From Bishop Burgos: A word about the Service of Confession at AC

By UNY Communications | Email

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”  

Psalm 34:18

Editor's Note: The following message was sent on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez to United Methodists of Susquehanna and Upper New York on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

Dear siblings in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus.

I give thanks to God for our 2026 Annual Conference in Syracuse—a Spirit‑filled gathering where United Methodists of Upper New York renewed our call to Rise Up and Love Boldly.

The questions that shaped our time together—How are we loving God? How are we loving our neighbors? How are we inviting others into Christ’s hope? —will continue guiding our shared future. In the months ahead, I will share more about our decisions and next faithful steps. Conference recaps and videos are available on our website. 

A word about the Service of Confession, Repentance, and Hope 

During this sacred service, we named the harm of sexual misconduct in the Church and reaffirmed our commitment to creating communities where all are safe. Afterward, I learned that one of the songs included in the liturgy was written by David Haas, accused of sexual misconduct. As soon as I became aware, I addressed those gathered in Syracuse and those joining us via livestream, offering a public apology in that moment. 

As your presiding bishop, I take full responsibility for this significant and painful oversight. Though unintended, the harm is real. I am deeply sorry. Out of care for survivors, I ask that songs written by David Haas—including Blest Are They, You AreMine, and We Are Called—not be used in United Methodist worship going forward. 

I know an apology cannot erase pain, yet I offer it with humility and a renewed commitment to healing, accountability, and justice.  



May we continue walking humbly with God, embodying Christ’s love, mercy, and courage in all we do. 

Paz,

Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez

The United Methodist Church   

Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area