CONFERENCE NEWS & INFORMATION | | | | |
Bishop invites clergy to the C3 Tour
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez invites all clergy in the Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences to join him this fall for the C3 Tour: Connection, Conversation, and Communion.
Each gathering offers worship with Holy Communion, listening sessions, and open conversation.
Choose the date that best fits your schedule (9 a.m.–1 p.m., lunch not provided):
Register today and be part of shaping the future of our shared ministry.
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Carrie Boyer to retire, concluding more than 20 years of ministry
After more than two decades of service in The United Methodist Church, Carrie Boyer, Superintendency Administrative Assistant for the Adirondack and Albany Districts, will retire on August 31. We are deeply grateful for her years of commitment and care. A retirement celebration will be held on Sunday, September 7 from 3–5 p.m. at Queensbury UMC, and all are invited to join in honoring Carrie’s ministry and enjoying a time of fellowship.
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SPARK ignites a new way of being church with influence from Greenhouse Days
In a time when many traditional church models are struggling, something new is taking root in Upper New York. SPARK, a vibrant faith community born at Kenmore United Methodist Church, is redefining what it means to be church—centered not on ritual, but on radical belonging.
Guided by the visionary influence of the Rev. Dr. Michael Beck and nurtured through the Greenhouse Days initiative, SPARK is more than a fresh expression—it’s a movement of Spirit-led transformation, creativity, and connection. Discover how relationships, not routines, are igniting new life in the church.
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New episode of In the Spotlight: Meet our Deacons video series
The In the Spotlight: Meet the Deacons video series highlights the vital role of deacons in the Upper New York (UNY) Conference and the unique ways they serve. According to the Book of Discipline, deacons are called by God, ordained by a Bishop, and set apart for a lifetime of ministry in Word, Service, Compassion, and Justice, bridging the congregation and community. In this episode, the Rev. Becky Guthrie shares her experience as a deacon in UNY.
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Office closed Labor Day
Please note that the United Methodist Center and the Episcopal Office in Liverpool will be closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. On this day, we honor the dedication, resilience, and contributions of workers past and present. We wish you a safe and restful holiday weekend. Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, September 2.
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Saratoga Springs UMC mission week in Maine
The Saratoga Springs UMC mission team spent the week serving in Maine—packing backpacks, repairing ramps, painting, and sharing in good food and conversation. As projects came to completion, they also reconnected with old friends at a community cookout and built new friendships along the way. They carried home the blessing of tasks completed and the joy of knowing their service made a difference.
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Knitting Sisters’ work supports annual distribution
Evelyn and Sylvia, known as the Knitting Sisters, hand-made and delivered 100 hats and more than 100 scarves to the Clothing Room for Syracuse: University UMC’s yearly winter outerwear distribution. These warm, beautiful items became part of the much-needed resources available to guests preparing for the winter season.
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The following “Prayer to End Racism” is from Prayers Against Racism by Saint Michael Center.
O Lord, our God, in your mercy and kindness, no thought of ours is left unnoticed, no desire or concern ignored. You have proven that blessings abound when we fall on our knees in prayer, and so we turn to you in our hour of need.
Surrounded by violence and cries for justice, we hear your voice telling us what is required, “Only to do justice and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). Fill us with your mercy so that we, in turn, may be merciful to others.
Strip away pride, suspicion, and racism so that we may seek peace and justice in our communities. Strengthen our hearts so that they beat only to the rhythm of your holy will. Flood our path with your light as we walk humbly toward a future filled with encounter and unity.
Be with us, O Lord, in our efforts, for only by the prompting of your grace can we progress toward virtue. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
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Join CCORR in Zoom prayer sessions
The Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) continues to host online Zoom gatherings to support our siblings engaged in anti-racism work in the UNY conference. Each session includes a brief meditation, open discussion, and prayer and lasts for 15 minutes. Join the session next Tuesday at 12 p.m.
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SCD Presents: Laity Boot Camp 2025
Are you ready to reignite your passion for ministry and make a lasting impact in your church and community? Join us for Laity Boot Camp 2025 from October 23-25 at Kenosha First United Methodist Church (Kenosha, WI). This powerful two-day experience is designed to equip and empower lay leaders for transformational ministry.
Building on the momentum of SCD 2024, this year’s theme, All Called, All Sent: Making Disciples, Transforming the World, invites you to discover your purpose, grow in confidence, and take bold action in your faith journey.
Expect dynamic teaching, immersive workshops, and hands-on labs that turn inspiration into practical action. Whether you're a longtime leader or just stepping into ministry, this event is for you. Don’t miss this chance to be equipped, encouraged, and sent!
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Ten ways to deepen church-school connections
Strong partnerships between churches and schools can make a lasting difference for children, families, and communities. This UMC resource offers practical ideas—from prayer walks and teacher encouragement to tutoring, volunteering, and providing space for school events—that any congregation can put into action. Explore how your church can strengthen these vital connections and live out its call to serve.
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Opening doors: How one church made room for everyone
Discover how one family's determination in Knoxville, Tennessee helped change United Methodist Church policy to ensure people with disabilities can become full members. See how Church Street UMC became a leader in accessibility—proving that inclusion and hospitality go hand in hand.
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Escaping to safety on a prayer
After Hurricane Katrina forced them to evacuate their New Orleans home, a United Methodist couple made a daring escape, driving their van along railroad tracks all the way to Baton Rouge.
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Phone: (315) 898-2000
Fax: (315) 898-2198
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