Meet the Deacons: Rev. Becky Guthrie

October 8, 2019 / By Rev. Becky Guthrie / 1 Comment

I have two half-time appointments: First UMC New Hartford and St. Luke’s Hospital, Utica.

I have a Masters’ in counseling with a specialty in grief and certified by the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC.org). I am available for my congregants and the community. Many pastors and community members in my area reach out for guidance and support.

At First UMC, I am entrusted with the wellness of the congregation and connection with the community. As a Deacon called to compassion and justice, I make sure that I touch base with congregation members, especially those who are disconnected by illness, frailty, or tragedy. I believe the most important work that I do is listening for spiritual needs and helping where needed.

An important part of my work revolves around building and working with my Visitation Team who partner with me to go out to the shut-ins and nursing homes. I firmly believe that those who are disconnected need to know that it is the WHOLE church that feels the loss of their presence within the body—not just the pastor. We work hard to bring light and love from a variety of sources.

I also feel a strong pull toward mission and outreach. First UMC has strong leadership in this area, so I spend time connecting with my Mission and Outreach committee to join in their ministries along with striving to encourage others to support the committee through serving and teaching.

As a chaplain at St. Luke’s Hospital, I visit the protestant patients and families daily letting them know that they are not alone in this journey and that God loves them deeply. I love being a vessel for God through listening to their struggles and offering prayer and anointing.

I love serving God in these important ways. It is an amazing thing to watch how God moves in both places.