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


    news article

    The UNY Cabinet and Bishop Webb urge congregations to avoid gatherings of any kind

    April 7, 2020 / By Bishop Mark J. Webb and UNY Cabinet

    Editor's Note: On Tuesday April 7, 2020, The Upper New York (UNY) Cabinet and UNY Area Resident Bishop, Mark J. Webb, sent  the following letter to the UNY Conference.

    Dear Pastors and Laity of the Upper New York Conference:

    Grace is yours and peace through Jesus Christ!

    Almighty God, hear our prayers for the Church and for the world. Grant that all who confess your name may be united in your truth, live together in your love and reveal your glory in the world. Guide the people of this land, and of all the nations, in the ways of justice and peace; that we may honor one another and serve the common good. Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit; give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation. We pray all these prayers through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. (taken from MinistryMatters.com)

    Thank you to so many of you who are holding only virtual or distance gatherings this week! It is a loss to all of us, but safety is foremost. The greatest service we can offer at this time is to refrain from gathering together in worship. Please resource those around you to have more ideas for spiritual ministry that keeps all persons safe.

    In consultation with the New York Council of Churches who has consulted with the office of NY Governor Cuomo, we are again asking and urging you to not hold worship services in person, including drive – up or parking lot services. We want to do all that is possible to not put anyone at risk of spreading or contracting the deadly virus.

     While this may sound harsh, it is meant to be very clear and firm. Such services violate the purpose of the New York State “stay at home” directive. Because we cannot know who is carrying the virus, we must avoid any risk of exposure. As followers of Jesus, we simply cannot place ourselves in this position.

    We want to thank you for the many inspiring and creative ways you are connecting within congregations and reaching new persons in your communities for Christ.

    Friends, we are resurrection people. Even amid this crisis, God is active and working among us and the Good News is proclaimed: Christ is Risen!

    Thank you again for your faithful cooperation,

    The UNY Cabinet & UNY Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb


    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."