll need to wear a mask, and follow safety protocols. Call Carrie at (518) 480-4866.
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Please note
Much of the information in the newsletter is repeated from past weeks. Wanted to leave it in, as there are resources that you can continue to use. Anything that is updated from last week is noted. Please be in touch with questions or concerns to Carrie: (518) 480-4866 or [email protected] or to District Superintendent Rev. Debbie Earthrowl: (518) 391-3215 or [email protected] |
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Please hold George Holzhauer, and his wife, retired pastor Rev. Phyllis Holzhauer, in prayer. George has been residing at Wesley Health Care Center, so he and Phyllis have been unable to see one another since March. George is facing some additional health concerns recently.
Please continue to hold the Rev. Erik Smith and his wife Jane Smith in prayer. They are dealing with serious health concerns. Cards of care and concern can be sent to the Smiths at 407 Stage Rd., Ballston Lake, NY 12019.
If you'd like prayer for yourself or others, or you'd like to share a joy, please be in touch with Carrie (518) 480-4866 or [email protected] Please know that we will need to contact folks to be sure they feel comfortable with us publishing their information. |
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Share your story
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought challenges in the way we do church, but it has also offered opportunities for growth. Please share your story on how you or your church is reaching out to touch lives amidst the isolation and anxiety of our new reality.
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Site director opening at Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center
The Upper New York Conference is seeking a Site Director for the Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center. Click here for a brief description of the position and the online application. ____________________________________________________________
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This week's spiritual practice: Discernment, part 2
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Rev. Nancy Dibelius
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Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Upper New York Assistant Director of Vital Congregations for Spiritual Life, the Rev. Nancy Dibelius, has been providing videos of helpful spiritual practices to help deepen people's relationship with God during this difficult time.
This week, Rev. Dibelius revisits the spiritual practice of discernment.
Click here to watch Rev. Dibelius' video and delve deeper into this spiritual practice.
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The August issue of the Bridge is now available for download. It is available in both color and black & white formats. Click here to select the version you prefer and make copies as necessary. This issue features articles by the Rev. Sherri Rood and the Rev. Bill Mudge, which explain why each of them are supporting the Manna in the Wilderness campaign. This campaign helps support the Upper New York Camp & Retreat Ministries. The COVID-19 pandemic forced Aldersgate, Asbury, Casowasco, Sky Lake, and Skye Farm to cancel an entire summer camp season as well as numerous church, family, and group retreats and gatherings. In addition to the loss of these life-changing ministry opportunities, these cancellations have resulted in over a million dollars in lost revenue.
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The Advocate is the Upper New York Conference's ministry magazine. The 2020 Issue 3 of the Advocate focuses on "Keeping Connected." In this issue, you will find inspiring stories of local churches across UNY who have done amazing work at connecting with their congregations and communities through digital platforms, feeding ministries, and more despite COVID-19. This issue is one of our e-issues, meaning that it is only available digitally.
Click here to read or download this issue of the Advocate on the Conference website.
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Dismantling Racism Town Hall events
The UMC is leading a sustained and coordinated effort through General Conference, Aug. 29 to Sept. 7, 2021, to actively engage in the ministry of dismantling racism and promoting racial justice. The UNY Conference Communications team will regularly share worship, advocacy, and educational resources to help with this important campaign.
You're invited to be a part of two Dismantling Racism town hall events! On Aug. 19 at 1 p.m., seasoned leaders, including James Lawson, Joel N. Martinez, Sue Thrasher, and Clara Ester, will remind us of where we've been and need to go. On Aug. 26 at 1 p.m., a panel of emerging young leaders, including Ann Jacob, Theon Johnson III, Andres De Arco, and Katelin Hansen, will discuss their strategies for changing the world.
Click here to discover further details, submit your questions, and watch the event. You can also watch and engage with others at
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Leading small groups during social distancing
Small groups and Sunday school classes form one of the most powerful connections and means of support for members.
Many people are asking: What happens to these connections during times of social distancing? How can leaders maintain these essential care mechanisms in the lives of members?
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An important list of books just for United Methodists
Growing as a follower of Jesus Christ is a lifelong journey. In addition to the support, encouragement, and teaching we receive from our United Methodist congregations, wonderful books are also available to help us grow in our discipleship.
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This is our story, this is our song
A small group study of cross-racial and cross-cultural ministry for congregations, each of six sessions includes theological reflections, personal experiences and discussion questions. It is designed for laity-led teams, including the staff-parish relations committee, administrative council, trustees, worship committee and other groups. To read more and to download the study, click here.
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Movies and books for inter-cultural learning
With the increased practice of physical distancing during the pandemic of COVID-19, many are finding more time to watch movies and read books. Why not take this opportunity to learn about other cultures and increase your intercultural competence? The General Commission on Religion and Race has compiled a list of movies and books that will help you do just that.
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Re-energize your prayer life with a new practice
Spending a day or season invigorating your prayer life is time well spent. Experiment with some new-to-you ways of praying. You might be surprised to find what works best for you.
To read more, click here. _____________________________________________________________ |
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Lessons from a 95-year-old
Shirley Bachelder is 95... "and a half," she adds with her infections laugh. In those 95-plus years she has learned a great deal about life, faith, friendship, gratitude, love and more. At a time when many of us are longing to hear a word from the Lord, Shirley receives explicit instructions. Advertising the words "love one another" on television and billboards in the Nashville area, came directly from God. When she needed a new best friend, she asked the Lord to supply one -- and they were friends for decades.
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UNY Annual Conference to be held virtually
Please see an important video announcement from Bishop Mark J. Webb about the form that Upper New York's Oct. 3, 2020 session of Annual Conference will look like as the world continues to try to keep people safe from COVID-19.
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Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the Upper New York Conference release the final appointment list for 2020-2021. Click here to view the full list of changes.
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Paycheck Protection Program extended
On June 30, 2020, the U.S. Senate passed an extension for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) application process to Aug. 8, 2020. This extension will allow any local church that has not yet applied for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to do so over the next five weeks. There is still more than $130 billion dollars in available funds remaining in the PPP. Any local church would qualify for a PPP loan as long as they have paid staff that are issued a W-2 at the end of the year. A church can request up to 2.5 times their average monthly salary in a PPP. A church would then have up to 24 weeks to spend the funds on qualifying expenses that would then get forgiven and converted to a grant after completing the appropriate forgiveness forms with your financial institution that issued the PPP loan. The PPP is a blessing to local churches to help bridge the financial hardship caused from COVID-19. If your local church has seen a decrease in your monthly giving, do not have a large reserve to draw from and are struggling to meet your monthly obligations then, a PPP could help. Click here for additional information on the PPP program. If you need further assistance on applying for the PPP, please contact Bob Flask, the Conference Treasurer at [email protected] |
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NYS Re-opening guidelines updated
New York state guidelines for religious and funeral services were updated on June 26:
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Reopening resources
Be sure to check the Conference's FAQ resource page about reopening guidelines.
On this page, you will find a safety plan template required by the state and statewide guidelines for resuming services. You will also find resourceful signage you can use about face masks, handwashing, and deep cleaning. And this page also provides answers to many questions that have been asked about reopening churches.
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On Tuesday June 2, the UNY Reopening Taskforce held a FAQ session on Zoom, with over 350 people across UNY in attendance. Click here to view the PowerPoint shared during June 2 webinar
If you have questions that have yet to be answered, send them along to [email protected] and your question will be answered soon.
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Take a Daycation at one of
UNY's Camp & Retreat Centers
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Now that stay-at-home mandates are behind us for the foreseeable
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future, we are happy to announce that the Upper New York Camp & Retreat Centers are welcoming families to enjoy the beauty and splendor of their sites with Daycations.
The daycations include games, activities, sports, and craft stations. Call or email to register to attend the site(s) you are interested in.
Skye Farm's daycation is Aug. 15.
Sky Lake's daycation is Aug. 30.
Each Daycation is $15 per person and no more than $60 per family.
Also, don't forget that Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center is offering "Play for the Day" on Aug. 22, and 29. Call 315-364-8756 or email [email protected].
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UMC of the Resurrection's Leadership Institute 2020
Whether you are clergy, church staff, or a lay leader in your church, join
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them ONLINE for 2 days of inspiration, practical ministry tools and proven strategies to strengthen your church and your own leadership.
Keynote speakers include Adam Hamilton and Bishop Michael Curry. There are several "break-out" speakers as well.
Your online ticket gives you access to the live-streamed General Sessions and special Breakout Sessions with Live Q&A. You also receive one full year of access to replay the recordings of those General Sessions and Breakouts, plus a library of 20+ additional ministry workshops.
Early Bird cost is $49; $69 after Sept. 1
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Three-session Trauma-Informed Approach
to Pastoral Care course offered on Zoom
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As pastors, how can we help members of our congregation who are survivors of trauma? A Trauma-Informed Approach to Pastoral Care is a pastoral care course that will provide strategies you can use to help people who have experienced trauma, avoid re-traumatization, and effectively care for yourself as well.
This four-hour Zoom course will be taught in three sessions by Samantha Koury of the Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care (ITTIC) at the University at Buffalo. Attend all three sessions and you will receive a Continuing Education Unit (CEU).
The dates for the three classes are as follows:
Session 1: Monday Aug. 31, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. OR Saturday Sept. 5, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Session 2: Monday Sept. 7, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. OR Saturday Sept. 19, 10 a.m.- 11 a.m.
Session 3: Monday Sept. 14, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. OR Sat. Sept. 26,10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Click here to register for this free course offering and a Zoom link will be sent to you.
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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. We are also posting daily bible readings from Rev. Bill Mudge. I personally find this an inspirational way to start my day. I trust you will, as well. To view, click here:
Blessings to all,
Carrie B
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New
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News/Resources
From the Conference Office
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Volunteer opportunities at camp and retreat centers
Camp & Retreat Ministries (CRM) welcomes volunteers to support the conference camp and retreat centers through the maintenance and upkeep of the buildings and grounds. The Conference volunteer management team is looking for individuals and teams local to Aldersgate, Asbury, Casowasco, Skye Farm, or Sky Lake. Each camp is ready with a list of projects suitable for volunteers. Local volunteers are encouraged as the camps curtailed overnight accommodations for the summer. State and Conference safety protocols are in place to help keep volunteers and staff safe. The goal for volunteers: partner with camp staff to assist with tasks suited to your skills. Food and beverage for all the workers is provided by the camp. If you are ready to volunteer at Aldersgate, Asbury, Casowasco, Skye Farm, or Sky Lake. Click here to register. Thoughts, questions or concerns please contact Mike Block, Director of Missional Engagement, at [email protected] or (315) 491-0497. |
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Media Resource Center's August newsletter available
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The August issue of Upper New York's Media Resource Center newsletter is now available. The Media Resource Center - a free lending library supported through your shared ministry dollars - publishes the monthly newsletter, which features new resources that are currently available or coming soon, along with assorted informational articles about the resource center and other available resources. Click here to view and/or print the current newsletter.
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2021 Conference Budget Information published
A hard copy of the Upper New York (UNY) Narrative Budget Booklet has
taken on a new format that will allow for multi-year use.
Click here for the proposed Ministry Shares budget numbers for 2021.
Click here to review the Narrative Budget Booklet electronically and to read some reports that some ministry areas submitted to support their 2021 UNY Conference Budget.
For hard copies of the Narrative Budget Booklet, contact the District Office.
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For eligible clergy
Register now for HealthFlex workshops this fall
The Upper New York Conference Benefits Office will be hosting multiple HealthFlex Exchange workshops this fall via Zoom, at various churches around the Conference. Participants will receive information about the plans and tools to help with plan choices. Starting Jan. 1, 2021, all eligible participants, under the age of 65, must choose their health, vision, and dental plans through the HealthFlex Exchange. Click here to learn more about the HealthFlex Exchange and to register to one of the seven dates. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Julie Valeski at (315) 898-2001 or [email protected]. |
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List of online worship services
The Conference website offers links to online services.
To view, or to add your service to the list, click here. |
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Subscribe to the Weekly Digest
To subscribe to the Weekly Digest, published by the UNY Conference, click here. |
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Visit Conference website for updates
The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic. The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist
Church is actively determining the best way to balance ministry while protecting the health of all clergy and laity.
We have created a resource page designed to support leaders in our Conference as they make critical decisions in a situation that is quickly changing. Click here for the webpage. Please note that by scrolling down on this link, you will see the latest news on COVID-19 and on the right side, you will see links to FAQs, webinars, live streaming, video conferencing, and more. If you have a question about COVID-19 and how it affects your church or need assistance, please contact UNY Communications at (315) 898-2012 or [email protected] and someone will contact you.
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Tune in to webinars
The Conference website has webinars to assist you with the following:
How to Facebook Live Using ZOOM to keep church connection Online Giving Streaming worship online.
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Online Giving
Visit the Conference website to learn about online giving: Click here |
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More tips on online giving
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Tips for streaming your services
Many churches are brainstorming ways to record or stream their services during the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here to check out our Resource page where we describe different services you can use for video recording or live streaming your services.
One popular live streaming platform that churches are using is Facebook Live. Click here for a very useful video by Baptist pastor Bobby Gillstrap, showing you how to use Facebook Live.
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Tips on using Zoom
for Bible Studies and small groups
Zoom is a video conferencing as well as webinar resource that Conference staff as well as Conference and District leaders often use to communicate with one another. We are suggesting all committees and teams that usually meet at the United Methodist Center to meet using Zoom while the office is closed, which is currently now through May 15.
Zoom is also a great platform for you to use with members of your congregation and to host Bible studies or small groups. Click here to learn how to get started with Zoom, to watch Zoom tutorials, to access Zoom technical support and to see Zoom-related FAQs. Click here for a webinar about how to use Zoom created by our friends in the Arkansas Conference.
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UNY to offer matching grants for purchase of Zoom
To help churches to continue to be in ministry with their members and their communities, the Upper New York Conference is offering $5,000 in matching grants for churches wishing to purchase the Pro version of Zoom for a year. Zoom is an online meeting software ideal for Bible study, small group discussion, or meetings. Zoom is also an option for live streaming worship services if used as a webinar. To learn more about how to use Zoom, click here to watch a video tutorial. To participate in the matching grant, simply click here to purchase a one year Zoom Pro Plan. Then, send a copy of the receipt to Alma Malikow in the Conference Treasurer's office digitally at [email protected] or by U.S. mail at 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088. The Conference will reimburse participating churches $75, which covers half the cost of the annual subscription. If you have any questions, contact the Conference Director of Communications, Steve Hustedt, at [email protected]. |
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Other Resources and Information
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Cokesbury offers virtual vacation Bible school option during COVID-19
To help churches unable to hold their vacation Bible school programs in person this summer, Cokesbury has developed a complete digital version of one of its 2020 curriculum. |
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Resourcing men's ministries
Are you interested in establishing a men's ministry in your church?
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Local Church Historian School
to be offered in September
Are you, or someone you know, interested in caring for or improving your church's program of history?
The General Commission on Archives and History of the United Methodist Church will be offering a Local Church Historian School in 2020 for church historians---or anyone interested in the story of their church.
This is the same school developed and offered by the Indiana Conference in the past---now updated---and being offered by the General Commission on Archives and History to any United Methodist church globally.*
The Local Church Historian School curriculum will cover a wide range of skills necessary to become a "complete" church historian. Participating congregations will benefit from a new consciousness of their heritage and legacy and be motivated to study their unique stories and proclaim it to those around them.
The Book of Discipline says our Conference is "to encourage and assist the local churches in preserving their records, compiling their histories and celebrating their heritage...." This school provides United Methodists the opportunity to do just that.
The school will begin on September, 14, 2020. Plan now to use this opportunity to ensure that the heritage of each of our churches will be celebrated and that each church can receive the full benefit of its own amazing story.
*The only prerequisite for the Local Church Historian School is access to dependable email service. (Minimal computer skills are required.)
To visit the website, click here.
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Keeping church property safe when closed
Even if your church building is seeing little use these days, the property still faces risk of damage or burglary. Explore tips from United Methodist Insurance that will help local churches keep people safe and make the most of limited visits to the building.
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Local Church & Community Events
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Most events previously listed here have been postponed or canceled.
We will post information as events are rescheduled. |
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Feet First Program provides new shoes
The Family Service Association of Glens Falls' Feet First program buys new shoes for families that qualify in Warren, Washington, and Northern Saratoga Counties. For flyers, click here and here.
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Christian band sought
The Living Hope United Methodist Church, located at 126 Middletown Rd., Waterford (12188) is seeking to hire a Christian band to play once a month during their worship service. Please contact Pastor Danyal Mohammadzadeh @ [email protected] or (518) 618-7265. |
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Living Waters Emmaus/Chrysalis Community newsletter
Click here for "On the Road" newsletter. It contains information about canceled events.
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Summer Picnic Dinner, 4 PM to 6 PM on Saturday, Aug. 22 at the First UMC of Warrensburg, 3890 Main St., Warrensburg (12885). Hot dog or hamburger, macaroni salad, cole slaw, chips, apple or blueberry cobbler, lemonade. Take-out or delivery available: (518) 623-9334 or (518) 744-8719. Tables will be set up in parking lot. By donation. Click here to view the flyer.
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ONGOING:
Most of the listings that have appeared here are suspended until further notice. Those listed below are still in place.
Bottle and Can Drive, Porter Corners UMC, 512 Allen Rd., Porter Corners (12859). You can leave your bags or boxes at the back door of the church, or if you have a large quantity, pickup is available. Call Jane Decouteau (518) 893-2289 or Carrie Howe (518) 893-6214.
Please consider posting this flyer in your church when we are able to gather again: Click here
'Connect', 6:30 PM Fridays. Connect is a small group through the
United Methodist Church, made up of young adults (18 to 35) who gather every Friday to play board games, watch movies and talk about important issues and topics. These topics range from financial planning and resume writing to the differences between hemp and marijuana. For now, Connect is going to "connect" through WhatsApp while watching something together to discuss.
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Lay Servant Classes - Updated
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Adirondack District Lay Servant Classes
The Adirondack Lay Servant Ministries Team has scheduled classes for 2020. The schedule of classes are those needed for Certified Lay Servant, Certified Lay Speaker or classes that laity might be interested in with no certification. Class size is a minimum of 5 with a maximum of 12. Classes may be cancelled if the minimum is not met. All texts must be purchased by the participant prior to the start of class so course work can be started when the syllabus is sent.
Please let us know at least one week before the class if you cannot attend, so that those on a waiting list can be notified and spots can be filled. Registration forms and fees must be received prior to class in order to secure your space in the class.
Advanced Course: Leading Worship
Wednesdays, September 9, 16, and 30; 5:30-8:30 PM and
Saturday September 26; 9 AM to 1 PM
ZOOM
Course Fee: $15
Facilitators: Arlene Schmidt, CLM and Pastor Bruce Hazard
Course open to 12 participants
Certified Lay Minister (CLM) Course
To be held via ZOOM
Start date August 28th Meet and Greet
First class Sept. 11th and 12th
Facilitators: Arlene Schmidt, CLM and Pastor Bruce Hazard
Prerequisites for this course are Basic and Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts. For more information and to request clergy and participants packets email [email protected]
Clergy: If you have identified persons who are interested in the CLM Course, please send an email to Bruce Hazard at [email protected] and Arlene Schmidt at [email protected]. Prerequisite courses for CLM are Spiritual Gifts and Basic Lay Servant.
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For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here
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FROM THE ALBANY DISTRICT LAY MINISTRIES TEAM
Basic Course Offered Via Zoom
Lay Servant Ministries is one of the most significant lay leadership development programs available within our United Methodist connection (2020 Lay Servant Ministries Catalog). Through these ministries, we are equipped, empowered, and enabled:
- To grow as disciples of Jesus Christ;
- To deepen our knowledge of who God is and who God is calling us to be as God's people;
- To embody God's love;
- To be God's love in the world.
Lay Servants have felt God's call upon their lives to share their faith and God's love by leading, caring, and communicating to:
All God's people in
All places,
And in
All times.
If you desire to grow through the avenues Lay Servant Ministries provides or if you know of a church member who has leadership capabilities, please share this information with them.
The Basic course will be offered via Zoom on September 21, 28, October 5, 12, and 19 at 7 PM by Peter O'Neill and Larry Crandell of the Mountain View District. Please contact Nancy Goddard at [email protected] for additional information and to register for the course.
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Lay Pastoral Caregiving Offered Via Zoom
This Advanced Lay Servant Course offers insights into the life span and the dynamics of contemporary life to help church leaders reach out with God's love and care to others. This course is especially pertinent and relevant during this CoVID-19 time. Susan Silhan and Kim Snyder will facilitate this course on September 16, 23, 30, October 7, and 14 at 7 PM via Zoom. Please contact Nancy Goddard at [email protected] for additional information and to register for the course.
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Imagine No Racism approved as an
advanced course in Upper New York Conference
Imagine No Racism (INR) has been approved as an advanced course for Upper New York. The curriculum,
which has a deeply spiritual foundation, has been formatted as a 10-hour course including videos, conversations, and experiential learning. An INR facilitator will lead each course.
Each District has at least three trained facilitators who will guide the conversation as the participants experience vital concepts dealing with racism in today's world. The goal of this experience is to develop each lay servant's ability to be an ally who walks with people of color to build relationships and take action for justice.
Look for details to come.
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Adirondack District
of the Upper New York Conference
Rev. Deborah (Debbie) Earthrowl
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District Superintendent
Gracie Lynn Besse
Adirondack District Lay Leader
Carrie Boyer
Minister of Administration
Our office is located in the South Glens Falls UMC
15 Maplewood Parkway, South Glens Falls (12803)
Mailing Address:
PO Box 590, Glens Falls, NY 12801
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