News Stories from April 2026
Solar incentives for churches expire soon
April 27, 2026 / By Rev. Merle Showers, UNY Creation Justice / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
If your church has even considered installing solar panels, the window to receive significant federal financial support is closing faster than it may appear and waiting much longer could cost you tens of thousands of dollars in missed reimbursement. Financial help is available through the IRS solar “Elective Pay” program, but key deadlines are approaching quickly. To qualify, your project must be registered with the IRS by …more
Celebrating a decade of creation care with EarthKeepers
April 22, 2026 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Today is Earth Day, a moment to reflect on how we care for creation and one another. As the Global Ministries EarthKeepers program marks its 10th anniversary, United Methodists across Upper New York are engaging in meaningful, community-based efforts to care for God’s creation. Global Ministries EarthKeepers is a training program that equips United Methodists …more
Reaching others through “Clean Clothes Connection”
April 20, 2026 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Rome First United Methodist Church has a new mission initiative aimed at meeting a practical yet deeply meaningful need in the community through access to clean clothing. The program, called Clean Clothes Connection, is rooted in the belief that small acts of care can restore dignity, build relationships, and open doors for connection. Rome First UMC purchased $20 laundry gift cards that can be …more
Praying Together, Giving Together
April 14, 2026 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 Dear Colleagues in Ministry, Grace and peace to you in the name of our Risen Christ. District Online Pastoral Leaders Gatherings I write with a grateful heart. When I invited us to gather each week, …more
Celebrating Rev. Dr. Georgia Harkness
April 14, 2026 / By Tara Barnes / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
“Hope of the world, thou Christ of great compassion, speak to our fearful hearts by conflict rent …” Have you ever opened your United Methodist Hymnal to #178 and sang those words? They were written by the Rev. Dr. Georgia Harkness, a big name in Methodism: The first woman to become a full professor at a U.S. seminary, author of more than 30 books, six-time General Conference delegate, teacher, …more
From the Desk of Bishop Burgos: An Easter Message of Hope
April 5, 2026 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following Easter message was sent to United Methodists in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez. Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Today, Christians around the world proclaim the heart of our faith: death does not have the final word. The tomb is empty. God’s love has overcome the …more