Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez makes history at General Conference
Last week marks a historic moment for the Upper New York Conference as Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez took his place in history. Bishop Héctor becomes the first bishop from Puerto Rico to preside over a plenary session at a general conference of The United Methodist Church. This groundbreaking achievement not only celebrates his esteemed career but also honors his rich cultural heritage, ushering in a new era of leadership within The Church.
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UNY voices at General Conference
More than 130 annual conferences are represented at the postponed 2020 General Conference. There are ten total elected delegates, five clergy and five lay, from Upper New York. UNY representatives describe General Conference as a faith-filled experience full of cultural diversity.
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40-year ban on gay clergy struck down
On May 1, the General Conference voted to lift the prohibition on “self-avowed practicing” gay clergy. The decision was met with hymns of joy from delegates and observers as they reconvened from the break. This action marks a continued trend at the General Conference toward dismantling longstanding restrictions against LGBTQ members within The United Methodist Church. Additional reforms are anticipated.
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General Conference gives regionalization green light
Regionalization has become United Methodist shorthand for a package of legislation that would restructure the denomination. Under the legislation, the U.S. and each Central Conference — church regions in Africa, Europe and the Philippines — would become regional conferences with the same authority to adapt the Book of Discipline, the denomination’s policy book, for more missional effectiveness. Delegates voted 586 to 164 in favor of a constitutional amendment that aims to put The United Methodist Church’s different geographic regions on equal footing. The amendment now moves to annual conference voters for potential ratification.
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Bishops and delegates unite in a rally advocating for Palestine
During pro-Palestinian rallies across the U.S., United Methodist delegates and observers converged in a peaceful demonstration on the evening of April 25. Organized by United Methodist Kairos Response, the event attracted over 100 participants, including more than six bishops, to stand in solidarity. Attendees, including retired Bishop Grant Hagiya, Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez, Bishop John Schol of the New Jersey and Philadelphia Episcopal Areas, and Bishop Peggy Johnson of the Boston Episcopal Area, all gathered to listen to speakers and sing hymns. Episcopal leaders emphasized the church's role in addressing suffering and injustice. Bishop Héctor remarked, "The church must be present, visible, and tangible where there is suffering, injustice, and a loss of equity."
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Stay informed with daily video wrap-ups
Each day of General Conference, United Methodist Communications is sharing video summaries that capture the key moments and insights from the worldwide gathering of The United Methodist Church. These daily updates help United Methodists to stay informed and engaged with legislation, worship, events and all that occurs throughout the day.
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Follow the events happening at the 2024 General Conference
You can follow all General Conference events through UM News and by watching the live stream.
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CONFERENCE NEWS & INFORMATION | |
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, are effective July 1, 2024.
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Together in Prayer: Passion for a Life of Justice
Together in Prayer is a call to reconnect with the essence of who we are as people of faith, disciples of Christ, and United Methodists.
Every month, we will share a Scripture passage, a short video, a written meditation, a written prayer to be used during your personal and communal times of worship, and prayer queues for each week of the month.
This month, Dr. Scott Johnson reflects on the theme: Passion for a Life of Justice.
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Pre-Conference Workbook now available
The 2024 Upper New York Pre-Conference Workbook is now available to view, download, and purchase. It has a new look this year. Thank you to all the teams and committees who worked diligently to compile information and meet deadlines for publication in advance of the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference (May 30-June 1). Download/print a digital copy of the 2024 Upper New York Pre-Conference Workbook from Issuu. Copies can also be purchased from Lulu. The workbook will also be available for purchase on Amazon soon. Information not provided in time for publication will be posted on the Conference website.
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Be a part of an upcoming Pre-Conference Briefing
Annual Conference is just a few short weeks away. To better prepare for this time of holy conferencing, plan on attending a virtual Pre-Conference Briefing to discuss Annual Conference action items. Anyone attending should have read the 2024 Upper New York Pre-Conference Workbook in advance.
Mark your calendar to attend one of the briefings on Thursday, May 16 from 6:30-8 p.m. or Saturday, May 18 from 10-11:30 a.m. Representatives from the Conference Board on Pension and Health Benefits, Council on Finance and Administration, Equitable Compensation, Trustees, Nominations, and more will be available to answer your questions.
A separate webinar to discuss the Child Victims Act recommendation is planned for Monday, May 20 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Zoom links for all webinars will be shared in the May 15 Weekly Digest.
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Oswego: First UMC Korean Student New Faith Community Ministry
Explore the unique blend of faith and culture at the Oswego: First UMC Korean Student New Faith Community Ministry. This story delves into how Bible study sessions and shared Korean meals help Korean students and other church families maintain their cultural identity while fostering community and spiritual growth. Through personal stories from the pastor and a SUNY Oswego student, discover how these activities create a supportive environment within the church, bridging cultural divides and nurturing a sense of belonging.
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May issue of the Bridge available for download
Today's youth is tomorrow's future. United Methodists of Upper New York are invited to join a ministry celebrating our youth as young disciples.
This issue of the Bridge introduces the Engage fund, a new initiative that seeks to nurture young people, serve them, and serve alongside them
Pastors, please download, print, and insert copies of the Bridge in your weekly bulletin.
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Apply for a UWF project grant
The Upper New York United Women in Faith (UWF) is accepting project grant applications for non-profit community and church-based organizations that follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and support the needs of women, children, and youth within the Upper New York Conference. Grants will be awarded up to $2,000. The deadline for submission is May 23.
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Last chance to apply for Lottie Brown Scholarship
Today is the last day to apply for the Lottie Brown Scholarship. The scholarship is available for undergraduate students who are intending to enter a career in Christian service. This scholarship enables young people to fulfill the path God is calling them to take. The application deadline is May 1.
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Safe Sanctuaries Basic Training session
Today is the last day to register for a free online Safe Sanctuaries Basic Training session via Zoom on May 4 from 9-12:30 p.m. This essential 3.5-hour training is designed for anyone working with children, youth, and vulnerable adults in Upper New York Church ministry settings. Participants will receive training packets and gain valuable skills to ensure a safe and nurturing environment. For more information or to register, please contact Pastor Christine Mitchell at pastorchrismitchell.umc@gmail.com.
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TOGETHER: ANNUAL CONFERENCE PREPARATIONS | | |
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Together: Annual Conference Preparations
The 2024 Annual Conference Session is just around the corner. Are you ready? From full schedules to information about holy conferencing, we’ve got you covered.
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Means of Grace: Christian conferencing
As people of God, United Methodists are called to participate in Christian conference — one of John Wesley's means of grace. Today, United Methodists have different ideas about the purpose of Christian conference — sometimes called holy conferencing and how it is implemented. So, what exactly is it? This article will break it down for you.
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Join in the National Day of Prayer
The National Day of Prayer is Thursday, May 2 and encourages people of all faiths and religions to come together in prayer and meditation. As designated by the United States Congress, this day is observed annually on the first Thursday in May. Help inspire your congregation to participate with this Chuck Knows Church episode.
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Peace with Justice Sunday Pastor and Leader Kit available
Peace with Justice Sunday is May 26. Make sure you're ready for this Special Sunday with your pastor and leader kits. The kits provides a full package of ready to use resources to help your church celebrate Peace with Justice Sunday and define how we give, why we give and the impact we make through connectional efforts.
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Conference aids flood victims
Flood buckets and other assistance were delivered to the people along the Ohio River in the South Forest District of Rayland, Ohio, after flooding over Easter Weekend. The Ohio River crested on April 4, and although the flood waters receded, the mess left behind will have a lasting impact on homes, properties, and lives.
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Phone: (315) 898-2000
Fax: (315) 898-2198
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