news stories Tagged “Communications”
New security measures in place at Oncenter
April 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The last time United Methodists gathered at the Oncenter in Downtown Syracuse for Annual Conference was in 2019. Next month when onsite, you’ll notice some significant changes. There are new meeting rooms upstairs, a revamped ballroom downstairs, and new security measures. The Oncenter is now equipped with EVOLV security systems at all entrances. This non-invasive, walk-through technology is designed to detect weapons efficiently and discreetly. This shouldn&rsquo …more
Passing of Pope Francis
April 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Monday, April 21, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the passing of Pope Francis. Dear Siblings in Christ, Grace and peace to you in the name of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. It is with hearts heavy yet full of hope that we …more
Steve Ranous receives national UMM award
April 14, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Steve Ranous, a regular attendee of the national gathering of United Methodist Men (UMM), made his way to Myrtle Beach this March for the annual event—just as he always does. As the current Treasurer of the United Methodist Men Foundation, his attendance was a priority. What he didn’t expect was to be honored for his outstanding work, witness, and leadership within the organization. “I …more
CRM Sunday is April 27
April 9, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
United Methodists of Upper New York are invited to celebrate the excellent ministry being shared by our Camp & Retreat Ministries on Sunday, April 27. The Conference Leadership Team invites congregations to lift up the ministries of the sites to increase awareness of the vital work happening with our partners at Camp & Retreat Ministries. Congregations are also asked to receive a special offering for camp scholarships so that …more
Clergy Care Fund: A lifeline for clergy in crisis
April 8, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The demands of ministry are many—and sometimes, life’s unexpected financial burdens can make it difficult for clergy to be fully present to both their appointment and their families. That’s where the Clergy Care Fund steps in. This fund exists to assist active clergy under appointment who are experiencing an unforeseen financial crisis. The Upper New York Board of Ordained Ministry’s (BOM) …more
Caring for God’s Creation at Buffalo University UMC
April 8, 2025 / By Rev. Merle Showers, Creation Care Team / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
University UMC in Buffalo has chosen to be concerned about being a GOOD Steward of God's Creation. We want to do all in our power to do as little harm and as much good to the great gift God has given us. In 2013, our gas bill for the year was $10,179.82 and our electric bill was $3,706.53. That was very alarming as far as our budget was concerned, but for …more
Seeking God’s Vision for Casowasco
March 26, 2025 / By Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens, Director of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Saturday, March 22, 2025, continued the journey of discerning the next faithful steps for Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center. A team of ten people gathered in person at the Conference Office, while two more joined via Zoom. Members of the team include long-time campers, volunteers, staff, and supporters. Also included are parents of campers and Conference leaders. The Rev. Colin Kerr-Carpenter, Interim Director of Casowasco, started the day by offering a centering …more
Annual Conference 2025: Constitutional amendments
March 25, 2025 / By Tara Barnes / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
At annual conference this May, members will be voting on amendments to the United Methodist Constitution. Here’s what you need to know about this before our annual gathering in Syracuse. What are constitutional amendments? Like the U.S. Constitution, the constitution of The United Methodist Church is the denomination’s fundamental constituting and legal document. It can be found in The Book of …more
Update on CRM in Upper New York
March 19, 2025 / By Office of Missional Excellence / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Over the past 12 months, the Camp & Retreat Ministries (CRM) of United Methodists of Upper New York have experienced significant activity and movement. Each site has been actively involved in discerning the next steps to enhance their ministry's impact. Summer Preparations and Group Hosting Skye Farm, Sky Lake, and Aldersgate have been gearing up for the summer camp season while also hosting groups. Asbury Retreat Center has been continuing …more
Nominate outstanding laity in Upper New York for evangelism award
March 17, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Upper New York Conference is now accepting nominations for The Foundation for Evangelism Laity Award. This award honors laity with exceptional evangelistic ministries that bring people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, encourage continued discipleship, and emphasize living out one’s faith in daily life. Each annual annual conference of The United Methodist Church and across other Wesleyan-tradition denominations present one award annually. In previous …more