news stories
Whitney Point UMC’s Sew ’n Sews ministry makes a difference in the lives of 10,000 girls
May 23, 2018 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Picture 10,000 vibrant dresses in bright blues with checkered trim, or fuchsia a with floral trim, purple with paisley trim, or entirely floral in bright pinks, reds, turquoise, or yellow—gorgeous dresses. These dresses are for little girls in impoverished communities all over the world—dresses that were once sheets and pillow cases, or quilting patterns found when cleaning out attics of loved ones who have either passed away …more
Inviting and Inspiring Worship: Highlight on Asbury First UMC
May 23, 2018 / By Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady II, Asbury First UMC
In the United Methodist tradition, worship is ultimately about “an encounter with the living God through the risen Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit.” Or, so says our Book of Worship. Unfortunately, many people (including some clergy) are more likely to experience boredom in worship than God. To our credit, we have known that there is a problem for several decades and have done …more
What else you need to know about Annual Conference
May 22, 2018 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Every week for the past few months, articles have been published about specific Annual Conference details that you need to know about. Now, with being just over a week away from Annual Conference, we have a few more details to share with you. Livestream If you are unable to attend Annual Conference—no worries! You can watch all the services and plenaries through the Annual Conference livestream. Simply go …more
Bishops clarify statement on Commission on a Way Forward recommendation
May 18, 2018 / By Council of Bishops
The Council of Bishops is issuing the following statement, written by the bishops who served on the Commission on a Way Forward, and approved by the Executive Committee of the Council of Bishops this week. The Council of Bishops has voted by an overwhelming majority to share the work done by the Commission on a Way Forward on the three plans and to recommend the One Church Plan. The …more
What are the five markers of vitality?
May 16, 2018 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in Spring 2018 issue of the Advocate, which focused on developing vital congregations. Through the study of thousands of congregations in various contexts, there are five markers that have been consistent with high-vitality congregations: Inviting and Inspiring Worship Weekly worship services continue to be a primary place of connection with those who are already connected with the church as well as those who are …more
Broken Glory
May 15, 2018 / By Deresha Hayles
Editor's Note: The United Methodist Ecumenical Campus Ministry at Hendricks Chapel, Syracuse University applied for and received the Ercil Cady Grant last Fall and they put on a writing contest that was geared towards students of Black/African American and Native American descent. Deresha S. Hayles won the contest with the following essay. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they …more
Historical Society meeting Sat., June 16, 2018 in Clyde
May 15, 2018 / By Nancy Rutenber
The Upper New York United Methodist Historical Society will host a public meeting Saturday, June 16, 2018 (with Society news and a program) starting at 10:30 a.m. at Clyde United Methodist Church, 84 Sodus St. in Clyde, NY (in Wayne County’s town of Galen). Methodist churches of Wayne County to be explored. Lunch hosted by the church - offered for a free-will donation – will be meatloaf, herbed potatoes, corn …more
Getting Ready for Annual Conference: Communication at Annual Conference
May 15, 2018 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Annual Conference will take place May 30-June 2 this year at Onondaga Community College’s SRC Arena in Syracuse. The Upper New York Communications Ministry area works around the clock during this event to help keep everyone informed about what took place during all worship services and all plenary sessions. In-depth articles are written and added to the UNY Conference website (unyumc.org) and to the UMCMeet app daily. After …more
UNY Welcomes Emily MacNaughton
May 9, 2018 / By Shannon Hodson / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York (UNY) Conference is pleased to welcome Emily MacNaughton as Payroll Specialist. Emily joins the Finance Ministry Area with previous Paylocity experience, which will be helpful in her task of processing biweekly payroll for the Conference office, Districts, Camp & Retreat Ministries, and episcopal employees. In addition to payroll-related tasks, Emily will be helping in the Human Resources Department as needed. Beth Dupont, Emily’s supervisor, …more
UNY churches, children raise funds in memory of a boy
May 9, 2018 / By Kathleen Christiansen
Colin Hayward Toland always had a smile on his face. He dreamed of being a police officer, which became a reality when the Ithaca Police Department made him an honorary member at 9 years old and later when the Memphis Police Department promoted him to lieutenant and a member of the department’s tactical unit at 10 years old. Colin battled brain cancer since the age of 2, and sadly succumbed to …more