news stories
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 …more
The BibleKing Ladies: A whopper of a Bible study
October 20, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Eight years ago, three women from Oswego: Trinity United Methodist Church hesitated to join a traditional Bible study. “They felt that they didn’t know enough,” recalls longtime member and SPRC Chair of Oswego: Trinity UMC, Sheila Buske. “I responded that I would be willing to run a class for just the three of them, so that they would feel comfortable and not intimidated.” …more
Commentary: Climate change and crops
October 17, 2025 / By Dr. Andrew Hartley, UNY Creation Justice Team
The following commentary was written by Dr. Andrew Hartley on behalf of the UNY Creation Care Ministry. The views expressed in this article are of the UNY Creation Care Ministry, and not of Bishop Burgos Núñez or any Upper New York staff member. October is here and what a month! First, International Coffee Day came and went on October 1. October 31 is Halloween. This …more
Save Money, Save the Planet: Join Community Solar Today!
October 16, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The New York State Council of Churches invites you to make a difference—for your wallet and the environment. The United Methodist Social Principles remind us that "sustainability is crucial to the development of ecologically sound policies and practices that seek to restore balance to the natural world." They urge us to reduce our carbon footprints and support "cooperative efforts aimed at redressing the ecological harms humans have wreaked …more
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Honoring Pastoral Leaders
October 14, 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 Clergy Appreciation Month and supporting your pastor when it comes to clegy wellness. “I thank God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel…” Philippians 1:3–6 Dear partners in …more
Rev. Yohang Chun installed as District Superintendent of the Northern Flow & Mohawk Districts
October 14, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Sunday, October 12, Asbury United Methodist Church in Watertown hosted a spirit-filled service celebrating the installation of the Rev. Yohang Chun as Superintendent of the Northern Flow and Mohawk Districts of the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church. Friends, clergy, and laity from across the districts gathered to worship, pray, and affirm Rev. Chun’s leadership. The service opened with gathering music by the Asbury …more
Rev. Richelle Goff installed as District Superintendent of Genesee Valley and Mountain View Districts
October 13, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
On Saturday, October 11, 2025, clergy and laity from across Upper New York gathered at Bath: Centenary United Methodist Church to celebrate the installation of the Rev. Richelle Goff as District Superintendent of the Genesee Valley and Mountain View Districts. The sanctuary was filled with music, prayer, and blessings as the community of family, friends, and loved ones affirmed this new season of ministry. The service began with vibrant music from Bath: …more
From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: A Blessing for Indigenous Peoples’ Day
October 13, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following pastoral letter was sent on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez to United Methodists of Upper New York on Monday, October 13, 2025. “I establish my covenant with you and your descendants after you and with every living creature…” - Genesis 9:9 Dear family of God, On this sacred day of remembrance, we humbly honor the enduring …more
UNY LGBTQ+ Inclusion Team Announced
October 13, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Earlier this week, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez announced the formation of the Upper New York (UNY) LGBTQ+ Inclusion Team—an initiative established by the 2025 Annual Conference session and shaped in response to recent revisions to the Book of Discipline adopted by the 2020/2024 General Conference. A Spirit-Led Team of Trusted Leaders The Inclusion Team comprises a diverse group of leaders known …more
Beyond the Pews: Weekly café ministry builds community and connection in Latham
October 13, 2025 / By Rev. Dr. Nick Bufano/UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Each Thursday afternoon in Latham, a quiet but impactful ministry unfolds just a few blocks from the walls of Newtonville UMC. From 12-1:30 p.m., the Rev. Dr. Nick Bufano relocates his “office” to The Works Café—a local coffee shop that has become more than just a place for lattes and lunch. It's become a space for spiritual presence, meaningful conversations, and unexpected connections. …more