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From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: UNY Cabinet Transition
October 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following note was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the UNY Cabinet Transition to take place on June 30, 2026.
“Well done, good and faithful servant!” Matthew 25:21a
Dear Upper New York clergy and laity community,
Grace and peace to you in Christ.
The Rev. Debbie Earthrowl, Superintendent of the Adirondack and Albany Districts, will conclude her eight-year tenure as a member of the Upper New York Cabinet on June 30, 2026.
Rev. Earthrowl’s faith journey began early in life and has been marked by deep commitment and evolving call. After serving in various roles within the local church, she joined staff as a Christian Education Director and later became a Diaconal Minister. She was then appointed to serve the Salem and West Hebron United Methodist Churches, became a local pastor, and was subsequently ordained as both deacon and elder. Later, she led a greater parish encompassing seven churches before being called to the Cabinet, first as Superintendent of the Adirondack District and then also of the Albany District.
Throughout her nearly eight years in the Cabinet, Rev. Earthrowl has offered faithful, visionary leadership. Her relational approach, strategic insight, and visible pastoral presence have made a lasting impact on clergy, laity, and congregations alike. She has consistently prioritized resourcing churches for impactful ministry and has guided her work with clarity, care, and a deep sense of call.
On behalf of the Cabinet, I give thanks to God for this mighty woman of faith and transformative leader. At the conclusion of her tenure, Rev. Earthrowl has discerned a call to return to parish ministry, where she feels she has much to offer in service to the mission.
Please join me in celebrating Rev. Debbie Earthrowl’s ministry and in praying for her during this year of transition. I will share more soon about the discernment process for the next Adirondack and Albany Districts Superintendent.
Together in mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
Susquehanna and Upper New York Area
The United Methodist Church