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    United Methodists of Upper New YorkLiving the Gospel. Being God's Love.


    news article

    From the Desk of Bishop Webb: Death of Genesee Valley District Superintendent Rev. Vonda Fossitt

    May 12, 2022 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

    Editor's Note: The following was sent on behalf of Bishop Mark J. Webb to clergy in the Genesee Valley District on May 12, 2022. On May 17, the Upper New York Conference learned that Rev. Vonda J. Fossitt's Celebration of Life and Resurrection is planned for May 26 at New Light UMC, located at 2009 Dewey Ave. in Rochester, NY. The wake begins at 11 a.m. followed by a service at 12 p.m. Clergy are invited to robe in white stoles and process together.

    Dear Friends,

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

    As you have learned of the death of your District Superintendent, the Rev. Vonda Fossitt, I wanted to share with you my deep sense of loss and fervent prayers for each of you. Vonda touched our lives in remarkable ways. Her passion for Jesus and the Church was unending and contagious. Her love for and commitment to each of you was unswerving. This is hard news to receive.

    I want to thank you for the many expressions of care and concern you have demonstrated toward Vonda in these past months. I am grateful to the Rev. Ted Anderson, the Rev. David Underwood, and Betsy O’Flynn, for their continued leadership, ministry, and support. The Genesee Valley District and the Upper New York Conference are blessed by each of them.

    When plans are finalized,  there will be information shared regarding opportunities to celebrate the life of Vonda. In the meantime, I know you join me in giving thanks to God for the life of Vonda among us, and the resurrected life, the healed life, and the eternal life she now fully experiences. Please keep Vonda’s family and friends in your prayers as they navigate through this time of great loss.

    I’m grateful for each of you and hold you in my thoughts and prayers.

    Blessings,

    Mark J. Webb

    TAGGED / Communications / Connectional Ministries / Episcopal Office


    With more than 100,000 members, United Methodists of Upper New York comprises of more than 675 local churches and New Faith Communities in 12 districts, covering 48,000 square miles in 49 of the 62 counties in New York state. Our vision is to “live the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to be God’s love with our neighbors in all places."