July 3, 2024

Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference begins next week

The Northeastern Jurisdictional (NEJ) Conference gets underway in Pittsburgh with committee meetings starting on Monday, July 8. NEJ business doesn't begin until Wednesday, July 10. Jurisdictional conferences are typically held every four years to coincide with General Conference to elect and assign bishops and select members of general boards and agencies.

Please pray for UNY delegates as they continue to do important work for the conference and The United Methodist Church. Stay up-to-date with all the news by reading the Daily Christian Advocate, viewing the schedule, watching the livestream, and more.

Bishop Burgos Núñez announces clergy appointments

After the prayerful discernment of the Upper New York Cabinet, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez announces the following appointments. All appointments, unless otherwise noted, were effective July 1, 2024.

Planting Neighborhood HUBs

The Blizzard of 2022 left the city of Buffalo with a lot of damage. With nearly all the emergency supplies located over two hours away at the UNY Mission Central HUB in Liverpool, the idea of a Neighborhood HUB was born. While partnering with Mission Central in finding new ways to distribute emergency kits, Upper New York has developed centralized locations to aid those who suffer from a disaster within their own communities. This year, the Conference has planted two Neighborhood HUBs at Kenmore UMC and Endicott: Central UMC and hope to plant more in the coming years. On June 16, Kenmore UMC consecrated the Niagara Frontier District Neighborhood HUB. Learn more about this church’s journey to making this idea a reality.

Celebrating 10 years of Branchport UMC's Red, White, & Blue 5K

Discover how Branchport United Methodist Church's Annual Red, White, & Blue 5k has evolved from a small fundraiser into a cherished community tradition. Held every July 4th, this event now draws participants from across the country to run, support local missions, and celebrate together. Learn about the journey, the planning behind the scenes, and the impact it has on the community. 

TOGETHER: GOD IS DOING SOMETHING NEW

Are you ready for the fall rush? September in the Upper New York area is one of the biggest times of the year when people try out church for the first time. Many people try something new as the school year begins. Is your church doing something unique and creative to reach into your community in new ways? Tell us all about it!

Embracing tomorrow and redefining church

What is a Fresh Expression? The Fresh Expressions United Methodist website states that “a fresh expression of church is a new form of church which is trying to connect with people who don’t normally go to church.” Often, they are born from within the established church but are distinctly outside of the bounds of anything that looks like a church. Learn more about this movement through the experiences of the Rev. Nathan Webb from the Western North Carolina Conference.

MORE RESOURCES

Church to farm to table

Discover how focusing on food can enhance your church's creation care efforts with insights from the Rev. Kate Fields. As a biologist turned pastor, Rev. Fields offers practical ways to build community and support local food systems. Learn about organizing community supported agriculture pickups, farmers' markets, community gardens, and more. Embrace sustainable practices and address social justice issues related to food through this inspiring resource. Download the video and explore how your church can make a meaningful impact.

Inspire youth with a summer ‘staycation’

Explore a unique "staycation" concept for middle and high school students at your church or a nearby recreation area. This resource guides clergy in organizing an independent Vacation Bible School experience with activities like talent shows, crafts, games, service projects, and a camper-led worship service. Involve youth in planning and ensure adult supervision. Learn how to provide a fun, faith-filled getaway that engages and inspires teens.

Intergenerational Christian Formation: An In-depth Interview with Holly Allen

How can bringing different generations together in worship, learning, and community promote faith formation? Holly Allen, author and teacher at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, discusses the benefits of a more intergenerational approach to ministry and strategies for helping young and old journey together in faith.

UMCOR renews relief efforts in Gaza

The United Methodist Board of Global Ministries (UMCOR) has awarded several grants through the United Methodist Committee on Relief to support organizations on the ground in Gaza, assisting the displaced population. After eight months of conflict with Israel, the needs in Gaza remain overwhelming, highlighting the importance of this aid.

Ocala church provides women in need with hope, care, and a pathway to a brighter future

Outside the abandoned Druid Hills United Methodist Church in Ocala, a scene of poverty and desperation, the Rev. Jill Beck saw an opportunity. Moved by the plight of those gathered there, she and her husband, the Rev. Dr. Michael Beck, transformed the site into Compassion United Methodist Church. Opening on January 7, it now serves as a haven for women battling addictions and fleeing abuse. Supported by the community and dedicated volunteers, Compassion UMC is changing lives by offering hope, care, and a path forward, proving the power of faith and compassion in action.