News Stories from February 2022
From the Desk of Bishop Webb: Ukraine Crisis
February 24, 2022 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The following note was sent by Bishop Mark J. Webb to the Upper New York Conference on Feb. 24, 2022. As the world watches the Russian military aggression and invasion within Ukraine, we as United Methodist followers of Christ reaffirm the truth that “we deplore war and urge the peaceful settlement of all disputes among nations." I invite you to join with me in offering prayers of protection, peace, and …more
Keeping focused in a distracted world: Hold onto the hope of Jesus
February 22, 2022 / By Carmen Vianese, UNY Head of the GC/JC Delegation, UNY Conf. UMW President and Director/Finance Chair GBGM & UMCOR
Given the uncertainty, the continued anxiety, and the conflict that continues not only in society around us, but also within our denomination across the global connection, one would think it would just be easier to walk away from it all. However, as a United Methodist Woman (UMW) who is steeped in the grace offered throughout the sisterhood of UMW, as well as the deep history of justice work, walking away …more
Delayed Enforcement of Direct Bill Arrearage Policy Extended to Dec. 31, 2022
February 22, 2022 / By Susan Latessa, Director of HR/Benefits / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Understanding the struggle faced by many congregations, the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits (CBOPHB) had voted to delay enforcement of the direct bill arrearage policy that went into effect Jan. 1, 2020, for years 2020 and 2021. The CBOPHB has approved to continue the delayed enforcement through Dec. 31, 2022, recognizing that there are churches that are still struggling financially. In 2020, most churches were able to continue making their monthly direct bill payments, which …more
Love, justice, service: The ministries of deaconesses and home missioners
February 22, 2022 / By UNY Communications
Deaconesses and home missioners function through diverse forms of service directed toward the world to make Jesus Christ known in the fullness of his ministry and mission, which mandate that his followers: Alleviate suffering Eradicate causes of injustice and all that robs life of dignity and worth Facilitate the development of full human potential Share in building global community through the church universal. Below are details about a great opportunity …more
United Methodists extend BSA charters through June 2022
February 16, 2022 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodist leaders have reached an agreement with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to extend existing UMC-sponsored Scouting charters through June 30, 2022 to provide for uninterrupted ministry with young people through Scouting. The charters were previously extended to March 31, 2022 as legal proceedings continue in the BSA's bankruptcy case, particularly as the trial for confirmation has now been postponed until March 9, 2022. Churches do not need to take any action to …more
General report by the Protocol Commission
February 15, 2022 / By UNY Communications
During the Upper New York (UNY) Annual Conference held virtually in June of 2021, the body passed Resolution UNYAC2021.7 which created a Study Commission to examine the readiness in the UNYUMC for the Implementation of the Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace Through Separation. This commission is composed of the Conference Treasurer, Dean of the Cabinet, Conference Chancellor, Director of Connectional Ministries, Director of Vital Congregations and representatives of the Committee on …more
Storytelling in a distracted world
February 15, 2022 / By Jee Hae Song
I will tell you a story. A few months ago, I was contacted by an independent reporter in Syracuse, NY, who wished to write an article about me. He was doing profiling of Asian Americans, as he was Asian American himself, and believed that telling stories was transformational. I said yes, and after several interviews of myself and people around me, he came up with a beautiful story about me. …more
What the end of the NY state mask mandate means for local churches
February 10, 2022 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Feb. 15, NYS Commissioner of Health extended the Hero Act through March 17, 2022. Click here to read more. Governor Hochul lifted the mask mandate for all vaccinated and unvaccinated persons effective Feb. 10. This means businesses are no longer required to mandate that all persons in their facilities wear face masks. Pastors and other local church leaders are now asking what this means for their churches, particularly as it relates to worship …more
Wespath to offer Mental Health webinars March 10 and 24
February 10, 2022 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
One in every five Americans (52.9 million people) experience mental illness each year. The signs of someone struggling with mental health are often subtle, leaving many conditions undetected and therefore undiagnosed and untreated. It’s important to not only recognize these signs in ourselves but in our family, friends and colleagues so that we can give them the support they need when they need it. Recognizing this gap in care …more
UNY Camp & Retreat Ministries Update
February 9, 2022 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
As was announced last week, Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center has welcomed Robyn Vernon as the new Site Director. Earlier last month, Ben Mudge transitioned from assistant director to Site Director at Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center. Through their consulting practice, Run River Enterprises, former Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center Directors, Pam Harris and Garrie Stevens, will be coaching and training Ben and Robyn in their new roles. This …more