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From the desk of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez - Safe Haven Congregations

June 26, 2023 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Editor's Note: The following email was sent on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez to United Methodists of Upper New York on June 26, 2023. 

“By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:35

Dear United Methodists of Upper New York,

I thank God for the joy and hope I experienced as United Methodists of Upper New York came together for our 14th Annual Conference session in Syracuse, NY, earlier this month. We are moving forward as United Methodists and continue living into God’s vision of being TOGETHER – living the Gospel of Jesus Christ and being God’s love with our neighbors in all places.

You can read more and watch videos of the annual conference session here.

As we lean into our future together, we are launching a new initiative that embodies the principle of radical hospitality that distinguish followers of Christ in the United Methodist tradition – Safe Haven Congregations.

Safe Haven Congregations are local churches in United Methodists of Upper New York equipped to offer radical hospitality to anyone whose church closes or has chosen to disaffiliate. Regardless of our theological leaning, as United Methodists, we are all encouraged to follow the example in Acts 2 of the community of Jesus’ followers caring for each other – a diverse community ready to receive unity as a gift from God.  

I strongly encourage all UNY congregations committed to The United Methodist Church's long-term future and that embrace God’s vision for unity in our diversity to prayerfully consider becoming a Safe Haven Congregation as a public witness of our faith and vision for mission and ministry.  

You can learn more and apply to be equipped as a Safe Haven congregation here.

If you are among those who have become displaced or churchless because of closing or disaffiliation, please know that we see you, love you, care about you, and are here for you.

In the weeks and months to come, we will share additional ways United Methodists disciples, leaders, and congregations can continue coming TOGETHER, to be The Connection at its best – for the glory of God.

Together in the journey,

Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving United Methodist of Upper New York