news article
New York State Minimum Wage/Salary Increase effective January 1, 2026
September 11, 2025 / By Tracy Rickett, UNY Human Resources Manager / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Effective January 1, 2026, New York State is increasing the minimum wage and minimum exempt salary amounts. The new amounts for New York State (excluding New York City, Long Island, and Westchester) are:
MINIMUM WAGE: $16.00/hour
MINIMUM EXEMPT SALARY: $1,199.10 per week / $62,353.20 per year
Employers within the Upper New York Conference, regardless of the number of employees, must pay non-exempt staff minimum wage. Non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay under the state and federal wage and hour laws. Overtime pay for non-exempt employees is calculated as time and one-half their regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 hours in a workweek (i.e., a $16.00/hr. employee working overtime, would be entitled to $24.00/hr. overtime pay).
An updated NYS Minimum Wage poster must be posted at your work site for your employees by January 1, 2026. Once the updated poster is available, the Conference office will post it on our Church Employer webpage Employment Law Compliance and Posters. Please click this link for more information on the change to NYS Minimum Wage.
Churches should review their wage and hour practices to ensure that their employees are classified properly as non-exempt or exempt and that current minimum wage and minimum exempt salary levels are being paid to employees.
Please note: Clergy salary is exempt from state and federal wage and hour requirements. Minimum base compensation for clergy is determined by the Commission on Equitable Compensation. It is listed in the Clergy Support Policies and can be located here.
If you have any questions on this topic, please contact Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Manager, at 315-898-2017 or TracyRickett@unyumc.org.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: An urgent call to Peacemaking and Hope
September 11, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Susquehanna and New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9
Optima aquí para leer en español.
Yesterday, activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University. Just hours later, a school shooting in Denver left a young man dead and several other students injured. These heartbreaking events, alongside countless others dominating our headlines, are a stark reminder of the dangerous climate gripping our nation.
Charlie Kirk was a husband, father, and voice. The students in Denver are part of a generation that deserves safety, dignity, and the freedom to live/learn without fear. Every life lost to hate, violence, and intolerance is a deep wound to our shared humanity and the soul of our nation. Please join me in mourning these tragic losses and holding their families in prayer, hoping that they find healing in community.
To those feeling weary, burdened, or afraid: my heart breaks with yours, and know that there is hope. Jesus offers a peace that is unlike anything the world can give. He said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27).
This peace is not passive—it is fierce, healing, and deeply personal. It reaches into the darkest corners of our lives and brings light. Jesus does not lead us into hatred, division, or harm. He calls us into love, mercy, and compassion in every part of our lives. “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
If you’ve been wounded by messages that distort Jesus’ teachings or weaponize His name, know this: that is not of Him. Jesus is the embodiment of grace and truth. He invites you (us)—not with judgment or condemnation, but with open arms—to humbly walk in His ways and discover the hope that never fades.
To my fellow Christians: this is our moment. Be peacemakers. “Blessed are the peacemakers…” (Matthew 5:9). Let the liberating and healing love of Christ shine brightly through our words, actions, and public witness.
To leaders in every sector and at every level—faith, education, business, government: in times like this, your voice is not optional. Silence is not neutrality—it is complicity. You were entrusted with influence not for comfort, but for courage. Use it. Speak truth. Defend the vulnerable. Denounce evil, hate and violence. Confront systems that perpetuate harm. Our decisions shape the moral fabric of our communities. Silence tears it apart. Let your platforms become pulpits of justice and your decisions and policies reflect compassion.
I cannot write a pastoral letter every time hatred, violence, or injustice erupts in our nation. If I did, heartbreakingly, it would become a daily ritual. But silence is not an option, and neither is despair. So instead, I invite you to join me in living hope—Christ’s hope—out loud. In our neighborhoods, our workplaces, and the public square, let us embody love, courage, and truth.
These are not days for the church to merely speak. These are days for the church to be seen—proclaiming the gospel with boldness, being Christ’s love in action, and standing shoulder to shoulder with our neighbors in every place. That is the path I choose. That is the witness I will bear.
May peace be our resistance.
May love be our legacy.
May Christ be our hope.
Never grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9).
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
From Prayer to Action: UNY ministry leaders unite around love and mission
September 8, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Saturday, September 6, ministry leaders from across the Upper New York Conference gathered at Liverpool First UMC for a fall leadership summit - a day marked by prayer, reflection, and forward-thinking collaboration. The summit created sacred space to reconnect with God and one another while discerning next steps in ministry.
Organized by the Office of Missional Excellence, the gathering brought together more than 40 leaders representing a wide range of ministry areas, including the Board of Ordained Ministry, Creation Justice, Committee on Native American Ministries, Board of Laity, Conference Commission on Religion and Race, Global Ministries, Nominations, and the Conference Council on Youth Ministry.
The morning began with a grounding prayer led by the Rev. Abigail Browka, Associate Director of Missional Excellence. She invited participants to listen deeply and ask, “God, what is arising and emerging in you?” Drawing from the three-month prayer resource Preparing for the Journey, Rev. Browka framed the time in both lament and hope. The resource—launched in August—offers monthly themes, Scripture reflections, prayer cues, and conversation starters designed for worship, small groups, and leadership gatherings.
Rooted in Love: A Call to Lead Differently
Conference Lay Leader Jessica White delivered a powerful message on the nature of true Christian leadership. Reflecting on Ephesians 3:16-17, she reminded attendees that leadership begins not with outward success, but with inner strength formed by Christ.
“Leadership without love becomes control. Leadership rooted in love produces service, humility, and care for others,” White said.
She urged leaders to let Christ take permanent residence in their hearts and to ensure that every decision flows from faith and love.
A recording of Jessica’s message is available here.
The Rev. Pam Klotzbach followed with a moving communion service, offering a shared moment of sacred connection and renewal.
Missional Clarity and a Vision for the Future
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez offered reflections on the Conference’s Missional Playbook, emphasizing the importance of clarity, collaboration, and prophetic leadership. He reminded participants of the Conference’s mission, vision, and purpose, and encouraged them to keep the core values—living faithfully, collaboratively, and prophetically—at the center of every decision.
“These three core values shape and inform the work that we do and how we live together as United Methodists in Upper New York,” Bishop Héctor shared.
Small group conversations followed, inviting leaders to assess whether their ministry areas were embodying these values and centering the most vulnerable in their decision-making.
“I enjoyed the conversations during the table talks. One of the questions asked was, ‘What do you think is the greatest opportunity in the next three years?’ For me, it’s about being the hands and feet of Jesus in light of the economic and societal changes impacting people’s lives today,” explained Pastor Angela Stewart from Metropolitan UMC.
The Rev. Missy McCarthy reflected, “It was helpful to make connections with other leaders, name what we struggle with, and imagine where the Holy Spirit is calling us. I’m hopeful the visioning process will be fruitful in the next four years.”
Bishop Héctor also introduced the newly unveiled vision statement of The United Methodist Church, which complements its longstanding mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, and encouraged participants to fully embrace it in their day-to-day discipleship and servant leadership:
The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.
A video explaining the new vision is available here.
Forward-thinking Discussions
The summit served as a launchpad for the 2025 Strategic Visioning and Planning Process, which was approved at this year’s Annual Conference. Ministry leaders engaged in dialogue about how love shapes leadership and how shared values can guide congregations through both opportunity and challenge.
Rev. Steven Smith, Vice Chair of the Board of Ordained Ministry, shared, “I appreciated the chance to ask questions and share feedback. It helped me better understand how BOM’s work supports the broader mission as we recruit, credential, and care for clergy.”
Carmen FS Vianese, Chair of the UNY Committee on Episcopacy and General Conference Delegation, added, “I was encouraged by the spirit-filled energy and transparency. We found ourselves in a safe space, committed to the work we’re called to in this new vision of The United Methodist Church.”
The summit concluded with a spirit of inspiration and renewed clarity. Ministry leaders left equipped with both prayerful grounding and practical tools to carry into the months ahead.
From prayer to action, United Methodists of Upper New York continues to move forward—rooted in love, guided by mission, and united in hope.
CLT gathers for prayerful leadership and strategic actions
September 8, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Conference Leadership Team (CLT) of United Methodists of Upper New York convened on Friday evening, September 5, 2025, at the United Methodist Center in Liverpool. As the executive body of the Annual Conference, the CLT gathered for a focused time of prayerful conversation, strategic decision-making, and updates on vital areas of ministry and administration.
2026 Conference Benefit Funding Plan Approved
During the two-hour meeting, the CLT reviewed and approved the 2026 Conference Benefit Funding Plan (CBFP). Typically included in the Pre-Conference Workbook as part of the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits’ report, the CBFP was not finalized in time for the 2025 Annual Conference session. Wespath approval, required to ensure compliance with Pre-82 funding standards and favorable opinion requirements, has now been secured. With this approval in place, the 2026 CBFP will be published in the 2025 edition of the Upper New York Conference Journal.
“We apologize that our Conference Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan (CBFP) was not ready for approval for this year’s annual conference session. The CBFP is not available to work on from Wespath before the end of March of every year. The 2026 projections required more work than usual as our denomination is moving away from a pension plan and moving to a defined contribution plan as of January 1, 2026 (Compass). In addition, our Conference has a new Benefits Officer (Julie Valeski) and the two of us worked diligently to work through the CBFP, generating the appropriate estimates for our 2026 cost expectations for all benefits managed by the Board of Pension and Health. I am grateful to our CLT who was able to review the final 2026 plan and approve it on behalf of our Conference. I am very hopeful that future CBFPs will be completed on time for inclusion in future Board of Pension and Health Annual Conference reports,” explained Bob Flask, Conference Treasurer.
2024 Audit Nearing Completion
The CLT received an update on the 2024 Upper New York Conference audit, which is nearing completion and will be posted to the conference website later this fall. In accordance with The Book of Discipline, the audit, conducted by Dermody, Burke & Brown, CPAs, LLC, provides independent verification of the Conference’s financial reporting. Previous audits are available online for review here.
Casowasco Update: Discernment in a Sabbath Season
The team also received a report on Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center, which is currently in a sabbath season. A discernment team composed of Upper New York United Methodists is working in partnership with Ministry Incubators, a consulting group specializing in missional innovation. Together, they are exploring future possibilities for Casowasco, considering declining participation and significant financial and structural challenges. Learn more about the Discern & Design Summit, held in July, here.
Strategic Visioning and Nominations
The CLT began its engagement with the Strategic Visioning Process, which was approved at the 2025 Annual Conference session. This process will guide the Conference in aligning its mission, resources, and leadership with emerging realities and opportunities. Additional details will be shared in the coming weeks.
In closing, the CLT approved a revised nominations report. The updated report will be posted to the conference website here and included in the 2025 Upper New York Conference Journal.
Casowasco Discernment Team Update
September 8, 2025 / By Casowasco Discernment Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Casowasco Discernment Team has begun work on their first “sprint.” In project management terms, a sprint is a short, focused burst of work where each member takes on specific tasks, then regroups to review progress, refocus priorities, and assign the next steps.
What We’re Working On
This sprint is focused on five key areas: staffing & operations, finances, physical property, programming, and relationships & communication. Here are a few specific highlights of that work:
Staffing & Operations: The team is creating a budget revision process and developing a staffing strategy for the future. Interim Site Director Colin Kerr-Carpenter continues to help facilitate team progress while also fielding inquiries from groups interested in the camp. Colin has been tasked to explore the start up for renewing operations. A call with the Cayuga County Health Department confirmed that the Temporary Residence Permit is in effect for the calendar year.
Physical Property: The team is drafting a multi-year capital repair plan to prioritize and sustain the site. The walk-in freezer, which was malfunctioning and not holding temperature, has since been fixed. The health inspector has indicated that a deep clean and equipment check will prepare the facility for being re-approved.
The other pending capital project is to address flood damage from 2021 and 2022. We have contracted with Redfish Engineering to do a study of the watershed from the Highlands down to the main site. This will help us to determine the condition of our dam and what measures we must do to mitigate the risks of future floods. At the end of this study Redfish will assist Casowasco in applying for grants to help us in this mitigation project.
Programming: The team is exploring new year-round opportunities at Casowasco. Since the Discern & Design retreat, multiple new groups have reached out about using Casowasco, while several past groups have expressed interest in returning next year.
Relationships & Communication: The team is re-engaging key stakeholders and preparing updated communications. In addition, Colin has heard from individuals eager to volunteer and help with the work ahead.
This doesn’t mean the camp is back to normal operations, but that the team is building a foundation for what comes next. Much of this work involves gathering information, but each step is a meaningful part of discerning the camp’s next chapter. Leadership from the Annual Conference has been engaged and invested in the work of the Discernment Team, and before any next steps are finalized, key teams from the Annual Conference will be consulted to ensure alignment.
Looking Ahead
The team remains grateful for the many ways the Holy Spirit is guiding this process. As Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center continues this season of discernment and design, your prayers, encouragement, and continued support mean more than ever. You can help shape the next chapter by:
- Praying for wisdom, courage, and unity in this season.
- Giving to support immediate capital and program needs.
- Sharing the story of Casowasco’s renewal with others who care.
- Offering your skills, time, or input to one of the project teams.
Casowasco’s story is still being written. Together, with faith and imagination, we trust God is not finished with this holy ground.
Upper New York Conference’s response to pastor’s arrest
September 5, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
PRESS RELEASE: The Upper New York Conference's response to Rev. Ronald Wenzinger’s arrest
For Immediate Release
Contact: Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications shelbywinchell@unyumc.org
On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church was informed of the arrest of Rev. Ronald Wenzinger. According to New York State Police, he's charged with attempted rape in the second degree (Class E Felony). Rev. Wenzinger was serving as pastor of Harpursville United Methodist Church and was scheduled to retire on August 31.
The safety and well-being of our congregations, especially our children, youth, and vulnerable adults, is our highest priority. All clergy within the Upper New York Conference are expected to uphold the standards outlined in our Safe Sanctuaries policy, which provides clear guidance for ethical conduct and protective practices in ministry settings.
As United Methodists of Upper New York, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. We trust the justice system to carry out its responsibilities with fairness and integrity, and we stand ready to cooperate fully with any ongoing investigations as requested.
We ask for prayers for all those affected.
How the Rev. Dr. Michael Beck and Greenhouse Days helped SPARK ignite a new way of being church
August 25, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
In a time when many churches are navigating declining membership and cultural shifts, a new kind of community is quietly growing within the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church—not through buildings or bulletins, but through belonging.
SPARK has emerged as a vibrant fresh expression of faith, rooted in radical inclusion, community, and spiritual creativity at Kenmore United Methodist Church. While its origins began with a local team’s desire for something new, its growth and continued momentum have been deeply shaped by the influence of the Rev. Dr. Michael Beck and the Greenhouse Days initiative.
SPARK, which stands for Seeking Progressive Acceptance, Respect, and Kindness, began not as a program but as a question: What would church look like if it was built on relationships instead of rituals? That question opened the door to exploring a different kind of faith community—one that would eventually align with the United Methodist Fresh Expressions movement championed by Michael Beck.
For Shannon Ebert, a worship leader at SPARK, the journey was deeply shaped by both Rev. Dr. Beck’s writings and the immersive experience of Greenhouse Days. “We were lucky enough to shape SPARK essentially with Michael Beck’s book,” she said. “Greenhouse Days was a really cool affirmation… a litmus test for how we were doing what we were doing.”
Though SPARK was already taking shape before Greenhouse Days officially launched in Fall 2024, the initiative played a pivotal role in validating and strengthening the community’s sense of direction. Co-led by Rev. Michael Beck and the Rev. Abigail Browka, who serves as the Associate Director of Missional Excellence for Upper New York, through the Upper New York Conference’s New Faith Communities and Innovation Initiative, Greenhouse Days provided practical coaching and spiritual encouragement for leaders exploring new ways of being church.
"Greenhouse Days helps individuals, churches and pastors imagine fresh expressions of Christian Community. It’s an exciting incubator for beginning to imagine something new,” said Rev. Browka.
“Michael casts a wide net,” Shannon added. “You take it in, process it, and whatever iteration comes out is based on what your community needs… The God is the same, and the love of Jesus is the motivation.”
While SPARK began through the Upper New York Conference’s Launch Pad training and seed funding from Kenmore UMC members, Allen and Carolyn Shepard, it has found long-term affirmation and inspiration in the Fresh Expressions ecosystem.
The connection to Rev. Dr. Beck—who met Kenmore UMC’s Pastor, the Rev. Rebecca Naber at the Fresh Expressions National Gathering in 2023—deepened through Zoom conversations with Rev. Browka that led to the creation of Greenhouse Days. These initiatives didn’t create SPARK, but they confirmed that it belonged in a wider movement of the Holy Spirit across The United Methodist Church.
“I love that our ministry is out of the box,” Shannon said. “We can embody Jesus in whatever iteration that might look like.”
While Rev. Dr. Beck and Rev. Browka helped provide structure and support through Greenhouse Days and other innovation cohorts, their leadership helped SPARK understand that it wasn’t alone. What was growing at Kenmore UMC was part of something much bigger.
“Over the past year 20 leaders from nine ministries gathered for our monthly Innovation Cohort to deepen our efforts to innovate and cultivate fresh expressions of Christian communities in our own church contexts,” said Rev. Browka.
Jessica Itotia, a SPARK worship leader, participated and says, “It gave us ideas of other directions we could go… and helped when something just wasn’t working,” she explained.
The relationships formed through the Innovation Cohort and the continued exposure to Beck’s national work helped SPARK leaders feel seen and supported.
That connectional spirit—a hallmark of Methodist identity—continues to bear fruit. As Jessica put it, “Being able to run into people we saw on Zoom, making it more connectional—that’s what The United Methodist Church thrives on.”
For Jennifer Nichols, joining SPARK wasn’t just about participating in something new—it was about finding a place where she could be fully herself. After returning to Kenmore UMC in 2023, her family was looking for a truly welcoming church—a place without the implied “but” that often follows the word “welcome.”
When she walked into a SPARK Bible study during Lent, everything changed.
“SPARK really opened that door for me to grow into myself,” Jennifer said. “It created a community where I can be myself and be who I want to be. I have a family—but now I have this community that allows and supports that.”
Jennifer now serves as a worship leader and part of the SPARK Core Team. From leading music to running slides, she does a bit of everything—and, in her words, she “loves it.”
“Sometimes I’ve struggled with where I fit in… but I found the people here who allow that. Watching myself come out of my shell, I think that’s the biggest thing I got out of it—growth in so many different ways.”
Nichole Lakso, another early SPARK leader, describes her role as one of hospitality—helping people feel comfortable, greeting newcomers, and meeting needs as they arise.
“We just kind of come as we are,” she said. “It feels very laid back and relaxed… I can easily express my faith, and I’ve met a lot of great people.”
From monthly worship gatherings filled with contemporary music and shared stories, to Conversation Cafés that open space for deep discussions on faith and life, SPARK embodies what Fresh Expressions is all about: relational, adaptable, and Spirit-led community rooted in context.
Their second annual community block party, volunteer efforts, and social justice advocacy all grow organically out of the relationships SPARK cultivates.
SPARK is no longer just an experiment. It’s a living testimony to what can happen when a community dares to ask different questions, follow the Spirit, and lean into authentic connection.
“There are so many possibilities,” Shannon reflected. “To equip and cultivate people to support one another and love one another in a time that can feel kind of hopeless? That’s SPARK.”
From the pages of Rev. Dr. Beck’s book - to the shared spaces of Greenhouse Days, SPARK continues to be shaped by a vision that is bigger than itself. It's not about replicating someone else's model—it's about listening deeply to the Spirit in the community of Kenmore and allowing something sacred to grow.
And in that growth, many have found what they didn't even know they were looking for: community, purpose, belonging, and grace.
Click here to watch a video about SPARK.
Click here to learn more about UNY Greenhouse Days.
Immigration Justice Cohort: Equipping justice-centered leaders in Upper New York
August 19, 2025 / By Georgia Whitney and Kristina Clark / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodists of Upper New York were awarded a $9,000 Action Fund Grant from the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR) to launch an Immigration Justice Cohort. This grant is made possible through the extraordinary generosity of United Methodist congregations around the world who faithfully participate in our shared giving.
The Immigration Justice Cohort is an initiative of Missional Excellence. It is a ten-month journey that will prepare six regional leaders (clergy and laity) to mobilize congregations and other leaders in their area to advocate for immigrants and engage in justice work at the intersection of immigration and racial equity. Through learning, reflection, community partnerships, and a national immigration immersion experience, leaders will gain the tools and support they need to put their faith into action. Applications are now open, and the cohort will launch in late September 2025. The majority of meetings will take place virtually, with one in-person gathering.
Cohort members will:
- Learn: Cohort members will explore the deep biblical mandate to welcome the stranger through the Vital Conversations on Immigration curriculum. This is a six-session series that provides theological grounding, challenges common misconceptions, and shares real-life stories to inspire action.
- Implement: Develop and implement a regional action plan. Through this grant, each cohort member will receive funding and coaching for an approved plan.
- Network: Together, the cohort will expand their perspective by journeying to the Arizona/Mexico border April 18 – 25, 2026. This intensive, week-long journey will connect cohort members to other justice-centered leaders and those impacted by current policies. You can read more about this journey here and here.
- Resource and Equip: At the conclusion of the cohort, members will join a network of justice-centered leaders that will continue to resource and mobilize their region for action.
This cohort is for leaders who:
- Have a desire to mobilize, resource, and equip their region for action both during the cohort and beyond.
- Have, at least, a basic understanding of immigration and a strong desire to deepen their perspective.
- Understand justice-centered ministries to be a vital tenant of their faith.
- Can commit a minimum of three hours a week to learning and implementation. Virtual cohort sessions will take place during the day and on a weekday.
- Can commit approximately $2,000 for the Immigration Immersion Journey in April 2026. Passport required. Each cohort member will receive a $500 scholarship for this experience. There are not any other out-of-pocket expenses for participation in the cohort.
How to Apply
Contact Georgia Whitney (georgiawhitney11@gmail.com) for an application. Applications are due by September 10.
2026 UMC Leadership Gathering to be held in Alberta, Canada
August 11, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The 2026 Council of Bishops (COB) Leadership Gathering is headed to Alberta, Canada from October 20–24, 2026. The inspiring gathering will take place at Knox United Church in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Originally planned for April, the event has been rescheduled to October to better accommodate The United Methodist Church’s evolving priorities and schedule.
This global gathering of bishops, church leaders, clergy, and laity will serve as a pivotal moment to reflect, dream, and act on the Church’s bold new vision.
Bishop Tracy S. Malone, president of the Council of Bishops, reflected on the purpose of the event. “This gathering is about faithful leadership for such a time as this. We are being called to reimagine the Church—not to preserve what is familiar but to fulfill God’s calling and vision for our future. We will lean into the Spirit’s leading with boldness and humility, centering Christ in all we do, so that the witness of The United Methodist Church might be renewed, relevant, and rooted in justice, love, and hope.”
The gathering will invite participants not only to address today’s challenges but also to co-create the Church of tomorrow. Bishop Ruben Saenz, co-chair of the COB Design Team and president-designate of the Council of Bishops, shared his vision. “In Calgary, we will dare to envision the church that the next generation will receive and embrace. This is our moment to listen deeply, innovate boldly, and rekindle the hope and imagination that propel us forward as one community of faith—so together, we can offer a vibrant future to all those who come after us.”
Attendees can expect an atmosphere charged with fresh energy—featuring thought-provoking keynote addresses, interactive workshops, Spirit-filled worship, and opportunities to form meaningful connections. The focus will be on breakthrough ideas, shared wisdom, and bold, Spirit-led responses to the Church’s calling in a rapidly changing world.
Stephanie Henry, co-chair of the COB Design Team, emphasized how the Leadership Gathering will differ from General Conference. “Do away with legislation and Robert’s Rules and sit with one another in relationship and conversation. I appreciate the focus on young people and laity—two of the three leaders from each Episcopal Area will be laity. I look forward to the thoughts, hopes, and dreams that will be revealed from those committed to The United Methodist Church.”
Building on the momentum of the 2020/2024 General Conference, the 2026 Council of Bishops Leadership Gathering aims to awaken hope, amplify vision, and spark a renewed movement of faith for generations to come.
Casowasco Discern & Design Summit update
August 5, 2025 / By Casowasco Discernment Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On July 18-19, a group of leaders, alumni, and supporters gathered at Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center for a Discern & Design Summit. Guided by consultants Scott Pontier and Heather Kenny from Ministry Incubators, the goal wasn’t to solve every problem—but to listen and imagine what a renewed future for Casowasco could look like.
The summit was designed to celebrate Casowasco’s legacy, understand the financial, structural, and operational realities of the camp as well as explore new ideas for ministry. Above all, the goal was to discern God’s guidance for Casowasco’s next chapter and identify practical next steps that can lead to real momentum.
What We Did
Over two days, we moved through a rhythm of listening, reflecting, imagining, and planning.
We started Friday evening by reflecting on what God might be saying in this season. We acknowledged the emotional weight many carry for this place and explored key findings from recent surveys and listening sessions. Saturday morning, drawing on research from other camps and creative ministry models, we generated over 100 ideas—everything from financial strategies to new programming concepts to staffing shifts.
By midday Saturday, the group narrowed the field, identifying the most appropriate ideas—those that felt both possible and feasible as next steps. These were workshopped into concrete, actionable game plans that will be utilized as we take the next steps.
As we closed, members of the group took on some next steps and committed to working a two-month process to begin implementing the game plans.
In addition, the team met on Saturday, July 26 to clarify the purpose for this season of Casowasco and the values with which this season will be approached:
Our purpose in the next season: We are dedicated to shaping a sustainable future for Casowasco, building on its legacy as a place where all are invited to experience peace, purpose, and hope—whether called to Christ or simply seeking a welcoming, supportive community.
Below are the values that anchor us in this work—intentional commitments that will help Casowasco rediscover its purpose and inspire the next chapter. They are not meant as a permanent statement of Casowasco’s identity, but the commitments we believe are essential for this season as we help the camp move forward.
- Radical Hospitality: As Christ welcomed outsiders, we set a place at the table for everyone to feel heard, valued, and at home.
- Sacred Sanctuary: As Christ created space for trust and healing, we nurture Casawasco as holy ground and a natural sanctuary for every person.
- Transparent Accountability: As Christ modeled honesty and openness, we build trust by holding ourselves to transparent and accountable standards.
What’s Next?
The summit didn’t produce a single “silver bullet.” Instead, it clarified a shared calling: to revitalize, not retire, Casowasco with strategic next steps. The team is starting to see the next chapter take shape as it addresses some foundational issues for health.
Over the next eight weeks, task teams will develop and begin executing game plans for:
- Staffing and leadership strategy: A staffing strategy is created that considers the new program offerings, on-site events, and year-round needs of Casowasco. This includes exploring hybrid staffing models with volunteers and paid staff as well as exploring creating separate site director and program director roles.
- Capital repairs and site use: A multi-year capital repair plan is developed, outlining projected repairs, costs, and funding strategies. This includes specifically identifying the spaces that can be used now and next.
- A refreshed summer programming model: The session schedule and program curricula are refreshed to better meet the needs of today’s families.
- Donor engagement and communication: In partnership with the Friends of Casowasco, past donors, churches, and constituents will be individually contacted to enthusiastically invite them back to Casowasco so that relationships are strengthened, and support for the camp grows. In addition, strategic development of an expanded donor base will occur accompanied by intentional practices to maintain relationships with all donors.
- Expanded retreat and facility offerings: Exploration into year-round opportunities will include partnering with the local community and developing new categories of guest groups so that revenue streams are diversified.
Again, none of these will, by itself, prove to be a quick fix, but will instead build a solid foundation for what’s to come.
One of the team’s goals was to engage others in the process—nothing is happening without transparency and invitation. With this in mind, the team invites you to join them by:
- Praying for wisdom, courage, and unity in this phase
- Donating to support immediate capital or program needs
- Sharing the impact of this work with those who support Casowasco
- Offering your skills, time, or input to one of the project teams
Casowasco’s story isn’t finished. Together, we’re writing the next chapter—with faith, imagination, and the belief that God is not done with this Holy ground.
Unlocking the power of AI for ministry
August 5, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Are you a church leader, pastor, or conference staff member wondering how Artificial Intelligence (AI) fits into your ministry? This fall, don’t miss this one-time training, AI for Ministry: A Practical Training on Wednesday, November 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Conference Center in Liverpool.
Led by Jason Moore, a nationally recognized expert in digital ministry and worship design, this hands-on workshop is tailored specifically for those serving in church leadership. Jason has helped hundreds of churches embrace creative, effective communication—and now, he’s equipping faith communities to responsibly and practically integrate AI into their work.
What to expect:
- AI 101 – Understand what AI is, how it works, and why it matters to ministry.
- Sermon & Small Group Series Design – Learn how AI can support content creation and planning.
- 10 Practical Uses for AI in Ministry – Discover real-world tools and strategies to save time and spark innovation.
- Ethics & Discernment – Explore the theological and ethical questions surrounding AI.
Whether you're just curious, feeling cautious, or already exploring AI tools, this event will give you the clarity, confidence, and skills to engage with AI in meaningful and ministry-enhancing ways.
Click here to register. Space is limited so be sure to register by October 25. Registration will close if the event limit is reached before the deadline.
Ready to go further? Jason Moore's book, AI and the Church: A Clear Guide for the Curious and Courageous, is a companion to this training. Dive into practical applications, biblical reflections, and ethical insights that will equip you to lead with wisdom and faith in a tech-shaped world.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Endorsement of political candidates
August 5, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez regarding the endorsement of politican candidates or parties.
“My kingdom is not of this world [Jesus].” John 18:36
Dear partners in ministry,
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ, our only Lord.
In this complex and demanding season of ministry, I write with deep gratitude for your steadfast witness and servant leadership. Your perseverance and grace-filled presence within your communities embody the spirit of Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right…”
As political rhetoric rises and recent IRS guidelines sharpen attention on the role of churches in partisan discourse, I reaffirm our covenant and the wisdom of our Social Principles. The United Methodist Church affirms: “While we do not believe churches should affiliate with political parties, we do encourage churches to speak out boldly on social issues from a gospel perspective. We further believe churches have a right and responsibility to educate and equip their members to be effective advocates for justice in the wider world” (2024 Social Principles ¶163.A).
To protect the integrity of our mission and keep our witness firmly anchored in the teachings of Christ, I strongly urge all United Methodist clergy and congregations in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area to refrain from endorsing political candidates or parties in the name of the Church. As individuals we should engage the democratic process, but our pulpits and church platforms must never be used to promote partisan ideologies. This is not a retreat from public engagement, it is a call to faithful, prophetic witness shaped by the Gospel.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are not partisan, but we are deeply committed to the well-being of the people and communities we serve. We hold governments and elected leaders accountable through the lens of Scripture and our distinctive United Methodist heritage. I encourage you to continue addressing the urgent challenges facing our society—including racism, white supremacy, Christian nationalism, greed, abuse of power, hate, violence, xenophobia, poverty, and environmental degradation—with clarity, courage, and compassion.
I trust you will prayerfully discern how best to engage in faithful conversations around these matters in your congregations. To aid this reflection, consider the following guiding questions:
- How is our congregation currently engaging social issues from a Wesleyan, gospel-centered perspective?
- What opportunities might we be missing, and how can we respond with clarity, conviction, and compassion?
- How do we distinguish faithful prophetic witness from partisan political engagement?
- What guardrails can we establish to maintain integrity while speaking and acting faithfully?
As Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7, “God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power, love, and self-control.”
Thank you for embodying that spirit.
With gratitude and faith,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
Increase to Jury Duty Pay and expiration of NYS COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave
August 1, 2025 / By Tracy Rickett, HR Manager / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Increase to Jury Duty Pay
The daily rate for jury duty for all New York State Courts and for Town and Village courts increased effective June 8, 2025, from $40 to $72.
Employers of more than 10 employees must pay employees the daily rate of $72 or the employee’s wage (whichever is lower) each day for the first three days of jury service. If the employee’s daily wage is less than the jury fee, then the State makes up the difference. The State will pay the jury fee for employees who work for employers of 10 or fewer employees if the jurors are not paid at least the jury fee by their employers. After three days, the State pays the jury fee to employees who are not paid at least the jury fee. For employees who are paid a daily wage that is less than the jury fee the State makes up the difference.
For details on how juror pay works in New York state, see the New York’s Jury Duty Information for Employers and here is a flow chart regarding the jury fee as well. In the FAQs, it also covers use of paid time off, schedule changes, making up lost time, working after jury duty finishes for the day, etc.
As a reminder, exempt employees who perform any work during a week in which they are on jury duty must be paid their full salary under applicable wage and hour laws.
NYS COVID-19 Sick Leave Law expired July 31, 2025
New York State’s COVID-19 paid sick leave law, which has been in effect since March 2020, expired on July 31, 2025. After this date, employees in New York will no longer be entitled to job-protected leave under the state’s COVID-19-specific sick leave provisions. Employers will no longer be required to provide separate paid leave for employees subject to a COVID-19-relatedquarantine or isolation order.
Beginning August 1, 2025, any absences related to COVID-19 must be addressed under other available leave and time-off policies. Churches should review and update their jury duty policies and remove any policies referencing the expired NYS COVID19-specific leave.
If you have questions on the increase to jury duty pay or the expiration of the NYS COVID-19 paid sick leave law, please contact Tracy Rickett, HR Manager, at tracyrickett@unyumc.org or 315-898-2017.
Delivering comfort one blanket and hat at a time
July 31, 2025 / By Sharon Clairmont-Long, Christ UMC in Johnsonville / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
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Picture a car filled to the brim—delivering warmth, comfort, and love to children who need it most. The purpose is simple yet powerful, and the effort has been a true community collaboration.
I'm a member at Christ UMC in Johnsonville. I also serve as a High Priestess of Airoc Court No. 42, based in Rutland, VT and am part of the fraternal organization inspired by Shriners International called Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America. Our focus is placed on philanthropy, social fellowship, and support for children’s healthcare.
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Many years ago, I began collecting blankets made by volunteers for Shriners Kids—anyone ranging in age from infancy to young adult who receive care through Shriners Children's, a network of pediatric specialty hospitals and clinics supported by Shriners International.
During COVID, Ilah Walser gave me a collection of handmade hats that she and her sister, Breta Sisson from Ballston Spa UMC had knitted to donate to Shriners Kids. Since then, the two have continued their generosity, now creating hundreds of hats for us each year.
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It’s about more than just blankets and hats though. This year’s delivery also included handmade scarves, craft kits, and colorful pillowcases—each one a heartfelt reminder that these children are seen, loved, and supported.
At Shriners Hospitals, every child undergoing a procedure or surgery receives a blanket to help provide comfort and calm throughout their treatment and recovery. We also sew pillowcases for children to take home, create outfits for the hospitals’ Build-A-Bear program, and make rag dolls that help explain the bandages, casts, or prosthetics children may have after surgery.
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Our first stop this summer was Shriners Hospital in Montreal, followed by visits to Shriners Hospitals in Boston, Springfield, and Erie. None of this would be possible without the tireless dedication of volunteers like Ilah and Breta. Joan Buvarsky knitted many of the scarves, and the women of Airoc Court—especially Mickey Super, Carol F. Yerg, Carol C. Yerg, Stephanie Adams, and Debbie Stone—lovingly hand-tied each blanket with care.
For the past seven years, United Women in Faith has generously supported us with a grant that allows us to continue bringing comfort to children in need. Delivering blankets to the hospitals has once again become an annual tradition, after a brief pause during the COVID pandemic.
As the shirts worn by this compassionate team declare: It’s all about the kids—and it always will be.
Flood Insurance: Is your church protected?
July 29, 2025 / By Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees
Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States—impacting 99% of U.S. counties since 1998. Yet many property owners, including churches, remain uninsured against this major risk. The Upper New York (UNY) Conference Board of Trustees is urging all congregations to assess their flood risk and consider whether they have adequate coverage.
Many churches are surprised to learn that typical policies do not cover flood damage. Even properties located far from rivers or coastlines are at risk due to changing land use, development, or severe weather. Just one inch of water can cause approximately $25,000 in damage to a church building and its contents.
While Brotherhood Mutual policies used by many churches include limited flood water coverage up to $5,000, greater protection can only be obtained through a dedicated flood insurance policy. These policies often carry a 30-day waiting period before they take effect, so timely action is essential.
To help congregations navigate their options, representatives from Lightwell will be reaching out to local churches in the coming weeks. However, church leaders don’t need to wait—feel free to contact either agent directly with questions or to get started:
- James Nguyen – Jnguyen@Lightwell.com | (315) 414-8631
- Brandon Bower – Brandon@BowerIns.com | (484) 973-6111
You can also visit www.floodsmart.gov to explore your flood risk and learn more about coverage options.
Click here to view the full flyer with details so you can protect your church, the mission, and the congregation’s peace of mind.
Answered Prayer: Rush UMC’s journey of compassion and connection
July 28, 2025 / By Erma Perkins, Rush UMC
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On May 29, 2025, Rush United Methodist Church commissioned a missionary team to Empangeni, South Africa, continuing a partnership that has spanned more than two decades with Zululand Hospice and MusaweNkosi Orphanage. This year’s mission once again deepened relationships and offered lasting hope to all who participated. Erma Perkins, who has faithfully led the team for most of those years, described the experience as “a true moment of answered prayer.” Upon the team’s return, she shared the following reflection with the congregation.
E.M. Bounds, a 19th-century pastor in the Methodist Episcopal Church South, once wrote:
“We are rich and strong, good and holy, beneficent and benignant, by answered prayer. It is not the mere performance, the attitude, nor the words of prayer, which bring benefit to us, but it is the answer sent directly from heaven. Conscious, real answers to prayer bring ‘real’ good to us.”
How strange, the word benignant. Perhaps we know the word benign as in “the tumor is benign.” A simple definition from the dictionary is “not harmful in effect.” But the word carries a greater meaning than that – how does one feel when receiving news that a tumor is benign, rather than malignant. In this case it means favorable, and it means propitious (giving or indicating a good chance of success). It brings forth relief if not celebration.
As we were commissioned for our mission journey, we prayed to be blessed with courage, mercy, compassion, strength, and love for all those we would encounter. A well-meaning friend remarked, “Why not just send the money?” But I can tell you with certainty: there is a vast difference between writing a check and walking alongside Siza, Noreen, and Happiness—three Zulu care workers who daily face economic oppression, hunger, illness, poverty, and systemic prejudice.
To witness their resilience and faith in the midst of such hardship moves us beyond sympathy to something much deeper—an embodied mercy, compassion, and love that cannot be acquired secondhand.
During a previous visit, Happiness told us, “It’s us who know the patient and family and the problems. We can’t sleep at night thinking about them. It makes me grow and opens my eyes.”
Her words ring true for us as well. Our eyes have been opened. Our hearts have been changed. This, too, is the fruit of answered prayer.
Once again, the theme of our trip could easily be summed up in two words: Answered Prayer. And those answers began unfolding even before we left home—sometimes without us even realizing it.
I often tell the team that we travel like pack horses. Our luggage is filled with wound care supplies, acetaminophen, triple antibiotic ointment, and other medical necessities. Before we arrived, Jane Ashburner, the Palliative Care Nurse Manager, shared that the care workers had been arguing over who would receive the last three tubes of antibiotic cream. Imagine our amazement when we realized that the very last donation we had made the previous year had stretched just long enough—lasting until our return. If that isn’t an “answer sent directly from heaven,” I don’t know what is.
Each year, I’m entrusted with $500 to take Nurse Jane shopping for medical supplies. During one visit, I met a patient who was experiencing a burning sensation in her legs—a common side effect of anti-retroviral medications used to treat HIV/AIDS. I asked about the “blue gel” they typically use to ease that discomfort. Happiness, one of the care workers, quietly responded, “We’re out of stock.”
To know that I would be accompanying Jane to the pharmacy later that week felt truly beneficent and benignant. She finds such joy in filling carts with Ensure, blue gel, medications, and whatever else is needed. And in that moment, we knew—we were part of a provision that mattered deeply.
Pastor Kyle’s compassion was evident in his prayers for each patient he visited, his interactions with the staff, and his care for our team. He took two local pastors out to lunch and followed up with a letter to them.
His embracing these missions is a wonderful development for me. The partnership started between my employer, Lifetime Care Hospice and Zululand Hospice in 2003. Lifetime Care was bought by Rochester Regional Health in 2018 and they showed no interest in the partnership. A few friends and I were able to continue our support because our Administrative Assistant, Barb Kingsley collects the funds raised and wires them. The church hosts our fundraisers and people shop and donate. However I did not have people traveling with me witnessing the need and the work since 2014 until this year. I no longer wonder if the partnership will survive me. I’m 80 years old and overflowing with gratitude for Pastor Kyle and the four women from Rush UMC who have walked the paths of the Kwa-Zulu Natal.
"When painful realities assume a human face to whom we can put a name and to whose story we can listen, a meeting of human hearts takes place. Such heart encounters possess the power to uncover the more compassionate dimensions of our natures… They do not so much need the skills of our hands or the knowledge of our minds as they do the compassion of our hearts,” wrote Trevor Hudson in A Mile in My Shoes: Cultivating Compassion.
One of the greatest blessings of this year’s mission was the diversity of our team, which allowed for a wide and meaningful range of outreach. While some team members were out visiting patients, others provided much-needed IT support and helped implement updated accounting practices. There was also no shortage of work to be done in the resale “Charity” shop—an essential source of ongoing support for Zululand Hospice.
And then, of course, there was the orphanage.
We were grateful for the opportunity to visit MusaweNkosi, a children’s home that holds a special place in our hearts. Each visit deepens the meaning of scriptures like Psalm 82:
“Give justice to the lowly and the orphan; maintain the right of the poor and destitute! Rescue the lowly and the needy.”
The orphanage continues to face challenges. The Department of Social Development has expressed concern over how MusaweNkosi staff allocate their limited resources. Yet, in the face of these tensions, the commitment of the staff to care for the children remains steadfast—and our support continues to be both needed and deeply valued.
Government officials have urged the orphanage to focus on improving the facilities and access road. However, the staff remains deeply committed to serving the poor and vulnerable in the surrounding community. They believe their limited resources are best spent on direct support—providing job training and essential care. One of the key leaders, Papa Jobe, has even planted a church at a local school in response to the community’s request for strong, biblically grounded teaching.
During the team’s visit, the 28 children at the orphanage welcomed them with joyful song and dance—a celebration filled with energy and warmth. Two team members even joined in, bravely stepping into the rhythm of the moment.
The orphanage has also expanded its outreach to a nearby area called Nseleni, where 35 children are now welcomed after school for a nourishing meal, music, games, and help with homework—a vital ministry of care and consistency.
There is no doubt that Rush UMC’s mission to South Africa was marked by answered prayers. As is so often the case with trips like these, the blessings flowed both ways. The team members received just as much—if not more—than they gave.
Thank you for your prayers that we would be a blessing. We are rich and strong, good and holy, by answered prayer.
A city church in vibrant ministry
July 28, 2025 / By Rev. Merle Showers, University United Methodist Church in Buffalo / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
What do you do when you have a large city church building—but only a handful of United Methodist members? You ask for God’s guidance. And be ready: when you ask sincerely, you just might get an unexpected answer
That answer began to take shape when people started approaching us at University United Methodist Church in Buffalo with a simple question: “Do you have space for our church?” At first, the response was straightforward—yes, we can rent you some space. But the requests kept coming.
And then came a more profound question: Is this God’s answer?
We came to understand this is not our building. It is God’s. We are not owners—we are stewards. It’s a large building, and we were not using it to its full potential. So why shouldn’t God’s children—those seeking a place to worship—find a spiritual home here?
It started with one church, then two, then three. But soon, practical questions emerged: Who worships where—and when? Everyone wanted the sanctuary on Sunday morning. But we already worship there at that time.
We have a chapel—could another congregation worship there simultaneously? Would it be too noisy? Eventually, we transformed our fellowship hall into a sanctuary. It was far enough away to accommodate simultaneous services.
Then another church came. Their worship was quieter (well, give or take a few decibels). We welcomed them into the chapel. The third church? They were willing to wait until our service ended and then use the sanctuary. Another church was fine with meeting at 3 p.m. The next church was willing to meet on Saturdays, but the other churches all wanted a second day of prayer and fasting. So, we converted the parlor into a worship space.
Who are all these congregations?
Today, five churches, in addition to the United Methodist congregation, worship at University UMC. These communities are made up of African immigrants, each with their own language, traditions, and worship styles. Some worship in Swahili, some in French, others in languages unique to their communities.
Sunday at University UMC is a vibrant, joyful expression of faith. Drums echo from multiple floors, often creating a spirited rhythm across the building. Members come and go throughout the day. The parking lot empties and fills again in waves. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., several hundred people gather here to worship God with full hearts and joyful souls.
The ministry doesn’t stop on Sundays. A suburban church with members in the city holds Tuesday Bible study here. There’s space for a Narcotics Anonymous group, the Greater Buffalo Counseling Center, the Neighborhood Block Club, and others.
This once-quiet building now hums with purpose. God’s purpose.
And something beautiful has happened along the way: this ministry of hospitality has breathed new life into the United Methodist congregation, too. We had to let go of the idea that we “own” this building—and listen carefully for the answer to the prayer we dared to pray.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Call to Prayer about Visioning Process
July 22, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following note was sent on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez to United Methodists of Upper New York on Tuesday, July 22 about the 2025 Strategic Visioning and Planning Process approved at the 2025 Annual Conference. More information can be found here.
Dear Pastoral and Lay Leaders in the Upper New York Conference,
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ.
At the 2025 Annual Conference session, the Upper New York Conference affirmed a resolution calling upon the Conference Leadership Team to start and oversee a Strategic Visioning and Planning Process, to discern and articulate a faithful, forward-looking roadmap for our shared life in Christ.
As part of this sacred endeavor, we are entering into a summer season of prayer, opening our hearts and minds to the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we seek the direction God wants for us.
To support congregations in this time of spiritual preparation, we invite you to engage with Preparing for the Journey, a three-part prayer resource offering monthly themes, Scripture reflections, prayer cues, and conversation starters. This resource can be used in worship, small groups, and leadership gatherings, and may be adapted freely for your context.
The Three Movements of Prayer
1. Thanksgiving — Celebrating God’s Faithfulness
We begin with gratitude for the ministries that have shaped us, the communities that have sustained us, and the grace that has carried us thus far.
2. Lament and Release — Entrusting Our Burdens to God
In this movement, we name our losses and release what no longer serves God's purpose, creating space to receive new blessings.
3. Imagination — Envisioning New Possibilities with Holy Hope
With hearts open to possibility, we dream God-sized dreams, listen for divine whispers, and embrace the Spirit’s unfolding vision.
You can learn more about the visioning process here.
I encourage pastors to lead your congregations in engaging in this prayer journey fully and faithfully. May we surrender together to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and walk into this season with unity, humility, and renewed hope—trusting that “the One who began a good work among you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Safe Sanctuaries training now requires renewal every five years
July 21, 2025 / By Rev. Jennifer Stamm, Vice Chair Safe Sanctuaries / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Conference Safe Sanctuaries team has announced an important change to the minimum standards for Safe Sanctuaries training across Upper New York churches and ministries. Effective immediately, all staff and volunteers who work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults will be required to renew their Safe Sanctuaries training every five (5) years in order to remain in compliance.
This update is designed to ensure that everyone serving in our ministries remains equipped with current best practices for creating safe, welcoming, and nurturing environments. By renewing training regularly, we refresh our skills and understand and reinforce our shared commitment to preventing harm and protecting those entrusted to our care.
Recognizing that busy schedules can make training challenging to plan, the Safe Sanctuaries team is offering several flexible options to help churches and individuals meet this new requirement:
- Free Zoom and In-Person Trainings: The Conference Safe Sanctuaries team provides free training sessions both online via Zoom and in-person. Churches and ministry groups can schedule a session at a convenient time by reaching out directly to the team. Already scheduled training sessions are listed here.
- Online Individual Course: For those who prefer a self-paced option, the Safer Sanctuaries Online Course is available through an outside provider. This course meets the conference’s requirements and may be taken at individual or church expense. Click here for information about the online course offered by the Upper Room.
Church leaders are encouraged to review the training status of all staff and volunteers to ensure compliance with the new five-year renewal requirement. Maintaining up-to-date Safe Sanctuaries training is not just a policy—it’s an essential part of living out our covenant to care for and protect the most vulnerable among us.
The Safe Sanctuaries team thanks all clergy, staff, and volunteers for their ongoing commitment to safe, accountable, and life-giving ministry. For questions, scheduling, or more information about training options, please reach out to the team at safesanctuaries@unyumc.org. Together, we can continue to build communities where all people, especially children and vulnerable adults, are truly safe and deeply valued.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Recent shooting in Albany, NY
July 15, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the Independence Day shooting in Albany, NY.
Dear Family of God,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
As many gathered in Albany to celebrate Independence Day, the community was shaken by devastating violence. Ten people were shot, including teenagers and innocent bystanders, and a fire ignited by a flare gun destroyed a building, displacing residents and traumatizing many.
We grieve with all who were injured, who lost their homes, and who now live with fear and sorrow. I ask you to join me in prayer, for healing, peace, and justice. Let us lift the victims, their families, and the first responders who served with courage in the face of chaos.
Scripture reminds us: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18). In this spirit, I call upon each of you to be agents of healing and compassion in your congregations and communities. Let us speak hope into despair and stand together against the tide of gun violence that continues to harm our neighborhoods.
I invite Upper New York congregations to respond by:
- Offering prayers for Albany and all communities affected by gun violence.
- Encouraging advocacy and engagement that supports youth, families, and public safety.
- Partnering with organizations committed to peacemaking and community restoration.
Thank you for living the Gospel of Peace and embodying Christ’s love among your neighbors. May the Spirit guide us—not in fear, but in love and holy resolve.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Cornerstone District Day builds bridges and sparks connection
July 15, 2025 / By Kristian Snyder, Cornerstone Superintendency Associate / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On June 21st, the Cornerstone District once again gathered for a meaningful day of worship, learning, and connection—this time hosted at Crossings at South Dayton: New Faith Community (NFC). This year’s District Day was thoughtfully planned and led by the Cornerstone Lay Servant Team and Superintendency Associates to deepen ties within our district and build bridges with our neighbors in the Niagara Frontier District.
52 people were in attendance, with 12 out of the 34 churches in the Cornerstone District represented. We were also blessed to welcome several guests from the Niagara Frontier District, further strengthening our shared ministry across district lines.
Following in the spirit of last year’s revitalized District Days, this gathering was rooted in the desire to reconnect local churches after years of disruption due to the pandemic, disaffiliations, and transitions. But it was also about something more: celebrating the relationships that make up our wider connection—relationships that remind us we are not alone in ministry, but part of a larger family in Christ.
- A worship service centered on unity and purpose.
- A time of fellowship to meet and reconnect with one another.
- Small group sessions focused on practical and timely topics including new faith expressions, lay-led churches, and how to share our faith stories.
A special part of this year’s event was the intentional inclusion of youth. 11 young people were present, and they brought joy, creativity, and deep meaning to the day. They added a colorful and playful spirit to the gathering by decorating the sidewalks around the church with vibrant chalk art—a visible sign of life and hope. Even more moving, the youth took part in leading worship by serving communion to the gathered community. This sacred moment highlighted the value of intergenerational ministry and the role young people play in the life of the church.
The presence of participants from both the Cornerstone and Niagara Frontier districts added a reminder: though our churches may differ in size, setting, and context, we are united in our mission and our identity as United Methodists—a connected people working together in love and service.
As Cornerstone continues to imagine its future, events like this help us remember who we are and whose we are. Plans are already underway to keep this momentum going through future gatherings that will deepen relationships, offer practical tools for ministry, and strengthen the ties that bind us across the connection.
Let us give thanks for the connections renewed, the stories shared, the creativity expressed, and the Spirit that continues to lead us forward—together.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Devastating Flooding in Central Texas
July 10, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Thursday, July 10, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the flooding across Central Texas and New Mexico.
Beloved Family of God,
Our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastation caused by the catastrophic floods across Central Texas. Lives have been tragically lost, families uprooted, and entire communities left reeling. In the midst of such sorrow and uncertainty, we turn to the One who is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in times of trouble. We are also monitoring the floods and wildfires in the New Mexico area.
Let us come together in prayer:
- For those who mourn, may they be surrounded by comfort and peace.
- For those who are displaced, may they find shelter, safety, and hope.
- For first responders and volunteers, may they be upheld by God’s strength and courage.
- For local, state, and federal officials, may wisdom and compassion guide their leadership.
- For our communities, may we be stirred to compassion, generosity, and faithful action.
As United Methodists, we are a connectional people. In times like these, we are called to embody the love of Christ, not only through our prayers, but through our presence, our gifts, and our service.
If you feel led to give, UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) is actively supporting disaster response in the affected areas. You can donate directly here.
I also encourage SUS/UNY congregations to collect a special love offering to support relief efforts through UMCOR and the Horizon Texas and Rio Texas Conferences of The United Methodist Church.
May we be a light in the darkness, a balm in the brokenness, and a living witness to the hope we have in Christ.
Together in mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Cady Grant Recipients 2025
July 1, 2025 / By Dr. Blenda Smith, Chair of the Cady Grant Committee / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
What an exciting year for the Cady Grant Committee. We were delighted that the Cady Grant stimulated so much interest. There were nine 2025 applications received which was a record year. Unfortunately, we could not honor that many requests for funding up to $5,000. Specific grant awards ranged from $1,200 to $5,000. We did the best possible to honor Ercil Cady’s bequest for people or projects that support people of color, especially black and brown and/or Native Americans. Here are grants that were awarded:
- Friends of Ganondagan: “Edge of the Woods Camp” is a five-day, cultural immersive, overnight camp held at Ganondagan for 15-20 Haudenosaunee youth. The camp experience will be led by 6-10 Haudenosaunee culture bearers and educators to make this a valuable and meaningful experience. People may know Haudenosaunee as the Iroquois Nation including Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora.
- Lincoln Memorial UMC: An educational and historical excursion to Charleston, SC will establish a relationship between that church and Greater Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church (GMAME). Charleston has a rich history for the African-American community, albeit a tragic and painful history, as a major port for the importation of enslaved Africans and continued as slave trading port until 1863. Learning the history of African Americans, their oppression and subsequent liberation in this country is invaluable in today’s American society.
- Midwifery Education: It is a painful reality that the maternal mortality rate during childbirth of African American women is four to five times the rate of white women in Erie County. We are pleased to be able to support someone in the Midwifery Program. As an African American Midwife, she will bring sensitive and appropriate health care to pregnant women of color.
- Laity Session of Upper New York Annual Conference 2025: Intercultural competency training for laity was an invaluable experience for over 300 attendees by empowering them to engage in more inclusive and culturally sensitive ministries. The Rev. April Casperson, well known to some on the Cady Grant Committee, shared insights on understanding and engaging across cultures that will be pivotal in strengthening the lay leadership of Upper New York.
- New Harvest Ministries: Work with young people, families, and children of different nationalities/ethnic groups helps to develop and train new congregational members with different classes that prepare them with the necessary knowledge to be able to connect to the undocumented community. This work helps the immigrant community with classes in English, civics, American citizenship, finances, and financial management.
- Onondaga United Methodist Church: As one of three Native American churches in Upper New York, the Onondaga Nation has faced serious water contamination issues due to historical industrial pollution in the region, particularly around Onondaga Lake. The Onondaga Nation frequently suffers from unsafe drinking water, with one recent incident involving a pipe burst that left the community without access to clean water for several days. Although this project seeks to provide emergency bottled water, this one time grant to Onondaga UMC can be a vital resource for people on the nation. In the future we hope that the Onondaga UMC will partner with Mission Central Hub of Upper New York Conference to supply water when needed.
The Cady Grant is a valuable funding opportunity available to local United Methodist churches, individual United Methodists, and district or conference ministry teams within the Upper New York Conference. This grant supports educational initiatives that foster growth, learning, and leadership development within the church and community.
Upper New York United Women in Faith 2025 Mission u: Practicing Hope Together
July 1, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York United Women in Faith invite everyone to join their 2025 Mission u event, themed "Practicing Hope Together." This enriching gathering will take place from Thursday, July 24, to Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the scenic Asbury Camp and Retreat Center in Perry, New York, located on Silver Lake.
Event Highlights:
Participants will engage in meaningful study sessions led by the Rev. Robin Blair, using the book Practicing Hope by Tabatha Holley. Attendees are encouraged to order the study book in advance, as it will not be available at the event. Purchased your copy here. A Kindle edition is also available to download here.
The event begins with registration at 3 p.m. on July 24 and concludes by 2:30 p.m. on July 26. Registration fees include meals and administrative costs, with options for double occupancy ($250), single occupancy ($300, if available), and commuter rates ($100). Scholarships are available for first-time attendees by contacting Tammy Nist at 607-235-1102.
Mission Service Project:
Participants are encouraged to participate in the distribution of baby, toddler, and layette items for the Durham Maternal Stress-Free Zone at Durham AME Zion Church in Buffalo, supporting families in need.
How to Register:
To register, complete the provided form and mail it to Tammy Nist at 22 Kneeland Ave, Apt 1, Binghamton, NY 13905. Checks should be made payable to UNY Conference SOCM with "Mission u" noted in the memo line. Registration and fees are due by July 7. First-time attendees seeking scholarship assistance can contact Tammy Nist at 607-235-1102.
Additional Information:
For questions, email unymissionu@gmail.com. Once registered, participants will receive a confirmation email along with a health form to complete.
This event is open to all, offering a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and practice hope together. Don’t miss this chance to grow in faith and fellowship!
Mission of Peace 2026: A transformative journey to the US/Mexico southern border
June 30, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Mission of Peace (MOP) 2026 is set to take place from February 13–22, 2026, offering youth a profound and life-changing experience focused on understanding culture, compassion, and justice at the US/Mexico border.
Sponsored by the Northeastern Jurisdiction Council on Youth Ministry, Mission of Peace has been an ongoing ministry of peacemaking and learning since 1986. Each year, it invites young people to witness firsthand how faith, humanity, and global realities intersect—and to bring those lessons home as agents of change.
For 2026, the Upper New York Conference is seeking to send four youth delegates to participate in this unique experience. Selected youth will engage with local communities, deepen their understanding of border dynamics, and explore issues of migration, hospitality, and justice from a faith-based perspective.
Interested youth are encouraged to apply now. Please note:
- A recommendation from the Upper New York Youth Council is required.
- Submission of an application does not guarantee selection.
- Applicants should be prepared for an immersive and spiritually enriching journey.
If you have any questions, contact Tony Hipes at tjhipes@gmail.com or (607) 624-2989.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this Mission of Peace.
Click here to access the MOP 2026 application.
Preaching with Purpose: Inside the Rest. Work. Play. cohort experience
June 25, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Tuesday, June 24, the Rev. Abigail Browka and Pastor Bekah Solar, both serving as Associate Directors of Missional Excellence, hosted a Preachers: Rest. Work. Play virtual open house to discuss the Compelling Preaching Initiative.
This four-year initiative is designed to help preachers cultivate healthy rhythms of rest, work, and play through a ten-month cohort experience. Why just ten months? Because preachers are busy—the program is intentionally designed to support their ministry without adding stress, especially during demanding seasons like Advent and Lent.
The initiative is described as a life-giving opportunity for Upper New York (UNY) preachers to practice healthy rhythms of rest, work and play. Any Upper New York (UNY) preacher, regardless of clergy or laity status, who preaches at least twice a month in a church or ministry in UNY can apply to be a part of a future cohort.
These virtual open houses are an opportunity for anyone interested to meet Abigail and Bekah, explore the vision, and ask questions about what it means to be part of a cohort. You can learn more by clicking here.
Cohorts typically range from eight to 15 participants. Interest has been high, with more applications received than can be accommodated, leading to a waiting list for those hoping to join. Unfortunately, not everyone who applies will be selected to participate.
"Once invited to join their cohort, participants begin their journey with an Opening Renewal Trip away, which helps them shed the day-to-day distractions and renew through rest and play,” said Rev. Browka.
So far, two cohorts have formed and experienced renewal trips outside of New York. The first cohort traveled to Belize in January 2025 and the second cohort traveled to Savannah, Georgia in May 2025. The third cohort is scheduled to travel to Puerto Rico at the beginning of 2026. Click here to watch a recap of the Belize trip and click here to see what two preachers said about their experience in Savannah.
At first, cohort members may only know each other’s names, but soon they’ll step into the unknown together—living, learning, and growing through shared experiences that challenge them and draw them closer, fostering deep, lasting relationships. This marks the start of a new community and the unfolding of something God is doing.
“Preachers often feel isolated from one another, and this experience helps bridge that gap—offering a supportive, connected space where genuine friendships and community can take root” explained Pastor Solar.
United Methodists of Upper New York was awarded a $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. in October 2023 aimed at fostering and supporting preaching that inspires, encourages, and guides people to come to know and love God allowing the creation of Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. for United Methodists of Upper New York.
The next virtual session is planned for Tuesday, July 15: 7–7:30 p.m. Click here to join via Zoom.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Updated Resource on Human Sexuality
June 24, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following note was sent electronically to United Methodists of Upper New York on Tuesday, June 24 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez regarding human sexuality resources.
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2
Dear United Methodists of Upper New York,
Grace and peace from Jesus Christ, our Savior and Friend, be with you this Pentecost season.
Back in April, I shared the resource Our Way Forward: Graceful Conversations and Covenanting to aid congregations navigate the changes enacted by the 2020/24 General Conference of The United Methodist Church related to ministry with and by LGBTQ+ people.
After the release of the resource, the Judicial Council issued Decision 1516 that clarifies the authority of pastors about the use of church property for religious services, including marriage ceremonies. Notably, it affirms that pastors have sole discretion in deciding whether to perform any marriage, and that local church trustees cannot interfere with or restrict the use of church facilities for such services. This is a core principle of our itinerant system.
In a pastoral letter published on May 2, 2025, the Council of Bishops provided further clarity and affirmed our shared expectation that pastors exercise their authority with deep pastoral sensitivity to the congregation and community to which they are appointed, in consultation with their Staff/Parish Relationships team and Superintendent.
The Our Way Forward resource has been revised to reflect the judicial council’s decision. You can access the latest version here.
Engaging the resource and creating a covenant remain optional. Church leadership and pastors are entrusted by the cabinet to prayerfully discern together whether this process is valuable for their specific context. Congregations already self-identifying as “welcoming and reconciling” or affiliated with the Reconciling Ministries Network may find this process unnecessary for their specific context.
The United Methodist Church is a worldwide, welcoming community rooted in Jesus Christ and led by the Holy Spirit. Grounded in Scripture and guided by our doctrine and Social Principles, we celebrate diversity as a gift from God. Though we may differ on some issues, we stay united in love and in our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
I pray for God’s continued blessings to fill your lives and ministries – for the glory of God.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
A Call for Peace in the Midst of Conflict in the Mideast
June 24, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's note: This letter was published by The United Methodist Council of Bishops on June 24, 2025 and shared with United Methodists of Upper New York.
As Bishops of The United Methodist Church, we stand united in our pursuit of peace and our commitment to the sacredness of human life, guided by the Scriptures and our Social Principles. The scriptures and the Social Principles affirm the sacred worth and dignity of every person, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and promoting justice, equality, and compassion.
In light of the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, we echo the timeless wisdom of the prophet Micah, who implored us to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly” (Micah 6:8). Our Social Principles remind us that “war is incompatible with the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ” (§ 166.A), and we urge all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue over violence and aggression.
The Bible reminds us that “blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We are called to be peacemakers, seeking solutions that promote understanding and reconciliation. A continued conflict in the Middle East would have devastating consequences, causing irreparable harm to innocent lives and destabilizing the region and affecting communities throughout the world.
In this critical moment, we call on all United Methodists to join our efforts in advocating for peace. May God guide us toward a hopeful future, where nations and peoples can live in harmony and mutual respect. Together, let’s join in this prayer:
God of justice and compassion,
we lift our voices in prayer for peace in the Middle East,
that all hearts may turn from violence to understanding and from fear to hope.
Guide your leaders with wisdom and courage to pursue the path of peace,
rooted in the dignity and sacred worth of every person.
May our prayers rise as a witness to your hope and healing for all nations.
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
The Upper New York Conference welcomes Jordan Osborne as Office Coordinator for Missional Excellence
June 23, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York Conference is pleased to welcome Jordan Osborne as the new Office Coordinator for Missional Excellence. In her new role, she will support the teams in the Missional Excellence area, the Director of Missional Excellence, the Associate Directors of Missional Excellence, and other staff in the Missional Excellence area.
Jordan brings a dynamic background in college and career administration, communications, and community outreach. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Management and Leadership and an Associate of Science in Business Administration. Over the past years, she has cultivated a career marked by creativity, collaboration, and a sharp attention to detail—qualities that will be a great asset to the Missional Excellence team.
The Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens, Director of Missional Excellence shared, “We are excited to have Jordan join the team. Her gifts and abilities will enhance our capacity to resource leaders and congregations of the Conference.”
Prior to joining the UNY staff, Jordan has had a range of experiences including being a collegiate athlete and serving with AmeriCorp VISTA in Niagara Falls working with people experiencing homelessness. Jordan is returning to the Syracuse area and is looking forward to connecting with friends and family.
Jordan’s diverse skill set—spanning college advising, office administration, database management, and problem-solving—will be instrumental in supporting the work of Missional Excellence, helping to coordinate efforts that serve churches and ministries across Upper New York.
“I’m excited to dig into my own passion while being part of a team that genuinely cares. I can sense how driven everyone is by their own sense of purpose, and that really stands out to me. Kindness feels like a missing piece in the world right now, so I love the idea of helping people through this work,” said Jordan.
Please join us in giving Jordan Osborne a warm welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter with the Upper New York Conference!
From the Desk of Bishop Hector: From Reflection to Renewal: Shaping the Future Together
June 23, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following note was sent electronically to United Methodists of Upper New York on Monday, June 23 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez.
“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:3–5
Dear Family of God in Upper New York,
I continue to give thanks to God for a 2025 Annual Conference session filled with deep joy and renewed hope. Our time together affirmed that the Holy Spirit is indeed moving among us with resurrection power—deepening our faith, strengthening our relationships, and energizing our shared mission.
During my episcopal address, I raised two questions you would have an opportunity to share as part of the conference evaluation survey.
- What are your joys and hopes for our future?
- What important topics still need our attention that were not mentioned in the episcopal address?
More than 300 of you offered heartfelt responses, and I remain deeply grateful. As promised, I’m sharing below the key themes that emerged from your reflections.
Joys and Celebrations
- Youth Leadership: You celebrated the bold witness and fresh vision of youth and young adults for the church.
- Inclusion and Justice: Many lifted growing commitments to racial, gender, theological inclusion, LGBTQ+ belonging and anti-racism efforts.
- Grace Amid Differences: A sense that loving across disagreement is becoming more real.
- Connectional Strength: Affirmation of shared relationships, collaboration, and support.
- Missional Engagement: Meaningful service, both local and global.
- Resilience and Hope: Renewal and signs of resurrection after years of divisions and challenges.
Areas Needing Attention
- Congregational Vitality: Innovation and renewal, especially for small and rural churches.
- Discipleship: Spiritual formation that is rooted in our Wesleyan tradition, deep, creative, and relevant across generations.
- Leadership Development: Equipping bi-vocational clergy and lay leaders with equity.
- Financial Transparency: Clearer communication and resource sharing around budgets and finances.
- Justice in Action: Moving beyond statements toward advocacy and accountability.
- Young People: Investment in youth leadership and belonging.
- UMC Identity: Greater clarity around our theology and values.
- Innovation and Accountability: Embracing creativity with proper accountability.
- Connection and Communication: Stronger ties across churches, districts, and leadership.
- Stewardship and Membership: Renewed understanding of covenant and generosity.
These themes reflect a people willing to hold space for both tradition and transformation, committed to authentic community, courageous discipleship, and a future filled with hope.
Next Steps
The Conference Leadership Team and Missional Cabinet will prayerfully consider these insights. Your voice will also inform the work of the Visioning Taskforce as they begin their work after the summer.
Thank you for your faithfulness, your honesty, and your hope. Thank you for investing in our shared mission as United Methodists of Upper New York.
Continue to proclaim the healing and liberating love of Jesus Christ. Keep living the gospel. Keep showing up as God’s love in your neighborhoods and communities—trusting that, through you, the glory of God is being revealed.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
The United Methodist Church
Moving forward at Casowasco
June 23, 2025 / By Casowasco Discernment Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
During this sabbatical season at Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center, we’re reminded of the vital importance of rest. Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:28–29: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest… and you will find rest for your souls. Though this pause hasn’t always been easy, it has given Casowasco the needed space to lie fallow—preparing the way for future renewal and revitalization.
God is still at work at Casowasco even in this season without campers and guests. We’re grateful for the many volunteers who are generously sharing their time and talents to care for this sacred space. From mowing lawns and clearing brush to tidying up beloved areas like the Courtyard of Churches near Emmaus Commons—every act of service is a blessing.
Interim Site Director, the Rev. Colin Kerr-Carpenter, is the sole staff member in charge of helping maintain the site. On any given day you will find him out on the site doing everything from mowing and weeding to performing building repairs around the site. Part of his work has been to address the “big ticket” items like addressing damage to the drainage system that occurred in 2021 and 2022.
All of this is good work—and God’s work! The most exciting news from Casowasco is the launch of our partnership with Ministry Incubators. Our consultants are guiding us in creating a strategic plan to ensure the site’s long-term sustainability. They’ve begun by hosting listening sessions with selected stakeholders to gather a wide range of ideas and dreams for Casowasco’s future. At the same time, they’re conducting an in-depth review of our program history, finances, and the current state of our buildings and infrastructure. This thorough research will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which our Casowasco Discernment Team will receive in July.
Casowasco continues to be a place of unmatched beauty on Owasco Lake. The echoes of children, youth, and adults who found the presence of God’s spirit in their lives is evident throughout the site. If you or your church would like to volunteer at Casowasco, please contact Rev. Kerr-Carpenter at colinkerrcarpenter@unyumc.org to schedule or you can donate by clicking here.
Campfires, cleanup, and connection: Aldersgate Rally ignites hearts
June 17, 2025 / By Pastor Kevin Kitto, Lowville UMC
The Aldersgate Regional Rally Day was an incredible success, filled with joy, connection, and inspiration! Over the weekend, we witnessed the power of community as participants came together to celebrate, learn, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our youth.
Nearly 60 volunteers from a handful of local churches, including Lowville, Carthage, Champion, Natural Bridge, Beaver Falls, Turin, Martinsburg, and Constableville, pitched in to help get Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center ready for the start of camping season.
Saturday kicked off with Teen Rally Day in conjunction with Camp Cleanup Day and the whole place buzzed with excitement.
The "Operation Fresh Start" initiative brought camp creativity to a new level as volunteers tore apart the arts and crafts activities room and cleaned it from top to bottom. Our mission is to gather the supplies necessary to create projects that correlate with the Bible lessons the campers will be learning each week of camp.
The day concluded with a thoughtful learning session on gratitude, reminding everyone of the importance of appreciation in our lives.
As evening approached, the campfire was the perfect setting for storytelling and laughter, where participants enjoyed s’mores and shared their experiences, creating bonds that will surely last beyond the weekend.
The Service Planning Session empowered attendees to explore how they can contribute to the camp’s mission, sparking enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference.
Sunday radiated warmth and togetherness with our Family Praise & Worship Service, beautifully led by our worship team and young adults. The uplifting music and heartfelt scripture created a sense of unity and spiritual connection among families. The potluck luncheon was a delightful highlight, with an array of delicious dishes shared among friends, fostering a spirit of community.
The worship leaders' Sunday overnight retreat was an opportunity for reflection and to spark engaging discussions on how to inspire and uplift congregations, reminding leaders of the powerful role they play in their community.
As the weekend wrapped up on Monday, the morning brought a bright sunrise, and refreshing morning stretches and walks allowing participants to embrace the beauty of the natural surroundings of Camp Aldersgate.
Overall, the Aldersgate Regional Rally Days was a heartwarming celebration of faith, fellowship, and the potential to make a meaningful difference. Thank you to everyone who participated, shared, and contributed to making this weekend unforgettable! We look forward to seeing the lasting impacts of this experience as we continue to support our youth and grow together as a community.
Churches interested in hosting worship services, rally days, or group overnights, should email office@aldersgateny.org to make arrangements.
Youth inspire and impress at Annual Conference
June 17, 2025 / By Tara Barnes
“Hallelujah!”
From reports to a display table to proposing legislative amendments, youth made their presence known at the 16th session of the Upper New York Annual Conference May 22-24 in Syracuse, New York.
They even inspired a roomful of hundreds to shout in praise and thanksgiving, when one “Hallelujah!” from a table of youth became many, an overture Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez continued to encourage throughout the gathering.
Part of the meeting from day one, president of the Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM), Grace Stierheim, offered a report on the group’s activities during the laity session and shared her experience in Puerto Rico as part of the Northeastern Jurisdiction’s Mission of Peace.
Her faith was nurtured by the time spent with those she met in Puerto Rico and with the youth from the other conferences in the Northeastern Jurisdiction, she said.
The Rev. Tony Hipes, longtime advisor for Conference Council on Youth Ministries (CCYM), shared that the group is designed for youth in grades 7-12.
“They meet four times a year for fellowship, to grow spiritually, and to build unity,” he said, including at annual conference where they take part in plenary session and meet to debrief and review the day together each night. Youth also serve as ushers, tellers, and volunteers.
This year the group hosted an information and fundraising table. Showing their annual conference savvy, the youth sold branded fleece blankets to help attendees keep warm in the often-cool meeting space. In a moment of personal privilege, Stierheim along with YSF board members Ella Hinklin and Mattie Stamm presented Bishop Héctor with his own red blanket during a plenary gathering.
Stierheim also read the Gospel scripture in the Service for Commissioning and Ordination.
“I’ve come to annual conference since I was a little girl, just because my parents are both clergy,” Stierheim said. “But then as a youth I got involved in CCYM, and that’s where I fell in love with the validation and chance to meet people. Annual conference is an awesome time to represent the youth and what we stand for.”
Kylee O’Connell, 17, also participates in CCYM.
“I attend annual conference because it helps me grow in my faith, and I get to connect with young people who also worship Jesus, and it’s just really good bonding experience,” she said.
O’Connell attends Mt. Upton United Methodist Church, where she especially enjoys being part of the “Sauce and Cross” spaghetti dinner the church offers its members and community. She not only answered questions for this story but raised a point of inquiry during plenary discussion and debate.
“I just want everybody to know that Jesus loves them and that no matter who they are, they are loved,” she said.
Youth asked questions, offered speeches for and against legislative petitions, and even proposed an amendment on which the annual conference voted.
While working at the CCYM and Youth Service Fund table, Sebastian Maricle shared why he attends annual conference.
“Well, for starters, it is like the light of the world,” he said, “because you get to see more options and what's going on instead of staying at home where you don't know what's going on sometimes.”
The youth offered a “shout hallelujah” sale on their t-shirts as the conference came to a close.
The next CCYM gathering will be a mission weekend called “Salt of the Earth” in July in Watertown.
Michael Miller shared that annual conference is “a really interesting experience” to “see how it all works.
“It’s a really wonderful place to be.”
Tara Barnes is director of denominational relations for United Women in Faith and lay leader for the Binghamton District.
Creation Care: Doing it God’s way
June 17, 2025 / By Dr. Andrew Hartley, Creation Care Chair / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor’s Note: The following commentary was written by Dr. Andrew Hartley, Chair of the UNY Creation Care Team. The views expressed in this article are of the author and team, and not of Bishop Burgos Núñez or any Upper New York staff member.
If you are familiar with the Bible’s book of Genesis, you know that God gave the plants and, after the Great Flood, the animals to the man and woman for food (Genesis 1:29; 9:3). To me, it seems natural to extend that gifting to all of creation, meaning that God put minerals underground, oxygen in the air, water in the riverbeds, and so on, for the use of humans. After all, Psalm 8 says God made humans “rulers over the works of [God’s] hands,” and placed “everything under their feet.”
Does that mean we can do whatever we want with Earth and its contents? Someone in my previous United Methodist congregation once confronted me, who seemed to have that attitude. I had just spoken about the need to stop burning coal (the dirtiest of the dirty fossil fuels), because the resulting smoke was causing millions of human deaths, and tens of millions of respiratory disease cases. This gentleman asked why God would have placed that coal in the ground if God didn’t want us to burn it.
How would you respond to such a question? Frankly, I was unprepared to answer satisfactorily, although hopefully now I am better prepared, because I realize that human freedom of every kind comes with limitations: We can speak firmly to other people but must always do so in love. Salespersons can make a profit from their sales but must charge fair prices. Picknickers may make a mess at the town park but have to clean it up before departing.
Most of us appreciate the necessity of limitations on most types of freedoms. Yet, one might wonder whether humanity generally recognizes the need for limits when it comes to our use of the natural world. Then, too, even if we acknowledge that limits are needed, few of us wonder about or investigate what those limits might be, let alone try to stay within those limits.
To me, the Bible is clear that God places constraints on how we take from Earth’s bounty. Consider the following:
- Earth is the Lord’s, not ours (Ps 24:1).
- Our “rule” over creation must image, or mirror, how God rules over creation: In loving kindness (Genesis 1:26; Ezek 34).
- We must give the land and domestic animals a sabbath rest (Leviticus 25:1-7; Exodus 20:8-11).
- If we harm Earth, we harm our neighbor, who depends on Earth being healthy and productive.
Let us all pray that God would grant us the humility, boldness, and wisdom to learn and follow how God wants us to live on this incredible planet.
Creation Care Tip: Back to School, plastic-free edition
Plastic waste is everywhere: In the rain, on the highest mountain peaks, in the (once pristine) Arctic, and even in human blood and brains. When plastic ages, it breaks down into tiny pieces, which the wind, waves and so on distributed far and wide.
So, if you or others in your family are preparing to head to the classroom, click here to view tips for how to start the school year without an avalanche of plastic.
A Palestine Journey
June 16, 2025 / By Rev. Gary Doupe / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The following commentary was written by the Rev. Gary Doupe on behalf of the UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel (Equal Justice for Palestine-Israel). The views expressed in this article are of the UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, and not of Bishop Burgos Núñez or any Upper New York staff member.
In early May 2025, I joined a delegation of 18, including the Rev. Robin Blair of the Upper New York Conference, to visit Palestine-Israel. In two weeks, we had 19 meetings with Israelis and Palestinians of diverse backgrounds.
Palestinian Christians George and Najwah Sa’adeh, of the Bereaved Parents Circle, related an unprovoked attack some years ago by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF)—an estimated 300 bullets penetrating their car. Their infant daughter was killed, and both George and Najwah sustained severe injuries. George is a school principal. Despite the severity of the attack and their daughter’s tragic death, the Sa’adehs expressed no bitterness. At one point, they referred to the incident as an “accident” (of misidentification). While the cliché: “time heals all wounds” carries some truth, some humans embrace victimhood. George and Najwah have chosen not to live their lives resentfully, but rather as persons seeking fullness of life for both Palestinians and Israelis. Their involvement alongside Israelis in the Bereaved Parents Circle, and their willingness to revisit their personal tragedy in the name of understanding and healing, deeply moved me. It powerfully reflected their dedication to a compassionate future for Palestine-Israel, regardless of how its political future unfolds.
It is widely believed in the United States that Palestinians are under-developed, bitter people with such deep hatred of Jews that they must be walled out, locked down, or otherwise suppressed by force. Anger is a universal human emotion. Some psychologists see anger as different from actual “feelings,” but rather the frustration one feels at being unable to cope with an overwhelming situation. Palestinians have ample reasons to feel overwhelmed. Their loss of self-rule in 1948, and living under military occupation since 1967, makes their anger understandable. Without doubt, many Palestinians feel the same pathological levels of anger as other oppressed peoples. Yet repeatedly we were greeted by those rising above pain and frustration, reaching out to both friends and adversaries to seek dialogue and resolution.
Mazin Qumsiyeh, Palestinian scientist—formerly on the faculties of the University of Tennessee, Duke, and Yale, is the founder and director of the Palestine Museum of Natural History and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University. He spoke to us of the 750,000 year-long human presence in Palestine, the last 12,000 years relying on agriculture for sustenance—during which period notable human conflict occurred about 1% to 2% of the time. Qumsiyeh believes that a history revealing cooperation 98% of the time indicates far more of a peaceful possibility than of inevitable warfare. He continued to state that “Palestinians have lived under one empire after another, and we will endure this one. This too shall pass.” Qumsiyeh is currently a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Issa Amro, an instructing Palestinian youth in techniques of nonviolent action, is nurturing confidence in a young generation that they have sufficient inner strength to confront a powerful oppressor, build alliances, look for strategic opportunities, and work together as effective actors rather than resigning to victimhood. The attitude of many Palestinians today is not to yield, but rather to embody the Palestinian value called sumud—respecting one’s own value, and others as well. Often deprecated by those in power, Palestinians choose to remain steadfast in their own cultural values—developed over centuries—preparing for a future in which they assume control of their own lives. While much of the world strategizes for violence, Amro teaches nonviolence— acknowledging Holocaust memories and fears in which so many of the Jewish community remain trapped. Amro calls the Holocaust “the greatest human tragedy of all time, and far worse than even the genocide now experienced in Gaza.” By acknowledging his opponents’ pain, Amro takes a vital step toward peace. Increasingly targeted by radical right-wing Jewish settlers who break through the fence surrounding his home and compound, Amro stands his ground without touching them. Behind their attacks is the power of the IDF and Israeli government. Amro draws moral power by the philosophy and practice of nonviolence and welcomes allies from across the world. We drew hope and courage from meeting him. We know that hope is contagious, but that victories against hostility and power are not easy or automatic. We came away filled with both hope and caution.
I hope that leaders like Amro and Jewish activist Jeff Halper—joint nominees for the Nobel Prize for Peace—will soon become better known to Americans. Decades ago, Halper formed a committee to oppose home demolitions and rebuild those destroyed. Before the 2023-2025 war on Gaza, and since Israel became a nation state in 1948, over 130,000 Palestinian homes and other structures had been demolished by Israel’s command. Halper’s committee cannot begin to reconstruct the thousands of Palestinian homes being demolished in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, not to mention the 86,000 housing units destroyed in the war on Gaza in less than a year—by May of 2024, representing 70% of total housing units. In the West Bank and Jerusalem, day after day, owners are forced to tear down their own work if they build without a permit—which is virtually impossible to secure.
In recent years, Halper has worked with Palestinians to develop a plan for a future “unitary state” that would govern Jews and Palestinians democratically. With the common efforts of Palestinian and Jewish youth and elders, these two Semitic peoples could create an alliance for the mutual benefit of all who embrace the Holy Land as Homeland.
While I find great encouragement in remembering the story of Nelson Mandela—27 years a prisoner on Robben Island before his unconditional release and finally his election as the first President of a free South Africa—I know how rare and unlikely are such reversals. Miracles of grace cannot be assumed to be inevitable. Is a “miracle” of such proportions a possibility in Israel-Palestine?
We met with Fadwa Barghouti, wife of Marwan Barghouti—who has been imprisoned in Israel since 2002. Since October 2023, Barghouti has been denied visits from his family, and has been severely beaten several times. Israeli journalist Gideon Levy—with whom we also spoke—explains that Israel is afraid to release Marwan because he is the most trusted leader of Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza. His only hope for release, to lead (and unite) Palestinians, would be for enormous pressure to come from the U.S. and other nations. Moving that mountain will require our acts of faith in persuading many justice-seeking people to apply economic and diplomatic pressure on Israel.
Meanwhile, the U.S.-Israel alliance is deeply entrenched, despite increasing dissent across the U.S. We heard from numerous Palestinian and Israeli voices that a decision for peace must be nurtured and supported by large numbers of U.S. citizens, or Israel’s current leadership will have ample backing to remain in power and stifle the yearnings of Palestinians to determine their own future. While many Israelis have misgivings about their current government, those impulses may remain bottled up in excessive and misdirected fear. Our task is clear—to continue witnessing and relating stories of hope and working with all people of good will—against formidable odds—for the self-determination of all people in the Holy Land.
AC2025: Survey reflects a joyful Annual Conference experience across Upper New York
June 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor’s Note: This article is based on feedback from the 2025 Annual Conference survey conducted by the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church. Nearly half of those in attendance provided feedback anonymously through a post-event survey.
The 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference (AC2025) left a lasting impression on United Methodists across the region, according to survey feedback from both clergy and laity. Held on May 22-24 at the Oncenter in Syracuse, the conference was a time of inspiring worship, deep fellowship, and hope for the future of the Church.
Memorable Moments: Worship, Ordination, and Community
Respondents overwhelmingly expressed that worship and community were the most cherished aspects of the gathering. Many highlighted the profound impact of the Service for Commissioning and Ordination—watch the livestream recording here and read the recap here—as well as the Opening Worship service—watch the livestream recording here and read Bishop Héctor's message here.
These moments fostered deep reflection, connection, and spiritual renewal. One attendee described their experience simply: “Worship, fellowship, and laughter” were the highlights. Another shared, “I was deeply moved by the testimonies and moments of praise during worship.” A third reflected, “Annual Conference stirred a lot in me this year—from hope to hard questions.”
Ordination stood out for many. One participant noted, “Ordination and my table conversations were truly special.” Others praised Bishop Héctor’s message and the inclusion of the Younger than 40 book reflections, which offered inspiration and encouragement. The joyful, Spirit-led music team also received significant appreciation for creating an atmosphere of celebration and praise.
Prayers for the Future
Survey responses revealed a shared hope for the future of the conference. A recurring theme was youth engagement and unity. One respondent prayed, “May we continue drawing strength from each other in the Holy Spirit.” Another added, “We need more youth and more fun.” One urged, “Keep Christ at the center of everything we do.”
Joy and Hope in the UMC
When asked what brings them joy and hope as United Methodists of Upper New York, responses reflected optimism and a commitment to mission. One participant exclaimed, “The youth!” Another shared, “I see connection and less divisiveness—we’re growing together.”
A particularly striking reflection captured the spirit of AC2025: “It finally feels like the Upper New York Conference God dreamed. Alleluia.”
Technology & Communication: Bridging Communities
A major enhancement to this year’s conference was the expanded use of technology to ensure broader participation and accessibility. The UNY UMC app served as a centralized hub for schedules, resources, and real-time updates and announcements, making it easier than ever for attendees to stay connected throughout the event. Sixty-nine percent of those surveyed indicated they downloaded and used the app during conference. One participant explained, “Sometimes it was difficult to read the lyrics to the songs on the screen, but I used the app when possible.” Another stated, “Loved having the preconference book, updates, and schedule all on the app! And I used the app to donate to the Buffalo 10 scholarship during conference too.”
One other celebrated advancement was closed captioning offered in English, Spanish, and Korean, with Spanish and Korean being added for the first time this year using Artificial Intelligence. This inclusive approach ensured that more people could engage meaningfully with worship and sessions in their heart language. One person responded, “The closed captioning was very helpful.”
Additionally, the presence of American Sign Language interpreters throughout the conference underscored the commitment to accessibility and welcome. Attendees noted how important it was to see the conference taking tangible steps to reach all members of the body of Christ, regardless of language or hearing ability. “Appreciate the captioning and was glad that sign language interpreters were available for those who needed them,” shared one member.
Looking Ahead: Suggestions and Challenges
Attendees expressed a desire for more interactive and engaging features in next year’s conference, including:
- Expanded youth involvement
- Continued use of comfortable seating and round tables to foster community
- More conversation time during learning, plenaries, and breakout sessions
- Greater representation of United Methodist hymns and global praise songs
Some participants also emphasized the need for deeper discussions on topics such as clergy leadership development, local church financial sustainability, engaging new people in our communities, small church vitality, and mental health support for clergy and laity. One respondent specifically urged: “We need to engage more deeply in pastoral care and clergy support.”
Closing Reflections
The overall tone of the survey was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing gratitude for a well-organized and Spirit-filled gathering.
“Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen,” wrote one attendee. Another summed it up beautifully: “Working together, learning together. And making space for joy.”
As the Upper New York Conference looks ahead, it moves forward with hope, increased clarity, and a shared vision rooted in community, worship, and the transformative love of Christ. We believe, and know that by God’s grace, we will continue seeing God’s glory through our personal and collective witness and ministry.
Save the Date
The 2026 Upper New York Annual Conference is scheduled for May 28-30.
Tiny Jesus: One figurine’s journey of faith, comfort, and connection
June 12, 2025 / By Rev. George Gallandorm, Oneonta Superintendency Associate
My Tiny Jesus story began nearly nine months ago. I was blessed to be asked to be the spiritual director on a men’s Walk to Emmaus. During a pre-walk team meeting, one of the laity, during his talk preview, told a touching story on how his wife led him to Jesus several years earlier. He spoke about what an exciting time in his life it was and how he wanted to let others know about Jesus. One day his wife told him that they were going to start to give people a little Jesus you could carry in your pocket every time they had an opportunity. He wanted to know how they were going to do that. A couple of days later, an Amazon package arrived with a hundred little Jesus figurines in it. He then held one up.
By the next team meeting, I had procured a hundred and passed them out to the team. I have been giving them away ever since then. Fast forward to Annual Conference (AC). I remember Bishop Héctor sharing the story of how he was gifted a Tiny Jesus at General Conference and had it on display at last year’s Annual Conference. I was motivated to purchase more and hand them out at the 2025 Annual Conference session. I ended up buying two hundred of them. When I arrived on site and checked in, I was surprised when given a Tiny Jesus because I then had two hundred and one Pocket Jesus’.
I ended up passing some out to people who didn’t get one or wanted another. I left AC with a bunch of them left. Last Saturday, I had to do two graveside services for brothers who had passed away over the winter months. It was a little challenging doing two separate graveside services back-to-back at the same cemetery with graves 50 feet apart. I knew I had to make changes so the services would be specific for each brother.
Near the end of the first service, I asked if anyone wanted to say anything. Two little girls, his grandchildren, were standing next to me and both wanted to say something. The youngest of the granddaughters was about four years old and she said she was going to miss Pops because when she was sad, he would play his guitar and sing, “You Are My Sunshine.” The Spirit moved me at that moment to reach into my pocket and give the child a little Jesus. I told her whenever she was sad, she should look at it and realize Pops would still be playing and singing to her in heaven. She just had to remember how it sounded.
The second child, about six years old, said she was sad because Pops died on her birthday. Out came another little Jesus. I told her that she might be a little sad on her birthday, but she could just remember her little Jesus and that Pops was in heaven celebrating her birthday with Jesus. That he would never miss celebrating her birthday.
The girls took those Jesus figures and looked at them like they had been given something wonderful. I might never know what path their lives will take, but at least I know that in a tough time in their young lives Jesus gave them, and many of the people at the service, comfort.
I did services at two churches on Pentecost and used this story to illustrate how people need to live the message of Pentecost: Get up and get out and tell people about Jesus. If it wasn’t for a woman telling her husband about Jesus, he would have never been on the Emmaus team to tell us about giving away a little Jesus. If that hadn’t of happened, I wouldn’t have had several little Jesus’ in my pocket to help two little girls get over some of their hurt. To which I say, “Thank you God”
I left a bunch of little Jesus’ in both churches yesterday explaining to people to take some but to pass them on when the Spirit nudges them to do so.
Upper New York Conference welcomes Shelby Manchester
June 10, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodists of Upper New York are pleased to welcome Shelby Manchester as the new Conference Archivist.
Shelby will play a key role in preserving and promoting the rich Methodist heritage across the conference. In this role, she will manage historical records, provide research services, and lead digital preservation efforts – ensuring our past remains connected to our present and future ministry.
Born and raised in the Syracuse area, Shelby holds a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University at Buffalo. She brings with her a deep-rooted passion for intellectual freedom, an enduring curiosity about history and literacy, and a lifelong connection to The United Methodist Church.
“I was drawn to this role through a combination of my own United Methodist roots and a desire to serve others,” Shelby shared. “I am looking forward to bringing archives and resources to a new level of accessibility to the public and to connect with members of the church through shared local history.”
Outside of her professional work, Shelby maintains a personal library of more than 1,400 books and enjoys experimenting with different styles of coffee brewing.
Please join us as we welcome Shelby to the Upper New York team.
Bridges of Faith: Finding Peace and Persistence in the Holy Land
June 10, 2025 / By Merle Showers and Arlene Lundquest, UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The following commentary was written by Merle Showers and Arlene Lundquest on behalf of the UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel. The views expressed in this article are of the UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, and not of Bishop Burgos Núñez or any Upper New York staff member.
As a member of the Upper New York (UNY) Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, I want to highlight the invaluable work of one of our dedicated members, Arlene Lundquest. Each day, Arlene diligently searches the web for current news and developments related to Palestine and Israel, ensuring our task force remains informed and engaged. Her commitment is deeply appreciated, and today I’d like to share examples of the important resources she provides—particularly meaningful for members of UNY Conference churches.
Faithful Responses to the Challenge of Peace in the Holy Land
What follows are powerful stories of individuals and communities—Jewish, Christian, Palestinian, and others—who are actively working toward understanding, compassion, and justice in the Holy Land:
- Don Peretz, a Jewish peace activist, assisted Palestinian families displaced during the 1947–48 war, working alongside Quakers in northern Israel in 1949. He later earned a Ph.D. in Middle East studies and taught at Binghamton University. His dissertation was the first to address the plight of Palestinians displaced in that period, reflecting his lifelong commitment to truth and compassion.
- A Palestinian Lutheran pastor purchased nearly 100 acres of land near Bethlehem during the Ottoman era. He instilled in his family a deep commitment to peace and nonviolence. Today, that land is known as the Tent of Nations, a symbol of reconciliation and welcome. A sign at the entrance reads, “We refuse to be enemies.” Volunteers from around the world help sustain the farm. In the U.S., the project is supported by Friends of Tent of Nations, North America (FOTONNA).
- Maoz Inon, whose Israeli peacebuilder parents were killed in the October 2023 Hamas attack, continues their legacy by working with both Jewish and Palestinian allies to rebuild and advance the peace movement within Israel.
- Christian Palestinians, both lay and ordained, continue to uphold the hope of reconciliation. They seek the prayers and support of Christians worldwide. Notable voices in this movement include Mitri Raheb, Naim Ateek, Munther Isaac, Elias Chacour, Bishara Awad, and Alex Awad, all committed to steadfast nonviolence and faith-rooted action in the Holy Land.
- Issa Amro, a Palestinian from Hebron, educates young people in the principles and power of nonviolence as they face oppression. He was co-nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize alongside Jeff Halper, an Israeli Jew and founder of the Israeli Committee Against Home Demolitions (ICAHD). Halper advocates for a unified state based on equality and peace for all who call the land home.
- Cindy and Craig Corrie, Americans who lost their daughter Rachel Corrie in 2003 while she stood in front of a Palestinian home threatened by demolition, now lead the Rachel Corrie Foundation. Based in Olympia, WA, the foundation works globally to advocate for Palestinian dignity and human rights.
- Miko Peled, son of Israeli General Matti Peled, has become a leading voice for peace and justice. Collaborating with Palestinian partners in the U.S., he travels widely to promote compassion and understanding.
- For over 30 years, the UNY Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel has worked to educate church members and the broader community on the ongoing struggle for justice in Palestine. The task force also offers support for those seeking to witness the realities of life in the Holy Land firsthand. Those interested in a solidarity trip can learn more and apply for the Gary Bergh Scholarship Fund here.
These stories remind us that even in the face of immense suffering, God's work continues—through the hands and hearts of those who refuse to give up on peace. Please keep our Palestinian and Israeli sisters and brothers in your prayers, and may we continue to walk faithfully in solidarity and hope.
United Methodists travel to learn, listen, and lead in Immigration Ministry
June 10, 2025 / By Kristina Clark and Georgia Whitney / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Since January 2025, The United Methodist Church and the Upper New York Conference have become increasingly aware of the growing fear and uncertainty facing migrants, immigrants, refugees, and BIPOC individuals in our communities. Government policies have led to the separation of families, the detention of individuals, racial profiling, and the erosion of human dignity.
In a letter written that month, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez reminded us: “God’s call to justice and compassion remains in the face of hardship. The scriptures remind us repeatedly that we are to extend radical hospitality to all peoples, for we, too, have been (or could be) strangers in a foreign land” (Leviticus 19:34).
In response, the Upper New York Conference is taking faithful action, building upon our long-standing commitment to equity and inclusion. We are equipping church leaders with the relationships, tools, and spiritual grounding needed to stand alongside immigrant siblings and reflect God’s love through action in their local ministries and communities.
Immigration Summit
In April, the Rev. Alicia Wood, pastor of Syracuse: University UMC, and Georgia Whitney, Vice Chair of the Conference Commission on Religion and Race, attended a powerful Immigration Summit in Omaha, Nebraska. Hosted by the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), the gathering brought together more than 100 church leaders across denominations, representing over 40 United Methodist conferences. The goal of the summit was to equip leaders with tools and training in immigration justice, empowering them to return to their conferences prepared to lead workshops and deepen local engagement.
Rooted in the Wesleyan tradition of social holiness and the biblical call to “welcome the stranger,” the summit featured worship, workshops, storytelling, and strategy sessions. Attendees heard directly from immigrants and faith leaders working on the frontlines of justice, gaining insight into how churches can respond with compassion, courage, and care.
Importantly, the summit acknowledged the complexity of immigration in today’s political climate. Rather than aligning with any partisan agenda, GCORR’s approach centers on human dignity, God’s love for all people, and the Christian imperative to accompany the marginalized.
Over the course of three days, participants engaged in deep theological reflection, received practical resources, and built meaningful connections across conferences. The summit elevated the lived experiences of immigrant communities and offered concrete strategies for ministry, advocacy, and accompaniment.
“The current realities of immigration in this country are daunting, and it’s easy to feel discouraged,” said Georgia Whitney. “But the passion and energy of this group reminded me that I’m part of a powerful community—ready to advocate, teach, and walk alongside our immigrant neighbors.”
Immigration Immersion Journey: Tucson, Arizona
Later that week, Rev. Wood joined Kristina Clark, Associate Director of Missional Excellence, and a team from the Susquehanna Conference for a week-long immersion experience in Tucson, Arizona. Together, they partnered with humanitarian organizations in Arizona and Mexico working to uphold the dignity and survival of asylum seekers and immigrants.
The group engaged with more than 11 organizations and participated in a broad range of learning and service opportunities. These included visiting desert aid stations with Humane Borders; meeting migrants at shelters like Casa Misericordia in Nogales, Mexico; hearing a presentation from the Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office, which processes and identifies the remains of over 150 migrants found in the desert each year; and observing proceedings at Federal Immigration Court. They also met with and heard powerful, personal testimonies from asylum seekers impacted by ever-shifting federal policies. These were stories of trauma, endurance, and persistent hope.
Throughout the immersion experience, participants witnessed firsthand the injustices migrants face: dangerous border crossings through the desert, family separations, prolonged detention, and the criminalization of those seeking safety. Volunteers shared accounts of slashed or shot water jugs—life-saving resources deliberately destroyed. Advocates described migrants deported to unfamiliar, often unsafe cities without resources or support.
The team from Upper New York and Susquehanna returned with a renewed commitment to be voices for advocacy, education, and truth. Their goal: to inspire churches to move beyond acts of charity toward ministries of justice—to not only meet immediate needs, but to confront and challenge the systems that cause harm. They invite the church to view immigration as a human crisis that calls for empathy, advocacy, and faithful action.
Rev. Wood, Georgia, and Kristina presented a lunch learning session during Annual Conference that shared their experiences, and a list of resources participants can bring into their local church and community. The group has worked individually with churches needing immediate support, and they will continue to share resources and learning opportunities.
A Call to Hope
Bishop Burgos concluded his January letter with a simple but powerful reminder: “Let us be people of hope, not fear.” As we continue this journey of justice and compassion, may our collective witness reflect the heart of God—who calls us to embrace all people with justice, mercy, and boundless grace.
UNY donates $20,000 to continued tornado recovery in Rome
June 10, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
PRESS RELEASE: United Methodists of Upper New York donate $20,000 to Connected Community Schools for Ongoing Tornado Recovery in Rome
For Immediate Release
Contact: Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications (shelbywinchell@unyumc.org)
Liverpool, NY — The Upper New York Conference (UNY) of The United Methodist Church donated $20,000 to Connected Community Schools to support continued recovery efforts in Rome, NY, following the devastating EF-2 tornado that struck the region last summer.
“Connected Community Schools has been an incredible community partner to a number United Methodist Churches for many years. We are grateful for their collaborative, compassionate spirit that helps all people feel heard, valued, and loved,” said Kristina Clark, Conference Disaster Response Coordinator.
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The Rome Recovery Fund was created as a response to the storm’s aftermath. The outpouring of generosity across the conference included donations from 79 local churches and 71 individuals, contributing more than $45,000 for UNY Disaster Response.
"Thanks to the compassionate giving of our congregations and individuals across Upper New York, we’re able to continue walking alongside communities still recovering from last summer’s disasters,” said Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez. “This donation to Connected Community Schools is a tangible expression of our shared commitment to long-term recovery and resilience.”
Connected Community Schools, a Rome-based organization committed to serving children and families, has been instrumental in helping the community recover and rebuild. The donation from UNY will further their efforts to meet immediate needs and foster long-term restoration.
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"We can not be any more appreciative to the members of the Upper New York Conference for their generosity and support of not only our Connected Initiative, but our community. Our Rome community is still facing many hardships since the tornado and is far from fully recovered. It is with this donation that we can continue to support those in need. Our partnership-friendship with the conference has been based on a mutual mission of ensuring those in need have the support and resources they are looking for. We seem to both agree we are always better together," said Melissa Roys, Connected Community Schools Co-Leader.
Last summer, UNY Disaster Response supported eight communities impacted by severe weather across the region. Assistance included funding for local partners, coordination of volunteer work teams, and the delivery of disaster relief materials.
To contribute to ongoing relief efforts, visit https://bit.ly/UNYstormrelief.
Support immigrants and refugees in Upper New York through a new conference Advance Special
June 10, 2025 / By Kristina Clark / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
At the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference, a new conference Advance Special was approved: Upper New York Immigrant and Refugee Ministries, #718. This fund is now open for individuals and churches to contribute to and receive support from, in support of vital ministries with immigrants and refugees across our conference.
Every day, individuals and families flee violence, persecution, and poverty in search of a better life. As United Methodists, we are called to respond with justice, compassion, and love. This Advance Special provides financial support to congregations in Upper New York that are responding to the needs of immigrants, migrants, and refugees—whether through immediate relief or long-term advocacy.
Give today to support this important work:
- Online: Donate here
- By check: Make checks payable to Upper New York Conference with Advance Special #718 UNY Immigration in the memo line.
Funds are distributed on a rolling basis to churches engaged in immigrant and refugee ministry. Churches seeking support are invited to email disasterresponse@unyumc.org. If your church is just beginning this journey, we encourage you to reach out for guidance and best practices.
For more information on Conference Advance Specials, click here.
One-day clergy family retreats this summer to Rest. Play. Connect.
June 9, 2025 / By The Rev. Abigail Browka / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
This August, clergy and their families are invited to step away from their day-to-day demands and reconnect through a series of one-day retreats designed to foster rest, recreation, and spiritual renewal.
Under the theme REST. PLAY. CONNECT., all preachers and their loved ones are encouraged to attend—whether solo attendees or part of a multi-generational household. The events will be held at two UNY camp and retreat locations: Asbury Camp & Retreat Center in Silver Lake on Monday, August 4, and Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center in Warrensburg on Monday, August 11.
The retreats offer a full day of relaxing and refreshing activities, including boating, swimming, nature walks, and a picnic- or charcuterie-style lunch. For those looking to extend their stay, optional overnight accommodation is available.
To ensure that clergy can fully enjoy the retreat experience, childcare is provided. Staff will lead programming for children ages 5-10 throughout the day, while nursery care for ages 1-4 is available by request (with a minimum of four children).
Registration is now open, with a fee of just $10 per person for both children and adults. Interested participants must register by July 1 to secure their spot.
As an added bonus, families attending the Skye Farm can explore “Little Ones Camp,” a separate, overnight experience for children ages 4-7 taking place August 10-12. Registration for this camp is available here.
For more information and to register for the clergy family retreats, click here.
Pentecost Message from Bishop Burgos – A Call to Reclaim Our Baptismal Vows
June 6, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Friday, June 6, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez, urging us to reclaim and faithfully live our baptismal vows this Pentecost.
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Romans 6:4
Beloved family of God,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our risen and living Lord, Jesus Christ!
Pentecost is a season of transformation, renewal, and witness—the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. In this Spirit, I urge you to reclaim and faithfully live your baptismal vows.
Baptism is not simply a moment in the past; it is a living, breathing covenant that shapes our faith, our mission, and our daily witness. It is the foundation of our discipleship, the mark of grace upon our lives, and the call to be Christ’s body in the world.
In baptism, we are:
- Claimed by God’s love,
- Empowered by the Holy Spirit,
- Commissioned to resist evil, injustice, and oppression,
- Called to proclaim Christ in word and deed,
- Sent forth to live as disciples, embodying grace in our communities.
The world is yearning for healing, justice, and hope. More than ever, our faith must move beyond passive belief, doctrinal debates, and labels that divide us, and become a holy, living action—an embodiment of the risen Christ!
Let us, as followers of Jesus Christ and United Methodists, reclaim our call:
- To love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.
- To be peacemakers in a world of conflict.
- To be healers in a world of pain.
- To be justice seekers in a world of inequality.
- To be bearers of hope where despair threatens.
The Council of Bishops recently released an eight-week Bible study, “Pentecost People,” designed to deepen spiritual formation. Each session includes Scripture readings, faith stories, Charles Wesley’s poetry, small group discussion questions, and program ideas. Additionally, eight bishops elected in 2022—including myself—have shared video reflections to enrich the experience. I encourage pastors and congregations to prayerfully engage with this resource as we seek renewal through the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is moving. The Church is rising. Now is the time to step forward, ignite the flame, and live boldly into our baptismal calling!
May this Pentecost be a time of renewal for you, and may your witness shine brightly in a world longing for Christ’s transforming love.
Together in Christ’s mission in the world,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
Of the United Methodist Church
"Por tanto, fuimos sepultados con él en el bautismo para muerte, a fin de que, así como Cristo fue levantado de los muertos por la gloria del Padre, así también nosotros andemos en vida nueva." Romanos 6:4
Amada familia de Dios,
¡Gracia y paz en el nombre de nuestro Señor resucitado y vivo, Jesucristo!
Pentecostés es un tiempo de transformación, renovación y testimonio—el derramamiento del Espíritu Santo y el nacimiento de la Iglesia. En este Espíritu, les exhorto a reclamar y vivir con fidelidad sus votos bautismales.
El bautismo no es solo un recuerdo del pasado, sino un pacto vivo que moldea nuestra fe, misión y testimonio diario. Es el fundamento de nuestro discipulado, la marca de la gracia sobre nuestras vidas, y el llamado a ser el cuerpo de Cristo en el mundo.
En el bautismo, somos:
- Reclamados por el amor de Dios,
- Empoderados por el Espíritu Santo,
- Comisionados para resistir el mal, la injusticia y la opresión,
- Llamados a proclamar a Cristo con valentía en palabra y acción,
- Enviados a vivir como discípulos fieles, encarnando la gracia en nuestras comunidades.
El mundo anhela sanidad, justicia y esperanza. Ahora más que nunca, nuestra fe debe ir más allá de una creencia pasiva, de debates doctrinales y etiquetas que nos dividen, convirtiéndose en acción santa y viva—una manifestación del Cristo resucitado.
Como seguidores de Jesús y metodistas unidos, reclamemos nuestro llamado:
- Amar con audacia, servir con gozo y liderar con valentía.
- Ser pacificadores en un mundo en conflicto.
- Ser sanadores en un mundo de dolor.
- Buscar justicia en un mundo de desigualdad.
- Llevar esperanza donde amenaza la desesperanza.
El Concilio de Obispos ha lanzado un estudio bíblico de ocho semanas, “Gente de Pentecostés”, diseñado para profundizar en la formación espiritual. Cada sesión incluye lecturas bíblicas, testimonios de fe, poesía de Charles Wesley, preguntas para grupos pequeños y sugerencias de programas. Además, ocho obispos elegidos en 2022—incluyéndome—han compartido reflexiones en video para enriquecer la experiencia. Invito a los pastores y congregaciones a participar en este recurso con oración, buscando renovación a través del Espíritu Santo.
El Espíritu está moviéndose. La Iglesia está despertando. ¡Ahora es el momento de avanzar, avivar la llama y vivir con valentía nuestro llamado bautismal!
Que este Pentecostés sea un tiempo de renovación, y que nuestro testimonio brille con la luz transformadora de Cristo.
Juntos en la misión de Cristo en el mundo,
Obispo Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Sirviendo a la Área Episcopal de Susquehanna y Upper New York
De la Iglesia Metodista Unida
Gratitude and generosity: AC 2025 giving update
June 3, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
During the 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference (AC), United Methodists of Upper New York once again demonstrated deep generosity and a heart for ministry by giving to four vital funds. These offerings support people, programs, and communities in need—extending the impact of the Church beyond the gathering itself.
As of now, a total of $15,851.59 has been collected through gifts given during AC and those that continue to come in. Here's a look at how those contributions are making a difference:
Engage Fund – $7,203.53
This fund supports mission initiatives that are focused on addressing community needs and fostering connection by nurturing young people —including the Buffalo 10 Scholarship, Mission of Peace, and other national and international experiences. Your contributions help young people engage more deeply with their neighbors and live out the call to be the hands and feet of Christ.
Clergy Care Fund – $4,545.74
The Clergy Care Fund provides essential support to clergy members facing financial hardship. It is a way for us to care for those who have dedicated their lives to serving others—offering compassion, healing, and help when it's most needed.
Helping Hands Fund – $2,905.93
This fund assists individuals and families in times of urgent need. Whether facing natural disasters, unexpected life challenges, or economic hardship, this fund helps provide immediate relief and hope.
Buffalo 10 Scholarship Fund – $1,196.39
Named in honor of the ten lives lost in the 2022 racially motivated mass shooting at a Buffalo Tops Market, this fund supports scholarships for students committed to racial justice and community healing. Every gift contributes to building a more hopeful and equitable future.
The spirit of generosity shown at AC 2025 continues to be a powerful witness to God’s love in action. Thank you to all who have given—and to those who continue to give. Your offerings bring light, hope, and transformation.
If you would still like to make a gift to the Engage Fund, donations are still being accepted by clicking here. Together, we are making a difference.
Faith-based affordable housing can help Western New York thrive
June 2, 2025 / By Hector A. Burgos-Núñez / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The following op-ed was written by Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez and published by the Buffalo News on May 15.
Western New York is facing a housing crisis that threatens the very fabric of our communities. In 2022, nearly half – 45.9% – of our renters were rent-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on rent. It’s unacceptable – and we need an immediate solution.
Faith organizations have a long and rich history of serving our communities. The Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act, a proposal currently before the State Senate and Assembly, would empower religious organizations to develop affordable housing on their land. This legislation would create as many as 60,000 new housing units over the next decade.
The Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act would not only address a critical need but also ensure the long-term sustainability of our community outreach. By developing housing on underutilized land, we can generate the resources necessary to continue delivering these essential services.
Of the 631,030 lots in the Western New York region, 1,628 are owned by faith-based organizations. With a median lot size of 0.70 acres, we have the space to create meaningful change.
The Old Testament reminds us of our responsibility to care for one another: “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed” (Psalm 82:3). This verse underscores the moral imperative to act, to ensure that our communities are places where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
This is exactly what our faith institutions are already doing. Take Dr. Scott Johnson, coordinating pastor at the First United Methodist Church of Buffalo. Johnson’s ministry assists those facing economic challenges. Many in attendance are hard-working, employed individuals who struggle to keep up with the skyrocketing cost of living.
When rent is too high, other essentials may be cut, and quality of life deteriorates. Without more housing being built, the cost of living will continue to rise and become increasingly untenable. It’s why faith institutions must do more to fix the housing crisis.
New York needs faith-based housing. Recent polling indicates that this is popular, too: 76% of Western New York voters support the Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act.
Let us build, not just for today, but for generations to come.
Rev. April Casperson calls laity to lead across difference in transformative address at UNY Annual Conference
May 28, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
At the 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference Laity Session, held on Thursday, May 22, the Rev. April Casperson delivered a stirring and practical keynote aimed at equipping lay leaders to navigate differences with grace, purpose, and courage. Drawing from her deep experience as a Deacon in the West Ohio Conference as the Director of Enrollment Management at Methodist Theological School in Ohio, and longtime diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consultant, Rev. Casperson offered a compelling vision for the Church’s future: one rooted in justice, shaped by equity, and grounded in the transformative love of Christ.
A Scriptural Foundation for Unity in Diversity
Rev. Casperson began by grounding the session in Romans 12:3–5, reminding participants that "we who are many are one body in Christ, and individually we are members of one another." She also introduced a rich interpretation of this passage through the First Nations Version, which speaks of being “message bearers” shaped by the Creator for different purposes, united in a shared spiritual calling.
“This passage,” she emphasized, “is a reminder that belonging to one another is part of our Christian DNA. Our faith journeys are not solitary—they are shaped in relationship with God and with each other.”
The Call to Intercultural Competence
The heart of Casperson’s message was an invitation to build cultural competence—defined as the ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from different cultures or belief systems. This, she said, is a critical skill for today’s church, especially as congregations often no longer reflect the demographics of the communities around them.
“Jesus reached across difference in every encounter,” she said. “Whether it was racial, gender, political, or cultural, he modeled a way of relating that broke down barriers. That’s the call of discipleship today.”
Introducing JEDI: Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
In a creative and memorable twist, Rev. Casperson introduced the JEDI framework—Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion—as a spiritual and strategic pathway for lay ministry. Using vivid metaphors, she unpacked each term:
- Diversity: “Any difference that makes a difference,” she explained, noting that every community already holds multiple overlapping identities—age, race, ability, housing status, language, addiction or incarceration history, and more.
- Equity: More than just equality, equity acknowledges that not everyone starts from the same place. Churches must be mindful of hidden barriers and create space for those new to the faith or different in background to belong and thrive.
- Justice: Rooted in Wesleyan theology, justice means fair treatment for all, equitable resource distribution, and using the church as a tool for both personal and social transformation.
- Inclusion: More than inviting people in, inclusion is about ensuring that all individuals are seen, heard, respected, and valued—creating true belonging within the church.
The Church’s Challenge—and Opportunity
Rev. Casperson didn’t shy away from the difficulties. Many churches, she acknowledged, are in decline or struggling with change. Others face deep theological or political divides. But she encouraged leaders to see these as adaptive challenges—opportunities for creative faithfulness rather than reasons to retreat.
She described different kinds of churches, from polarized and hostile environments where differences are suppressed, to cautious and maintaining churches that resist innovation, to welcoming and growing churches that embrace conflict, lead through discomfort, and cultivate a culture of belonging.
“If your church feels uncomfortable,” she said, “that may be the Spirit at work. Discomfort is often the soil in which growth begins.”
A Pathway Forward
Rev. Casperson outlined a practical two-step model for transformation:
- Symbolic Change: Public statements, sermons, and community visibility that affirm a church’s values.
- Identity Change: Concrete actions such as inclusive budgeting, DEI training, program shifts, and leadership development.
“The goal,” she said, “is not just checking a box. It’s shifting a church’s culture. It’s not about technical fixes—it’s about spiritual formation and communal transformation.”
Ending with Reflection and Hope
The session closed with small group discussions, as participants reflected on the dimensions of diversity that shape their own leadership. As the theme of the Annual Conference, “Believe…and see the glory of God,” echoed through the space, Rev. Casperson reminded the laity that their call is not merely to preserve institutions, but to bear witness to the inclusive and redemptive love of Jesus Christ.
“Our faith is not just something we think—it’s something we live,” she concluded. “And it begins by reaching across difference and saying: ‘You belong here, too.’”
Rev. Casperson invited laity to become leaders who cross boundaries, embrace diversity, and embody the full expression of the Church in today’s world.
Click here to watch the livestream recording from Rev. Casperson’s learning session. Click here to download the PowerPoint slides shared during this session. Click here to view the covenant.
Celebrating the Call: Honoring the newly ordained and commissioned
May 24, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Friday night, the Service of Ordination and Commissioning was held at the Oncenter in Downtown Syracuse as part of the 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference, which took place from May 22–24. This sacred gathering celebrated the commissioning and ordination of individuals called to serve in ministry, marking a significant moment in their spiritual journeys.
In a powerful sermon titled “Agents of Resurrection,” Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., resident bishop of the Horizon Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church, delivered a moving charge to those being ordained and commissioned, drawing from the story of Lazarus in John 11:1–3, 17–26. His message was both a reflection on the power of resurrection and a challenge to embrace ministry as a calling to bring life where death—of all kinds—threatens to prevail.
Bishop Saenz opened with a poignant personal memory—the funeral of his grandfather, Abuelito Severino—capturing the depth of grief that many have experienced.
“I was in seminary when I received the news of his passing and drove 500 miles to be with my family and honor his life. My father and I stood quietly at the head of the casket, gazing at him lying there in peaceful stillness. As we stood by the casket, I looked at my dad’s face and saw a mixture of grief and disbelief that comes even when death is expected,” recalled Bishop Saenz.
He connected this feeling to the sorrow in Bethany, where Mary and Martha grieved the loss of their brother Lazarus. When Jesus finally arrived, Martha’s lament— “Lord, if you had been here…” — revealed the human tension between faith and disappointment, hope and despair.
Drawing from this moment, Bishop Saenz expanded the definition of death to include not only physical loss but also social, psychological, and spiritual forms of dying: communities gripped by despair, systems of injustice, addiction, and hopelessness.
“These are the graveyards where you, my companions in Christ who will soon be ordained and commissioned, are being sent to minister. These are the places where people need the resurrection and the life,” said Bishop Saenz.
He likened the resurrection of Lazarus to a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis, using the metaphor of the Giant Swallowtail from his childhood in the Rio Grande Valley. Just as the caterpillar’s transformation happens in the darkness of the cocoon, so too does God work in the hidden, broken places to bring about new life.
“Even now, all these years later, when I see a Giant Swallowtail with its yellow and black colours gliding through air, I’m reminded of the miracle of change and the beauty that can come from waiting in the dark.”
The call to ministry, Bishop Sáenz emphasized, is a call to stand before modern tombs—with unwavering faith, complete dependence on God, and a heart ready to witness and embody God’s transformative power. Jesus’ words, “Lazarus, come out!” were not just for one man—they echo across time as a call to all who follow Christ to participate in God’s ongoing work of resurrection.
Throughout the sermon, Bishop Saenz grounded his message in real-world ministry: a pastor revitalizing a town after factory closures, a church hosting one of the nation’s largest addiction recovery ministries. These stories, he said, exemplify resurrection ministry—hope rooted not in escapism, but in action and compassion.
He challenged the ordinands with the same question Jesus asked Martha: “Do you believe this?” It is not merely a question of theology, but of lived conviction. To believe in resurrection is to live it—to preach hope, to unbind the wounded, and to lead communities into transformation.
At the heart of the service, the following individuals were set apart for ministry:
- Commissioned for the Work of an Elder: Jennifer Dawn Stamm, Quincie Jacquelyn Yamin, and Mathew Joseph Yamin
- Commissioned for the Work of a Deacon: Jianzhong Jane Bronson
- Ordained for the Work of an Elder: DeokRyeol Bak, Ann-Marie Brown, Se Gye Shin, and Sherry Lynn Mahar
Together, the 2025 class was celebrated for giving 510 years of combined faithful ministry.
Bishop Saenz concluded with a charge for those being commissioned and ordained: go forth as agents of resurrection.
“Do you believe this?” he asked. “May the God who raises the dead fill you with His power, guide you with His wisdom, and use you mightily for His glory. And may you, in turn, be an agent of the resurrection, a source of life and freedom to all those you serve. Believe this and you will see the glory of God!”
Let your answer be your ministry. Let your life be the proof.
Click here to watch a recording from the livestream of the Service of Ordination and Commissioning.
Learning Session Recap: Reaching the next generation
May 23, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Friday, May 23, 2025, during the Upper New York Annual Conference, the Rev. Kris Sledge and the Rev. Rachel Gilmore led a compelling learning session on why younger generations are distancing themselves from the church. Drawing from their new book, Followers Under 40, the session explored the trends behind this shift and offered insights into how faith communities can be reimagined to meet Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha where they are.
“This conversation isn’t about chasing trends,” explained Rev. Sledge. “It’s about reimagining what it means to follow Jesus in a way that actually connects with those under 40—and rethinking how the church can become a place worth staying in, again.”
The duo, both experienced church planters and pastors in young, diverse communities, shared hard truths alongside a message of hope. Rev. Sledge is the founding and lead pastor of The Journey Church, an urban, multi-ethnic United Methodist Church in Harrisburg, PA. Rev. Gilmore is the Director of New & Vital Faith in the Desert Southwest Annual Conference.
Their research and experiences revealed that the church’s traditional models are failing to resonate with younger generations—not due to a lack of faith, but because of a lack of relevance, trust, and authenticity.
Rev. Gilmore emphasized, “We’re not here to save your church. We’re here to invite the church to listen, to change, and to embody the Good News in a way that is healing, hopeful, and actually worth following.”
Key Highlights from the Session
The Church Is Aging—and Shrinking
Statistical trends show a dramatic generational shift in leadership and membership. Since 2019, clergy under age 35 have decreased by 32%, with only 6% of clergy in that age bracket. Meanwhile, seminary enrollment continues to decline, and more young adults are leaving both rural and urban churches.
Young Adults Are Spiritual—but Not in Our Pews
Rev. Sledge explained that Gen Z and Millennials aren’t rejecting God—they’re rejecting an institution that feels disconnected. “They’ve walked away from performance, from hierarchy, and from gatekeeping religion,” he said. “But they haven’t walked away from God.”
In fact, many young people are spiritually active through nature, art, activism, and mindfulness rather than through church membership. The concept of “unbundled faith,” where individuals craft spirituality from diverse sources, resonated strongly throughout the session.
Values Matter More Than Programs
Young adults are justice-oriented. They want spiritual communities that speak out on racial equity, climate change, mental health, and inclusion. Rev. Gilmore noted, “If churches aren’t speaking to these real concerns, we become irrelevant. They care too much to waste time on abstractions.”
Distrust of religious institutions is also high—only one in ten young adults trusts them. To respond, Rev. Gilmore urged the Church to prioritize integrity, transparency, and real relationships over programming and preservation.
A Call to Let Go
In perhaps the most challenging part of the session, Rev. Sledge and Rev. Gilmore invited leaders to consider what must “die” for resurrection to take place. From long-standing programs like VBS and Sunday School to the survival-focused mindset of many congregations, they asked, “What are we willing to let go of for the sake of reaching someone new?”
“Sometimes we’re holding funerals for the wrong things,” said Rev. Sledge. “We’re grieving choirs and bulletins, while a whole generation is wondering if the church even sees them.”
Resurrection Is Possible
Drawing from the story of Lazarus in John 11, Rev. Gilmore proclaimed, “Healthy things grow. We are not healthy—but resurrection is still possible.” The session concluded with an invitation to embrace transformation, however painful, as a holy and faithful response to God’s ongoing work in the world.
“Resurrection doesn’t come without a cross,” explained Rev. Gilmore. “Letting go might just be the most faithful, hope-filled act we can offer the next generation.”
The session left many attendees with a renewed sense of urgency and possibility. With honesty and hope, Rev. Sledge and Rev. Gilmore called on the Church to shed nostalgia and embrace innovation—grounded not in trendiness, but in love, justice, and the radical hospitality of Christ.
What are you willing to let go of to reach someone new?
Click here to watch the recording from the livestream of the learning session.
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez inspires hope and vision at 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference
May 23, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On day two of the 2025 Upper New York Annual Conference, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez delivered a passionate and visionary Episcopal Address, inspiring clergy and laity alike to deepen relationships, embrace change, and boldly live into God’s call. Speaking to a room filled with United Methodists from across the region, Bishop Burgos Núñez expressed gratitude, celebrated progress, and outlined a forward-looking vision grounded in faith, generosity, and connection.
Opening with gratitude and high energy, Bishop Burgos Núñez thanked attendees for their dedication and reminded them of the transformative impact they are having—"one person at a time." He invited smiles, "Hallelujahs,” and joy to set a tone of unity and hope.
Reflecting on the past two years, Bishop Burgos Núñez reaffirmed three core principles that shape the conference’s journey:
- Celebrate what’s going well.
- Recognizing the places that business as usual is no longer an option.
- Embrace necessary change to remain faithful to Christ’s mission.
“These principles will remain at the heart of our work, with room to adapt as we face new challenges, because we know that real, deep, lasting change takes time, resilience, and persistence,” emphasized Bishop Burgos Núñez. These guiding values now shape the newly unified episcopal area, uniting the Upper New York and Susquehanna Conferences under Bishop Burgos Núñez’s leadership. While each conference retains autonomy, the collaboration opens powerful new doors for shared ministry and resource stewardship.
Bishop Burgos Núñez then recognized the faithful service of outgoing superintendents, the Rev. Mike Weeden and the Rev. Suzanne Block, and welcomed new superintendents, the Rev. Richelle Goff and the Rev. Yohan Chun. He emphasized the significance of the cabinet’s unity and called for continued prayer and support for these leaders navigating complex times in ministry. “Your superintendents are serving in one of the most challenging times in ministry in our recent history, and they’re doing it faithfully, with grace and adaptability.”
Central to Bishop Burgos Núñez’s vision is relationship-building—between clergy, laity, and God. “We are called to live in relationships because God is love, and love is always relational. I encourage us to build relationships with other churches and organizations, especially fellow United Methodist congregations. Ministry in isolation simply isn’t sustainable,” he exclaimed.
Online prayer gatherings, in-person visits, and clergy communities like the Orders of Elders and Deacons are helping to foster spiritual growth and mutual support. Programs like the Lilly grant funded “Preachers: Work, Play, and Rest” initiative are promoting clergy wellness, with dozens of pastors already participating and more cohorts forming.
A standout highlight of the address was the remarkable generosity of Upper New York congregations. In 2024, 255 churches gave a combined $1.2 million to United Methodist Advance Specials—the highest in the Northeastern Jurisdiction and fourth highest denomination-wide. This funding supported vital global initiatives, including disaster relief, refugee support, and church planting on multiple continents.
Additionally, Bishop Burgos Núñez celebrated a 25% improvement in shared giving across the conference, committing to continued education on the theology of connectional giving.
Bishop Burgos Núñez applauded the conference's bold decision to use reserve funds to address costs related to the Child Victims Act, emphasizing how courageous faith in God’s provision turned concern into testimony. “This outcome serves as a powerful reminder that when we place our trust in God and act with courage and care, even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into moments of grace,” he proclaimed. A moment of silence to honor survivors of abuse and lifting prayers for healing and restoration followed.
Bishop Burgos Núñez moved on to address efforts to revitalize and reimagine ministry that are underway across the region. New initiatives include:
- A collaborative ministry discernment process that brings neighboring churches together for mutual support and innovation.
- 21 new faith communities nurtured, half serving ethnic populations, reflecting a vibrant and diverse ministry landscape.
- Urban ministry revitalization, with assessments underway in Buffalo, Binghamton, and Syracuse, partnering with renowned leader in urban ministries, Rev. Olu Brown.
Addressing changes from the 2024 General Conference, Bishop Burgos Núñez emphasized a commitment to love, inclusion, and compassion for LGBTQ individuals, acknowledging theological diversity while urging the Church to remain rooted in grace and care for the vulnerable. “We recognize and honor the diversity of thought on convo around and LGBTQ people, with and stand firm in our mission to ensure that every person feels seen, valued, and included,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Bishop Burgos Núñez then announced a formal visioning process to revisit and renew the conference’s missional commitments. He also introduced a new denominational vision from the Council of Bishops and Connectional Table. A video explained the four-year discernment journey that shaped the vision, its significance for the denomination, and how it will guide United Methodists in continuing to live out their mission. Click here to watch the full video.
Concluding the Episcopal Address, Bishop Burgos Núñez expressed his excitement for the future of The United Methodist Church. “I’m all in, and I can’t wait to step into this vision with all of you.”
Click here to watch a video of the 2025 Episcopal Address.
Together in Diversity: Empowering laity for culturally aware ministry
May 13, 2025 / By Jessica White, Conference Lay Leader / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On behalf of the Board of Laity, I want to express how excited we are to see you all at this year’s Laity Session. We are especially pleased to announce that our teaching session will feature a special guest speaker and focus on intercultural competency training for the laity.
This session promises to be an invaluable opportunity for attendees, equipping lay leaders to engage in more inclusive and culturally sensitive ministry. For those unable to attend in person, the session will also be livestreamed in the UNY UMC app and on the conference website here.
As a diverse faith community, the Upper New York Annual Conference is deeply committed to fostering deeper understanding and building stronger relationships across cultural lines. The growing diversity within our congregations and neighborhoods makes it all the more vital that we offer intentional, thoughtful training to prepare laity to lead effectively in an interconnected world. Through this session, we hope to create a space for reflection on how each of us can promote justice, inclusivity, and compassion in our communities.
We are honored to welcome the Rev. April Casperson as our guest speaker. Rev. Casperson is an expert in intercultural communication, with years of experience in both local and global church settings. Her insights will be pivotal in strengthening our conference’s lay leadership—helping us appreciate the richness of diversity and navigate the complexities that come with it.
We look forward to gathering with you at this year’s Laity Session!
2028 General Conference headed to Minneapolis
May 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Mark your calendars. General Conference (GC) is headed to Minneapolis May 8-18, 2028. The Commission on the General Conference made the announcement after the conclusion of the Commission's spring virtual meeting. General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church, which meets once every four years.
The three-week event will be held at the Minneapolis Convention Center. “The selection of Minneapolis as a General Conference location dates back to 2013. There was a significant investment of time by the former host committee and members, planning, along with financial investments that required the Commission to give strong consideration to naming Minneapolis for 2028,” explained the Rev. Dr. Aleze Fulbright, secretary of the General Conference.
Despite beginning with a $1.8 million budget shortfall amid a period of reduced Church funding, the new Commission is taking deliberate steps to lower expenses without compromising the core elements of the gathering. They have also engaged the General Council on Finance and Administration to seek sponsorships to help close the funding gap.
Why May? The Commission states the selection of dates was largely driven by logistical considerations, particularly the availability of meeting space and hotel accommodations in Minneapolis.
“When planning for the General Conference the availability of the convention center/meeting space and local hotels dominate the decision on the dates for when General Conference can be convened. The General Conference event spans at least three weeks, to include: setting up the infrastructure, before GC meetings, the convening of GC and move out of the facilities post event. There must be adequate space and lodging to accommodate this major gathering for a large number of people,” shared Rev. Dr. Fulbright.
Why not a location outside the U.S.? The Rev. Andy Call, Commission chair, explained that while there is a strong desire to hold a future General Conference outside the U.S., the timeline and logistical challenges made it impractical for 2028.
“When we met in November, we named a desire to hold a General Conference outside the United States as soon as possible. We also had a thorough conversation about the logistical challenges with planning a General Conference outside the U.S. and the time it would take to adequately prepare for that. We determined that it was not feasible to adequately prepare for that to happen in 2028, but we are committed to exploring every possibility for 2032, to secure a location that is welcoming to all and able to hold a gathering of 3,000 people, with minimal visa challenges,” said Rev. Call.
The Office of the General Conference and the Commission is actively working through key logistics, including visa planning, delegate representation, and contingency strategies. In light of ongoing developments within the Church, the Commission has chosen to delay announcing the final delegate count until more information is available.
Looking beyond 2028, the Commission is already considering how to adapt and improve its processes to meet the needs of the future United Methodist Church. The executive committee and subcommittees will continue meeting throughout the year, with the full Commission scheduled to reconvene in person this November.
The General Conference of The United Methodist Church last met April 23-May 3, 2024 in Charlotte, NC. Click here to read more from the Commission of General Conference.
Rev. Dr. Ann Kemper to be honored at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School
May 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS), a theological institution with over two centuries of tradition and transformation, will honor outstanding graduates at its 2025 Alumni/ae & Friends Reunion. The celebration, rooted in CRCDS’s enduring mission of peace, service, and justice, will recognize alumni/ae whose ministries and vocations exemplify the school’s legacy of leadership and impact. The Distinguished Alumni/ae Award celebrates excellence in theological education, scholarship, and leadership.
Among the honorees is the Rev. Dr. Ann Kemper, who serves as Chairperson of the Board of Ordained Ministry in Upper New York and as pastor of Covenant UMC in Rochester, NY. A dedicated pastor, mentor, and community advocate, Rev. Dr. Kemper will be recognized for her leadership in combating food insecurity and advancing literacy in underserved areas.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized as a distinguished alum of CRCDS. I always thought it was me who owed a debt of gratitude to CRCDS for equipping me for ministry in an urban context,” said Rev. Dr. Kemper.
CRCDS helped Rev. Dr. Kemper shape her theological understanding of divine grace—grace that serves as a lens through which she views urban ministry as deeply relational. “When a family suffers from food insecurity, it is the gracious act of the church to do its best to address not only the immediate need for food, but to respond to the systemic reasons the family is in need. Ministering in the mindset of divine grace means we do our best to make sure children have every opportunity to succeed. If education is the lock to reversing the downward spiral of poverty, then literacy is the key to unlocking a child's potential.”
Rev. Dr. Kemper believes that building relationships and trust is the only way to transform the world; one family at a time; one child at a time. “If I were to sum up my years of urban ministry it would be to love. You can never go wrong with love based on mutuality and trust.”
The awards will be presented at the Alumni/ae Awards Dinner on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in Rochester during the multi-day Alumni/ae & Friends Reunion. The ceremony is one highlight in a weekend filled with meaningful events at CRCDS from May 14–17, 2025.
United Methodist Bishops issue four letters on justice and peace
May 7, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: On May 7, 2025, the Council of Bishops released the following statement, a set of four pastoral letters issued during their April 2025 meeting, offering a unified response to several pressing justice issues around the globe.
To The Beloved People of The United Methodist Church,
We write to you at a moment when our world is confronted by profound suffering, deep division, and urgent calls for justice and compassion. We do so with humility, aware of the fragility of some of our communities and the diversity of perspectives within our beloved connection.
We also write with a relentless hope grounded in Christ’s resurrection. As Easter people, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit, to love boldly, to serve joyfully, and to lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.
The United Methodist Church stands unwavering in its commitment to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We affirm, as our Book of Discipline and Social Principles declare, that every person is of sacred worth, deserving of justice, dignity, and protection, regardless of nationality, race, gender, or identity. Our calling as United Methodists is to love as Christ loved, to serve as Christ served, and to lead as Christ led-resisting evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.
During our recent meeting, the Council of Bishops engaged in reflective conversations and offers four pastoral letters for your prayerful dialogue, discernment and witness:
- A Call for Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo: We grieve the violence and humanitarian crisis in Congo, standing with our siblings in their plea for peace and restoration.
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A Plea for Ceasefire and Justice in Palestine and Israel: We lament the suffering of Palestinians and Israelis, urging an immediate ceasefire, the protection of all civilians, and a just peace rooted in dignity for all.
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A Call to Reject Violence Against Transgender Persons: We denounce all forms of violence and discrimination against transgender people, affirming their sacred worth and calling the church to deeper compassion and understanding.
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A Stand Against the Dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies: We reject efforts to erase the progress made toward justice and inclusion, affirming that every person’s story and history are valuable and matter to God and to us all.
Each letter is rooted in our Wesleyan tradition, proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and inviting us to live out our baptismal vows: to resist evil, to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).
We know that statements alone do not change hearts-stories do. We encourage you to listen, to share, and to bear witness to the stories of those most affected by violence, injustice, and exclusion.
We acknowledge that these letters may challenge, comfort, or unsettle you. Yet, as a worldwide church, we are called to holy conversation - to wrestle together, to learn from one another, and to seek the Spirit’s guidance in community. The common thread through all these letters is God’s unwavering love for humanity and the sacred dignity of every person.
Let us journey together as disciples-loving boldly, serving joyfully, and leading courageously. May we be a church that listens deeply, acts justly, and grows in grace….moving towards God’s vision for Beloved Community.
With gratitude and hope,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
Click below to read the four letters:
A Call for Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo
A Plea for Ceasefire and Justice in Palestine and Israel
A Call to Reject Violence Against Transgender Persons
A Stand Against the Dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies
Casowasco Update: From discernment to action
May 7, 2025 / By Casowasco Discernment Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Casowasco Discernment Team continues to discern the next right step for Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center. During the Lenten season, they spent time in prayer and discernment and invited others into the conversation through an electronic form. Thank you to everyone who completed the form. Your responses offered helpful insights, full of passion and openness.
After reviewing the input from the forms and reflecting on their own sense of God’s invitation, the team determined that Casowasco’s future must look different from what we’ve known in the past. To ensure Casowasco continues making a meaningful missional impact and honoring its legacy, the team will develop an updated ministry and business plan. They will begin crafting the renewed ministry plan this summer and then update the business plan based on that vision.
The team has contracted Ministry Incubators, a consulting firm that helps organizations innovate while staying grounded in discipleship. Ministry Incubators specializes in turning creative ministry ideas into reality.
Shortly after the Annual Conference session, the Casowasco team will meet with the consultant from Ministry Incubators to launch this new chapter. They hope to move swiftly, while ensuring the work is thorough and thoughtful. If all goes well, Casowasco could emerge from its Sabbath period before the end of 2025.
Taking this next right step will require commitment and collaboration from many people. United Methodists of Upper New York will have the opportunity to invest their prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness in reimagining ministry at Casowasco. The Leadership of the annual conference remains committed to discerning the best use of Casowasco so we can transform the world by nurturing passionate disciples of Jesus Christ who share faith, mercy, and justice in their everyday lives.
2024 CVA Allocation Update: A testament to stewardship and faith
May 6, 2025 / By Bob Flask, Conference Treasurer / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
At the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference (UNY) session, conference members passed a resolution to allocate $7.8 million from the Child Victims Act (CVA) costs to the reserved fund for the UNY Board of Pension and Health. At that time, UNY was conducting the 2023 annual audit, leading auditors to allocate this cost to the operating year of 2023 based on incurred expenses and completed settlements.
Initially, concerns arose about allocating such a significant amount to this fund, with projections suggesting a three to four-year recovery period. However, I am pleased to report that through prudent financial stewardship, the entire $7,800,000 were recovered within 2023, surpassing expectations.
Factors Contributing to the Recovery
This achievement was possible by the following revenue streams:
- Unfunded pension liability payments from disaffiliating churches, totaling over $2,600,000.
- Pre-82 surplus at Wespath, applied to cover the CRSP DB payment of $1,300,000.
- Favorable investment returns, generating over $4,300,000 in 2023.
In total, these revenues exceeded $8,500,000, providing the necessary financial support to fully cover all Conference Board of Pension and Health liabilities and absorb the entire CVA allocation for 2023. This outcome is a blessing to the UNY Conference and strengthens the net asset funds of the Conference Board of Pension and Health.
Testament to Faithful Stewardship
"I thank God for the faithful witness of the United Methodists of UNY, who in 2024 affirmed a path forward rooted in healing and justice, guided by the recommendations of the CVA Taskforce commissioned by the Conference Leadership Team. Together, we stepped forward in faith, trusting God’s provision. These bold actions stand as a testimony to what is possible when we embody our calling as United Methodists—committed to justice, compassionate leadership, and unwavering faith. Through God’s grace and the dedication of so many, we have seen firsthand the power of trusting in God’s sufficiency, even in times of challenge," said Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez, Resident Bishop of the Upper New York Conference.
"God is good...all the time. All the time…God is good. I will be the first to admit that I was concerned about such a large withdrawal from the funds that sustain both current and future retirees. But we stepped out in faith, with the annual conference’s blessing, and found that the faithful stewardship of resources by past and present boards enabled us to help those who had been harmed—without compromising the well-being of those who serve. Thanks be to God," said Karyn McCloskey, Chair of the UNY Board of Pension and Health Benefits.
Click here to access the UNY 2023 audit, which reflects this remarkable recovery.
Click here to read the original recommendation as featured on pages 28-29 in the 2024 UNY Pre-Conference Workbook.
From the desk of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez: A new vision for The United Methodist Church
May 6, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following statement was sent to the United Methodists of Upper New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez on Tuesday, May 6.
“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20
Dear United Methodists in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Risen Christ!
On May 1, 2025, the Council of Bishops and the Connectional Table unveiled a bold new vision for The United Methodist Church—one rooted in God’s dream for a world where every person experiences the transformative grace of Jesus Christ, communities flourish, and all creation is made whole.
“The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ, who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.”
This vision is more than just words—it is a call to renewal, hope, and action. It invites us to embrace the mission of Christ with open hearts and steadfast faith. This vision offers a Christ-centered framework for unity and collaboration, guiding us as we bring God’s love to the world.
Now more than ever, our world needs to see and feel the boundless love of God.
As your bishop, I embrace this sacred calling—to be and to form disciples of Jesus Christ, who, through the power of the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously, transforming lives, communities, and the world.
In the days and months ahead, we will begin discerning together how each of us can step into the new thing God is doing among us. You can learn more about the new vision and download the local church reference guide here.
As we continue this journey, I thank God for each of you—for the ways you embody Christ’s love through your witness and ministry in your communities and across the world through our United Methodist connection.
Together, let us step forward in Christ’s mission with faith and courage.
Blessings and peace,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Certificates of Insurance
April 28, 2025 / By Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Manager / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
If your church is seeking certificates of insurance for disability insurance coverage (DB 120.1) and/or workers’ compensation insurance coverage (C105.2), the following information will be helpful to you.
Requests for DB 120.1
Certificates of insurance for disability insurance coverage (DB 102.1) are issued by the disability insurance carrier, Guardian. The following information will be needed from you to request the certificate of insurance. You can email either Chelsea Connor, Administrative Services Assistant, at chelseaconnor@unyumc.org or Suzannah Emerson at SEmerson@WalshDuffield.com with the following information. Please allow at least 5 business days for your request to be processed.
NAME OF INSURED CHURCH:
MAILING ADDRESS OF INSURED CHURCH:
EMAIL ADDRESS TO WHERE DB 120.1 CERTIFICATE SHOULD BE SENT:
NAME OF ENTITY REQUESTING PROOF OF INSURANCE (Typically the Dept of Health):
ADDRESS OF ENTITY REQUESTING PROOF OF INSURANCE:
Requests for C 105.2
Certificates of insurance for workers’ compensation insurance coverage (C105.2) can be obtained by contacting Lightwell Insurance Advisors. They will assist each church in obtaining the documentation needed. Contact them at 800-326-7200; 717-763-5517 (fax) or UMCservice.NY@Lightwell.com.
If you have questions on certificates of insurance, please contact Chelsea Connor, Administrative Services Assistant, at (315) 898-2022 or chelseaconnor@unyumc.org.
Rest. Work. Play. How we’re shaping a healthier future for preachers
April 22, 2025 / By Rev. Abigail Browka, Associate Director of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
What do you get when you ask a group of preachers to slow down? You get revelation.
That’s exactly what happened when our first cohort of Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. gathered for their Opening Renewal Trip in Belize earlier this year. Click here to read about the experience and click here to watch a video documenting it. What many thought would be a quiet week of rest turned into a transformational realization: they were more depleted than they knew.
“I hadn’t realized how much I needed this,” said one participant, after spending time in stillness, community, and spiritual reflection.
Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. is an initiative of United Methodists of Upper New York, funded by a $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative. We believe that preachers who cultivate a healthy rhythm of rest, work, and play are inspired—and inspire others. That’s why our program offers more than a vacation. We provide a full ecosystem of support for preachers to rediscover their calling through healthy rhythms of body, mind, and soul. And the transformation is spreading.
April 2025: Cohort 2 Heads to Savannah
In mid-April, we launch Cohort 2’s journey with a Renewal Trip to Savannah, Georgia. Ten more preachers will begin their ten-month cohort experience with seven days of deep rest, prayerful walking tours, dolphin sightings, and space to breathe.
Each renewal trip is intentionally designed to happen before structured gatherings begin—because we know real wellbeing begins with renewal, not just more information.
What Churches and Preachers Can Do
We often hear the question: “How can churches support their pastors’ well-being?” Here are two great starting points:
- Normalize Rest – Speak of resting with joy, not guilt. Make time off not just allowed but expected.
- Fund Renewal – Financially investing in your pastor’s renewal sends a clear message: Their health matters. It’s an investment in their health—and your congregation’s future.
For preachers themselves, we encourage preachers to:
- Join a Cohort or a Healthy Peer Group – that focuses on encouragement and renewal together. This peer group rather than evaluative is generative and supportive.
- Audit Your Rhythms – of rest, work and play – not just whether you are overworking but also if play, joy and inspiration are missing.
Get Involved. Follow the Journey.
Whether you're a preacher, lay leader, conference staff, or curious ally—this work is for all of us.
Sign up for our email list to receive tools, stories, and updates by clicking here.
Follow us on Facebook here and help share the movement.
Together, we can build a healthier Church by renewing the ones who serve it.
From Upper New York to Costa Rica: A shared call to serve
April 21, 2025 / By Kristina Clark, Associate Director of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” – Ephesians 3:20
In The United Methodist Church, the Spirit moves through our connection—quietly weaving lives together in awe-inspiring and unexpected ways.
This winter, two mission teams from the Upper New York Conference—living just over an hour apart in New York—met for the first time while serving in Costa Rica, only to discover that their paths had already been intertwined for decades. Though they hadn’t known each other before, they were connected by shared service, the same United Methodist missionaries, and a deep love for a community that helped shape their faith journeys.
Nancy Potter and George Gull of St. Paul’s UMC in Ithaca returned to Los Chiles, Costa Rica for the ninth time this year. As Mission Volunteers with Global Ministries, they serve through Agua Viva Serves, a nonprofit that brings sustainable, clean water to remote communities. Meanwhile, Dawn and Jeff French of Marcellus United Methodist Church led a mission team from Whitesboro: Trinity UMC and Marcellus UMC to Ciudad Quesada for their tenth journey, this time to remodel the Christian Education wing at Iglesia Metodista de Ciudad Quesada.
Their paths physically crossed in early February, when Nancy and George traveled two hours to Ciudad Quesada to reconnect with Pastor Francisco—someone they had worked with years before. During their visit, they were introduced to the teams from Marcellus and Whitesboro. As they shared stories over coffee, the realization set in: they weren’t strangers at all.
Both teams had roots in the same mission.
In the early 2000s, United Methodist missionaries Ralph and Mary Miller invited churches across the Upper New York Conference to help bring their vision of a bilingual Methodist high school in Ciudad Quesada to life. Both St. Paul’s and Trinity: Whitesboro answered that call, sending Volunteers in Mission (VIM) teams to lay the foundation—literally and spiritually—by mixing concrete in red clay, wiring classrooms, and building deep bonds with the local Methodist church in Costa Rica.
Now, decades later, both teams continue returning to Costa Rica, in different missions, to serve alongside friends and witness how God is moving through the people and ministries there.
It was a holy, full-circle moment. Two mission teams—once strangers—found an instant connection through their faith and the legacy of Ralph and Mary Miller, whose call to missionary service had brought them back to Costa Rica, year after year. Now, two decades after answering the same call to build the school, they stood side by side, continuing to serve with God’s people in Costa Rica.
Both teams felt the strength and sacredness of the United Methodist Connection through this encounter, which reminded them how God’s Spirit works through our Connection, uniting us from all corners of the world, guiding our steps in service, and weaving our lives together to build God’s kingdom here on Earth.
Feeling a call to missionary service? Learn more and find upcoming opportunities at umcmission.org/missionaries or umvim.org. Reach out to Kristina Clark, Associate Director of Missional Excellence, at kristinaclark@unyumc.org for more information.
New security measures in place at Oncenter
April 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The last time United Methodists gathered at the Oncenter in Downtown Syracuse for Annual Conference was in 2019. Next month when onsite, you’ll notice some significant changes. There are new meeting rooms upstairs, a revamped ballroom downstairs, and new security measures.
The Oncenter is now equipped with EVOLV security systems at all entrances. This non-invasive, walk-through technology is designed to detect weapons efficiently and discreetly. This shouldn’t be confused with the TSA screening process at airports. You will not be asked to remove anything from your pockets or bags like you do when flying.
The system is designed to identify guns, knives, and any other possible weapons or prohibited items. Firearms are not allowed in the building at any time. This includes off duty police or conceal carry permit holders. If the system detects a possible weapon or prohibited item, you will be asked to step aside for secondary screening.
No system is perfect as laptops, eye glass cases, and umbrellas do set off the system due to their shape and size.
While the new system may take some getting used to, it’s part of a broader effort to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending Annual Conference. The EVOLV technology allows for quick entry with minimal disruption, so you can focus on what really matters—being together in worship, fellowship, and service.
Passing of Pope Francis
April 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Monday, April 21, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the passing of Pope Francis.
Dear Siblings in Christ,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ.
It is with hearts heavy yet full of hope that we join our Roman Catholic siblings in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. The first Pope from the Americas, specifically Argentina, he was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ and a tireless advocate for justice, mercy, and love. Pope Francis, known as the “People’s Pope”, leaves behind a legacy of reform, humility, and outreach to marginalized communities.
Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to the Gospel and his courageous leadership in addressing the world’s pressing challenges echoed the prophetic words of Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
In this time of loss, let us lean into the promise of resurrection, trusting in the hope that in Christ, death is not the end but the threshold to eternal life. May we, as his followers, continue to reflect the light of Christ and bear the fruits of love and grace in our own lives.
In Christ’s Abundant Love,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez: Easter 2025 video message
April 20, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Click here to download the extended version of the video.
Click here to download the short version of the video.
Click here to download a printable transcript.
2025 Easter Message: Christ Is Our Hope
Greetings in the name and love of the Risen Christ!
Celebrating Easter, as followers of Christ and United Methodists, is a sacred and profound experience. Easter lies at the very heart of our Wesleyan heritage: rooted in grace, hope, and the transformative power of Christ's resurrection. It invites us to embrace new life through God’s abundant love.
Easter is the pinnacle of our Lenten journey—a season of prayer, fasting, and self-reflection that prepares our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. In our Wesleyan tradition, we hold dear these spiritual disciplines, which draw us closer to God’s grace. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the triumph of this jovurney, bringing renewal and transformation to our lives through God’s unfailing love.
Easter is a resounding celebration of God’s victory over sin, death, and darkness.
Through the resurrection, Christ opens the way for all people to experience new life, offering an unshakable foundation of hope for those who follow Him. It is the ultimate reminder of the boundless grace of God—a grace that redeems, renews, and restores.
Each Easter, I find myself deeply moved by the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 28, verses 1-10, where Mary Magdalene and another woman encounter the risen Christ. This passage overflows with boundless hope, rooted in the transformative power of God’s grace. Indeed, Jesus Christ is our eternal hope.
Let us pause and reflect on the experience of these women on that miraculous morning.
Imagine their grief as they walked to the tomb of their beloved Teacher—the weight of despair they carried, believing their hope was lost. They had witnessed His love, His ministry, and His miracles. They saw Him heal the sick, feed the hungry, and extend grace to sinners. YET, in their darkest moment, the angel declared, “Do not be afraid… He is not here; He has risen, just as He said!” (Matthew 28:5-6)…and their sorrow was transformed into joy. When Jesus Himself met them on the road, their lives—and the world—were forever changed.
This encounter encapsulates the heart of Easter: the gift of new life through Christ’s resurrection and the renewal of hope. In our Wesleyan tradition as United Methodists, hope is not an abstract idea; it is the living assurance of God’s abundant grace. This grace renews us from within and equips us to share Christ’s love and justice with the world. The resurrection’s power extends to us today, inviting us to encounter the Risen Christ and experience peace, light, and unending hope.
As 1 Peter 1:3-9 reminds us, in Christ, we are given a living hope—eternal and unfailing. There are many reasons to rejoice in the Living Hope of Jesus Christ.
We have hope because Jesus loves us unconditionally.
United Methodists affirm God’s prevenient grace—that Christ’s love reaches for us even before we know Him. Nothing in all creation can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39).
We have hope because Jesus offers forgiveness and reconciliation.
Through His death and resurrection, Christ reconciles us to God, offering pardon and inviting us into a relationship marked by grace and renewal (John 3:17).
We have hope because Christ’s grace is for everyone.
The inclusive nature of God’s grace is central to our tradition, breaking down every barrier and uniting us in Christ’s love (Romans 10:12).
We have hope because His resurrection shows us a better way.
The Risen Christ calls us to live as His hands and feet, sharing love, compassion, and justice in a world yearning for transformation.
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Easter’s hope is a gift meant to be received, shared, and lived. Inspired by Matthew, Christ's love is a calling for us to carry forward, just as Mary Magdalene did by sharing the Good News.
Pray to God daily, asking the Holy Spirit for opportunities to share your faith and Christ’s healing love with others. Seek sensitivity to the needs around you and courage to act meaningfully. Together, as a congregation, be a beacon of faith and hope offering spiritual growth across generations.
Live Easter in the Community:
Address hunger and poverty through food initiatives. Promote reconciliation with workshops or mediation spaces. Celebrate diversity by hosting cultural events that proclaim God’s inclusive grace. Support mental health by partnering with local counselors. Break barriers by advocating justice for vulnerable communities.
Be Agents of Renewal
Commit to acts of kindness and reflect Christ’s love. Care for creation through recycling, composting, or tree planting. Invest in community renewal with beautification projects like gardens or cleanups.
Let Easter’s boundless hope shape your actions every day!
This Easter, I invite us to reflect on the following questions,
What spiritual disciplines or practices have drawn you closer to God during Lent, and how will you carry them forward in the Easter season?
Think about how prayer, fasting, and self-reflection have shaped your faith and prepared your heart for the celebration of Christ.
How does the resurrection of Jesus Christ transform your understanding of hope and grace in your own life?
Reflect on how the Easter story of redemption resonates with your journey of faith and spiritual renewal.
In what ways can you embody the love, compassion, and justice of Christ in your daily life?
Reflect in how you can embody Christ’s hope in your workplace, family, or neighborhood? What tangible steps you can take to proclaim and be God’s hope with those around you.
This Easter, let us renew our commitment to living as disciples of Jesus Christ. Let us share Christ’s love with a world in need, embodying the grace and hope we have received through Jesus’s resurrection. Easter is more than a historical event—it is an invitation to participate in God’s redemptive work, reminding us that we are empowered to live with hope and serve as agents of transformation in our daily lives as we live the gospel and embody God’s love with all our neighbors.
Together, we can reflect the light of Easter in every corner of our lives.
As John Wesley proclaimed, “The best of all is, is that God is with us.” Easter is the ultimate affirmation of this truth.
May the words of the angel, “do not be afraid”, echo in your heart as a constant reminder of God’s peace. May you live with the joy and assurance of the empty tomb, knowing that Christ is risen, just as He said. May you carry the light of resurrection hope, sharing Christ’s love with the world around you.
AND may the grace of the risen Lord, the love of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit be with you now and always. Amen
Peace of God be with you.
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Steve Ranous receives national UMM award
April 14, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Steve Ranous, a regular attendee of the national gathering of United Methodist Men (UMM), made his way to Myrtle Beach this March for the annual event—just as he always does. As the current Treasurer of the United Methodist Men Foundation, his attendance was a priority. What he didn’t expect was to be honored for his outstanding work, witness, and leadership within the organization.
“I was certainly surprised and humbled,” explained Steve.
At the gathering, Steve was inducted into the Society of John Wesley, the top recognition within the UMM community, and became a Fellow as award recipient #902. According to the UMM, this distinction is presented to clergy and laity who exemplify a deep commitment to Christ and a faith that shapes every part of their daily lives. Fellows are recognized for their faithful witness, visionary leadership, and generous stewardship, all of which help to enrich and advance the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church. The inaugural award was given in 1982.
Individuals do not need to be United Methodist to join or be recognized by the Society of John Wesley. Each recipient is awarded a plaque and lapel pin.
Steve is pictured holding the plaque surrounded by Wayne Custer, Northeast Jurisdiction UMM President; Steve Nailor, acting UMM Foundation President; and Don Davis, Northeast Jurisdiction UMM Treasurer.
Steve has been a part of UMM, locally and nationally, since 1994, when Ted Johndrow from North Syracuse gave a UMM introduction talk to the Baldwinsville First United Church’s men’s group.
He said, “Since 1994, when the UMM idea was first introduced to me, it always seemed like ‘the right thing to do’ to join and support this fraternal group in any way I could.”
This isn’t the first time Steve’s been honored by United Methodist Men. Just last year, he was recognized as attaining Lifetime Achievement status.
A number of national dignitaries have been awarded the same honor prior to Steve.
President Jimmy Carter was inducted into the Society of John Wesley in 2018 in recognition of his unwavering commitment to prayer, young people, and mission-focused service.
President George W. Bush was also honored with induction, following his leadership and response in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, making him the 426th member of the Society of John Wesley Fellows.
Former, now retired, Chairman of the Board of Dollar General, Cal Turner Jr., received the recognition in 2001 for his outstanding contributions to local church mission and ministry.
“It is a true honor to be in the company of so many souls before me. Like everyone else, I just take one day at a time and see what God has in store for me for the future, trying to lead a Christian life, and assist others as needed.”
Steve is married to the Rev. Susan Ranous, the UNY Conference’s Stewardship Chair, and has been a member of Baldwinsville First UMC for 40 years.
If a church or men’s group is interested in starting a UMM charter, you can learn more by clicking here. For individuals interested in joining UMM, click here.
CRM Sunday is April 27
April 9, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodists of Upper New York are invited to celebrate the excellent ministry being shared by our Camp & Retreat Ministries on Sunday, April 27. The Conference Leadership Team invites congregations to lift up the ministries of the sites to increase awareness of the vital work happening with our partners at Camp & Retreat Ministries. Congregations are also asked to receive a special offering for camp scholarships so that we can help more people attend our programs regardless of their economic situation.
A video featuring each of the sites is available for use during worship. You can find the video link here. A list of suggested Scripture, message titles, and hymns is also available on the website, which you can find here.
Sending in the offering can be done through the regular monthly statement, noting fund 912. Congregations and individuals can also send checks directly to the UNY Conference Office, 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088, made out to UNYUMC and noting CRM Sunday or Fund 912 in the memo line.
Congregations and individuals may also contribute online by clicking here and following the directions..
Thank you in advance for partnering with Camp & Retreat Ministries of Upper New York.
Clergy Care Fund: A lifeline for clergy in crisis
April 8, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The demands of ministry are many—and sometimes, life’s unexpected financial burdens can make it difficult for clergy to be fully present to both their appointment and their families. That’s where the Clergy Care Fund steps in.
This fund exists to assist active clergy under appointment who are experiencing an unforeseen financial crisis. The Upper New York Board of Ordained Ministry’s (BOM) updated policy emphasizes that priority is given to situations that interfere with a clergy person’s ability to be fully present in their ministry or with their immediate family.
The Clergy Care Fund is made possible through the annual offering taken at Clergy Session during Annual Conference, and through the generous, year-round support of clergy and people of good will across our conference. It is administered confidentially by BOM and guided by the Clergy Care Fund Stewardship Team.
How It Works
If you are an active clergy person in need:
- Start by contacting your District Superintendent (DS). Your DS will submit a request on your behalf.
- The Stewardship Team will prayerfully and thoughtfully review the request.
- If approved, assistance will be processed through the Conference Finance Office, and you’ll be informed of any tax implications (as the assistance is considered taxable income).
Growing Need, Growing Opportunity
In the past six months, BOM has seen an increase in the number of requests for help from this fund—a reflection of the rising costs of medical care, transportation, and other essential needs that are outpacing clergy salaries.
BOM anticipates this trend will continue—and we’re inviting United Methodists of Upper New York to help meet the need.
Your contributions make it possible for clergy to keep serving with peace of mind even as they go through unexpected financial crises. Please consider making a donation to the Clergy Care Fund by making a donation in the app, clicking here, or scanning the QR code. Whether you give now or through the offering at Clergy Session, every gift helps provide critical care and support to a colleague in ministry.
Use this as an invitation to receive and to give. Let’s care for one another as we continue to care for our pastors and communities.
Download the UNY UMC app using the following QR codes. The app is free wherever you get your apps.
Scan this QR code if you have an Android device.
Scan this QR code if you have an Apple device.
Caring for God’s Creation at Buffalo University UMC
April 8, 2025 / By Rev. Merle Showers, Creation Care Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
University UMC in Buffalo has chosen to be concerned about being a GOOD Steward of God's Creation. We want to do all in our power to do as little harm and as much good to the great gift God has given us.
In 2013, our gas bill for the year was $10,179.82 and our electric bill was $3,706.53. That was very alarming as far as our budget was concerned, but for us, it was also very alarming because of all the damage we were doing to the environment by burning all that fossil fuel. We first searched our building to determine what was burning so much fuel. We found we had a very large kitchen range with six pilots burning 24/7, but we only used that stove two or three times a year. We shut off the gas. We found we had two space heaters and a furnace with pilots burning all year around. We shut them off from May to October. We found we had several heating devices with old-fashioned thermostats that could not be programmed. We put in all programmable thermostats for all heating devices and programmed them for 55-degrees, except when the space was needed for meetings. We realized we only had two inches of insulation in the attic, and we added three times as much. When our old boiler died in 2022, we put in two smaller boilers heating each only a smaller section of the building so we could better control what was heated and when.
Fast forward more than a decade, and in 2024, our gas bill for the year was $2,829.51. That was great news for our budget, but was even better news for the amount of gas we were not burning. Think of the plants, animals, and humans we didn't kill by being GOOD stewards.
In 2017, we had 33 solar panels installed on the roof of our building. In 2018, we converted all of our lights to LED (well over 500 lights) with the help of National Fuel. We made the decision that we were also going to replace our gas-powered hot water heater with a hybrid heat pump hot water heater. We went around the building turning off things that didn't need to be running.
In 2024, our electric bill for the year was $493.32. Although our electric in WNY is created by about a third from the burning of fossil fuels, we were continuing our efforts to do as little harm to this great earth God has given us.
Five years ago, our lawn mower died. Instead of purchasing a new gas power lawn mower, we purchased a battery-powered lawn mower. The following year, we bought a battery powered snow blower. Now we seldom get our gas-powered snow blower out. This last winter, we didn’t use it once.
Here at University UMC, we no longer use disposable cups and as little plastic materials as possible. We have recycling boxes all around the building. We encourage everyone who uses the building to turn out lights and close doors. We believe being GOOD stewards is a constant effort and a labor of love.
Equitable Compensation Grant applications for July to December 2025 are now available
April 2, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Commission on Equitable Compensation has issued guidelines and application forms for salary grants to local churches for the period July to December 2025. 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 April 25, 2025 deadline.
Please read through the application thoroughly and provide all required documentation. Lack of required information could result in the denial of your application.
NOTE: The application is set up as a template. To move through the selections, you can either TAB or use the mouse and click.
The shaded area will expand as you type. To place an “X” in one of the boxes, double click in the box, then click the circle next to the word “checked” for the box you wish to select. The Commission anticipates notifying churches of its determination by mid-June.
Click the link below for the appropriate application for:
- Equitable Compensation Grant Application (for first time applicants)
- Supplemental Grant Application (for those who have previously applied and received funds)
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Launch of Human Sexuality Resource
April 1, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on April 1, 2025, on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez, introducing Our Way Forward: Graceful Conversation and Covenanting, a new resource to help congregations engage in respectful dialogue and discernment around human sexuality.
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when siblings dwell in unity!" Psalm 133:1
Dear United Methodists of Upper New York,
Grace and peace from Jesus Christ, our Savior and Friend, be with you this Lenten season.
In the Fall of 2024, I shared that the Northeastern College of Bishops had commissioned a diverse team of clergy and laity to create a resource for United Methodist congregations. Its purpose is twofold:
- To help congregations understand the changes in the 2020/24 Book of Discipline concerning human sexuality.
- To guide them in discerning a covenant statement reflecting their perspectives on human sexuality, ministry with LGBTQ persons, and unity in diversity, in alignment with our United Methodist polity and commitment to do no harm.
Though originally scheduled for release in Fall 2024, the team chose a thoughtful approach, prioritizing trust-building and collaboration. I thank them for their faithful work and your patience.
The resource, Our Way Forward: Graceful Conversation and Covenanting helps congregations navigate diverse beliefs through reflection questions, conversation guides, and actionable steps. It encourages respectful dialogue and unity. While optional, I urge church councils to review it with their pastor to explore its value. Holy Conferencing and covenanting offer a grace-filled path to understanding and unity.
Pastors may co-facilitate these sessions with lay leaders (recommended) or request an outside facilitator through their District Superintendent. Requests for a facilitator must be submitted by July 31, 2025, through your district office.
You can view or download the resource here.
As United Methodists, we embrace our rich diversity as a gift from God and remain united in our love for Christ and commitment to making disciples for the transformation of the world.
I pray for God’s continued blessings to fill your lives, and ministry – for the glory of God.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area
Seeking God’s Vision for Casowasco
March 26, 2025 / By Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens, Director of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Saturday, March 22, 2025, continued the journey of discerning the next faithful steps for Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center. A team of ten people gathered in person at the Conference Office, while two more joined via Zoom. Members of the team include long-time campers, volunteers, staff, and supporters. Also included are parents of campers and Conference leaders. The Rev. Colin Kerr-Carpenter, Interim Director of Casowasco, started the day by offering a centering devotion focused on Jeremiah 29, inviting the team to trust the Spirit of God has a plan and we will together seek clarity of God’s invitation.
Significant time was invested in defining the scope and purpose of the team, as well as conversation about the history of programming at Casowasco. The team settled into the understanding that the journey ahead was primarily twofold; First, the team would listen for the invitation of God to refresh, or renew, the vision of ministry for Casowasco. Second, the team would work with the Casowasco Community and Conference leadership to determine if it is good stewardship to invest effort, time, and money in the pursuit of the vision.
Important in this conversation has been the property and fiscal realities facing Casowasco. During this time of Sabbath, the condition of buildings, and the systems to support ministry of the site have continued to be reviewed. Further the fiscal realities have been able to be more clearly defined. It is safe to say there are significant challenges ahead for the ministry at Casowasco.
Towards the end of the day, the team explored two proposals from outside consultants to help them in their work. After reviewing the proposals, the team selected to work with the group Ministry Incubators when they are ready to engage in the next phases of the work. Before employing the work of a consultant, the team invited each other to a two-week time of prayer and seeking where we would listen for the invitation of God for Casowasco.
The team invites everyone to do the same. Remember, seeking God does not mean what any individual thinks is best, rather it is an act of seeking after God, and assuming a posture by which we can hear from God. As you are praying, use the form here to share what you hear as God’s invitation.
At the conclusion of the day, the team settled on three action steps.
- Invest two weeks in prayer seeking God’s invitation.
- When the team is ready, work with Ministry Incubators to facilitate the process of deeper discernment.
- Continue the assessment of the physical and fiscal realities of Casowasco.
Finally, the team asks you to pray with and for them as they go about this sacred work. While the path cannot take too long to walk, the team is committed to moving at a pace which allows God to speak, and voices to be heard. This may take more time than first thought, however with a ministry such as Casowasco it is important to do our work well. Stay tuned for updates along the way as the team does their work.
Annual Conference 2025: Constitutional amendments
March 25, 2025 / By Tara Barnes / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
At annual conference this May, members will be voting on amendments to the United Methodist Constitution. Here’s what you need to know about this before our annual gathering in Syracuse.
What are constitutional amendments?
Like the U.S. Constitution, the constitution of The United Methodist Church is the denomination’s fundamental constituting and legal document. It can be found in The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, paragraphs 1 to 62. Amendments are changes to the constitution. Proposed amendments must first be supported by 2/3 of the voting delegates at General Conference, followed by approval—or ratification—by 2/3 of all voting members of every annual conference.
What is ratification?
In 2025, annual conferences will begin voting on the constitutional amendments passed by the 2024 General Conference. Ballots will be distributed during annual conference sessions, then votes will be tallied and sent to the Council of Bishops, who will track all recorded votes. Annual conference members can debate the amendments but cannot make changes.
Amendments are ratified via aggregate vote, meaning every individual yes and no vote is counted in the total. United Methodist Communications has an article and video that explains the ratification process in more detail. The Northern Illinois Conference has a handout sharing who can vote on constitutional amendments, and the New England Conference offers a helpful overview of the upcoming process. You can view additional resources on the Upper New York website here.
The ballots for the amendments are available for you to review now, provided by the Office of the General Secretary of the General Conference.
What constitutional amendments were approved by General Conference?
The amendments on which annual conferences will vote on are the following. The links will take you to more information. Worldwide regionalization requires a series of amendments, while the other three are simple changes to one paragraph. These amendments were submitted by the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters, the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women, the General Commission on Religion and Race, and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry:
- Worldwide regionalization
- Addition of “gender” and “ability” to paragraph 4, article 4
- Racial justice
- Requiring a local pastor’s degree to come from a University Senate-approved seminary in order to qualify to vote for General Conference delegates
What else should we know?
These amendments were approved by more than two-thirds of the 700 elected delegates from around the world and came from collaborative and representative bodies in the church. Steps have already been taken to restructure the church in a way that better balances decision-making power, as the General Conference has established as U.S. Regional Committee, comprising all U.S. delegates to the General and Jurisdictional conferences and tasked with reviewing all U.S.-related legislation before the quadrennial, global conference.
The final votes will be counted by the United Methodist Council of Bishops during their spring 2026 meeting and will be announced soon after. United Methodist News has a comprehensive article on the process of ratification and the content of the amendments as well.
The United Methodist Church strives to be connectional, and it takes each and every one of us to do achieve it.
Take time to review the amendments before annual conference, and know our General and Jurisdictional Conference delegation is available for questions as you prepare. Keep our beloved church in your prayers as we work together toward its strong, meaningful, Spirit-led future.
Tara Barnes is Binghamton District Lay Leader and director of denominational relations for United Women in Faith.
Update on CRM in Upper New York
March 19, 2025 / By Office of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
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Over the past 12 months, the Camp & Retreat Ministries (CRM) of United Methodists of Upper New York have experienced significant activity and movement. Each site has been actively involved in discerning the next steps to enhance their ministry's impact.
Summer Preparations and Group Hosting
- Skye Farm, Sky Lake, and Aldersgate have been gearing up for the summer camp season while also hosting groups.
- Asbury Retreat Center has been continuing to host groups and prepare for their summer season which looks different than the other sites.
- Casowasco continues to be in a season of Sabbath as a discernment team is beginning the next phase of the work to determine what the next right step is for ministry in that space. (Clergy respite opportunities still available. Contact Casowasco for more information.)
Leadership Transition
As we entered 2025, CRM experienced a significant leadership transition with the conclusion of the Rev. Dr. Pam Harris's tenure as Interim Executive Director. The site directors and CRM staff will collaborate with the Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens to further the critical work of our camp and retreat ministry. They will collaboratively assess, listen, and discern the optimal path for CRM's staffing strategy.
Achievements and Opportunities
Equally significant is the ongoing collaboration between the Camp & Retreat Ministries Board and the Conference Leadership Team. Over the past year, these teams have diligently worked to chart the next faithful steps for CRM, as well as for the ministry of each individual site. This collaboration has involved extensive data gathering, multiple conversations, and active listening to determine the best positioning for the CRM sites to achieve impactful ministry.
“We are deeply grateful for the steadfast leadership of Rev. Harris during her tenure as interim executive director. She navigated CRM operations through a remarkably challenging period,” stated Bishop Burgos. “As we forge ahead, I am inspired by the dynamic collaboration between CRM, the Conference Leadership Team, and the site directors. A profound sense of hope and new possibilities is emerging, as we collectively discern a path forward that will connect new, diverse, and younger generations with God, nature, and community for many years to come,” added Bishop Burgos.
Furthermore, there is much to celebrate regarding our ministries during this period. All five sites have successfully completed the necessary steps to establish foundations for receiving site-specific donations. These foundations, now set up as 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporations, are well-positioned to support the ministry at each site.
Some great ways you can get involved are:
- Pray for the people who will encounter and grow in Christ through CRM;
- Register campers for a summer camp program;
- Have a retreat for your church at one of the sites;
- Volunteer at one of the sites;
- Make a financial donation.
Stay tuned for more updates on the powerful ministry happening through our Camp & Retreat Ministries. You can visit the CRM website for more information on our summer camp programs here.
Nominate outstanding laity in Upper New York for evangelism award
March 17, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York Conference is now accepting nominations for The Foundation for Evangelism Laity Award. This award honors laity with exceptional evangelistic ministries that bring people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, encourage continued discipleship, and emphasize living out one’s faith in daily life. Each annual annual conference of The United Methodist Church and across other Wesleyan-tradition denominations present one award annually.
In previous years, The Foundation for Evangelism honored laity, clergy, and youth with the Harry Denman award. The Denman award recognized United Methodists for their commitment to consistently introducing others to the Good News of Jesus Christ. The Foundation retired this award at the end of 2024. Click here to view past recipients from across the country and click here to view recipients from Upper New York.
In recalling The Foundation for Evangelism's beginnings as a lay-led organization, its legacy award program was reimagined and relaunched to be a celebration across the larger Wesleyan-tradition family – lifting up lay people of all ages who have a passion for evangelism and are in their community inviting others to a transformed life in Jesus!
Award recipients from each regional body across the Wesleyan-tradition denominations will be considered for one of 20 national grants of $1,000 toward their evangelism ministry.
Click here to learn more about the award and click here to download a nomination form.
Nominations must be emailed to Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens at aaronbouwens@unyumc.org no later than Friday, April 25 to be considered for the 2025 awards.
A new era of snowshoe ministry at Skye Farm
March 13, 2025 / By Hannah Lasher, Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center Assistant Director / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Getting people outside and connected to Creation during summer camp can be as simple as stepping out the door. Doing the same during a snowy Adirondack winter, however, requires a bit more gear. And now, thanks to the generosity of Burnt Hills UMC, Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center once again has snowshoes for retreat guests to use to get outside and explore during the winter months.
Each fall, Burnt Hills UMC holds their Winter Sports Equipment & Ski Sale, an annual fundraiser and opportunity for community members to responsibly recycle used equipment. It’s an impressive operation, and the volunteers that make it happen are experts in sourcing and organizing the gear featured in the sale. This past October, the church held back a special collection of 25 pairs of new and used snowshoes to donate to Skye Farm.
Thanks to Burnt Hills UMC’s generosity, and the coordination of members Linda Noonan (long-time camp nurse at Skye Farm) and Greg Adams, Skye Farm has been able to start to bring back snowshoeing at winter retreats with modern equipment in a variety of sizes for kids and adults. The snowshoes got the most use so far this year during the Upper New 
York Young Adult Council’s winter retreat in February. Young adults from around the conference were able to spend time in fellowship and reflection, exploring Skye Farm’s trails and grounds.
Winter adventures with snowshoes have made meaningful memories for many in the Skye Farm community, and it’s a part of the culture of the camp that the staff are eager to revive. In the 1980s, Skye Farm led a series of winter camps for youth and adults that included snowshoe hikes in the High Peaks, winter camping and survival skill training, worship, and in later years, cross-country skiing to places like the old Santanoni Great Camp. Back in those days, Skye Farm winter campers mostly used wooden snowshoes laced with rawhide made by the Havlick Snowshoe Company in Gloversville, NY. With a larger footprint, a teardrop shape, and without the metal teeth of modern aluminum-framed 
snowshoes, they were great for deep snow and for glissading (doing a controlled slide down a steep snowy trail.) Winter camp leaders Harold Shippey and Joan Butler both fondly remember using the snowshoes in this way, almost like a snowboard or sled, sliding down the well-traveled trails from the summits of Cascade & Porter mountains.
Skye Farm still has several sets of these classic snowshoes, now upgraded to being meaningful decorations for the retreat lodges. The well-worn wood and now-brittle rawhide evoke memories like building mound houses in the snow, encountering a particularly nosy fisher cat in a snowy lean-to, eating birthday cake on top of a mountain, and learning, laughing, and worshiping together in the snow. With the new snowshoes from Burnt Hills, the possibility of future winter camps has opened back up for Skye Farm, with new memories just waiting to be made.
Important reminder regarding Form I-9
March 13, 2025 / By Tracy Rickett, UNY Human Resources Manager / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
All employers must complete and retain Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, for every person they hire for employment after Nov. 6, 1986. Employers must use the 08/01/23 edition of Form I-9. This edition will have an expiration date of either 07/31/2026 or 05/31/2027. Starting August 1, 2026, employers should use the Form I-9 version with the 05/31/2027 expiration date. Employers that don't complete and retain I-9 forms may face penalties.
To assist employers to meet compliance requirements, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a Handbook for Employers and free webinars.
Completing Form I-9
Section One: Employee Information and Attestation (Completed by employee)
- Section One collects identifying information about the employee and requires the employee to attest to whether they are a U.S. citizen, noncitizen national, lawful permanent resident or noncitizen authorized to work in the United States.
- It must be completed no later than the first day of employment. The employee may complete Section One earlier than the first day of employment if they have accepted an employment offer.
Section Two: Employer or Authorized Representative Review and Verification (Completed by employer)
- Section Two collects information about the employee's identity and employment authorization. The employee must present original documentation proving the employee's identity and employment authorization, which the employer must review.
- The employee provides the I-9 Form to the employer with Section One completed and original documents as listed on Page 2 of Form I-9.
- The employer must complete Section Two no later than the third business day of employment.
Supplement A, Preparer and/or Translator Certification for Section 1 (Completed by individuals who assist employees in completing or translating Section One.)
Supplement B: Reverification and rehires (Completed by employers for employees who are rehired or whose employment authorization requires reverification.)
- This should be completed prior to the date that the worker's employment authorization expires. Supplement B also may be used to record a name change.
- Employers should fill out Supplement B when rehire occurs or reverification is required.
Retention and Storage
I-9 Forms should be stored in a file separate from the personnel file and in a locked/secure location. Employers must maintain an employee’s Form I-9 for all active employees and for the required retention period after separation of an individual's employment (either three years after the date of hire or one year after the date employment ended, whichever is later).
To determine the retention period after separation of employment, USCIS provides an online tool for employers.
Inspection
Employers must make I-9 forms available for inspection upon request by officers of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), employees from the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) at the Department of Justice, and employees from the Department of Labor.
Employers will generally receive a written Notice of Inspection at least 3 days before the inspection. Officials may also use subpoenas and warrants to obtain the forms without providing 3 days’ notice.
When officials arrive to inspect an employer’s Form I-9, the employer must:
- Retrieve and reproduce electronically stored Form I-9 and any other documents the officer requests;
- Provide the officer with the necessary hardware and software to inspect electronic documents; and
- Provide the officer with any existing electronic summary of the information recorded on the employer’s Form I-9.
Employers who refuse or delay an inspection may be in violation of the law.
If you have questions regarding Form I-9 and compliance requirements, please contact Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Manager, at tracyrickett@unyumc.org or (315) 898-2017.
Upper New York welcomes Chelsea Connor
March 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Chelsea Connor joins Upper New York as a part-time Administrative Services Assistant, supporting the Finance, Benefits, and Human Resources Ministries. Chelsea began her new role on Monday, March 10.
A graduate of Keuka College with a degree in Communication, Chelsea brings a wealth of administrative experience to UNY, most recently as an Office Administrator in Rochester. With years of experience managing schedules, coordinating logistics, and ensuring smooth office operations, she is someone who truly enjoys helping others, streamlining processes, and creating efficiencies that make life easier for everyone she works with.
“When we interviewed Chelsea, we knew right away that she would be a great fit. She is a very caring person and brings a wealth of administrative experience that will offer some immediate relief to the Finance department. We are excited she chose to join us, and we are looking forward to working with her,” explained Bob Flask, UNY Conference Treasurer.
Please join us in welcoming Chelsea and look forward to the energy and expertise she brings to United Methodists of Upper New York.
Susquehanna & Upper New York Conferences: Partnering for lay leadership growth
March 5, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York and Susquehanna Conference Boards of Laity recently met via video conferencing to collaborate on strengthening lay leadership and expanding ministry opportunities in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area. "The meeting was extremely blessed," said Jessica White, Upper New York Lay Leader. "We met to see how we can walk together in ministry. Collaboration will undoubtedly strengthen leadership and enhance ministry opportunities. Regular meetings and a commitment to equipping and empowering lay members will make a lasting impact."
Joyce Davis, Susquehanna Lay Leader, emphasized updating lay training programs for current needs and leveraging digital tools like Zoom for connectivity and community building. "There was a lot of enthusiasm for figuring out ways to strengthen laity," she noted. She also highlighted a thriving chapel initiative for boys at a middle school as an example of innovative ministry beyond church walls being led by laity.
Leaders discussed next steps, including setting priorities, creating a joint strategy, and possibly organizing an in-person laity conference. White emphasized, "We are envisioning new ways to equip lay leaders and answer the call of lay ministry." Both boards plan to share resources and develop structured training programs to adapt and expand lay ministry.
"I envision clergy and laity collaborating to move the mission forward, in a ministry that flows out of their unique gifts, skills, and life experiences that are complementary to one another,” commented Bishop Héctor. “The organic synergy that’s building between the two Laity Boards is a clear sign of the new thing God is doing,” he added. “I am deeply grateful for the visionary leadership of Joyce and Jessica and look forward to journeying alongside them and collaborating to strengthen our laity missional engagement at all levels of the episcopal area.”
White and Davis remain committed to this partnership, paving the way for a stronger and more connected lay leadership community.
Africa University Pilgrimage Log
March 5, 2025 / By Rev. Jeff Childs / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's note: On February 12-21, 2025, a group of 31 United Methodists flew across the globe for Africa to see and experience a ministry born of the radical generosity and faithfulness of United Methodists and others. The following blog was submitted by the Rev. Jeff Childs as he shares his experiences during this pilgrimage to Africa University.
Day 1 and 2: February 12-13, 2025
Despite considerable snow on the roads and at Dulles airport, 31 intrepid pilgrims gathered for a 14-hour flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. One traveler had fallen at the Albany airport and broken her hip and had to have surgery, but the Africa University Development Office has assured her she will be able to join another pilgrimage with one of the other annual conferences in the future. With an additional 7-hour time zone difference we arrived in Africa on Thursday morning. And after a couple hours at the airport, we flew for another 4 hours on to Mutare, the capitol of Zimbabwe.
It was an extremely long day, as we waited to get on and off the planes and waited to get through customs at the airport in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe. For those of you who have never experienced it, it is not easy sleeping on a plane, but we each napped as best we could. As you can imagine we were exhausted by the time we landed the next morning. After the frigid snowy experience as we left Dulles Airport in DC, it was a blessing to get out of the airport and feel some 70-degree weather and warm sunshine as we boarded a coach for a short ride to our hotel.
The Cresta Lodge, where we stayed for the first night, was fantastic. The staff were friendly and helpful, getting us registered quickly and set up in our rooms for the night. We were encouraged to stay awake for a couple of hours until dinner and resist the temptation of falling asleep in a real bed and throwing off our sleep schedules even more than they already had been on the overnight flight. We ended our day with the blessing of a tremendous buffet of African foods and deserts in the hotel dining room.
Friday morning, we are to reload onto the bus for a four-hour drive to the city of Mutare where Africa University is located. I will share more about that tomorrow. But as I close, I want to thank all of the congregations, family, and friends who are keeping us in prayer on this pilgrimage and also taking care of things back home for all of us while we are gone. You are in our hearts and minds as we experience this trip of a lifetime! Thank you.
Day 3: February 14
The day began with the sounds of various birds I could not identify singing. It sounded much more pleasant than traffic and snowplows going by back home. We had breakfast at the hotel and then loaded back onto the bus to take us to Africa University. Everything was lush and green as we passed by fields of corn, tobacco, and other grains. There were cattle with long horns and goats at several places along the way and individual produce stands with tomatoes and other garden produce. We were stopped at various check points and a few toll booths. As we stopped at one a motorcade passed us with police cars with sirens blaring and black SUV’s and a black sedan in the center. Enias, our tour guide, thought it was the vice-president’s motorcade as the one for the president would be much larger. The further south we drove, we encountered huge granite boulders, some stacked precariously upon one another.
We had a stop at a place called Halfway House, because it was halfway between Harare and Mutare. We got a group photo and had some time to shop in a few small shops set up there. We were advised to mostly look as it would give us an idea of what we might find elsewhere on the trip and if we never found anything better, we could buy it here when we return on Monday afternoon. I did see a wide-brimmed hat that I wanted to keep the sun and rain off during the trip. Others found a few items or some snacks and coffee.
As we drove further south, we began to see the terrain change into foothills and mountains. Enias pointed out that there were strip mines along the mountains for gold and diamonds. I was going to pick up some small rocks as cheap souvenirs, but now I am looking for nuggets! Then we finally arrived and took a meandering drive up and into the campus passing through the fields of crops grown by the university’s agriculture department. We drove through the Stone entryway which was built in memory of Rev. James Spear from the Upper New York conference. (Two of his daughters are with us on this trip.) And then we arrived at the Ubuntu Retreat Center, where we unloaded and settled in and had lunch. Then we had a one-hour walking tour of part of the main campus guided by Wesley and several AU students.
To help us get to know one another better, a couple of people asked if we could take time to introduce ourselves and then to pair up with someone that we did not know to ask 3 questions about them to be able to introduce them to the group at dinnertime. We then had leisure time which some of us used to rest, take short hikes, or try to figure out how to get onto the internet. Two AU students working behind the desk at the Retreat Center figured it out and printed out the new instructions for those of us who are technically challenged! After dinner several of the couples introduced their new friend to the rest of us. Then we had free time for the rest of the evening.
Day 4: February 15
When we began this trip, I asked my fellow pilgrims what they were hoping for during this trip. By now some of those hopes and dreams have happened by just coming here. Some others we will accomplish tomorrow when we are to meet the students receiving the scholarships from the million dollars that we had raised as a conference over a period of years. I shared with them that my hope was to find postcards to send home. So far, I have not been successful, but I now have 30 other people helping me look! I wrote this hymn as I reflected on hopes and sharing them with others who might be able to help us or encourage us to achieve them. It is to the Common Meter 8686 like “Amazing Grace” or “O, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” but this one I used the tune now associated with “In Christ There Is no East or West.”
Is There a Hope for You Today
Jeffrey B. Childs 2/14/2025
(Tune: McKee UMH 548)
Is there a hope, for you today,
A desire, on your heart?
Lift these up to God when you pray.
In prayer is where we start.
Share your desire with others who,
Might help you with this quest,
And ask them about their hopes too.
Together you'll be blessed.
When this day is finally through,
Again reflect and pray.
Thank God for all that you did do.
Then rest for the next day.
Today was a very full day. Our schedule was rearranged as the Vice Chancelor of Africa University, who was to have met us on Monday, had to reschedule and meet with us this morning. He spoke to us about the importance of the school and the importance of being pan-African rather than many other universities in Africa which are only for students in their country. I heard there are 28 countries represented in the student body at AU. He also talked about the importance of the relationship with the United Methodist Church and the support they receive from individuals, churches, and conferences, like the scholarships our conference had supplied as well as the Constuction of buildings. The dream or vision is to get all of the students housed at the university. Currently, some are living in rented apartments in the community and commuting to school. They were pleased this year that they were able to build a dormitory for female students, which allowed 92 of them to now live on campus. He invited us to consider helping to build another dormitory through the Upper New York Annual Conference. In our question-and-answer time with him, the bishop raised the question about the impact of the withdrawal of the USAID funds and its impact on the research in the areas of malaria and tuberculosis. Somewhere around $1.2 million was cut off which shut down the research into prevention and treatment of these diseases and impacted 40 people who had been employed in those programs who did not get paid in January and will not get paid this month nor for the foreseeable future. The bishop then shared his remorse and embarrassment for what had been done by the freezing of that aid, and we all concurred with his sincere apology.
We then took a bus trip across the valley to the area known as Old Mutare where The United Methodist Church originally set up a hospital, a children's home, and developed boarding schools and schools for children in the community. We met with the hospital administrator who talked about the ministry there to care for people and someone asked about the maternity ward and caring for young mothers and children. He said they assist with about 1000 births a year, some at the hospital and others with travelling nurses, midwives, and even doctors going to the homes.
Then in the afternoon we went to meet the district superintendent at his office in downtown Mutare. He said there were 55 churches in the district with 15 in the city and 40 scattered out in the rural areas. Then we drove up to the Hilltop United Methodist Church, which is the mother church of the whole area, because it was the first Methodist Church, and all of the others were branched off from it. We were blessed to hear the music of their choir rehearsing and then the pastor and lay leaders shared with us a bit of their story, their passion, their ministry, and impact in the community. We ended the day with a mountaintop experience at the edge of Zimbabwe where we could look over into Mozambique and the surrounding mountains. We had been told there would be a few artisans there crafting figurines out of soapstone. Several people were pleased to find souvenirs there.
After supper, a few of us walked down the steps to the Chapel where the Africa University choir was rehearsing for Sunday morning. A few from our group had gone the night before and met some of the students singing that night who invited them to come back and to sing a song to the choir. Several years ago, we were blessed to hear the choir sing when they toured the US and came to our annual conference session. It was a joy to hear the choir sing again. When they were finished with their rehearsal, they invited us to sing, and we shared the song “Sanctuary” with them.
I thought that ended a very long day. But I was wrong! I had forgotten one of my hopes and dreams was to see the Southern Cross - a collection of four stars roughly in the shape of a cross which points to the South. Some of us in the northern hemisphere know how to look for the Big Dipper and use the two stars at the end of the dipper to point to the north star. But down below the equator there is no south star, but by locating these four stars and then extrapolating down the vertical beam of the cross four equivalent measures of the length of that cross it marks the spot on the horizon that is due south from where you are standing. It took a while to find it, but I was blessed to finally see the Southern Cross!
Day 5: February 16
Today we started with worship. We have one not feeling well and so a couple stayed behind at the lodge on campus where we have been staying to be with her. They went to the service at the large Chapel at AU. The rest of us headed on the bus to go to worship at St. Peters UMC in downtown Mutare. Along the way, we stopped and had a group picture in front of the campus entryway dedicated to the Rev. James Spear of the former North Central Conference.
We entered a vibrant church to the music of the choir. We were ushered down to the front pews and the bishop was escorted up to the platform with the two pastors and various lay leaders of the church. I was expecting some hymns sung to familiar tunes from the UM Hymnal, but they were all African hymns and much of the service was translated for me by one of the men of the congregation who sat next to me. There were typical announcements and then they took time to invite new people to come forward and introduce themselves followed by a woman coming forward to join the church and a couple other people coming forward to be blessed as they were moving and leaving the congregation.
One of the pastors got up and for about an hour explained that their bishop is retiring (I think) and that they will be going through a process to elect a new one and that may cause conflict. He read a lengthy explanation and had time for the congregation to ask questions. It took about an hour. Earlier I had looked back and noticed the huge balcony was mostly empty with just a few children seated there. But after this Sunday school must have let out as it was mostly filled with children.
A lay leader read the scripture Matthew 17:19-20 about having faith the size of a mustard seed. Then the second pastor got up and preached her sermon. The English translation was offered by my new friend, Marcus, with the gist that with faith in God the mustard seed will grow and all is possible, and nothing is too big for that little mustard seed of faith. There were two offerings and people were invited to come down the center aisle and support the church by putting their offering in one container for the church or the other one for the mission work of the church. Bishop Hector and his wife Jazelis were introduced to the congregation and the bishop was asked to share a blessing. The service ran for about 3 hours and then we were invited next door to an addition they were trying to build onto their existing building. After hearing from the pastor and building committee members who were there with us the bishop again extended a blessing on the work already done and yet to be done.
For a special lunch we drove out to an old country manor that has been turned into a B&B with a great dining facility and tables out on the veranda overlooking the gardens. As with all the meals we have been served in Zimbabwe, this one was also a buffet style and was outstanding. I got the first pot of coffee which was not the greatest, but later I was offered a cup at one of the other tables and it was real coffee! After lunch we had leisure time to walk around the grounds and some of us found our way in back of the building to the orchid garden. There were exquisite flowers everywhere.
Then we came back to the lodge where we are staying and though we had just eaten a late afternoon dinner, two hours later we were to meet the students who are receiving the scholarships and get acquainted with them. Of the 12 students we were told the one graduate student was off campus and would not be joining us but 9 did and were invited to eat and visit with people connected with the people for whom the scholarships were named. Four of those people and two children of others are actually on the trip. We are hoping the two students who did not show up will be able to join us for lunch tomorrow before we leave the campus.
After that the day ended with talking about a “Love Offering” we will take in the morning and the decision was to support buying new shoes for the 48 students at the Children’s Home, critical needs at Africa University and to help the pregnant women who come to the Old Mutare Mission Hospital.
Day 6, Monday, February 17
This was our final day at Africa University. There were options for people to choose from and so a few went back to the Children’s Home to spend more time with the children. The older children were in school, but they had a great time with the younger children. Others took the option of sitting in on a lecture or just walking around the campus meeting and talking with students. The bookstore was open, and they had copies of just one postcard showing four pictures of the school. Some of us also went to learn about the malaria study that had been going on at the school until the USAID cut stopped their funding. As I understood it, they were researching which strains of mosquitoes were carrying the disease in various locations and what treated insect nets or insecticides were most effective.
At breakfast we gathered a “Love Offering” to help with any critical needs at the school. It used to be called the Toothpaste Fund as it was started to provide oral hygiene products to students who couldn’t afford them. Now it is used for any need that might prevent a student from studying or staying in school. Some wanted money to go buy new shoes for the 48 children at the Children’s Home, the director will ensure they are purchased, and we are to get a picture of all the students with their new shoes when they get them. And lastly some wanted to support the work done at the hospital to care for pregnant women awaiting giving birth. We collected $1,914 which the receptionist and I walked over to the finance office to be deposited. While they were double counting the money, I sat and talked with the finance officer in her office. She was very grateful that we had come to AU and that our conference had been so supportive with scholarships. Then I told her that I had been talking with students and trading US dollars for currency from their home countries, but I had none from Zimbabwe. She explained with tremendous inflation rates that money in Zimbabwe changes every so often and that old money loses its value. She remembered she had some in a storeroom and sent an assistant to get it for me. I thought I might get a couple bills to bring home but she had a huge envelope filled with bills and coins. I instantly became a billionaire as I now have a ten billion dollar bill.
Then we had lunch and loaded up for a return trip to Harare with a morning flight to Victoria Falls. More about that tomorrow.
Day 7: February 18
We were up early and checked out of the hotel and headed for the airport to fly to Victoria Falls. It took a while to get through the airport check in and security, and then at the gate we were escorted onto the tarmac where we walk, or were pushed in wheel chairs, out to the plane. It has been a long time since I had last done that! It was roughly a one-hour flight, and here we were at one of the seven wonders of the world. We quickly loaded into a bus and were driven to the falls. For about 3 hours we wandered along the walkway looking at the 16 points where the water of the Zambezi River cascades over the rocks throwing up a mist that we could see from the plane as we approached in the plane. The mist was quite thick the further we went and most of us were soaking wet if we did not have ponchos or umbrellas.
Besides the falls, we also saw some flowers growing near the path and several gorgeous butterflies that people stopped to photograph. There were a few monkeys and then as some of us took the path back to the parking lot we encountered a family of baboons. A predominant male grabbed the bishops backpack and opened it up taking out a small can of potato chips that we had as a snack on the plane. He sat in the middle of the walkway and ate almost the whole can before moving off. Then a female holding a baby came and ate the crumbs that were left over. Once she moved off I went and retrieved the umbrella and poncho that had also been taken and the empty can and we walked away quickly.
After getting everyone back on the bus we were off to a late lunch at the nearby Lookout Café. It overlooked the gorge just down below the falls. 
A beautiful setting and some claimed it was the best meal of the trip so far. Then we got to our hotel for a quick check-in, and we were off for a sunset river cruise. I was hoping to see a number of birds and was not disappointed! But beyond that there were a number of hippos mostly submerged, but snouts and ears would pop up out of the water and then disappear as we drove by. Then about the time we turned around to return there was a crocodile swimming across the river. As we disembarked the sun was just setting, and we ended a most memorable day. Back at the hotel, many of us were not hungry and preferred to get some rest in our rooms rather than having a late dinner. I did go down to check on people and then to check with the staff about breakfast and ordered it to go for tomorrow as we are going on a safari to see the animals in the morning. The last thing of the day was to return to the room to see that the maid had come in and hung a mosquito net around our beds! I remembered all those years of raising money to provide them through the “Nothing but Nets” campaign and here at the hotel near the river I was sleeping under one!
Day 8: February 19
We began early for a day safari. Breakfast to go was prepared for us by the hotel and we quickly entered the bus to take us to Botswana for our adventure. There was an hour drive of nearly 60 miles from Victoria Falls to the border. There were mostly brush and small trees, not a dense jungle. But what I noticed after a while was there were no houses or people along the road, not even a village or town that we passed through on the journey. There were no real side roads, only a handful of dirt roads or driveways leading off into the brush. We had a three-step process at the border. First we went though border security on the Zimbabwe side, then we stopped and had to step into a tray of liquid to disinfect our shoes for Hoof and Mouth disease, and finally we went through security at the Botswana side. To save on paying taxes on the bus crossing we left one bus on the Zimbabwe side and picked up two smaller busses to take us on the Botswana side.
For there it was a short ride to the Chobe National Park where we got into five open air jeeps to give everyone a good view of the park and the wild animals. There were several herds of impalas, and then we encountered our first herd of Elephants up close as they came out of the brush and short trees and crossed the road in front of us down to the river. As we worked our way down to the river more and more could be seen and in the grasses along the river and a grassy island in the middle of the river. We were blessed to see a few individual males but mostly family herds of female elephants with a few babies and other younger ones. There were also cape buffalo and hippos, some in the water and some out on the ground. We saw many birds, large and small, along the water and in the trees. Each driver had a radio and was in communication with the others as to the locations of various animals that were spotted. Since it is a free-range area, they could be anywhere. We drove to one spot where one by one the jeeps drove off the road and up among the trees and then backed out, to allow us each to see a small pride of lions just lying in the shade under a tree.
We all stopped under the shade of a few trees at a turnaround spot, and all got out to stretch our legs. The drivers had coolers with bottled water and soft drinks on ice as well as hot water for instant hot coffee or tea in tin cups along with some dry biscuits that were like biscotti. As we talked with one another about what all we had seen, we heard one group had seen giraffes that the rest of us had missed. So, after we finished our break, several jeeps headed back along one of the dirt roads looking for the giraffes and we found a small herd enjoying the leaves among a clump of trees by the road. We also encountered a few wart hogs and several more small herds of impalas and elephants as we wound our way back to the entrance of the park.
After our adventure we had lunch at the Cresta Mowana Lodge. From there we walked down to the river for a two-hour boat safari. There we got a close-up view of a crocodile just sunning itself on the shore. There were more hippos in and out of the water as we rode along. When we left Africa University and began this portion of our trip, the bishop had encouraged us to take this as a sabbath time to relax and enjoy. Here we were blessed to enjoy God’s creation on land and on the water.
Then it was time to head back to the buses to head for the border. It was only a two-step process this way as we did not have to step into the disinfectant but did have to have our passports stamped again at both checkpoints. Then back onto the other bus for the return trip to the hotel. Five of us had had enough for the day and opted not to go on for the evening’s adventure. But the rest, after a fifteen-minute break to freshen up, got back on the bus.
We then were driven to the Safari Lodge Boma for their famous dinner with African dancing and a drumming spectacular. Due to an early morning departure the group decided to end the evening a little earlier than planned to come back and get rested. For most of us this was a great conclusion to our trip. Twenty of us will be leaving the balmy temperatures and must return to the reality of winter in upper NY! Eleven will be heading on for a couple days in South Africa.
Day 9-10: February 20-21
This is our last day in Zimbabwe and we were up before dawn, checked out of the hotel, and loaded in the buses with our luggage before 6am! We were driven to the Stanley and Livingston National Reserve to look for rhinos. They are protected from poachers inside these huge fenced-in parks. There was no guarantee that we would see one, but the best time is early morning while it is cooler. We first drove by a small family of zebras and impalas grazing together. Then the search for the rhinos began. 
We crisscrossed the reserve in four large jeeps on some back trails and dirt roads. It had rained over night and we had to ford a stream that was overflowing the narrow bridge. In the end I think most of us crossed it three or four times. Finally, the driver was alerted that ne had been seen and we drove over to look. I only caught a glimpse as it moved back behind some dense underbrush. A short while later we responded to a sighting of a mother and child, and off we went down muddy trails and across the bridge. The jeeps converged on the scene and we were finally blessed to see the rhinos eating the leaves off the bushes maybe fifty yards from the road.
There were a few giraffes in the reserve and we came up behind one standing in the road. Fortunately it moved off fairly quickly as we continued our search for the rhinos. There are only eleven of them in this particular park which was fairly large. With all the brush it was hard to see more than a few feet from the road in several areas, and there were many places for them to hide.
After a couple hours of driving all over, looking for animals, we were invited to a brunch prepared over open fires out in the bush. It was a great morning for our last day in Africa. After lunch we headed to the Victoria Falls airport for the trip home for 19 of us and an extended trip on to South Africa for the other twelve pilgrims. We said farewell to one another as we went through security at the airport but talked of reconvening maybe on Zoom or for many of us with a presentation at the annual conference session. Work is being done to help us share one another’s photos electronically. Each of us is planning for making one or two presentations to our supporters and friends back home in the coming weeks.
Those of us flying back were surprised to find we were not on direct flights as we had been coming over. So, on our way north to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia we went south to South Africa to drop off and pick up passengers on our way. And coming back from Addis Ababa we stopped in Rome, Italy to change pilots in the middle of the night before flying back to Dulles airport. It was a longer flight but did not feel as bad as the one there last week, maybe because this time we knew what to expect. But in the end, I believe that a good time was had by all. I am hopeful that one of the South African pilgrims can add their reflections to that experience.
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Jeff Childs
Greetings from S. AFRICA
We arrived in South Africa after a wonderful week in Zimbabwe and an especially amazing very early morning seeing wildlife (Eland, Zebras, Giraffes, Elephants and Black Rhinoceros as well as numerous birds etc..) followed by a delicious "Bush Breakfast". On our very full short flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg I noticed a couple about our age and the man was wearing a Yamaka. It started me thinking about the current terrible situation of Gaza and Israel, our visit to a concentration camp to the holocaust near Prague, my first visit to the middle east 55 years ago after the 6-day war and the stories of Hitler, Nazis as well as WW 2. We were the last ones off the plane and the last ones on the overcrowded bus to the terminal. I barely fit on carrying our backpacks when suddenly I heard a voice saying give me backpacks helping me to put them where the luggage could go so I was able to grab a handrail. As we swayed and bumped along to the terminal, I felt this wonderful feeling that this bus was for a moment what the world could be. All getting along and helping each other. Today we will learn about the horrors of Apartheid and the life of Nelson Mandela in his hometown of Soweto. Tomorrow, we will journey back to our wonderful country where I have lived the America Dream committed to work to maintain it the beacon of Freedom, Hope and Liberty until my last breath!!
Peace,
Roger Ellis
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: 2025 Lent Message - A Call to Holiness
March 4, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was shared with United Methodists of Upper New York and Susquehanna Episcopal Area on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
"Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy." Leviticus 19:2
Dear siblings in Christ,
Grace and peace from our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy One, be with you.
Throughout history, Christians have sought to live in response to God's call to holiness. This journey is often challenging—not because it is hard to comprehend, but because we have made it needlessly complicated.
Many people carry with them an incorrect understanding of holiness, making it seem unattainable. Others have encountered toxic expressions of so-called holiness, where “belief” is disconnected from healthy practice. This creates a distorted image that harms, confuses, and discourages.
As we begin this Lent season, I want to briefly reflect on God’s call to holiness as we journey together through Lent as United Methodists in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area.
God’s Call to Holiness
First, it is crucial to be clear that God’s call to holiness is not reserved for a select few. It extends to all followers of Christ—clergy and laity alike. God told Moses, "Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them…be holy." (Leviticus 19:2).
To be holy does not mean to be "holier-than-thou,” engaging in meaningless rituals, dry religiosity, or rigidly observing traditions. The biblical call to holiness is nothing else but an invitation to be imitators of Jesus Christ. As the Apostle Peter wrote, "Be holy in all you do, just as he who called you is Holy." (1 Peter 1:15).
A holy person professes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, receives His love, worships Him, lives in obedience to His commands, serves through their spiritual gifts, skills, and resources, AND treats their neighbors with love, mercy, compassion, and justice, as Jesus taught and modeled for us. Biblical holiness involves being welcoming, loving, kind, merciful, compassionate, honest, trustworthy, and fair in all dealings with others (Galatians 5:22-23).
Holiness is primarily cultivated within the church community, but it comes alive in the world through our actions. Nowhere in Scripture are we told to isolate ourselves from the world to avoid “contamination.” Being holy calls us to live in the world, knowing we are called to a more excellent way of life in Christ (John 17:16-18).
Jesus said to His disciples, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14-16
In our Wesleyan tradition, living in holiness is not an option we pick if and when convenient; it is God's expectation for each of us. It is not merely intellectual consent to a set of beliefs, doctrines, or rules—it is a way of life driven by the Holy Spirit—the life of Christ in us (personal holiness) and through us (social holiness), making a positive difference in our communities and the world.
Striving for holiness is the mark of the people called Methodists. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, asserted that living in holiness is not a distant aspiration or hope but something possible now through Christ’s sanctifying grace, for "it is God who works in you [us] to will and to act to fulfill his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13).
Embracing Holiness
In this season, the Holy Spirit is urging us, as United Methodists, to be holy people. To reclaim the joy of the Lord. To grow deeper roots in our faith through spiritual practices like worship, prayer, personal and communal study of the Bible, and to shine brightly with Christ’s light through bold lives of compassion and justice.
If you have felt the weight of incorrect definitions of holiness or been disheartened by toxic expressions, know that true biblical holiness is rooted in love, compassion, and justice—not hate, judgment, selfishness. Holiness means loving God with all our hearts and minds and extending that love to all our neighbors in the way of Christ.
This Lent, let’s reflect and act on the following questions:
- What misconceptions or toxic experiences do you [we as a church] need to let go of to fully embrace God’s call to holiness?
- How can you [we] become more intentional in nurturing your [our] faith and relationship with Jesus Christ through personal and communal worship, prayer, studying Scriptures, and other spiritual practices?
- What concrete acts of love, compassion, and justice is God calling you [us] to this season?
More than ever, our communities and the world need to experience the healing and liberating love of Christ through followers of Jesus that embrace God’s call to holiness, and spread faith, love, compassion and justice everyday and everywhere.
This Lent season, let’s join in praying,
Beloved God, in whom all holiness is found, thank you for the privilege of calling us your children and being Your People. Forgive us for the times we are negligent and set aside your mandate to be holy—to be different, a light shining in the darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, plant your vision of holiness in Christ in our minds and hearts and help us put it into practice in our daily lives. In a world filled with hate, judgment, selfishness, greed, and injustice, may we embody your love, grace, compassion, and justice. You who put in us both the desire and the doing, help us surrender our arguments and excuses and claim the abundant life that Jesus made possible for all through His life, ministry, death, and resurrection.
May this Lent season be a time of self-examination and deep prayer that produce a renewed desire to be holy, as we seek to live the gospel and embody God’s love with our neighbors in all places.
Thanks for all you do to make the love of Jesus Christ visible in your communities and the world.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
of The United Methodist Church
Welcoming the Stranger: Christ Church’s Ongoing Mission with Journey’s End
February 25, 2025 / By Rev. Daven Oskvig, Christ United Methodist Church in Amherst / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
"For I was a stranger and you welcomed me." (Matthew 25:35)
For 26 years, Christ Church Amherst has lived out these words by extending a compassionate welcome to refugees seeking a new beginning. Through its enduring partnership with Journey’s End Refugee Services in Buffalo, the church has embraced families from across the globe, providing them with safe homes, essential resources, and a supportive community.
Since 1999, Christ Church has partnered with the Christian community-based organization and assisted them in their mission of welcoming refugees without regard to ethnic origin or creed and to assist them to become healthy, independent, contributing members of the community. Christ Church has co-sponsored nine families and set up two additional apartments for new neighbors from countries around the world- receiving, welcoming, and furnishing homes for refugees from Bosnia, Sudan, Somalia, Burma, Cuba, Iraq, Congo, and Syria. Last year marked the eleventh family directly assisted by the people of Christ Church. These families arrived with skills and vocations which make the Buffalo community stronger – teachers, engineers, interpreters, mechanics, plumbers, custodians, tailors, entrepreneurs, and advocates for social justice.
As Executive Orders have been signed with a stroke of a pen, it has adversely impacted migrant, immigrant, refugee, and BIPOC communities. Now, more than ever, partners are needed to use more than their skills in collecting goods, appointing homes, and providing welcome. Voices are needed to speak up for and with our migrant, immigrant, refugee, and BIPOC friends. These families are an integral part of successful, active and contributing members of our communities with so many others longing for the same opportunities. Jesus was clear in his message that as we do to another, so we do to Christ.
Journey’s End pivots to seek private funding and strengthen employment, education, and legal services to those who have already been resettled in Western New York, Christ Church will continue our longstanding partnership and hope others will come alongside us at this time. To learn more about Journey’s End Refugee Services, click here.
United Methodist Church bishops issue call for prayer and support for Ukraine
February 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The Council of Bishops released the following statement on Friday, February 21, 2025, marking three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The statement expresses solidarity, support, and prayers for the people of Ukraine and The United Methodist Church of Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
On this solemn anniversary marking three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we, the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church extend our support and hope in the midst of the ongoing conflict and war.
We stand with you in prayer and in solidarity. The people of The United Methodist Church mourn with you—for the lives that have been lost, the families who have been displaced, the homes that have been destroyed and the communities torn apart by war.
We acknowledge the enduring pain, fear and uncertainty you face, yet we also witness the remarkable strength and hope you continue to demonstrate. Scripture reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). We trust that God is ever near, upholding you in your grief and surrounding you with grace.
We urge all United Methodists around the world to continue to pray for and support The United Methodist Church of Ukraine and the people of Ukraine.
We pray for God’s intervention to end the violence and lead the nations’ leaders toward justice, so that peace may prevail, communities be restored, and families reunited.
We pray for peace, a deep lasting peace that comes from God’s justice and mercy. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
May you draw strength from God our creator, who walks with you in suffering and remains ever faithful. May the prayers and support of United Methodists around the world bring you comfort and hope.
Grace and Peace,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
Conference Office closed on February 14, 2025
February 14, 2025 / By
Due to inclement weather, the Conference Office in Liverpool will be closed today, February 14, with staff working remotely. The office will also be closed on Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents' Day and will reopen on Tuesday, February 18.
United Methodists join suit against Trump policy
February 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodists have joined over two dozen Christian and Jewish organizations in a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The suit challenges a Trump administration policy permitting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to conduct raids in "sensitive locations," including houses of worship. The plaintiffs argue that this policy infringes upon their religious freedom and hinders their mission to care for migrants.
United Methodists of Upper New York are represented in the lawsuit as members of the New York State Council of Churches (NYSCOC), a named plaintiff in the lawsuit. "Bishop Héctor directed me to work closely with the NYSCOC to offer our full support to this effort," said the Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, Assistant to the Bishop. Rev. Gottschalk-Fielding serves as the bishop's representative to NYSCOC and is a member of the NYSCOC's lead team. Though the Upper New York Conference could not join as a named plaintiff in the lawsuit, several of the conference's congregations provided anonymous affidavits substantiating the harm caused by the executive order allowing ICE agents to enter church properties. "I'm grateful to these congregations and deeply thankful for the way Peter Cook and the New York State Council of Churches have helped us take a stand for justice," said Rev. Gottschalk-Fielding.
What are Ministry Shares?
February 12, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Do you know the strength in the United Methodist Connection? When several Upper New York churches were severely damaged after the “Blizzard of the Century” in December 2022, a church in Cape Cod, Massachusetts collected $30,000 and split it evenly among three churches in the Buffalo-area to help with the clean-up efforts. This church is not part of the Upper New York Conference, but members felt compelled to help. This is one example of the power of the United Methodist Connection. It’s United Methodist churches helping other United Methodist churches. Plain and simple: it’s people helping people.
When you support your church through a financial donation, you may not realize that some of that money is going to help other people and churches. Every church across the connection supports The United Methodist Church’s mission and ministry through Ministry Shares. Also known as apportioned giving, Ministry Shares are divided and distributed throughout the church locally and globally either through the General or the Upper New York Conference Connectional Ministry.
General Connectional Ministry dollars support seven General Church Funds and the Northeastern Jurisdiction:
- World Service Fund- the financial lifeline of The United Methodist Church that helps build new churches, prepare clergy and lay leaders, increase the number of young clergy and pay missionary salaries, general agencies that support local congregations and annual conferences.
- Ministerial Education Fund- helps people become ordained ministers by funding 13 United Methodist seminaries.
- Black College Fund- a program of The United Methodist Church that supports 11 historically Black colleges and universities related to the church.
- Africa University- the first private, fully accredited institution of higher learning on the African continent.
- Episcopal Fund- supports bishops as they lead the ministry of congregations. The fund pays for bishops' salaries, pensions, health benefits, office and travel expenses, and a portion of bishops' office staff.
- General Administration Fund- this fund helps support General Conference Sessions, Judicial Council, Historical artifacts, General Commission on Archives and History, and unity and interreligious concerns of the General Commission of Christian Unity and Interreligious ConcernsInterdenominational Cooperation Fund- helps support ecumenical efforts with other Christian faiths by giving United Methodists a presence and voice in the activities of several national and worldwide ecumenical organizations.
- Northeastern Jurisdiction- the Upper New York Conference is part of the Northeast Jurisdiction and is responsible for electing bishops, determining conference boundaries, establishing boards, promoting the church’s interests, and more.
Upper New York Conference Connectional Ministry dollars support everything United Methodists of Upper New York do together: from planting new faith communities among refugee communities, to providing summer youth camping opportunities at our camp and retreat centers, to appointing called and equipped pastors to local churches, to deploying trained emergency response teams to disaster sites across the state. We are able to do so much because we share resources with one another. Click here to download the 2024 Ministry Shares Allocation document and learn more about where your ministry dollars are invested.
Click here to download a printable brochure explaining everything you need to know about Ministry Shares for 2025.
UNY Conference Leadership Team focuses on innovation and sustainability
February 11, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
In early February, the UNY Conference Leadership Team (CLT) gathered to continue its meaningful work on behalf of United Methodists of Upper New York.
The meeting included strategic updates from the Executive Staff Team and Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez. Also, the CLT continued its discussions on the net asset project, which is steadily progressing. This project aims to create alternative, permanent sources of income to support UNY resourcing initiatives.
Managing the numerous asset funds from the legacy annual conferences has been one of the longstanding challenges of Upper New York. These funds were originally designated either internally or by donors within the predecessor conferences and required extensive review and reconciliation. Given the complexity of merging financial records from multiple sources, ensuring accuracy and proper stewardship took considerable time. Since 2010, all compiled funds have been carefully tracked, with a clear record of their balances and any accrued interest. These funds have also been consistently included in Upper New Conference’s regular audit process, including the recently completed 2023 audit, which has provided the Finance Ministry with the most up-to-date totals for all assets.
“As stewards of the mission, we are seeking innovative ways to leverage our resources to expand our capacity for resourcing leaders and congregations without increasing shared ministry allocations to our local churches,” said Bishop Burgos.
The CLT also collaborated with the UNY Camp & Retreat Ministries Board to explore strategies for fostering a thriving and sustainable camp and retreat ministry in Upper New York. Both teams are set to reconvene in the spring to continue their collaborative efforts.
The purpose of the CLT is to serve as the steward of the mission and vision of the Upper New York Conference ministry while providing missional clarity and alignment within the Conference. Learn more about the role of the CLT by clicking here.
Fighting for food justice: A Methodist call to action
February 11, 2025 / By Deaconess Susan Silhan, Healing and Wholeness Ministry / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
This past Sunday on February 9, 2025, Home Missioner Robert Pessolissi, Director of the Interfaith Public Health Network (IPHN), shared a powerful message “Holiness and Wholeness: Looking at Public Health through a Methodist Lens” at Odessa-Catharine UMC in the Mountain View District.
Bob is a native of Syracuse but resides in Poughkeepsie and is commissioned to the IPHN in the New York Conference. His message reminded those in attendance of John Wesley’s deep commitment to health, well-being, social justice, and education—a legacy that calls all United Methodists to continue advocating for healthier communities.
Food Justice and Legislative Action
Bob has been actively working to promote food safety and nutrition standards in New York, supporting legislation to protect families from harmful food additives, and to improve nutritional quality in restaurant kids’ meals. These efforts, endorsed through resolutions at the 2024 New York Conference, include:
- PETITION 2024 AC #203: Protecting New Yorkers from Harmful Chemical Additives in Food
- PETITION 2024 AC #204: Requiring Better Nutrition Standards for Restaurant Kids’ Meals
These initiatives align with the United Methodist commitment to social justice and caring for the most vulnerable, especially children.
Taking Action for Food Justice in Our Communities
Bob also shared practical steps United Methodists can take to address food justice within our local communities, ensuring that everyone—regardless of income—has access to nutritious, safe, and affordable food.
- Advocate for policy change – Support local and state legislation that promotes food safety and equitable access to healthy food.
- Partner with local organizations – Work with food banks, schools, and community gardens to ensure fresh food reaches those in need.
- Educate and raise awareness – Host forums and discussions in churches and community centers about food justice and health equity.
- Model healthy eating in our churches – Serve nutritious meals at events and encourage faith-based wellness initiatives.
Continuing the Conversation
Following the presentation, United Women in Faith hosted a nourishing, healthy lunch, giving participants an opportunity to engage in deeper discussions with Bob. Many left inspired and ready to take action.
To learn more, there will be an online presentation titled "Creating Healthy Community Food Environments for Children in New York State" later this month on February 20, 10– 11 a.m. Special guest includes Senator Gustavo Rivera, Chair of the Committee on Health. For registration details, contact Kelly Moltzen at kelly@iphnetwork.org.
As United Methodists, we are called to be stewards of health and justice in our communities. Let’s work together to ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious food—because food justice is social justice!
Bob is available to speak and share his message with congregations across Upper New York. He can be reached at rsp@iphnetwork.org.
CCORR offers prayer sessions
February 11, 2025 / By Georgia Whitney, CCORR Co-Convener / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The work of confronting racism can be bruising for the soul. Knowing this, your Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) seeks to offer inspiration, a listening ear, and the opportunity to come together in prayer on a regular basis.
Beginning Tuesday, February 18, members of CCORR will open a Zoom meeting room at 12 p.m. using this link. In these 15-minute sessions, we’ll offer a short prepared meditation. Following this, we will be available to listen to the challenges you are facing as you wrestle with how Jesus is calling you to bring the gospel of God’s love to bear on the sin of racism. Then we will take time to pray together and look for the ways the spirit will partner with us in moving the mountains that have to move.
If you are perplexed or anxious about issues of race, white supremacy, or unearned privilege in your ministry setting, we hope you will join us for one or more of CCORR’s prayer sessions.
Learn more about the future of DEI and the role of The United Methodist Church here.
Conference Office closed on February 6, 2025
February 6, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Due to the inclement weather, the Conference Office in Liverpool is closed today, February 6. It is scheduled to reopen on Friday, February 7.
Cady Grants applications now being accepted
February 3, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Could you or your ministry qualify for a Cady Grant? The Cady Grant is a valuable funding opportunity available to local United Methodist churches, individual United Methodists, and district or conference ministry teams within the Upper New York Conference. This grant supports educational initiatives that foster growth, learning, and leadership development within the church and community.
Cady Grants have supplemented, supported, and financed many creative projects. In the recent past, it has been used to:
- Sponsor an Inner-City Learning Center to enhance young children’s education in alignment with the local school curriculum and forge relationships with target schools.
- Help a New Faith Community to provide transportation to worship which brought a diverse group together at Sky Lake; this ministry also provided free laundry nights in a neighborhood that truly valued that.
- Support Native American Dance and Music through the E-Yah-Pah-Hah Concert of Native American Music and Contemporary Dance held to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day at Ganondagan State Historic Site, Victor, NY.
- Sponsor 25 African American youth to travel to Washington DC to learn about African American history and culture, and about the social justice work of the UMC.
- Teach English classes and financial management, prepare people for citizenship test, and help the community network while it promoted a Hispanic ministry.
- Support the establishment of a coding camp aimed at providing educational opportunities in coding to low-income youth aged 8-17 within a five-ten mile radius of Rochester, NY.
- Support a camping ministry that fostered relationships of youth and adults of color together.
- Support a local church’s ministry with the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota that provided free eye exams and prescription glasses.
Established in accordance with the wishes of its benefactor, Ercil Cady, this grant gives priority to educational proposals that benefit minority groups or individuals, with a particular emphasis on supporting Black and Indigenous communities. If you or your ministry have a project or program that aligns with this mission, you’re encouraged to apply as grants are awarded up to $5,000. The application deadline is March 15.
Click here for more information and click here to apply.
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: A pastoral response to the current immigration crisis in the US
January 30, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodist clergy in Upper New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez on Thursday, January 30, 2025 about how to respond to the current immigration crisis in the U.S. as a pastor.
"I was a stranger, and you welcomed me." – Matthew 25:35
Ver versión en español abajo.
Dear clergy in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area,
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to love, welcome, and walk alongside all of God’s children, especially the most vulnerable among us. Today, I write as your episcopal leader with a heavy heart as we witness growing uncertainty and fear among migrants, immigrants, refugees, and BIPOC people in our communities. Families are being separated, individuals are being detained, BIPOC persons are being profiled, and the dignity of our neighbors is under threat.
Yet, God’s call to justice and compassion remains in the face of hardship. The scriptures remind us repeatedly that we are to extend radical hospitality to all peoples, for we, too, have been (could be) strangers in a foreign land (Leviticus 19:34).
Across the nation, United Methodists are responding in faith.
- Congregations are opening their doors to provide safe places and critical services.
- Clergy and laity are standing in solidarity with those at risk.
- Communities are offering food, shelter, and legal aid to those who have nowhere else to turn.
These acts of love and courage are signs of Christ’s presence in the world.
HOW WE CAN TOGETHER EMBODY CHRIST’S LOVE RIGHT NOW
As you and your congregational leaders feel led by the Holy Spirit to be the hands and feet of Christ with our immigrant neighbors;
1. Prepare Your Church
Churches are no longer designated as “sensitive locations,” meaning ICE agents can now enter into church buildings without prior approval. I urge every church to review and implement best practices for preparedness:
- Post "Know Your Rights" resources in multiple languages.
Click here for an English version.
Click here for a Spanish version. - Train your leadership and congregation on how to respond if ICE arrives. This is critical if vulnerable migrants are part of or serviced by your faith community.
- Clearly mark private areas (offices, parsonages, etc.) to distinguish them from public spaces.
- Download the "Know Your Rights 4 Immigrants" app to stay informed.
2. Stand With Immigrants Facing Raids
If your congregation encounters/experiences an ICE raid, it is critical to respond calmly and lawfully while protecting those at risk.
- Do not open the door immediately—ICE must have a valid warrant to gain access to church buildings.
- Designate a trained leader to speak with agents.
- Record and document interactions, if safe to do so.
- Never sign any documents without legal counsel. Advise vulnerable migrants not to sign any documents without legal counsel.
3. Be a Witness in Your Community
If you witness an ICE raid in a public space:
- Stay calm and observe carefully.
- Record actions of ICE agents, not vulnerable individuals.
- Share legal resources with those impacted.
- Do NOT interfere physically with ICE officers or post videos without obscuring faces.
4. Offer Post-Raid Support
Churches must be places of healing after a raid occurs.
- Report the incident to regional immigrant advocacy organizations.
- Reach out to affected families with emotional, spiritual, and legal support.
- Help congregants access legal aid and community assistance.
Click the following links for a full checklist and next steps for church preparations in our Faithful Preparedness: Equipping Churches for Witness with Undocumented Persons.
To Those Serving People at Risk in our Congregations:
If you currently serve a congregation that is in relationship with and/or serves undocumented immigrants, I ask that you prioritize their safety. Discreetly, be in conversation with those most vulnerable among you to better understand their needs and explore the most effective ways to serve them in this challenging season. Ensure they are informed about their rights. Whenever possible, avoid exposing them to big crowds or distributions in open public spaces. Consider offering them alternative ways to engage in the ministries of the congregation to minimize exposing them to unintended harm. I earnestly request that all "political" contention be set aside, and that we focus on serving the people affected by these new directives and advocating on their behalf.
A Call to Prayer and Presence
Let us be people of hope, not fear. Let us stand with our immigrant siblings in active love. May our collective witness reflect the heart of God, who calls us to embrace all with justice, mercy, and boundless grace. Thank you for all you do to live the gospel, and embody God’s love with your neighbors in all places.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
The United Methodist Church
PASTORAL PRAYER
Gracious and loving God,
You remind us that when we welcome the stranger, we welcome you. Open our hearts to see your image in every migrant, refugee, and immigrant. Help our churches prepare to be places of compassion and justice, equipping us to respond with wisdom and grace. May our words and actions reflect your love, comforting the fearful and hope to the weary. Guide us to stand boldly for the dignity of all people.
In a world where fear often overshadows love, give us the courage to stand for justice. Empower us to speak boldly for the rights of migrants and refugees. When we witness oppression, help us respond with faithful action. Strengthen us to be your hands and feet, bringing light into the shadows.
We lift those living in fear of raids and displacement. Strengthen our resolve to be faithful witnesses, standing with the vulnerable and showing your love through our presence. Help us to remain calm and wise, ready to document injustice and extend a hand of support. May our solidarity remind the world that no one is forgotten or forsaken. Equip us to bring healing and hope where there is pain and despair. In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen.
ESPAÑOL
Estimado clero en el área de Susquehanna y Upper New York,
Como seguidores de Jesucristo, estamos llamados a amar, acoger y caminar junto a todos los hijos de Dios, especialmente los más vulnerables entre nosotros. Hoy, escribo como su lider episcopal con mi corazón pesado mientras presenciamos la creciente incertidumbre y el miedo entre los migrantes, inmigrantes, refugiados y las personas BIPOC en nuestras comunidades. Familias están siendo separadas, personas están siendo detenidas, personas BIPOC están siendo perfiladas y la dignidad de nuestros vecinos está bajo amenaza.
Sin embargo, el llamado de Dios a la justicia y la compasión permanece frente a las dificultades. Las escrituras nos recuerdan repetidamente que debemos extender una hospitalidad radical a todas las personas, ya que nosotros también hemos sido (o podríamos ser) extranjeros en una tierra extraña (Levítico 19:34).
En todo el país, los metodistas unidos están respondiendo con fe.
- Las congregaciones están abriendo sus puertas para proporcionar lugares seguros y servicios críticos.
- El clero y laicado está solidarizándose con aquellos en riesgo.
- Las comunidades están ofreciendo comida, refugio y ayuda legal a aquellos que no tienen otro lugar a donde ir.
Estos actos de amor y valentía son señales de la presencia de Cristo en el mundo.
CÓMO PODEMOS JUNTOS ENCARNAR EL AMOR DE CRISTO AHORA MISMO
A medida que usted y los líderes de su congregación se sientan guiados por el Espíritu Santo para ser las manos y los pies de Cristo con nuestros vecinos inmigrantes:
1. Prepare su iglesia
Las iglesias ya no están designadas como "ubicaciones sensibles", lo que significa que los agentes de ICE pueden ingresar a los edificios de la iglesia sin aprobación previa. Insto a cada iglesia a revisar e implementar las mejores prácticas para estar preparados:
- Coloque recursos de "Conozca sus derechos" en varios idiomas.
- Entrene a sus líderes y congregación sobre cómo responder si llega ICE. Esto es fundamental si los migrantes vulnerables forman parte o son atendidos por su comunidad de fe.
- Marque claramente las áreas privadas (oficinas, casas pastorales) para distinguirlas de los espacios públicos.
- Descargue la aplicación "Know Your Rights 4 Immigrants" para mantenerse informado.
2. Apoye a los inmigrantes frente a las redadas
Si su congregación enfrenta o experimenta una redada de ICE, es crucial responder con calma y legalidad mientras se protege a los que están en riesgo.
- No abra la puerta de inmediato: ICE debe tener una orden válida para acceder a los edificios de la iglesia.
- Designe a un líder capacitado para hablar con los agentes.
- Registre y documente las interacciones, si es seguro hacerlo.
- Nunca firme ningún documento sin asesoría legal. Aconseje a los migrantes vulnerables que no firmen ningún documento sin asesoría legal.
3. Sea un testigo en su comunidad
Si es testigo de una redada de ICE en un espacio público:
- Mantenga la calma y observe cuidadosamente.
- Registre las acciones de los agentes de ICE, no de los individuos vulnerables.
- Comparta recursos legales con los afectados.
- NO interfiera físicamente con los oficiales de ICE ni publique videos sin oscurecer los rostros.
4. Ofrezca apoyo después de la redada
Las iglesias deben ser lugares de sanación después de que ocurra una redada.
- Informe del incidente a organizaciones regionales de defensa de los inmigrantes.
- Contacte a las familias afectadas con apoyo emocional, espiritual y legal.
- Ayude a los congregantes a acceder a asistencia legal y comunitaria.
Haz clic aquí para ver una lista de verificación completa y los próximos pasos para la preparación de la iglesia en nuestra guía Preparación Fiel: Equipando a las Iglesias para el Testimonio con Personas Indocumentadas.
Para aquellos que sirven a personas en riesgo en nuestras congregaciones:
Si actualmente sirve en una congregación que está en relación y/o sirve a inmigrantes indocumentados, le pido que priorice su seguridad. Discretamente, mantenga conversaciones con los más vulnerables entre ustedes para comprender mejor sus necesidades y explorar las formas más efectivas de servirles en esta temporada desafiante. Asegúrese de que estén informados sobre sus derechos. Siempre que sea posible, evite exponerlos a grandes multitudes o distribuciones en espacios públicos abiertos. Considere ofrecerles formas alternativas de participar en los ministerios de la congregación para minimizar la exposición a daños involuntarios. Solicito encarecidamente que se dejen de lado todas las contiendas "políticas" y que nos enfoquemos en servir a las personas afectadas por estas nuevas directivas y abogar en su nombre.
Un llamado a la oración y a la presencia
Seamos personas de esperanza, no de miedo. Estemos junto a nuestros hermanos y hermanas inmigrantes con amor activo. Que nuestro testimonio colectivo refleje el corazón de Dios, quien nos llama a abrazar a todos con justicia, misericordia y gracia ilimitada. Gracias por todo lo que hacen para vivir el evangelio y encarnar el amor de Dios con sus vecinos en todos los lugares.
Juntos en la misión de Cristo,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
ORACIÓN PASTORAL
Dios amoroso y misericordioso,
Nos recuerdas que cuando acogemos al extranjero, te acogemos a ti. Abre nuestros corazones para ver tu imagen en cada migrante, refugiado e inmigrante. Ayuda a nuestras iglesias a prepararse para ser lugares de compasión y justicia, equipándonos para responder con sabiduría y gracia. Que nuestras palabras y acciones reflejen tu amor, confortando a los temerosos y dando esperanza a los cansados. Guíanos para defender audazmente la dignidad de todas las personas.
En un mundo donde el miedo a menudo ensombrece el amor, danos el valor para defender la justicia. Capacítanos para hablar audazmente por los derechos de los migrantes y refugiados. Cuando seamos testigos de la opresión, ayúdanos a responder con acción fiel. Fortalécenos para ser tus manos y pies, trayendo luz a las sombras.
Levantamos a aquellos que viven con el temor a redadas y desplazamientos. Fortalece nuestra determinación de ser testigos fieles, apoyando a los vulnerables y mostrando tu amor a través de nuestra presencia. Ayúdanos a permanecer calmados y sabios, listos para documentar la injusticia y extender una mano de apoyo. Que nuestra solidaridad recuerde al mundo que nadie está olvidado o abandonado. Equípanos para traer sanación y esperanza donde hay dolor y desesperación. En el nombre de Cristo, oramos. Amén.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and United Methodists
January 29, 2025 / By Rev. Natalie Bowerman, Rev. Jee-Hae Song, and Georgia Whitney / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. - 1 Corinthians 12:12, 26
As children of God, and disciples of Jesus Christ, this scripture reminds us that we share in the joys and sufferings of others. If one person within the community experiences hardship, everyone feels it, and likewise, if one person is celebrated, everyone shares in the happiness. At the same time, no single member of the body is more important than another, as every part plays a vital role in the whole body.
Further, as United Methodists, we condemn racism, sexism, and any ideology or social practice based on the false and misleading belief that one group is superior to all others. We utterly reject laws, policies, and social practices that marginalize or discriminate against individuals, communities, or other social groups based on perceived racial, ethnic, or tribal differences.
The Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) is deeply troubled by the alarming trends, both in government and private industry, to reverse policies that affect anti-racism work, starting with diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, or DEIA.
DEIA Rollbacks in 2024
On December 29th, 2024, NBC News reported that DEIA programs had weathered a myriad of attacks during the year. Major companies, including Walmart, Lowe’s, Ford, and Toyota, heeded the call from prominent figures like Elon Musk and Chip Wilson who pushed against DEIA initiatives, and dialed back their programs.
Meanwhile Utah, Alabama and Iowa joined Florida and Texas by banning DEIA offices in their public universities, and three more states — Idaho, Kansas and Indiana — barred colleges from requiring diversity statements in hiring and admissions.
President’s Trump’s Executive Orders in 2025
Then, last week, President Donald Trump issued three executive orders targeting DEIA initiatives that are designed to upend longstanding, bipartisan federal policy meant to open doors that had been unjustly closed. CCORR believes that these orders are based on a complete misunderstanding of DEIA, and are a deliberate effort to obfuscate and weaponize civil rights laws that address discrimination and ensure everyone has a fair chance to compete, whether it’s for a job, a promotion, or an education.
We call on the congregations and pastors of Upper New York to educate themselves about the root causes and manifestations of racism within our communities. This begins with an understanding of what DEIA is, and is not:
DEIA is:
- A framework for equitable treatment: DEIA seeks to promote the equitable treatment and full participation of all individuals, particularly those from historically underrepresented or marginalized groups.
- An organizational strategy: Many organizations implement DEIA frameworks to institutionalize values that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within their culture and operations.
- A response to societal issues: DEIA initiatives address discrimination based on various factors such as gender, sexual orientation, religion, and ability, aiming to ensure opportunities for all individuals.
DEIA is not:
- Reverse discrimination: While some critics argue that DEIA constitutes reverse discrimination against historically dominant groups, proponents assert that it aims to create equitable opportunities without disadvantaging a particular group of people.
- Merely a legal obligation: Beyond compliance with anti-discrimination laws, DEIA is embraced by organizations as a means to enhance workplace culture, innovation, and overall performance.
The Need for DEIA Policies and Initiatives:
- Improved business performance: Many companies find that diverse, equitable, and inclusive companies are better equipped to address challenges, attract top talent, and meet diverse customer needs. A 2020 study of 1,000 U.S. firms revealed that gender-diverse companies had a 25% higher likelihood of increased profits, while ethnically diverse firms saw a 36% higher probability.
- Talent development and retention: DEIA minimizes turnover by creating equitable and inclusive environments, reducing costly hiring and training cycles. Proponents highlighted that DEIA focuses on identifying and developing hidden and disadvantaged talent, ensuring opportunities for all to showcase their abilities.
How The United Methodist Church Models DEIA
Remember these words: 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.
Our interconnectedness is of vital importance, and each of us plays a vital role in our world. The protections that DEIA afford extend beyond those who are underrepresented or marginalized. It helps people in positions of privilege, too. That’s because, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
To make these words a reality, we as United Methodists need look no further than the first of John Wesley’s three simple rules: Do no harm. Doing no harm means that we will be on guard so that all of our actions and even our silence will not add injury to another of God’s children or any part of God’s creation.
From Education to Action
Education is a beginning. Now, more than ever, we need to remember more words from John Wesley: “We never wait to ask whether there is some good to be done – we do the deed, and keep on doing it.” CCORR urges our conference pastors, leaders, and congregations to act, confronting and eliminating all forms of racism, racial inequity, colonialism, white privilege and white supremacy, in every facet of its life and in society at large.
For more information about DEIA, refer to these articles:
The Guardian: What is DEI and why is Trump opposed to it?
CNN: What is DEI, and why is it dividing America?
ACLU: Trump’s Executive Orders Rolling Back DEI and Accessibility Efforts, Explained
Susquehanna and Upper New York Cabinets come together for missional collaboration
January 29, 2025 / By Matt Shineman, Susquehanna Conference Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences of The United Methodist Church have entered an exciting new chapter of shared leadership and mission. Following the decision made by the 2024 General Conference to reduce the allocation of bishops available for assignment for the Northeastern Jurisdiction (NEJ), the two conferences are now under the leadership of one bishop. This restructuring marks a significant opportunity for deeper collaboration and alignment in the ministry.
To begin this new journey, the Missional Cabinets from both conferences came together for a joint retreat held in Williamsport, PA, from January 13-15. The retreat allowed the joint team and and to build a strong foundation for the new missional partnership while maintaining the distinct identities of the two conferences.
The retreat emphasized several key priorities to enhance the partnership:
- Building relationships and fostering unity
- Learning about each Conference’s missional context
- Discovering collaboration opportunities for a more significant impact
- Exploring new possibilities in shared missions
- Engaging in shared spiritual formation and resourcing
"This retreat was a great opportunity to get to know one another through conversation, worship, and activities," explained the Rev. Dr. Sherri Rood, Dean of the Upper New York Missional Cabinet. "We learned we have much in common and are intrigued by the possibilities before us to collaborate in ministry."
The gathering also served as a reminder of the transformative potential of collaboration in ministry. The Rev. Dr. Gary Weaver, Dean of the Susquehanna Missional Cabinet, shared that he "sensed the reassurance that as communication and collaboration extends beyond the Cabinets, shared work will create both better work and a renewed reality that Kingdom work is not designed to be restricted by lines drawn on a map."
"As the resident bishop for the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area, I am excited about God's new work among us. I am committed to collaborating effectively and maintaining clear, transparent communication. Our focus will be on how this partnership can enhance our ability to serve with excellence in both conferences for the glory of God."
As the two conferences continue to walk this path together, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez invites the prayers and support of clergy, lay leaders, and congregants alike. “I call on all United Methodists in the Susquehanna-Upper New York Episcopal Area to surround this journey in our individual and communal prayers, asking the Holy Spirit to open our hearts to the God-sized possibilities ahead of us as we collaborate in equipping and resourcing our leaders and congregations to fulfill our shared mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” concluded Bishop Héctor.
Conference office closed on January 29 due to weather
January 28, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Due to inclement weather forecasted, the Conference Office in Liverpool will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, January 29 and staff will be working remotely. The building is scheduled to reopen on Thursday, January 30.
Preachers find time to rest and play while on renewal trip to Belize
January 28, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
In the early morning hours of January 14, eleven Upper New York clergy boarded a plane from Syracuse, NY to Central America. They traded in their winter jackets, boots, and freezing cold temperatures for sandals, sunscreen, and a chance to embark on a journey that promised to be full of rest and renewal. This was the first renewal trip planned for preachers serving United Methodists of Upper New York, designed solely to help preachers embody a healthy rhythm of rest, work, and play.
“When preachers have healthy rhythms of rest, work, and play they become inspired themselves and can inspire others,” explained the Rev. Abigail Browka, Associate Director of Missional Excellence and Program Director of the Compelling Preaching Initiative.
In 2023, the Upper New York Conference was awarded a $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative to launch Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. The mission of the grant was to help preachers embody a healthy rhythm of rest, work, and play. In mid-August 2024, the first cohort of clergy was selected and included Pastor Jeannine Biehls, appointed to both Bluff Point UMC and Dresden UMC; Pastor Casey Bradley, appointed to Oneonta: First UMC; the Rev. Jennifer Green, pastor at Hilton UMC; the Rev. Gary Kubitz, pastor at Greece UMC; Pastor Joel Holcomb, appointed to both Nassau: Grace UMC and Troy: Center Brunswick UMC; Pastor Nate Lange, appointed to Fayetteville UMC; the Rev. Teressa Sivers, pastor at Endicott: Central UMC; Pastor Ian Urriola, appointed as an Associate Pastor at Burnt Hills UMC; and the Rev. Leanne Zeck, appointed to Bath: Centenary UMC and coordinating pastor at Risingville UMC and Wheeler UMC.
“Clergy wellness is the only way that we can live into our calling in a sustainable way. The only way they can honor their calling fully to God is by being well. We can't expect them to interact in or with their congregations in their communities in meaningful ways unless they too tend to their own soul care, unless they too tend to their own families and their own bodies, because it disrupts the whole ecosystem. There's so much weight that gets placed on the hearts and minds of our clergy that so often their rest and their wellness gets knocked to later in the week and their sabbath is short changed or it never comes and sooner or later we're facing burnout,” explained Pastor Bekah Solar, Associate Director of Missional Excellence and Cohort Manager.
The cohort left immediate family and loved ones behind in order to bond with one another on a seven-day international trip. The first part of the trip was spent in the jungle of Belize where Black Rock Canyon meets the Macal River at Black Rock Lodge. After a full day of travel, the group was handed an open agenda to explore, meditate, journal, pray, and be one with God. The week-long trip included exploring the food and culture of the ancient Mayan people, with a day set aside to explore the Ancient Maya archaeological site, Xunantunich located in the Cayo District and bordering the Guatemala border. The second half of the trip was spent on the islands of South Pedro and Caye Caulker, small beach 
cities located on the south part of Ambergris Caye. The group was invited to snorkel in the Caribbean Sea, swim with sharks in Shark Ray Alley, and take part in a private sunset dinner cruise while feasting on a Belizean cuisine during the renewal trip.
For many pastors, the demands of ministry and daily life can obscure the simple yet profound truths of faith. Rev. Kubitz reflected on how his experience with the cohort served as a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering love and his inherent worth.
“A part of my everyday devotional while I was here was 1 Corinthians 13 — just focusing on what love is, how we experience love, and how we share love. That was something I did every morning and every evening. Grounding myself in that reminded me that before anything else, I’m loved, that God loves me, that I am a child of God, a person of worth. It’s not about what I do; it’s simply because God made me the way I am.”
In the midst of the busyness of being a pastor, father, and husband, this time of reflection helped Rev. Kubitz see these roles as gifts and reconnect with the foundational truth of their identity in God. For Rev. Sivers, she embraced the idea of fully letting go.
“I did some mission trips with churches where it was some play, but it was still work. I was always the pastor while I was on those trips. This renewal trip has been so freeing because I'm here with other clergy and I don't have to pastor anybody. In fact, I'm being pastored by Bekah and Abigail. I can't say that enough and I cannot tell the conference enough how grateful I am for them investing this time in pastor wellness. We should have been doing this for decades, but I'm so grateful that they're taking this step and really investing in clergy finding that balance.”
The idea of taking a trip to rest and leave work responsibilities behind wasn’t well received at first by everyone. Many participants struggled with the concept of stepping away from their demanding schedules and the day-to-day responsibilities of their church ministries.
“Prior to leaving, I realized I desperately needed this trip more than I actually knew as I cried just the whole way from Bath to Syracuse to travel to the airport practically just from the grief. I've buried a few people in the last month and just the weight of the holiday season, I didn't realize that I had not really taken a lot of time for myself so I think it was a process of learning why I had to be here and I needed to say yes to this,” said Rev. Zeck.
Others expressed similar concerns, feeling hesitant to prioritize their own renewal over the needs of their congregations. For many, the initial resistance reflected the deep-rooted challenges pastors face in balancing their personal well-being with the expectations of ministry.
“My first thought was I couldn’t take that much time off in this season of the Church. I’ve got too many other things going on right now,” said Pastor Casey Bradley. “It felt almost impossible to put everything on pause. But as the trip got closer, I realized this was needed and this was something I needed to do.”
For others, signing up to be a part of the cohort was a personal challenge.
“I'm an introvert so this was really stepping outside of my comfort zone. I knew no one coming into this. I signed up for it because of that very reason and, at this point, I could not be more comfortable with the 12 people that I traveled with to Belize. I am so excited to stick with these connections and reconnect with all these pastors on a monthly basis. It just feels good to have a like mind, somebody that understands what I was going through and where I am right now. I don't have any regrets,” expressed Pastor Jeannine Biehls.
For Pastor Ian Urriola, stepping into his first episcopal appointment marked a pivotal moment in his ministry—a time to set a foundation not only for effective leadership but also for sustainable well-being. Reflecting on his decision to join the cohort, he shared how his awareness of the challenges clergy often face shaped his commitment to cultivating healthy habits early in his journey.
“I threw my name in for this experience a couple weeks into my new appointments. This is my first episcopal assigned setting after serving in different ministry roles for a long time. I wanted to develop the skills of rest and relaxation and taking that intentional time away before I developed bad habits before some of those neural pathway patterns were carved that I've seen in so many of my clergy colleagues who have talked about burn-out and who have talked about the stress of the job and who have left professional ministry altogether. I saw that as this kind of cautionary tale and it was important for me after seeing all of that happen what can I do to ensure that that's not going to happen in my ministry or if it does happen in my ministry, it will be less severe.”
Amid the fast pace of pastoral ministry, finding time to connect deeply with others can often take a back seat to immediate responsibilities. For Rev. Green, the renewal trip offered a chance to rediscover the importance of intentional relationships and their role in spiritual well-being.
“I think what I learned was that when I’m willing to open up to other people, they’ll open up to me. I truly need space in my everyday life—not just to sit with God, which I think I do okay, but to sit with others and form relationships. I’m usually just moving at such a fast pace going from one thing to the next, so perhaps the time to form relationships is something I learned is vital for my soul care.”
This insight highlights the transformative power of community and connection in fostering resilience and renewal for those in ministry. Yet, one pastor admitted he was skeptical of the whole idea of being part of a cohort initially.
“I doubted the whole process. It took that leap of faith that shouldn't have to happen when you trust in God and the process, when you trust in other people of deep faith to provide a possibility for you. That's why I kept telling myself to just do it for myself, trust, and believe because there's a difference between trusting in God and believing and we're called to believe,” admitted Pastor Joel Holcomb.
Each cohort spans approximately ten months, featuring monthly cohort gatherings, a significant Renewal Trip, a Storytelling Immersion Trip, and curated congregational resources. The aim is to renew, restore, and inspire pastors, equipping them to continue their ministry of preaching.
To participate in a cohort, individuals must be clergy or laypersons who currently preach at least twice a month at a church or ministry in Upper New York. The program anticipates to host five cohorts with approximately 12 preachers each through 2027, totaling about 60-75 participants. While churches are asked to make a financial investment based on their average worship attendance, the Upper New York Conference is investing $10,000 in each participant through funds gifted by the Lilly Endowment grant.
To sign up to be part of a future cohort, click here.
Special Message from Bishop Héctor: The 2025 appointment season
January 28, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez on Tuesday, January 18, 2025 about the 2025-26 appointment season.
“Christ chose some of us to be apostles, prophets, missionaries, pastors, and teachers, so God’s people are equipped to serve, and the Body of Christ would grow strong.” -Ephesians 4:11-12 PAR
Dear United Methodists of Upper New York,
Starting next week, the appointive cabinet will embark on the sacred work of pastoral appointment discernment for 2025-26. Rooted in our Wesleyan tradition, we prayerfully strive to nurture passionate disciples of Jesus Christ who embody love, mercy, and justice, transforming the world through their faithful witness.
Appointment Making
As we undertake this holy responsibility, the cabinet will diligently review all pastoral assignments throughout the appointment season. These values guide our discernment process:
- Pursuing God’s vision for congregations and their communities.
- Matching gifts, graces, and strengths, irrespective of credentials.
- Honoring our multi-faceted diversity.
- Connectionalism.
- Equity.
You can read more about our appointment-making values and principles here.
Retirements
On behalf of the cabinet, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our 2025 retirees for their faithful servant leadership in the Upper New York Conference and The United Methodist Church. Their dedicated service has profoundly and positively impacted countless lives in our local communities and beyond. You can see a list of pastoral leaders requesting retirement status in 2025 here.
Open Churches
During the regular appointment season (January to May), the cabinet will post a list of churches being considered for new appointments on Wednesdays on the conference website. Clergy who prayerfully discern a call to be considered for an open church should inform the episcopal office exclusively via email at bishopsoffice@unyumc.org by Thursday at 3 p.m. For more information and a list of churches open, click here.
Call to Prayer
Please keep the appointive cabinet and me in your prayers as we seek the Holy Spirit's vision, clarity, and wisdom in this sacred task. We aim to empower leaders and congregations to live the gospel and be God’s love with their neighbors. Also, please surround in prayer the pastors and congregations that will experience change and transition this year.
Thank you for all you do to make the healing and liberating love of Jesus Christ visible in your communities and everywhere you go.
Together in mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
Of the United Methodist Church
Nominations and Leadership Development Team seeks individuals to serve our conference
January 24, 2025 / By Ian Carlos Urriola / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The work of our Annual Conference can not be done without the dedicated presence of lay and clergy leaders who go above and beyond to volunteer their time and energy to serve on our various Annual Conference teams and committees. A list of each of these teams and a brief description of their work can be found here.
The task of the Nominations and Leadership Development Team is to seek out and identify individuals who are ready to take that next step and join in this work to help our Annual Conference more fully be the love of Jesus Christ to all our neighbors in all places. The Nominations team is in the process of doing this work now, and it needs your help. If you or someone you know are ready to take the next step in service to this Annual Conference, they want to hear from you! Please fill out this form to nominate yourself or someone else to leadership in our Annual Conference and the Nominations Team will be in touch with you soon! All forms must be received by February 15. For more information, contact Ian Urriola, chair of Nominations, at iurriola@burnthillsumc.org.
Special Message from Bishop Héctor: The ongoing California wildfires
January 10, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez on Friday, January 10, 2025 in response to the ongoing wildfires in California.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” - Romans 12:15 (ESV)
Dear siblings in Christ,
As United Methodists, we are called to love and serve our neighbors in times of joy and sorrow. Today, I write with a heavy heart as we witness the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Entire communities have been displaced, homes destroyed, and lives upended, including many United Methodists who live in the impacted areas.
In this tragedy, countless acts of courage and compassion shine. Brave firefighters risk their lives to battle the flames, neighbors open their doors to those in need, and churches become sanctuaries of hope and healing.
Please join me in praying for all those affected—the families mourning losses, individuals facing uncertainty, and dedicated first responders. Also, please pray for Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank and the United Methodists in the California-Pacific Conference as they tirelessly work to be the hands and feet of Christ in their communities. May God’s grace provide comfort and strength.
As a church of faith in action, The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is providing essential aid. If you feel called to help, please contribute to UMCOR’s disaster response efforts. Your generosity brings hope and relief to those in need. Also, I encourage SUS/UNY congregations to collect a special offering to support the relief efforts in Los Angeles.
You can give here through the UMCOR website or by designating a gift to Advance #901670, U.S. Disaster Response and Recovery, and send it to the corresponding Conference Treasurer office. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Thank you for living the gospel and embodying the love of Christ as we extend compassion and care to our siblings in California.
Together in the mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Serving the Susquehanna & Upper New York Area
The United Methodist Church
Answering the call: Serving during Hurricane Helene and beyond
January 9, 2025 / By Jan Rothfuss, Aldersgate United Methodist Church / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
It was a Friday in September 2024, and I was visiting my son and his family, who live near Raleigh, North Carolina. Hurricane Helene was heading through our area, and schools were closed. We found safe places for the three grandchildren, my son went to work, and I stayed at the house, watching the weather reports. Luckily, we had three inches of rain with high winds but no property damage or power outage. As reports came in, I learned that a tornado had been spotted east of us, and areas to the west (especially near Asheville) were severely impacted.
Flashback about five years: I had completed the Disaster Response Team training here in Upper New York but had not been able to volunteer within our Conference. While in North Carolina, I stopped by the North Carolina Conference Center as they were responding to recent hurricanes. I was introduced to the Disaster Response Team and worked in their call center. Over the next few years, I took calls and recorded site reports, entered reports into the computer system, and assisted with the follow-up activities needed to complete the processing of new Disaster Response training class recruits.
This year allowed me to continue serving within the UM connection. Responding to the impact of Helene gave me an opportunity to apply my training while supporting the efforts of the North Carolina Conference and UMCOR. Ann Huffman is the Conference Disaster Response Coordinator in the NCC. As I traveled home in early October, I got a text and picture from my son, showing how he and my grandson were packing up relief boxes. I guess the call to serve runs in the family, and I am very proud of them.
COSROW invites all women of faith to come “in from the wilderness”
January 9, 2025 / By Rev. Dr. Robin Blair / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The COSROW (Committee on the Status and Role of Women) invites all women of faith to join in a time of listening, sharing, and belonging, while we come "in from the wilderness.” And so, what is the wilderness? Good question.
Is wilderness only about 40 days and nights in isolation and temptation as Jesus experienced? (Matt 4:1) Or, is wilderness an experience with many vistas? Is it something that isolates women in ministry? Is it about relating to the Lord, listening to God and acting as God calls, claims, and equips us–to be met with institutional resistance? Such resistance could resemble a congregation expecting a male appointment as pastor, a bishop who does not see you, or a congregation who cannot adjust to your accent or skin color, or believes a woman's role is specific? Have you ever felt any of these things in your ministry?
Even though it is a broad-brush-stroke statement, women relate to the Lord the way women do and not the way men do. It is not wrong or right, but it simply is a truth. "God created Man (human beings). God made them in the likeness of God. Male and female, God created them, and God blessed them and named them Man (meaning the human race) when God created them." (Gen 5b-2). So here we all are, tellers of the tales in scripture, living into this truth by the power of the Holy Spirit. Made in God's image, we are women who listen to the whispers and shouts from the God of all creation through Jesus Christ. Praise be to God!
Some of us are ordained clergy with big formal educations, some of us are LLP's who bring gifts and graces to the body of Christ and have training to empower that call, some of us are laity with all that God has invited us to and in that trust, live the Word in witness to the Christ. And yet, we can still find ourselves marginalized, ignored, or dismissed for who we are, how we love, and what we bring to God's call.
It is unsettling when we read scripture and live into God's Word with our whole selves, to be ignored and not be respected for our journeys that are built on love. Perhaps you are loved as a person and a woman in your family and friendships–but trying to speak with authority and offer leadership in ministry has been a surprisingly bumpy road; and bumpy means painful not because you lack sincerity or qualifications. Perhaps it is simply the fact that you are a woman, not a man. If you have ever experienced any of this, you have lived with a wilderness experience.
Catch Your Breath: In from the Wilderness is an invitation to set apart a few hours to listen to Keynote speaker Bishop Peggy Johnson share what some of her wilderness experience has been–and hers has been filled with bumps, tension, love, and strength. Among the challenges for Bishop Peggy was the truth of the gender identity transition of her spouse while she was serving as a Bishop in the UMC. She wrote a book that addresses some of her journey: The Ever Expansive Spirit of God, for all those who feel left out. I found it is worth the read to hear how one faithful woman plumbed her faith, stood in love, and never left God behind.
Dr. Ashley Boggan, General Secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History, will join the virtual event on January 24 and 25. She will speak on the second evening, following a message from Retired UMC Bishop Peggy Johnson, focusing on the denomination’s efforts to address its history and theology with the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Boggan will also highlight newly organized resources now available at Drew University, offering participants a valuable opportunity to engage with her expertise and the ongoing work of fostering understanding and inclusion in faith communities.
We will also break into groups of women, like you, who can reflect on what their ministry journeys have seen left out or pushed aside to leave us carrying wounds–just because we are women. We can learn from one another that God has a place of belonging for each of us, and that our sense of self-identity and empowerment to enact our love for the Lord and all God's creation through one another, is a place of belonging. We will covenant that his time together will be a safe space.
About Bishop Peggy A. Johnson
Bishop Peggy A. Johnson is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and a retired bishop of the United Methodist Church. She served as the episcopal leader of the Philadelphia Area of the United Methodist Church, which includes the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference and the Peninsula-Delaware Annual Conference from 2008-2021 and as the interim bishop in the New England Annual Conference from 2023-2024. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in music education from Lebanon Valley College, a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary. Prior to her election to the episcopacy in 2008, she served as a pastor in the Baltimore-Washington Conference since 1980. Her churches included a 4-point rural circuit in Frederick, MD, a suburban Baltimore congregation, a campus ministry at Gallaudet University and for 20 years, she was the pastor of the historic Christ UMC of the Deaf. Bishop Johnson has a particular passion for ministry with people with disabilities. During her tenure as a bishop, she served as a board member on the Commission on the Status and Role of Women and on the General Board of Church and Society. She authored a UMW “Mission U” study book: The Church and Disabilities. Recently she published a memoir entitled The Ever-Expansive Spirit of God: For all Who feel Left Out. It recounts the journey of serving as a bishop during the gender identity transition of her spouse. Bishop Johnson and her spouse of 46 years, Rev. Mary Johnson, reside in Carrollton, Virginia in retirement. They have two adult sons and two grandchildren.
About Ashley Boggan D., PhD
Dr. Ashley Boggan D. is the General Secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History. In this role, she ensures that The UMC understands its past in order to envision a more equitable future for all Methodists. Boggan earned her PhD from Drew Theological School’s Graduate Division of Religion, specializing in both Methodist/Wesleyan Studies and Women’s/Gender Studies. She earned an M.A. from the University of Chicago’s Divinity School, specializing in American Religious History. She has previously worked as staff at the General Commission on Archives and History (2012-2014) and the Connectional Table of The United Methodist Church (2014-2016). She was the Director of United Methodist Studies and Assistant Professor Christian History at Hood Theological Seminary (Salisbury, NC), an AME Zion Seminary, from 2017-2019 and was the Director of Women’s and Gender Studies and Assistant Professor of Religion at High Point University (High Point, NC) from 2019-2020. Dr. Boggan is a lay member of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference and the daughter of two ordained United Methodist ministers. Her Methodist lineage dates beyond this, back to the early 19th century when her great-great-great grandfathers were Methodist circuit-riders. Boggan is on the Advisory Board for the National Museum of American Religion and is the author of Nevertheless: American Methodists and Women’s Rights (2020); Entangled: A History of American Methodism, Politics, and Sexuality (2018); and added to the revised American Methodism: A Compact History (2022).
Climate Change Superfund Act: Great news from the UMUNY Creation Justice Team
January 9, 2025 / By UNY Creation Care / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Governor Kathy Hochel has signed the Climate Change Superfund Act. This Act requires the largest gas and oil companies who do business in New York State to pay the State $25 billion over ten years, $3 billion each year. The money will be used to help municipalities pay for the damage caused by the climate crisis. In addition, the Act will require at least 35% of the monies received be directed to protecting communities of color affected by environmental crises. These funds will help communities suffering from flooding, tornadoes, and life-threatening snow storms.
New York has already faced some super storms with loss of life and extreme property damage. While these climate damage costs have been piling up for taxpayers, the industry responsible for this situation has made $1 trillion in profit from 2021 to present. The industry has known that burning fossil fuels endangers us all since the 1950s, based on work of their own scientists. Now, like the tobacco industry and the chemical industry, the fossil fuel industry will have to pay for damages they have caused.1
Many Christian believers and believers of all faiths from all across the state—including your Creation Justice Team—have worked with the New York State legislature and the Governor to get this Act passed and signed. It has been a part of our work to protect God's Creation.
1 $25 billion is a noticeable sum, but it won't cover ALL the damages, unfortunately.