events

2025 Annual Conference

The 2025 Annual Conference for United Methodists of Upper New York is planned for May 22-24, 2025, at the OnCenter in downtown Syracuse. Click here to read more about the decision to hold the gathering on these dates. 

About the theme and logo

The theme for the 2025 Annual Conference session is "Believe... and see the Glory of God." The theme is based on John 11:1-45 (the death and resurrection of Lazarus) with companion verses of Luke 1:47 (my spirit rejoices in God my savior) and Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me).  

Our faith in Jesus Christ opens our spiritual vision, allowing us to perceive God at work in our lives and the world. Faith allows us to trust in God’s purpose and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or unclear. Our faith is not simply an intellectual assent but an active, trusting relationship with God through Christ that, in the power of the Holy Spirit, leads to transformative experiences of God’s glory. 

As we continue moving toward God’s future, we are invited to seek the kind of faith that, when put into action, manifests God’s unlimited power to bring new life to our communities and congregations through the healing and liberating love of Jesus Christ.

Meet this year's speakers

Bishop Ruben Saenz, Jr. of the Central and North Texas Conferences will deliver an inspiring message during the ordination service.

The Rev. Kris Sledge and the Rev. Rachel Gilmore, co-authors of the highly anticipated book, Followers Under 40, will lead a teaching moment. Their new book offers practical strategies and wisdom for engaging Millennials, Gen Z, and Alphas in ministry. Rev. Sledge is a United Methodist Church planter and founding pastor/lead pastor of The Journey Church, an urban, multi-ethnic United Methodist Church in Harrisburg, PA and Rev. Gilmore is Director of New & Vital Faith at the Desert Southwest Annual Conference.

Petitions and Resolutions

Click here to submit a petition and/or resolution by March 1, 2025 for inclusion in the 2025 UNY Pre-Conference Workbook.