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From the Desk of Bishop Burgos: Miracle Sunday Resources Available

March 24, 2026 / By UNY Communications

Editor’s Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Thursday, March 24 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez about the release of Miracle Sunday resources.

"The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." Luke 10:2 

Dear Pastoral and Lay Leaders of Upper New York, 

Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ. 

Last December, I shared with you about a Spirit-led movement inviting all United Methodist congregations across our worldwide connection to embark on a six‑week post‑Easter journey, culminating in a Miracle Sunday offering on May 17, 2026, to support the Theological Education Outside the U.S. Endowment Fund. 

Today, I am excited to share that the resources for the six‑week worship and small‑group journey are now available — and this is our moment to rise and step forward.   

You can find the campaign's resources here. 

Why This Matters 

The need is both clear and urgent. In the United States, more than 70% of clergy hold a theological degree. Outside the U.S., fewer than 5% do.

On Miracle Sunday, United Methodist congregations around the world will unite in a one‑time, denomination‑wide offering to strengthen theological education for the worldwide church. This endowment will support approximately 500 clergy each year, helping close the gap and equipping a new generation of pastoral leaders across Africa, Europe, and the Philippines.

Our generosity will shape the future of the church worldwide.

The Six‑Week Journey 

To prepare your congregation, a complete six‑week worship and small‑group series — created by leaders around the globe and grounded in our new shared vision — is ready for you now.

Beginning April 12, each week will invite your community to explore what it means to be formed by Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and sent into the world to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. 

Access and download all the campaign's resources here.

A Shared Commitment 

Jazelis and I have already made our personal miracle offering of $1,500, and I am grateful to share that every member of the joint missional cabinets of the Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences has also pledged their support to this initiative. We invite you to join us in this bold act of faith. Together, with God’s help, we can do this. 

When your congregation decides to participate, please let me know here — I would be honored to pray for you and your community by name as you participate in this missional initiative. 

A Call to Our Episcopal Area 

I am praying — and believing — that 100% of the congregations in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Area will join this worldwide initiative and give generously according to their capacity on Miracle Sunday, May 17, 2026. 

Let us rise together in gratitude, boldness, and hope for the future God is shaping among us. 

Together in Christ's mission,  

Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez
The United Methodist Church   
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area