events / New Faith Communities
UNY Greenhouse Days
Greenhouse Days are annual one-day events hosted by the Upper New York Conference’s New Faith Communities and Innovation Initiative. Designed to equip individuals and churches to reach new people in new places and in new ways. Greenhouse Days provide practical tools, creative inspiration, and collaborative learning for anyone seeking to cultivate fresh expressions of Church.
Whether you're a clergy member, lay leader, or simply curious about innovative ministry, you'll find encouragement and ideas to spark something new in your context.
About Our Facilitator
Greenhouse Days are facilitated by Rev. Dr. Michael Beck, a nationally recognized leader in the Fresh Expressions movement. Michael serves as Director of the Fresh Expressions House of Studies at United Theological Seminary and leads multiple ministries across Florida with his wife, Jill. Together they cultivate traditional congregations alongside a network of fresh expressions gathering in tattoo parlors, dog parks, salons, running tracks, burrito joints, and digital spaces.
Event Information
Greenhouse Days are typically held each fall at two different locations across Upper New York. Event dates, locations, and registration details are updated annually.
This year, a full-day session is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Kenmore United Methodist Church, near Buffalo. A shorter version will take place on Sunday, September 21 from 1 - 4 p.m. at the United Methodist Center in Liverpool. The cost to attend either session is $10 and the registration deadline is September 2.
Registration
Click here for more information about Greenhouse Days for 2025 and to register.
Learn more
Click here to read about the Greenhouse Days experience from 2024.
Click here to read how Greenhouse Days helped SPARK ignite a new way of being church.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this for someone like me?
Yes! Greenhouse Days are for anyone in Upper New York who is curious about fresh expressions of church. Whether you’re a clergy member, lay person, or someone who senses God calling you toward something fresh, you are welcome. Individuals, churches, and ministry teams who want to explore Fresh Expressions or gain new inspiration will all benefit.
What will I get out of attending?
Expect to leave with practical tools, renewed imagination, and concrete steps you can take in your own ministry setting. You'll also meet others on a similar journey and learn from their experiences.
I’ve never heard of Fresh Expressions—do I need prior knowledge?
Not at all! Greenhouse Days are designed for beginners and seasoned innovators alike. You'll be introduced to the Fresh Expressions movement in a way that is easy to understand and applicable to a variety of church contexts.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
You can reach Rev. Abigail Browka, Director of New Faith Communities and Innovation in Upper New York, at AbigailBrowka@unyumc.org.