News Stories from January 2021
New York State Paid Sick Leave law
January 15, 2021 / By Tracy Rickett, Human Resources Generalist
All private sector workers in New York State are covered under the state’s paid sick leave law, regardless of industry, occupation, part-time status, overtime exempt status, and seasonal status. If a person is issued a W-2 year-end tax form, they are eligible for the New York State Paid Sick Leave. Non-profit and religious organizations are not exempt from this law. The law requires employers, depending on their size, …more
Systemic vs Institutional Racism
January 13, 2021 / By Georgia Whitney, Conference Commission on Religion & Race
When did you last use an offensive term referring to someone of another race? Refuse to sit next to a person at church whose skin color is different from yours? Told a racist joke? It's probably been a while—or maybe you've never done these kinds of things. Because as Christians, that's just not how we behave. And in the U.S., that's how …more
Central Endicott “Best Place to Worship”
January 13, 2021 / By Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost
In a delightful end to the difficult year that was 2020, Endicott: Central UMC was chosen as the “Best Place to Worship” in the Binghamton Press and Sun Bulletin’s Readers’ Choice awards. Members consistently reflect this reality, and some have explained why. Amber Gaylord comments, “Central is the best place to worship because everyone is so welcoming to anyone and everyone. It’s like …more
Intentional Discipleship Development
January 4, 2021 / By Ellen Mall-John, Albany District Lay Leader and District Associate
Editor’s Note: In 2019, the Rev. Dr. Aaron Bowens, the UNY Director of Vital Congregations wrote an article on what it means to have an intentional discipleship system. Click here to read it. But, how do we create disciples in the midst of a pandemic? In the article below, Ellen Mall John, Albany District Associate offers excellent ways to develop disciples at this difficult time. Her advice can prove …more