August 6, 2025

CONFERENCE NEWS & INFORMATION

Endorsement of political parties and candidates 

Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez is urging United Methodist clergy and congregations to avoid endorsing political candidates or parties, reaffirming our call to faithful, nonpartisan witness. Citing recent IRS updates and escalating political rhetoric, he reminds us that our public voice must be rooted in the Gospel—not partisanship. While individuals are encouraged to engage civically, the Church is called to speak boldly on social issues with clarity, compassion, and integrity. The bishop invites churches to reflect on how they can faithfully address pressing societal challenges while remaining anchored in their mission. 

Preparing for the Journey

On July 21, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez sent a letter to United Methodists of Upper New York (UNY) reminding them of a resolution affirmed at the 2025 Annual Conference session calling upon the Conference Leadership Team to start and oversee a Strategic Visioning and Planning Process. In preparation, he invited congregations across UNY to unite in prayerful reflection by engaging with Preparing for the Journey.

For the month of August, this prayer guide invites congregations to celebrate and honor the good by recognizing God’s steadfast love and renewing presence through seasons of challenge and hope. Whether in worship, small groups, or leadership gatherings, this practice centers gratitude, joy, and a renewed commitment to God’s vision for the future. 

Casowasco discerns a future of hope 

Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center recently hosted a two-day Discern & Design Summit, bringing together leaders, alumni, and supporters to imagine a renewed future for this sacred space with consultants from Ministry Incubators. The summit focused on celebrating Casowasco’s legacy, addressing current realities, and identifying practical next steps. Guided by prayer, data, and creativity, the group developed actionable plans in key areas like staffing, programming, site use, and donor engagement. The work is just beginning, and the team invites your prayers, support, and participation as Casowasco moves forward with purpose and hope. 

Stitched with care 

Picture a car packed with handmade blankets, hats, scarves, and more—each item a gift of comfort for children receiving care at Shriners Hospitals. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a powerful, ongoing mission led by the women of Airoc Court No. 42 and supported by volunteers from Ballston Spa UMC and beyond. Read how this heartfelt collaboration is wrapping kids in love, one stitch at a time. 

Jesus leads the way at Jamesville Community Church VBS

What an incredible week at Jamesville Community Church. From July 21–25, True North VBS welcomed 45 kids and 30 volunteers for a fun-filled adventure learning to trust Jesus in our wild world. With songs, games, crafts, and Bible stories, lives were touched and hearts reminded that Jesus is our faithful friend—always! 

Pine Valley UMC honors local fire firefighters

Pine Valley United Methodist Church had the joy of supporting local first responders as part of the church’s ongoing mission outreach. This past Sunday, the church presented the Millport Fire Department with a $1,320 check and a supply of Gatorade. Gratitude and prayers go out to the dedicated firefighters who serve the community so faithfully.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

AI for Ministry: A hands on workshop with Jason Moore 

Unlock the power of AI for your church with Jason Moore, a national leader in digital ministry, at AI for Ministry: A Practical Training—happening November 5 at the Conference Center in Liverpool. This hands-on workshop is designed specifically for pastors, church leaders, and Conference staff to explore how AI can enhance communication, creativity, and connection in ministry. 

With practical tools, real-world examples, and thoughtful guidance on ethics and theology, you’ll leave equipped to use AI faithfully and effectively. Space is limited to just 75 participants—register by October 25 to secure your spot! Registration will close if event limit is reached.

UNY Conference is seeking Superintendency Administrative Assistant 

The Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church is hiring a full-time Superintendency Administrative Assistant based in Liverpool, NY. This position provides critical administrative and logistical support to district superintendents, serving as the connection between the regional office and local churches. Core responsibilities include supporting clergy appointments, coordinating charge conferences, managing district events, ensuring timely reporting, and facilitating communication between church leadership and Conference staff in support of the Conference’s mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Changes to jury duty pay and NYS COVID-19 paid sick leave 

Effective June 8, 2025, jury duty pay in all New York State Courts has increased from $40 to $72 per day. Employers with more than ten employees must pay the $72 daily rate or the employee’s wage (whichever is less) for the first three days; the state covers the difference if needed. After three days, the state pays the jury fee for employees not fully compensated. Also, New York state’s COVID-19 paid sick leave law expired on July 31, 2025, ending job-protected leave for COVID-19-related absences. Employers should update related policies accordingly. 

Last call for resources  

Don’t miss your final opportunity to pick up materials from the Media Resource Center. Head to the Conference Center in Liverpool on August 15–16 from 10-12 p.m. to browse and take home any available materials you may want or need. Whether you’re looking for books, study guides, or ministry tools, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up before everything is cleared out. First come, first served—see you there! For more information contact Jordan Osborne at jordanosborne@unyumc.org. 

Grants available to support racial ethnic local church ministries 

Is your church launching a new ministry to help people grow as disciples—both inside and beyond your walls? Grants of up to $10,000 are available for racial ethnic local churches focused on leadership, small groups, worship, stewardship, and spiritual formation. 

Priority goes to new programs that cultivate disciple-making communities. If this sounds like your church, don’t miss your chance to apply. One-time grants are offered through Discipleship Ministries; previously funded programs are not eligible. 

RESOURCES

Introducing Church Chat

Church Chat is a new original video resource series for United Methodists of Upper New York. It was created specifically for clergy and congregational leaders in Upper New York and each episode offers practical guidance and timely updates on topics like finance, human resources, and benefits—helping you stay informed and supported in your ministry.

To submit a Church Chat topic idea, email info@unyumc.org.

New video explains DCOM process updates 

A new video is now available to help District Committees on Ministry (DCOM) navigate important changes to the candidacy process. Beginning this summer, updates are being implemented to standardize DCOM policies and procedures across Upper New York—ensuring a fair, consistent, and well-supported experience for candidates exploring a call to ministry. In the video, DCOM members walk through the key changes, including: 

• Responsibilities of DCOM 
• Changes to the interview process for Licensed Local Pastors  
• Changes for Certified Lay Ministers  
• Understanding the interview process for Provisional Members  
• Importance of Mentoring  
• Background Checks 

For any questions, contact the Rev. Pat Hubman, DCOM Coordinator, at pastorpathubman@gmail.com. 

How to be a disciple who makes disciples 

Discipleship isn’t just about showing up on Sundays, it’s about how we live every day. This guide explores what it means to follow Jesus through a life of prayer, Scripture, worship, service, and community. Inspired by John Wesley’s model of class meetings, it introduces the practice of Covenant Discipleship -- small groups where members support one another in growing their faith and living it out in the world. It’s an invitation to deeper commitment, mutual accountability, and the joy of helping others grow as disciples too.

5Ms make magic in church renovation 

Meet the 5Ms — FaithWestwood UMC’s retired handyman heroes! These Monday Morning Methodist Maintenance Men in Omaha, Nebraska are transforming lives, one project at a time. Their biggest feat? Turning a 16,000-sq-ft daycare into a new home for Mosaic, saving the church an estimated $200K in the process.