news article
Host a missionary this spring
April 28, 2026 / By Rev. Bob Long, United Methodist of Upper New York Itineration Coordinator / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The values shaping current United Methodist mission engagement are intentionally inclusive and shared, reflecting Jesus’ call to love God and all creation. The guiding posture is “with,” not “for”: with God, with people in every place, in mutuality, collaboration, and cooperation. All are affirmed with equal dignity and recognized as bearers of God’s blessings and gifts—each one both blessed and a blessing.
Today, United Methodist Missionaries come from everywhere in the world and are sent to serve everywhere in the world. Deep and abiding joy flows through these expressions of God’s inclusive, distributive love. In this time of imposed threat, violence and division, Jesus makes it clear that the transforming way for United Methodist congregations to resist is to openly express inclusiveness and distributive justice clearly and concisely.
Hosting a national and/or global missionary is an inspiring and enriching way to do this.
The Revs. Richard and Alma Navarro, missionaries from the Philippines who are serving in Taiwan, will be within Upper New York Conference from Tuesday, May 19 through Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Though Alma and Richard are a team, they are each assigned and effective missionaries on their own right. They are waiting to share rich and joy-filled experiences that flow from their ministries as witnesses among migrant workers.
Congregations wishing to host the Navarros are asked to invite neighboring United Methodist churches and/or congregations of other denominations to join with them so as to provide wide exposure.
The Navarros speak fluent English and are accustomed to speaking to small and medium sized groups.
To host the Richard and Alma, select a morning/noon or late afternoon/evening date and time and coordinate with Rev. Bob Long, UMUNY Itineration Coordinator: Bikealong2@gmail.com or (518) 423-7737.
Click the links below for detailed information about the Navarros: