event
Christmas
December 25, 2026 — December 26, 2026
The Conference Office will be closed in observance of Christmas Decemeber 25-26.
Christmas Eve
December 24, 2026
The Conference Office will be closed on Christmas Eve.
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
December 9, 2026 — December 10, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
December 8, 2026
Thanksgiving
November 26, 2026 — November 27, 2026
Conference Office will be closed on November 26-27 in obervance of Thanksgiving.
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
November 10, 2026 — November 11, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
November 9, 2026
Safe Sanctuaries Zoom Training (3.5 hour basic training)
November 7, 2026 / 9:00am – 12:30pm
3.5 HOUR BASIC TRAININGS
(this training is for all clergy, and laity working with children, youth or vulnerable adults)
Saturday, November 7, 2026 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Opens October 1, 2026 @ Midnight & Closes October 31, 2026 @ Midnight (no exceptions)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/MS2v2M8K13SXHDHY6
2026 Leadership Gathering
October 20, 2026 — October 24, 2026
The Council of Bishops is hosting a Leadership Gathering in Calgary, Alberta, Canada from October 20-24, 2026 in place of a Special Session of General Conference. This gathering will bring together bishops, church leaders, clergy, laypersons, and key representatives from across the connectional church to discern, dream, and co‑create the future direction of The United Methodist Church. Click here to learn more.
Basic ERT Training
October 17, 2026
Basic ERT Training:
October 17th at Clinton United Methodist Church from 9AM - 4PM (registration and more info to come)
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
October 13, 2026 — October 14, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
October 12, 2026
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
September 28, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
September 14, 2026 — September 17, 2026
Labor Day
September 7, 2026
The Conference Office will be closed in observance of Labor Day.
Safe Sanctuaries Zoom Training (Training of Trainers)
September 5, 2026 / 9:00am – 12:30pm
Training of Trainers - TOT
(this training is for anyone who would like to become a church or district Safe Sanctuaries trainer in the Upper New York Conference. Must havecompleted 3.5 hour basic Training prior to taking the TOT Training.)
Saturday, September 5, 2026 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Opens August 1, 2026 @ Midnight & Closes August 29, 2026 @ Midnight (no exceptions)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/Np12v2GJ4zGmSi549
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
August 25, 2026
Safe Sanctuaries Zoom Training (3.5 hour basic training)
August 1, 2026 / 4:30pm – 5:30pm
3.5 HOUR BASIC TRAININGS
(this training is for all clergy, and laity working with children, youth or vulnerable adults)
Saturday, August 1, 2026 9 a.m. - 12:30pm
Registration Opens July 1, 2026 @ Midnight & Closes July 25, 2026 @ Midnight (no exceptions)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/5J4WkQqn8QLEY7B69
Salt of the Earth Missions: Neighborly Love Never Falls Short
July 30, 2026 — August 2, 2026 Location: Kenmore UMC More Information: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/CCYM/event/saltoftheearthmissions26/
Salt of the Earth Missions: Neighborly Love Never Falls Short is an exciting opportunity for youth, who have completed grades 6–12 to spend intentional time together this summer serving, learning, and growing in their relationship with God and others. Grounded in Jesus’ call to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 19:19), this weekend invites young people to live out their faith through hands-on service, meaningful worship, and authentic community.
Adult chaperones for each group are fully resposible for the youth they are bringing to the event. This includes behavior, maintaining your church's Safe Sanctuary policies, supervision, and transportation throughout the weekend. All programatic elements - service opportunities, food, worship, and sleeping arangements - will be provided by CCYM and Upper New York Missional Excellence.
Quick Overview:
Date: July 30 - August 2
Cost: $100/youth and $75/adult leader
Host Church: Kenmore United Methodist Church
Food: Meals provided by area churches. Groups encouraged to bring snacks to share!
Worship: Each day will include time set aside to worship together in unique ways. Before the weekend concludes, your group will have a special time to worship on Sunday morning with the host chruch.
Click here to register.
Independence Day (observed)
July 3, 2026
The Conference Office will be closed in observance of Independence Day.
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
June 30, 2026
Juneteenth
June 19, 2026
June 19 commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S. The Conference and Episcopal Offices will be closed on this day.
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
June 10, 2026
Peace with Justice Sunday
May 31, 2026
Annual Conference 2026
May 28, 2026 — May 30, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
May 27, 2026
Memorial Day
May 25, 2026
The Conference Office will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.
Clergy Days Apart | Binghamton & Oneonta District (Resurrection/Pentecost)
May 20, 2026 Location: Sidney UMC Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Clergy Days Apart are offered across the Conference to provide pastoral leaders with time and space to step away from the regular rhythms of ministry and rest in the unhurried rhythms of grace. Our prayer is that this time allows leaders to reconnect with their own spiritual center and draw deeply from the Wellspring of Love.
Location: Sidney UMC
More information to follow
Clergy Days Apart | Northern Flow & Mohawk District (Resurrection/Pentecost)
May 19, 2026 Location: New Hartford UMC Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Clergy Days Apart are offered across the Conference to provide pastoral leaders with time and space to step away from the regular rhythms of ministry and rest in the unhurried rhythms of grace. Our prayer is that this time allows leaders to reconnect with their own spiritual center and draw deeply from the Wellspring of Love.
Location: New Hartford UMC
More information to follow
Local Pastor Licensing School
May 18, 2026 — May 24, 2026 More Information: Sky Lake Camp & Retreat Center
The 2026 Upper New York Local Pastor Licensing School (LPLS) will be May 18-24, 2026 at Sky Lake Camp & Retreat Center. The Local Pastors Licensing School experience provides an opportunity to learn with other students about the basics of ministry. Approval of the District Superintendent is required for the student to attend this important milestone in becoming a Licensed Local Pastor.A registration link will be coming soon. Click here for more information and click here to register.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Endwell UMC
May 16, 2026 / 2:00pm – 3:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Endwell UMC on Saturday, May 16 from 2-3:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Clergy Days Apart | Cornerstone & Niagara Frontier (Resurrection/Pentecost)
May 14, 2026 Location: Springville First UMC Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Clergy Days Apart are offered across the Conference to provide pastoral leaders with time and space to step away from the regular rhythms of ministry and rest in the unhurried rhythms of grace. Our prayer is that this time allows leaders to reconnect with their own spiritual center and draw deeply from the Wellspring of Love.
Location: Springville First UMC
More information to follow
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
May 12, 2026 — May 13, 2026
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
May 12, 2026 — May 13, 2026
SUS & UNY Missional Cabinet
May 11, 2026
ERT Basic Training at Christ UMC
May 9, 2026 / 9:00am – 4:00pm
A basic Early Response Team training, hosted by Upper New York Disaster Response, is planned for May 9 from 9 a.m. ntil 4 p.m. at Christ UMC in Olean. Click here to register.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Conference Office
May 3, 2026 / 2:00pm – 3:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at the Conference Office on Sunday, May 3 from 2-3:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Rochester: Asbury First UMC
May 2, 2026 / 7:00pm – 8:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Rochester: Asbury First UMC on Saturday, May 2 from 7-8:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Pendleton Center UMC
May 2, 2026 / 2:00pm – 3:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Pendleton Center UMC on Saturday, May 2 from 2-3:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Olean: Christ UMC
May 2, 2026 / 10:00am – 11:30am
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Olean: Christ UMC on Saturday, May 2 from 10-11:30 a.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
UNY Confirmation Rally 2026
May 2, 2026 / 10:00am – 3:00pm
Get ready for an inspiring and joy-filled day at Upper New York’s Glow & Grow Confirmation Rally! Confirmands and leaders from across Upper New York are invited to come together for worship, music, and meaningful connection on May 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Conference Center in Liverpool.
This year’s theme, “Claiming a Faith of Our Own,” invites youth to explore how God’s light shines in and through each of us as we continue to grow in faith.
This is a free event!
More details and registration information will be available soon. For questions, please contact Jordan Osborne, Office Coordinator for Missional Excellence, at jordanosborne@unyumc.org.
Safe Sanctuaries Zoom Training (3.5 hour basic training)
May 2, 2026 / 9:00am – 12:30pm
3.5 HOUR BASIC TRAININGS
(this training is for all clergy, and laity working with children, youth or vulnerable adults)
Saturday, May 2, 2026 9am - 12:30pm
Registration Opens April 1, 2026 @ Midnight & Closes April 25, 2026 @ Midnight (no exceptions)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/jtUQiYYH6GRAoMEm7
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
April 28, 2026 — April 29, 2026
Pre-Conference Briefing at Clifton Park: Shenendehowa UMC
April 26, 2026 / 2:00pm – 3:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Clifton Park: Shenendehowa UMC on Sunday, April 26 from 2-3:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of nine being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Plattsburgh UMC
April 25, 2026 / 5:00pm – 6:30pm
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Plattsburgh UMC on Saturday, April 25 from 5-6:30 p.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Pre-Conference Briefing at Watertown: First UMC
April 25, 2026 / 10:00am – 11:30am
A Pre-Conference Briefing will be held at Watertown: First UMC on Saturday, April 25 from 10-11:30 a.m. as part of this year’s Annual Conference theme, RISE UP! Love Boldly & Transform the World, a call to step forward together into a faith that is visible and transformative. This 90-minute session is one of eight being offered across Upper New York to prepare clergy and lay members for important conversations and decisions at the May 28–30 Annual Conference at the Oncenter in Syracuse. The briefing will include updates from the Visioning Task Force and key recommendations from the Commission on Equitable Compensation, Council on Finance and Administration, and Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, followed by time for questions and answers.
Clergy Days Apart | Crossroads & Finger Lakes District (Resurrection/Pentecost)
April 22, 2026 Location: Auburn UMC Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Clergy Days Apart are offered across the Conference to provide pastoral leaders with time and space to step away from the regular rhythms of ministry and rest in the unhurried rhythms of grace. Our prayer is that this time allows leaders to reconnect with their own spiritual center and draw deeply from the Wellspring of Love.
Location: Auburn UMC
More information to follow
Mentor Training at Geneseo United Methodist Church
April 21, 2026 / 10:00am – 3:30pm Location: Geneseo United Methodist Church Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) More Information: LINK
One of the strengths of the UMC connection is our mentoring candidates for ministry. Mentoring offers support, a sounding board, and guidance for those discerning their call and going into ministry. It also offers the mentors new ideas and eyes to see ministry afresh. This training supports mentors for ministry candidates, clergy mentors for Local Pastors who have not completed Course of Study and mentors for Provisional Members preparing for Ordination. Current mentors, all ordained clergy and all LLPs who have finished course of study are encouraged to participate. Lunch will be provided. Register by 4-1-26.
Register here
Native American Ministries Sunday
April 19, 2026
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
April 14, 2026 — April 16, 2026
Good Friday
April 3, 2026
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Conference and Episcopal Offices will be closed on this day.
Mentor Training at Saratoga Springs UMC
March 25, 2026 / 10:00am – 3:30pm Location: Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) More Information: LINK
One of the strengths of the UMC connection is our mentoring candidates for ministry. Mentoring offers support, a sounding board, and guidance for those discerning their call and going into ministry. It also offers the mentors new ideas and eyes to see ministry afresh. This training supports mentors for ministry candidates, clergy mentors for Local Pastors who have not completed Course of Study and mentors for Provisional Members preparing for Ordination. Current mentors, all ordained clergy and all LLPs who have finished course of study are encouraged to participate. Lunch will be provided. Register by 3-8-26.
Register here
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
March 23, 2026 — March 25, 2026
Wesleyan Leadership: Lead Courageously
March 21, 2026 / 10:00am – 11:30am
Wesleyan Leadership: Lead Courageously Webinar
These opportunities invite clergy and laity to speak faithfully and prayerfully into the future of our Church. Participants may send questions in advance and recordings will be available afterward.
Click here to register.
UMCOR Sunday
March 15, 2026
Deacon Retreat of the Susquehanna and Upper NY Conferences
March 13, 2026 — March 14, 2026
The Orders of Deacons of the Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences invite all Deacons—discerning, Provisional, Full Connection, and retired—to a joint retreat on March 13–14, 2026 at Liverpool First UMC. This gathering will offer meaningful fellowship, Saturday worship with Holy Communion, and two focused sessions exploring Sacramental Authority, building a system of support for the Order, and the evolving role of Deacons across the denomination. Registration is $50, with group-rate lodging available at Staybridge Suites. RSVP to jordanosborne@unyumc.org and join in this time of renewal, connection, and shared ministry.
SUS & UNY Appointive Cabinet
March 10, 2026 — March 12, 2026
AI 101 Webinar with Jason Moore
March 9, 2026 / 7:00pm – 8:30pm Location: Zoom Contact: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
New to AI or ready for a refresher? Join Jason Moore on March 9 from 7–8:30 p.m. for an accessible introduction to artificial intelligence and its practical applications in ministry. This foundational session will help you understand what AI can (and can’t) do, explore ethical and faithful use, and discover simple ways to begin integrating AI into your daily work.
Safe Sanctuaries Zoom Training (Training of Trainers)
March 7, 2026 / 9:00am – 12:30pm
Training of Trainers - TOT
(this training is for anyone who would like to become a church or district Safe Sanctuaries trainer in the Upper New York Conference. Must havecompleted 3.5 hour basic Training prior to taking the TOT Training.)
Saturday, March 7, 2026 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Registration Opens February 1, 2026 @ Midnight & Closes February 28, 2026 @ Midnight (no exceptions)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/3UsK3GLmn6dLb64h6