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May 15, 2024

2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Important links for upcoming Annual Conference webinars


Prepare for the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference session by attending a Pre-Conference Briefing. These virtual gatherings are intended to discuss action items to be presented during holy conferencing. Anyone attending should have read the 2024 Upper New York Pre-Conference Workbook in advance.   

 

There are two briefings scheduled: Thursday, May 16 from 6:30-8 p.m. and 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, 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.  

Click here to join Thursday night's webinar
Click here to join Saturday morning's webinar
Click here to join Monday night's CVA webinar

Engage Fund


The Engage Fund is a new initiative that aims to invest in the youth of Upper New York now and in years to come.


United Methodists of Upper New York are asked to participate in a "love offering" through their church, and in return, pastors and congregational leaders should bring the offering's collection to Annual Conference to be shared during opening worship.

Watch the video
Access toolkit

Celebrating Upper New York's Retirees 


Join us in celebrating the many accomplishments of the retiring 2024 class of Upper New York clergy. Watch their personal messages as they share who have made lasting impacts on their time serving Upper New York.

Watch the videos

Explore Methodist roots with Dr. Ashley Boggan


You won't want to miss this year's enlightening study session with Dr. Ashley Boggan entitled, "Moving Forward alongside our Vile Past." Discover how embracing our challenging and complex Methodist heritage can inspire and inform our mission today. This session will delve into historical insights and the radical actions of our founders, encouraging us to harness our past to drive forward transformative ministry. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and engage more profoundly with our shared faith journey with the General Secretary of the General Commission of Archives and History.

New location for Book Exchange and Special Archives Giveaway


We're excited to announce a new location for this year's Car Trunk Book Exchange at the Upper New York Annual Conference! The exchange has moved to the middle lot, specifically in the corner nearest to the circle on the grounds of Onondaga Community College—look for the red square on the map. Join volunteers at lunchtime on Thursday and Friday to swap beloved books and discover new literary gems. 


Additionally, don't miss the Archives Giveaway, hosted by the Conference Commission on Archives and History during the same time where you can find offering plates, altar vases, candlesticks, crosses, and even a bust of John Wesley. For more details on the giveaway, email [email protected]. These events offer perfect opportunities for our community to connect and share enriching experiences.

CONFERENCE NEWS & INFORMATION

Watch “Together in Worship” recording


We live in a society marked by individualism and division, faith calls us to respond with mercy, urging us to bridge gaps and heal wounds by actively caring for and supporting one another. This response not only challenges the prevailing self-focus but also fosters a community grounded in compassion and mutual respect.

 

That was the message delivered by Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez, during this morning’s "Together in Worship" Facebook Live event. 

 

You're invited to join us either in-person at the United Methodist Center in Liverpool or online for the next Facebook Live on Wednesday, June 5 at 9 a.m. with Niagara Frontier and Cornerstone District Superintendent, the Rev. Carlos M. Rosa-Laguer.

Watch recording

FEATURED

Turning connections into KonXions  


KonXions and Northern KonXions were officially chartered as two United Methodist churches of the Upper New York Conference on April 21. Both were born from a simple vision of bringing multiple congregations together as one. Learn how drawing circles brought these congregations together through laity-led groups to celebrate their connections and explore the benefits of working together. 

Watch the video

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Council of Bishops clarify the relationship between The United Methodist Church and The Global Methodist Church


On May 14, the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church clarified that there is no official relationship nor endorsement between them and the newly formed Global Methodist Church. They lamented the separation but emphasized the absence of any negotiations for a formal relationship. The United Methodist Church remains committed to ecumenism, outlining mutual recognition of sacraments, ministry, and offices. They called for respect and cooperation between the denominations, urging The Global Methodist Church to formally acknowledge The United Methodist Church's validity to promote future reconciliation and unity.

View statement here

Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School celebrates 205 Years with Community Prayer

 

Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS) extends an invitation to the community to commemorate 205 years of faith, vision, and transformative education. Founded by 13 individuals with $13 and 13 prayers, CRCDS has left an indelible mark on theological education. To celebrate this milestone, join them for a special prayer breakfast on Friday, May 17 featuring 13 heartfelt prayers led by esteemed faith and community leaders. For more information, contact Dr. Courtney Wiley-Harris at [email protected].

Secure your spot here

Share your thoughts with United Methodist Publishing House  


Do you wish you knew how to better engage families with children, or better support them in their everyday faith journeys? The United Methodist Publishing House is launching a research project to discover just that, and we need the help of church leaders like you.

  

Clergy are invited to take a quick, five-question survey about engaging families, and you’ll have the opportunity to receive all the insights from our research into what helps parents and caregivers engage in faith formation. 

Take the survey

TOGETHER: ANNUAL CONFERENCE PREPARATIONS

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. 

2024 Annual Conference overview
View more resources

Robert's Rules of Order simplified


Robert's Rules of Order is the standard for facilitating discussions and group decision-making. These common rules and procedures are used at our Annual Conference sessions to keep everyone on the same footing and speak the same language. So, what are these rules and how do they work? Here are Robert’s Rules of Order in a nutshell.

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OTHER RESOURCES

Peace with Justice Special Sunday resources


This year, the official date to celebrate Peace with Justice Sunday is May 26 but churches can celebrate on a date that is most convenient for the congregation. Here’s everything you need to celebrate and promote this Special Sunday.

Learn more
Donate to Peace with Justice Sunday

Stewardship That Can Save the World webinar 


As the climate crisis looms larger, congregations are redefining "stewardship." This broader perspective isn't just beneficial for environmental efforts; it emphasizes the inseparable connection between stewardship and discipleship. It's about more than just financial contributions; it's about living faithfully with all entrusted to us by God. This shift opens avenues for generosity, compassion, justice, and advocacy. Join the Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane as he delves into empowering your community to answer God's call to steward not only finances but all aspects of creation!

Register today

AROUND THE CONNECTION

Resilience in Ruston


A year ago, two churches in this north central Louisiana community chose to disaffiliate. But faithful United Methodists of Ruston have been dreaming about -- and are now planning for -- a new faith community. "In many ways, our job is to help facilitate the dreaming."

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