news article
District Days shed hope on the future
February 27, 2024 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
There is nothing like being able to gather to worship, engage in meaningful conversations, and enjoy fellowship with other Christians.
This winter, United Methodists of Upper New York have had the chance to connect beyond their local churches through District Days. Since the beginning of February, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez has been traveling throughout Upper New York, meeting with both clergy and laity, for a time of worship and conversation. By mid-April, Bishop Burgos will have visited all 12 districts in the Conference.
In his message, Bishop Héctor is urging United Methodists of Upper New York to give their entire attention to what God is doing now, release the anxieties of tomorrow, and stay focused on living the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“The Bishop’s message was a source of hope for me after long years of leadership that wanted to drag us into the past instead of leading us into the future,” said Ted Finlayson-Schueler, lay member at University United Methodist Church in Syracuse. Ted attended Bishop’s District Day at Fayetteville UMC.
During the gatherings, there is time for small group conversations and a question-and-answer session with Bishop Héctor. The Rev. Sheila Price attended the clergy gathering at Horseheads UMC. She says she came away from the gathering feeling uplifted.
“It was a joy to gather with my colleagues. Bishop Héctor spoke with such enthusiasm for the future of the conference and the denomination, acknowledging our challenges, but also focusing on our call to follow in the way of Jesus,” said Rev. Price.
Adirondack and Albany District Superintendent, the Rev. Debbie Earthrowl, says she values the opportunity to connect with one another in-person.
“Every experience of gathering together with colleagues, clergy colleagues and then lay colleagues, is an opportunity to discern together what God is doing among us and through us. We are so thankful that Bishop Héctor is making space to be with us and lead us in such positive ways!”
Clergy gatherings are scheduled for each visit from 1-3 p.m. and from 7-8:30 p.m. for laity and clergy who couldn't attend the earlier meeting. There are still dates available to participate in these fruitful gatherings. See the full list of upcoming dates and locations here.