................................................................................. 3326 Resolutions and Petitions .................................................................................................................3527 UNYAC2022.1 - Encouragement of Voting by All Citizens ...................................................................... 3728 UNYAC2022.2 - Candidacy Interviews .................................................................................................... 3929 UNYAC2022.3 - Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli30 Military Occupation Act 4031 Reports (Conference Teams) ............................................................................................................4532 Accessibility Concerns Team ................................................................................................................... 4733 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 1
Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church 21
14
........................................................................................................... 2215
Cohocton United Methodist Church 24
........................................................................................................ 2720
Closure of a Local Church
Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church
2012
Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church
3225
............................................................................................... 3023
Cayuga United Methodist Church
Recommendation(s) 2022 1811 Advance
Board of Pension (BoPHHB) Specials 2022
19
Ouaquaga United Methodist Church
......................................................................................................... 2821
Fernwood United Methodist church
Celoron United Methodist Church
Recommendations -
2922
Hinsdale United Methodist Church
Machias United Methodist Church
Table of Contents1 Letter from Upper New York Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb ...............................................................32 Letter from Upper New York Conference Lay Leader - .........................................................................53 Holy Conferencing Principles of the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church ...........64 Organizational Motion .......................................................................................................................75 Consent Calendar ...............................................................................................................................96 Agenda 2022 DRAFT - VIRTUAL Annual Conference ........................................................................... 107 Recommendations ...........................................................................................................................118 Budget - DRAFT 139 Recommendation from Equitable Compensation, Commission on (CEC) .............................................. 1510
...................................................................................................... 2518
.......................................................................................................... 2316
Greig United Methodist Church 26
North Sanford United Methodist Church
.................................................................................................................2113
...................................................................................................... 3124
Steamburg United Methodist Church
17
Social Holiness.........................................................................................................................................19
.........................................................................................................
Volunteers in Mission (VIM)
................................................................................................................. 7818
50
...........................................................................
Episcopacy, Committee on the 545 Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A)6
...................................................................................................................................
Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, Task Force on 6514
................................................................................................................. 9932
Duke Divinity School
United Theological Seminary
Peace with Justice 6413
Archives and History, Commission on1 College Ministries Team2
10233 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 2
Missional Engagement 6110
Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of
Deaconess/Home Missioner, Order of (DHM) 524
Communications Report 513
Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM) 6211
New York State Council of Churches
................................................................................................................................. 8523
Pension and Health Benefits, (CBoPHB) 6615
Lay Servant Ministries 599
Higher Education and Ministry, General Board of (GBHEM) 567
Status and Role of Women, Commission on the (COSROW) 7417
Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO)
.............................................................................
....................................................................................................... 9731
Drew University Theological School........................................................................................................
United Methodist Women (UMW) 84
................................................................................................ 8926
Africa University 9127
Religion and Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR) 7116
.........................................................................................................................
Trustees, Board of 8120 United Methodist Men (UMM)
............................................................................................................... 8321
.......................................................................
........................................................................................... 588
Vital Congregations
................................................................................................................... 8724
Young Adult Council 8825 Reports – (Connected Organizations)
.................................................................................................... 48
9328
Saint Paul School of Theology
New Faith Community Team 6312
80
Safe Sanctuaries® Team (SST)
9630
22
............................................................................................................................... 9429
................................................................. 55
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The 2022 Annual Conference session will be filled with times of worship, study, fellowship, and, of course,17 some important times of discernment, conversation, and decision. These are uncertain days within the18 life of The United Methodist Church and the time we will spend in holy conferencing will allow us to19 embrace who we are in relation to God, one another, and the world around us, as we fully understand20 the awesome privilege and responsibility we have to boldly be the Church in the 21st century!
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As we gather, we will have the opportunity to acknowledge the many ways God is at work in our individual11 lives, our life as the body of Christ and in the life of the world among us, despite the challenges we have12 and will face. In a fresh way, we will proclaim our identity as followers of Jesus Christ and renew our13 commitment to the mission of partnering with God “to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the14 transformation of the world”.
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Despite our best efforts and intentions to gather in person for the 2022 Annual Conference session, we7 find it necessary to again meet in a virtual format. We continue to journey through unprecedented and8 uncertain days that invite us to live out our faith with and among one another and the world.
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We will engage in holy conversation, as we see one another, and share our hopes for the ways God will39 lead us into future ministry and mission. The pages in this volume of the Journal will prepare you to engage40 fully in all that we will consider when we gather. I hope you will take the time to read each report and41 every page. I urge you to surround your reading, preparation, and consideration in prayer.
I am grateful to be a part of this place called Upper New York, and to share the journey of ministry with44 each of you. God is accomplishing amazing things in us and through us and for everything God has called45
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 3
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Our theme this year is It is Well: Keeping Hope Alive. Through all we do during our time together, we will23 be guided by the truth and promise that we have been invited and fully equipped by God to accept and24 share in a fresh, bold way the unending faithfulness and transforming work of God’s amazing grace in our25 lives and in the lives of others.
Dear sisters and brothers of the Upper New York Area,3 4
As a part of our worship throughout our time together, we will create opportunities to offer our financial33 gifts to undergird some very exciting ministries. We will receive offerings that will support our “Clergy34 Care Fund” (financial assistance for clergy and families), our “Helping Hands Fund” (financial assistance35 for laity of our congregations), the NEJ Mission of Peace, New Faith Community Development, and the36 UNY Mission Central HUB.
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus the Christ!
We will be blessed to have the Rev. Dr. Kimberly Reisman, executive director of World Methodist28 Evangelism, (a ministry that brings the global Methodist/Wesleyan family of Christians together around29 the work of multiplying witnesses for Jesus Christ), as our virtual study leader. The Rev. Rhonda Kouterick30 will be the preacher for our annual Memorial Service.
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Letter from Upper New York Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb
I look forward to greeting you, worshipping with you, and watching what God will do as we step boldly5 into God’s promises. You remain in my prayers.
us to in the days ahead, God has promised all that we need! I know we are ready to allow God to use us1 in ways we have not yet dreamed or imagined. So, come prepared for an amazing experience of faith,2 community, and celebration!
8 9 10
Bishop Mark J. Webb
11 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 4
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I look forward to being with you all in October 2022.
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Hello to all my fellow disciples in Christ,3 4
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Conference Lay Leader, Upper New York28
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 5
This is a time of hope and renewal. As disciples of Christ, we have the hope and joy of knowing the risen8 Savior. And we have the renewal, the breath of life, that the Holy Spirit breathes down on us.
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While we are not meeting face to face for the Thirteenth Session of the Upper New York Annual18 Conference, I am excited to get with together, to do the work we as followers of Christ are called to do.19 Please be patient with any of the protocols in place for Holy Conferencing.
We are coming into a new time. We have come through the obstacles of doing God’s work in Christ’s11 name in new ways. We have used technology in the way to keep relationships alive with other followers.12 We have also, as faithful people, found ways to continue to help the marginalized. The people of UNY13 stepped out of comfort zones in 2021 to live out the mission faithfully, compassionately, and resiliently of14 making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Praise God!! Even when things may15 look dark in our world, God is alive and at work around us.
In Christ,25 Jessica White
Letter from Upper New York Conference Lay Leader -
May the grace and peace of God be with you as we prepare to gather for the Thirteenth Session of the5 Upper New York (UNY) Annual Conference.6 7
• Strive to accurately reflect the view of others.10
• Pray, in silence or aloud, before decisions. Let prayer interrupt your busyness.9
• Strive to understand from another’s point of view.
1
4 5
2 3
Holy Conferencing Principles of the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church
• Every person is a child of God. Listen before speaking.6
7
• Speak about issues; do not defame persons. Disagree without being disagreeable.8
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 6
Ephesians 4:3 [Make] every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace
7. To maintain an open meeting, the Annual Conference session will be livestreamed and recorded23 for playback.
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2. Due to safety concerns associated with the Covid 19 global pandemic, the 2022 Upper New York7 Annual Conference will be held by remote communication via an online video platform consistent8 with New York State’s Religious Corporation Law, section 28.
6
11. The session shall be governed by the rules of General Conference of The United Methodist Church.39 Roberts Rules of Order 11th edition shall govern all procedural questions where the rules of40 General Conference cannot be applied.
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5. Members of the Conference are responsible for ensuring that all necessary technology on the18 member’s side of the meeting is in proper working order prior to the meeting.
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Pandemic Provisions5
4. The bar of the Conference shall contain all Conference members who log in by electronic device14 or phone through the secure login information for the annual conference session provided by the15 Upper New York Conference.
1. This is the thirteenth session of the Upper New York Conference held on October 6 8, 20223 4
2019
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3. For all purposes, this electronically conducted meeting is deemed to be the equivalent of an in11 person meeting in accordance with applicable New York State law.
6. The roll call of attendance shall be taken from the login to the secure online meeting.
9. Holy Conferencing affirms our covenant with God and one another. At any time during the32 proceedings, the bishop may call for a moment of discernment and prayer before a vote is taken.3433
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8. The published agenda available on the Annual Conference website shall be the official agenda for28 Annual Conference. Questions about the agenda may be directed to the Executive Assistant to29 the Bishop.
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Agenda and Rules of Order
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10. All reports without recommendations shall be placed on the Consent Calendar. Upon proper35 motion, any report may be lifted from the Consent Calendar and placed on the agenda by a one36 third vote of the Conference body.
Organizational Motion
12. Securing the floor: Conference members wishing to speak to the Conference shall use the Q&A43 feature in Zoom to ask to be recognized, stating if they are for, against, or have a point of order44 Their request will then be placed in a queue, and they will wait to be called on by the Bishop.45 Upon being called on they will be given the floor and able to unmute themselves. At this time,46 they should share the following information:47
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 7
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Publications
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3
• Race/ethnicity (American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Native4 Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander; Hispanic/Latinx; Multi racial or White).
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5
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1
15. Lay members are those specified by the 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶32, Article I, and ¶602.4. The18 election of lay equalization members, as required in ¶32, Article I, and ¶602.4 (i.e., “the Annual19 Conference shall, by its own formula, provide for the election of additional lay members to20 equalize lay and clergy membership of the Annual Conference”) was determined according to the21 Rules for Determining and Selecting Lay Members to the Annual Conference, approved by the22 Annual Conference May 31, 2012 (i.e., “[t]he Chair of the Rules Committee shall create a23 prioritized list of potential nominees to serve as Equalization Lay Members. This list, with reserves24 if it exceeds the number of Equalization Lay Members needed as determined by the Conference25 Secretary, and reserves beyond that number, shall be published and distributed by the26 Conference Secretary with other pre conference materials, and incorporated by reference into27 the Conference Secretary’s Organizational Motion so that these nominees to serve as Equalization28 Lay Members (and Reserve Equalization Lay Members) can be duly nominated and elected as a29 first order of business of the Annual Conference” ). Per conference rules, the election of Lay30 Equalization members will be accomplished with the adoption of the organizational motion
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18. The Director of Communications shall be responsible for reporting to the general periodicals of42 The United Methodist Church and secular news media. All references for printing by the43 Conference official publication shall be subject to editing and condensing by the editor.
• Clergy or laity
13. No person shall speak more than once upon the same question and shall be limited to not more8 than three minutes, except the maker of the motion or the chairperson of the agency submitting9 the motion, who shall have up to five minutes to open and three minutes to close debate.
Conference Membership
17. The Journal editor shall have sole authority to edit, condense, organize, and print the Upper New38 York Conference Journal/Yearbook. All material from this session must be submitted in writing no39 later than Nov 1, 2022
• Name
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2
44 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 8
• Church and district
• Gender (male, female, non binary)
16. Clergy entitled to vote are those specified by the 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶602, subject to the33 limitations contained in the same paragraph.
14. To ensure the accuracy of minutes and clarity of what is before the body, all motions and12 amendments must be submitted in writing through the Q & A feature in the Zoom meeting. No13 motion or amendment will be voted on unless it is provided in writing.
Safe Sanctuaries® Team (SST)
Religion and Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR)
14
Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM)
Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, Task Force on16 Pension and Health Benefits, (CBOPHB)
Missional Engagement
11
20
9
8
Deaconess/Home Missioner, Order of (DHM)
12
Peace with Justice15
Trustees, Board of22 United Methodist Men (UMM)
Episcopacy, Committee on the7
United Methodist Women (UMW)
Social Holiness21
24
4
Higher Education and Ministry, General Board of (GBHEM)
1
New Faith Community Team
25
6
Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A)
Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of10 Lay Servant Ministries
2
13
Status and Role of Women, Commission on the (COSROW)
Vital Congregations
26
18
19
17
23
Communications Report5
Accessibility Concerns Team
Consent Calendar
Volunteers in Mission (VIM)
Archives and History, Commission on3 College Ministries Team
27 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 9
Young Adult Council
9:00 PM – tentative Memorial Service reception afterwards @ Liverpool: First2524
2:45PM short break19
8:15 a.m. – Teaching Time: Rev. Dr. Kimberly D. Reisman14
8:00 AM Gathering Music13
3:00 PM Plenary20
9:00 AM Short Break29
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12:15 PM 1:00 PM – Lunch Break31
12
3:00 PM Ordination Bishop Webb preaching – Offering for New Faith Community planting @ Liverpool33 First UMC (live streaming to all)34
Friday, October 7, 202212
12:15 PM - Lunch7
Saturday, October 8, 202226
9:15 AM Plenary30
9:00 AM– Opening Worship – Offering for Mission Central HUB4
1:30 PM Teaching Time: Rev. Dr. Kimberly D. Reisman18
1:00 PM – Ordination Rehearsal32
1:30 PM - 5:15 PM Plenary8
Oct. 6-8, 2022 10
5:30 Dinner break9
Laity Session – Offering for Helping Hands6
9:30 AM – Plenary16
12:15 – 1:30 PM - Lunch17
Agenda 2022 DRAFT - VIRTUAL Annual Conference
7:00 PM – Evening Plenary (Only if necessary)
8:15 AM Worship28
7:30 PM - Memorial Service – invitation only. Rev. Rhonda Kouterick preaching @ Liverpool First UMC22 (Live Streaming to All)23
Tentative Reception afterwards @ Liverpool First UMC35
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference
8:00 AM Gathering Music27
10:30 AM - Clergy Session – Offering for Clergy Care Fund5
9:15 AM – Short Break15
5:30 PM Dinner Break21
Thursday, October 6, 20223
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 11
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 12
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 13
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 14
3
c) Providing counsel and advisory material on pastoral support to district superintendents and6 committees on pastor parish relations;7
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The purpose of the Commission on Equitable Compensation is to support full time clergy serving as1 pastors in the charges of the annual conference by:2
It is our policy to support churches that demonstrate the potential for moving back to being fully self19 sufficient in their funding. The Equitable Compensation Grant is the primary grant used to provide this20 assistance. The grant runs in 6 month cycles, one available in the Spring and one available in the Fall. In21 the Spring of 2021, we were able to provide Equitable Compensation Grant support for five churches22 totaling $17,500. In the Fall of 2021, we provided Equitable Compensation Grant support for three23 churches totaling $12,500. All churches receiving Equitable Compensation Grants are participating in the24 Vital Signs Dashboard program. Additional assistance provided in 2021 included: $37,375 support for25 Missional Grants and $2000 for Sustentation Grants.
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a) Recommending conference standards for pastoral support;4
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Minimum Base Compensation37
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 15
1. We recommend that the standardized minimum base compensation that was established for the Upper38 New York Annual Conference effective January 1, 2017, shall be increased by 2.5%. Those minimum base39 salaries are set according to credential level, for all full time clergy persons as noted below:40
RECOMMENDATIONS (2022-23 Appointment Year) This year we bring the following recommendations28 for approval: The Minimum Base Compensation shall be increased by 2.5%. Our Minimum Base29 Compensation has not been increased since January of 2017. The salaries of our pastors in UNYAC are30 some of the lowest in the country. With inflation currently at 9% as this is written we recommend that31 this be addressed positively by the conference. We also recommend that the salaries of full time pastors32 be increased by at least 2.5%. We recommend that the increment amount for years of service continue33 as 1% of the minimum base compensation, and the amount for a multiple pastoral charge not change this34 year.
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This is accomplished by bringing to the Annual Conference recommendations for a Minimum10 Compensation Base Salary, an increment for years of service, and any other measures that would ensure11 that our full time clergy are fairly supported in their work.
We also help struggling local churches regain sound financial footing, so they can build leadership14 capacity, make disciples, and transform the world. The Commission on Equitable Compensation15 administers funds used to support clergy salaries for churches with pastors appointed full time where16 those churches are temporarily unable to meet minimum compensation standards.
d) (d)Submitting an arrearage policy to be adapted by the annual conference.8 9
b) Administering funds to be used in base compensation supplementation;5
Recommendation from Equitable Compensation, Commission on (CEC)
FT Local Pastor: $366 5
Associate: $388
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 16
2. We recommend that the yearly increment amount that was established for the Upper New York Annual2 Conference effective January 2020, which was equal to 1% of the minimum base compensation, stay the3 same. These increments are based on full time employment for service up to 25 years.4
Base
5. All churches are encouraged to offer a salary increase of no less than 2.5%. We encourage you to10 consider that inflation is 9% at the time of this report. Churches are encouraged to consider further raises11 based on exceptional service.12
FT Local Pastor: $36,593 (Less than full time appointments shall receive a base salary pro rated according to the appointment.)1
Full connection (elders & deacons): $40,984
Increment
FT Local Pastor completed Course of Study or MDiv: $381
Full connection (elders & deacons): $410
FT Local Pastor completed Course of Study or MDiv: $38,056
Provisional (elders & deacons): $395
Provisional (elders & deacons): $39,520
Associate: $38,788
3. We recommend that an additional $500 for each additional church on the pastoral charge (over one),6 not adjusted for part time appointments remain in place. (Unchanged)7
4. We recommend that no pastor’s salary can be decreased as a result of this policy, as long as they retain8 their current appointment. (Unchanged)9
13th Session of the Upper New York Oct. 6-8, 2022
There are no changes to the Clergy Housing Policy for 2022.1
There are no changes to the Accountable Reimbursement Plan policy for 2022.2
The Commission currently has other matters under consideration and will report them as appropriate at3 the 2022 Upper New York Annual Conference.4
Annual Conference
The members of the Commission on Equitable Compensation for 2021 2022 are: Teddi Urriola and Rich5 Weihing (Co Chairs), Penny Brink, John Buddle, Dee Dunn, Jefferson Niles, Cindy Schulte and Mitchel6 Smith; Ex Officio Members: Bob Flask, William Gottschalk Fielding, Susan Latessa; Cabinet7 Representative: Abel Roy; and Conference Staff Support: Tracy Rickett.8
17
Whereas pensions or other amounts paid to active, retired, terminated, and disabled Clergypersons are22 considered to be deferred compensation and are paid to active, retired, terminated, and disabled23 Clergypersons in consideration of previous active service; and,
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The Board recommends the adoption of the Housing/Rental Exclusion Resolution.
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Housing/Rental Allowance Resolution 20239
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 18
The Upper New York Annual Conference (the “Conference”) adopts the following resolutions relating to6 rental/housing allowances for retired, terminated ordisabled clergypersons of the Conference:7
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Whereas the religious denomination known as The United Methodist Church (THE “Church”), of which14 this Conference is a part, has in the past functioned and continues to function through Ministers of the15 Gospel (within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code section 107) who were or are duly ordained,16 commissioned, or licensed ministers of the Church (“Clergypersons”); and,
Whereas the Internal Revenue Service has recognized that the Conference (or its predecessors) as an26 appropriate organization to designate a rental/housing allowance for Clergypersons who are or were27 members of this Conference and are eligible to receive such deferred compensation.
2. That the pension, severance, or disability payments to which this rental/housing allowance39 designation applies shall be any pension, severance, or disability payments from plans, annuities,40 or funds authorized under the Discipline, including such payments from the GBOPHB and from41 a commercial annuity company contracted by the GBOPHB to provide an annuity arising from42 benefits accrued under a GBOPHB plan, annuity, or fund authorized under the Discipline, that43 result from any service a Clergyperson rendered to this Conference or that an active, a retired,44 a terminated, or a disabled Clergyperson of this Conference rendered to any local church, annual45 conference of the Church, general agency of the Church, other institution of the Church, former46
5
Resolutions Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired, Disabled or Former Clergypersons of the3 Upper New York Annual Conference4
21
Now Therefore Be It Resolved:30
The Upper New York Conference adopted the Housing/Rental Exclusion Resolution which designates10 100% of United Methodist pension, severance or disability income as housing exclusion in accordance11 with IRS Code section 107 is approved for the year Jan. 1, 2023 through Dec. 31, 2023 as follows:
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1. That an amount equal to 100% of the pension, severance, or disability payments received from31 plans authorized under The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church (the “Discipline”),32 which includes all such payments from the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits33 (“GBOPHB”), during the period January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023, by each active,34 retired, terminated, or disabled Clergyperson who is or was a member of the Conference, or its35 predecessors, be and is hereby designated as a rental/housing allowance for each such36 Clergyperson; and
Whereas the practice of the Church and of this Conference was and is to provide active Clergypersons19 with a parsonage or a rental/housing allowance as part of their gross compensation; and,
Board of Pension (BoPHHB) Recommendation(s) 2022
The History of our Past Service Rate (PSR):27
• 2018: $638 (2% increase from 2017)31
denomination that is now a part of the Church, or any other employer that employed the1 Clergyperson to perform services related to the ministry of the Church, or its predecessors, and2 that elected to make contributions to, or accrue a benefit under, such a plan, annuity, or fund3 for such an active, a retired, a terminated, or a disabled Clergyperson’s pension, severance, or4 disability plan benefit as part of his or her gross compensation.5
• 2016: $612 (2% increase from 2015)29
• 2019: $645 (1% increase from 2018)32
• 2021: $645 (0% increase from 2020)34
Action Item #217
The UNYAC BoPHB has worked very diligently to ensure that our Pre 82 remains in a fully funded status.21 We are pleased to recommend an increase in the Past Service Rate (PSR), again. It is the Board's22 recommendation that the PSR in the Pre 1982 Plan be increase by 1% for 2023 from $651 to $658. Only retirees23 with years of service prior to 1982, whose Pre 82 monthly benefit amount is less than $658, are impacted by the24 change.2526
• 2022: $651 (1% increase from 2021)35
The Board recommends the following increase to the Past Service Rate.1918
• Proposed 2023: $658 (1% increase from 2022)36
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• 2015: $60028
• 2020: $645 (0% increase from 2019)33
6
• 2017: $625 (2% increase from 2016)30
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 19
Pre-82 Past Service Rate (PSR)20
NOTE: The rental/housing allowance that may be excluded from a Clergyperson's gross income in any7 year for federal (and, in most cases, state) income tax purposes is limited under InternalRevenue Code8 section 107(2), and regulations thereunder, to the lesser of: 1) the amount of the rental/housing9 allowance designated by the Clergyperson's employer or other appropriate body of the Church (such as10 this Conference in the foregoing resolutions) for such year; 2) the amount actually expended by the11 Clergyperson to rent or provide a home in such year; or, 3) the fair rental value of the home, including12 furnishings and appurtenances (such as a garage), plus the cost of utilities in such year. Each13 Clergyperson or former Clergyperson is urged to consult with his or her own tax advisor to determine14 what deferred compensation is eligible to be claimed as a housing allowance exclusion.
• Watertown Urban Mission35
• Geneseo Wesley Foundation20
• The Neighborhood Center, Inc27
• Mutambara Mission Centre Water23
• Native American Mission, Onondaga Nation UMC24
Advance Specials Recommendations - 2022
No budgetary implications2
• Wesley Gardens
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 20
• Niagara Frontier City Missions28
Therefore, be it resolved that the following ministries be approved as Conference Advance Specials.8 9
• Haiti Partnership21
• Protestant Cooperative Ministry at Cornell29
• Seneca Street UMC: Buffalo31
Submitted by:38
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• Native American Outreach/Transportation Program25
• Genesee Area Campus Ministries19
Retired, Penn Yan UMC43
• Gary Bergh Scholarship (of the Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine and Israel)18
• Brown Memorial UMC: Syracuse12
• United Methodist Homes’ Chaplaincy Program33
• Volunteers In Mission Scholarship Fund34
• Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)30
• Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, Inc15
• The Children’s Center for the Common Good16
• Campus Church ConneXion Buffalo14
• Mission Central UNY Hub22
• Campership Fund13
• UMCOR Kits Shipment Dollars32
Whereas the 2016 Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church in paragraph 655 authorizes annual4 conferences to approve certain programs/ministries for the purpose of fundraising from the churches of5 the conference by the status of Conference Advance Specials,6 7
• Anti Poverty Initiative (University UMC: Syracuse)10
1
• Beechwood Continuing Care/ Pastoral Care11
• New Places for New People26
3
Rev. Jeffrey B. Childs, Global Ministries Team Chair39 5164 St. Rt. 89, Romulus, NY 1454140 315 729 446441 revchilds@hotmail.com42
• Children’s Home17
3
WHEREAS the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church from Feb. 13, 2022, until this session of the Upper New22 York Annual Conference; it hereby2423
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RESOLVED, that the membership of the Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church be transferred to36 the West Seneca: New Hope United Methodist Church or other United Methodist churches as the37 individual members select.38
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 21
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
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WHEREAS Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church was organized in 1905, and faithfully served its4 community in ministry for over 117 years;5
6
Closure of a Local Church
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church,31 including the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of32 Trustees, be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the33 Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Feb. 24, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church
Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church
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RESOLVED, that Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church is closed as of Feb. 13, 2022, pursuant to25 the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
WHEREAS, on Feb. 24, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Feb. 13, 2022, Buffalo: South Park United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained9 by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was10 organized and/or incorporated; and
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church Cayuga United Methodist Church
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the12 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
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RESOLVED, that the membership of the Cayuga United Methodist Church be transferred to Ledyard UMC35 or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.36
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,15 tangible and intangible, property of the Cayuga United Methodist Church vested in the Annual16 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its17 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
WHEREAS, on Aug. 16, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared Cayuga8 United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine9 worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration27 of Aug. 16, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
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WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of20 the Cayuga United Methodist Church from Aug. 16, 2022, until this session of the Upper New York Annual21 Conference; it hereby
WHEREAS Cayuga United Methodist Church was organized in 1830, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 192 years;5
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 22
1
RESOLVED, that Cayuga United Methodist Church is closed, pursuant to the provisions of The Book of24 Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further2625
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Cayuga United Methodist Church, including the30 net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be allocated31 and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York32 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
3
1
Celoron United Methodist Church
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Celoron United Methodist Church, including the31 net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be allocated32 and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church
RESOLVED, that Celoron United Methodist Church is closed as of July 17, 2021, pursuant to the provisions25 of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
WHEREAS, on July 22, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of July 17, 2021, Celoron United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Celoron United Methodist Church be transferred to other United36 Methodist churches as the individual members select.37
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Celoron United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of July 22, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
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WHEREAS Celoron United Methodist Church was organized in 1899, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 122 years;5
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Celoron United Methodist Church from July 17, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York Annual22 Conference; it hereby2423
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Oct. 6-8, 2022 23
WHEREAS, on Feb. 24, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of March 27, 2022, Cohocton United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the closure of a Local Church Cohocton United Methodist Church
3
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Feb. 24, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Cohocton United Methodist Church, including31 the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be32 allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Cohocton United Methodist Church be transferred to the Avoca36 United Methodist Church or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.
37 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 24
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WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Cohocton United Methodist Church from March 27, 2022, until this session of the Upper New York22 Annual Conference; it hereby2423
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WHEREAS Cohocton United Methodist Church was organized in 1832, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 190 years;5
RESOLVED, that Cohocton United Methodist Church is closed as of March 27, 2022, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
1211
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Cohocton United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
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RESOLVED, that the membership of the Fernwood United Methodist Church be transferred to Dugway36 UMC or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.37
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Fernwood United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
Fernwood United Methodist church
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Fernwood United Methodist Church, including31 the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be32 allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
3
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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church
2019
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Fernwood United Methodist Church from June 05, 2022, until this session of the Upper New York22 Annual Conference; it hereby
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
RESOLVED, that Fernwood United Methodist Church is closed as of June 05, 2022, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
1211
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of May 10, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
WHEREAS Fernwood United Methodist Church was organized in 1858, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 164 years;5 6
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WHEREAS, on May 10, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of June 05, 2022, Fernwood United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
3
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Greig United Methodist Church from Oct. 17, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York Annual22 Conference; it hereby
WHEREAS, on Dec. 8, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Oct. 17, 2021, Greig United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
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RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Greig United Methodist Church, including the31 net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be allocated32 and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
2019
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RESOLVED, that the membership of the Greig United Methodist Church be transferred to the Glenfield36 United Methodist Church or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.37
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Dec. 08, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Greig United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's17 Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion18 subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference 6-8,
Oct.
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church Greig United Methodist Church
RESOLVED, that Greig United Methodist Church is closed as of Oct. 17, 2021, pursuant to the provisions25 of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
WHEREAS Greig United Methodist Church was organized in 1939, and faithfully served its community in4 ministry for over 82 years;5
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RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Dec. 8, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Hinsdale United Methodist Church, including31 the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be32 allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New33 York Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
13th
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RESOLVED, that Hinsdale United Methodist Church is closed as of Dec. 31, 2021, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Hinsdale United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
WHEREAS, on Dec. 8, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Dec. 31, 2021, Hinsdale United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
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Oct. 6-8, 2022 27
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WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Hinsdale United Methodist Church from Dec. 31, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York Annual22 Conference; it hereby
3
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WHEREAS Hinsdale United Methodist Church was organized in 1849, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 172 years;
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Hinsdale United Methodist Church be transferred to other United36 Methodist churches as the individual members select.37 Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church Hinsdale United Methodist Church
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Machias United Methodist Church be transferred to West Valley36 St. Paul’s UMC or Delevan UMC or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.37 Session of the Upper New York
13th
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church Machias United Methodist Church
Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 28
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Machias United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
2019
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Machias United Methodist Church from July 29, 2022, until this session of the Upper New York Annual22 Conference; it hereby
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of June 15, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
1514
WHEREAS, on June 15, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of July 29, 2022, Machias United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
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RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Machias United Methodist Church, including the31 net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be allocated32 and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
WHEREAS Machias United Methodist Church was organized in 1822, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 200 years;5 6
RESOLVED, that Machias United Methodist Church is closed as of July 29, 2022, pursuant to the provisions25 of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
2
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WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
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RESOLVED, that the membership of the Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church38 be transferred to other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.39 Session
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church17 vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose18 of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
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RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United32 Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees, be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions34 and polices of the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it35 is further
WHEREAS Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church was organized in 1834, and4 faithfully served its community in ministry for over 187 years;5 6
WHEREAS the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church from Nov. 13, 2021, until this22 session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby
Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church
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RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration29 of Feb. 24, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church
WHEREAS, on Feb. 24, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Nov. 13, 2021, Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church was no longer used,9 kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for10 which it was organized and/or incorporated; and
RESOLVED, that Manchester: Church of the Living Stones United Methodist Church is closed as of Nov.25 13, 2021, pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is26 further
of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 29
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WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church
RESOLVED, that the membership of the North Sanford United Methodist Church be transferred to the36 McClure United Methodist Church or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select. Session of the Upper New
3837 13th
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the North Sanford United Methodist Church from Dec. 31, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York22 Annual Conference; it hereby2423
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WHEREAS, on Dec. 8, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Dec. 31, 2021, North Sanford United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the North Sanford United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
RESOLVED, that North Sanford United Methodist Church is closed as of Dec. 31, 2021, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 30
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RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Dec. 08, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
North Sanford United Methodist Church
2
WHEREAS North Sanford United Methodist Church was organized in 1873, and faithfully served its4 community in ministry for over 148 years;5 6
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RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the North Sanford United Methodist Church,31 including the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of32 Trustees, be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the33 Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
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WHEREAS Ouaquaga United Methodist Church was organized in 1865, and faithfully served its community4 in ministry for over 157 years;5
2423
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Dec. 08, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
WHEREAS, on Dec. 8, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Oct. 31, 2021, Ouaquaga United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Ouaquaga United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
2019
RESOLVED, that Ouaquaga United Methodist Church is closed as of Oct. 31, 2021, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
3534
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Ouaquaga United Methodist Church be transferred to the36 Harpursville United Methodist Church or other United Methodist churches as the individual members37 select.38 Session of the Upper York
2
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
New
13th
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church Ouaquaga United Methodist Church
3
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Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 31
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Ouaquaga United Methodist Church, including31 the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be32 allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
6
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Ouaquaga United Methodist Church from Oct. 31, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York22 Annual Conference; it hereby
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Steamburg United Methodist Church vested in the Annual17 Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its18 sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and
3534
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the closure of a Local Church Steamburg United Methodist Church
2
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Steamburg United Methodist Church be transferred to other36 United Methodist churches as the individual members select.
WHEREAS Steamburg United Methodist Church was organized in 1965, and faithfully served its4 community in ministry for over 56 years;5 6
WHEREAS, on Oct 21, 2021, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of Sept 30, 2021, Steamburg United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its9 membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized10 and/or incorporated; and
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
1514
RESOLVED, that Steamburg United Methodist Church is closed as of Sept 30, 2021, pursuant to the25 provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Steamburg United Methodist Church from Sept 30, 2021, until this session of the Upper New York22 Annual Conference; it hereby
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of Oct. 21, 2021, are affirmed; and it is further
2019
3
Oct. 6-8, 2022 32
1
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Steamburg United Methodist Church, including31 the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees, be32 allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the Upper New York33 Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
2423
RESOLVED, that the membership of the Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church be transferred36 to Erwin UMC or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.37
WHEREAS, on May 10, 2022, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper7 New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that as8 of June 13, 2022, Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or9 maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it10 was organized and/or incorporated; and
3534
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WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal,16 tangible and intangible, property of the Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church vested in the17 Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property18 in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and2019
RESOLVED, that Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church is closed as of June 13, 2022, pursuant25 to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further
WHEREAS Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church was organized in 1990, and faithfully served4 its community in ministry for over 32 years;5 6
Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Annual Conference Resolution for the closure of a Local Church
1
RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration28 of May 10, 2022, are affirmed; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist31 Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by the Upper New York Conference Board32 of Trustees, be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and polices of the33 Upper New York Conference Board of Trustees with respect to closed churches; and it is further
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 33
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WHEREAS the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of21 the Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church from June 13, 2022, until this session of the Upper22 New York Annual Conference; it hereby2423
2
3
Syracuse: Hope Korean United Methodist Church
WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the13 immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; and
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 34
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 35
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 36
WHEREAS, in some jurisdictions within the United States there is provision for initiative and34 referendum, the consideration of which may appear on the election day ballot;
WHEREAS Resolution #5012 in The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church, 2016 entitled24 “Church Government Relations” presents a broad discussion of the relationship that is or should exist25 between the church and the government; and2627
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THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, those qualified voters be encouraged to inform themselves40 concerning the qualifications of persons running for office and the merit(s) of items requiring decision(s)41 that are to appear on the election day ballot and, after thoughtful and prayerful consideration, to vote42 their choices on their election days.
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Date of Submission: February 27, 202245 Submitted by: Tracey M. Haines
46 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 37
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THEREFORE, we urge churches in our global community to encourage their members to take advantage37 of the opportunities to vote; and
WHEREAS, in many jurisdictions within the United States there may be propositions, amendments31 and/or resolutions appearing on the election day ballot; and
WHEREAS the decision making power and administrative leadership of the government is vested28 primarily in elected officials through the consent of the governed; and2930
UNYAC2022.1 - Encouragement of Voting by All Citizens
Brief Rationale: Voting can be considered a right and a responsibility of all qualified citizens. Given the10 very unsettled political times, especially here in the United States, it is important all people qualified11 express their desire on election day. The activity is one of the foundation stones of our American12 democracy.
WHEREAS members of The United Methodist Church have a history of being pro active in all levels of15 government activity; and
Book of Resolutions paragraph: Resolution #50123 4 Conference Committee/Agency, et al. that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if5 passed:6 7
WHEREAS the first sentence of ¶164 of the Social Principles states, “…we acknowledge the vital function18 of government as the principal vehicle for the ordering of society”; and
Book of Discipline paragraph: ¶1641 2
1617
WHEREAS that same section of The Social Principles continues, “. . . B) Political Responsibility – The21 strength of a political system depends upon the full and willing participation of its citizens…”
Financial implications: NA8 9
the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 38
13th Session of
Electronic Signature: Tracey M. Haines
Phone number: (518) 491 94573
Mailing Address: 1104 Cambridge Manor Dr., Scotia, NY 123022
1
UNY local church/charge membership: First United Methodist Church of East Greenbush NY, East5 Greenbush, NY6
Email address: tmhaines1959@gmail.com4
1817
Phone Number: (585) 271 1050 x10536
1211
Whereas these paragraphs present a lack of clarity as to whether a District Committee on Ordained19 Ministry is required to meet with a potential candidate for ministry that has been duly approved and20 recommended by their local church’s Charge Conference.
UNY local church membership: Asbury First United Methodist Church, Rochester39
Book of Discipline (¶¶): 310.2a; 314.2
Therefore, be it resolved that the Upper New York Annual Conference implores each District Committee23 on Ordained Ministry to commit to meet with all potential candidates for ministry who are duly voted24 upon, and recommended by, their local church’s Charge Conference.
Submitted by: Mike Mullin33
5
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Date of Submission: March 1, 2022
UNYAC2022.2 - Candidacy Interviews
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Mailing Address: 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 1460735
Brief Rationale:8
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Electronic Signature: Mike Mullin34
Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementations if3 passed: District Committees on Ordained Ministry; Board of Ordained Ministry4
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Financial Implications: None6
Email Address: mmullin@asburyfirst.org38
Whereas ¶314.2 states, “Reinstatement of Certified Candidate’s Status Certified candidates whose13 status has been discontinued by a district committee on ordained ministry of an Annual Conference of14 The United Methodist Church shall only be reinstated by the district committee of the district in which15 they were discontinued. When approved by the District Committee on Ordained Ministry, their certified16 candidate’s credentials shall be reissued, and they shall be eligible to continue the process.”
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Therefore, be it further resolved that the Upper New York Annual Conference implores the Board of27 Ordained Ministry to ensure that the District Committees on Ordained Ministry adhere to these28 recommendations as voted upon and recommended by the Upper New York Annual Conference.
Whereas ¶310.2 states, “Candidates seeking to become certified for licensed or ordained ministry10 shall: a) request to meet with the district committee on ordained ministry.”
Fax Number: (585) 271 374337
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 39
RATIONALE: American Christians, complicit through our tax support of Israel’s violations of the human rights of Palestinian children, can now support legislation to help end these violations.
4 but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees, and no one shall make them22 afraid; for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.23
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• Considering that the child should be fully prepared to live an individual life in society, and brought33 up in the spirit of the ideals proclaimed in the Charter of the United Nations, and in particular in34 the spirit of peace, dignity, tolerance, freedom, equality and solidarity;”
Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed:6 Conference Secretary
WHEREAS the visions of biblical Hebrew prophets, calling the faithful to acts of justice, invite us to take14 initiative with compassion and mercy;
1
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3 He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they19 shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up20 sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore;21
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(A) in article 37(a), that “no child shall be subject to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading39 treatment or punishment”;
(B) in article 37(b), that the arrest, detention or imprisonment of a child “shall be used only as a42 measure of last resort and for the shortest appropriate period of time”;
11
5 For all the peoples walk, each in the name of its god, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our24 God forever and ever;2625
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AND WHEREAS Israel has ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which also states
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Book of Discipline (¶): N/A2
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 40
AND WHEREAS Micah 4:3 5 calls us to receive actively God’s dream of peace:
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(C) in article 37(c), that “every child deprived of liberty shall be treated with humanity and45
Financial Implications: None
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• Recognizing that the child, for the full and harmonious development of his or her personality,30 should grow up in a family environment, in an atmosphere of happiness, love and understanding,
AND WHEREAS the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted 1989, entering into27 force 2 September 1990, states (in part:)
Book of Resolutions (¶): N/A4
7 8
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UNYAC2022.3 - Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all Annual Conference members are encouraged to contact their Congress46 members to request their support of HR 2590.47
AND WHEREAS God calls us to love one another as ourselves;[4]
the Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem issued a report in 2018 describing the treatment of14 Palestinian children under Israeli military occupation: “Every year, hundreds of Palestinian minors15 undergo the same scenario. Israeli security forces pick them up on the street or at home in the middle of16 the night, then handcuff and blindfold them and transport them to interrogation, often subjecting them17 to violence enroute. Exhausted and scared some having spent a long time in transit, some having been18 roused from sleep, some having had nothing to eat or drink for many hours the minors are19 then interrogated. They are completely alone in there, cut off from the world, without any adult they20 know and trust by their side, and without having been given a chance to consult with a lawyer before the21 interrogation. The interrogation itself often involves threats, yelling, verbal abuse and sometimes physical22 violence. Its sole purpose is to get the minors to confess or provide information about others.” [2]
AND WHEREAS Christ instructs us to do for others as we would have them do for us if we were in their32 place;[5]
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(D) in article 37(d), that “[e]very child deprived of his or her liberty shall have the right to prompt4 access to legal and other appropriate assistance, as well as the right to challenge the legality of5 the deprivation of his or her liberty before a court or other competent, independent and6 impartial authority, and to a prompt decision on any such action”;
respect for the inherent dignity of the human person, and in a manner which takes into account1 the needs of persons of his or her age”; and
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THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Upper New York Annual Conference goes on record as supporting38 H.R. 2590 — 117th Congress (2021 2022) Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and39 Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act. This bill prohibits the use of any funds that are40 made available for assistance to Israel in support of (1) military detention, interrogation, abuse, or ill41 treatment of Palestinian children; (2) seizure, appropriation, or destruction of Palestinian property and42 forcible transfer of civilians in the West Bank; or (3) unilateral annexation by Israel of West Bank territory.43 The Department of State must report on the nature and extent of such activities carried out by Israel.
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AND WHEREAS, according to findings of the U.S. Congress: the Government of Israel and its military9 detains around 500 to 700 Palestinian children between the ages of 12 and 17 each year and prosecutes10 them before a military court system that lacks basic and fundamental guarantees of due process in11 violation of international standards.[1]
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The United Nations Office for the Coordination for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported in January 202125 that during 2020, Israeli authorities demolished or seized 851 structures across the West Bank, including26 East Jerusalem, displacing 1001 Palestinians as a result, including over 524 children. This is the highest27 number of home demolitions since 2016.[3]
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AND WHEREAS our Christian sisters and brothers in Palestine have cried out to us to help them find35 redress from the illegal and harsh occupation of their land by the government of Israel since 1967;[6]
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference 6-8,
2022 41
The Rev. Merle Showers38
Dianne Roe49
Beth Woolever55 240 Cobb Terrace, Rochester, NY 1462056 585 730 549357 ewoolever03@gmail.com58 Asbury First UMC, Rochester, NY6059
The Rev. Brian Lothridge67
13th Session of the Oct. 6-8, 2022
lene12232@aol.com47
Endorsed by the Upper New York Social Holiness Team:2423
74 Suburban Dr., Elmira, NY 1490345
Arlene M. Lundquest44
President Joseph R. Biden3 The White House4 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW5 Washington, D.C. 2050076
The Rev. Gary E. Doupe32 243 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Bainbridge, NY 1373333 607 743 506234 gdoupe@stny.rr.com35
Karen Peterson, Co Chair16 116 Greenridge Dr.,17 Horseheads, NY 1484518 607 739 314119 dpeterson1@stny.Fr.com20 Horseheads UMC Horseheads, NY2221
217 N. 14th St., Olean, NY 1476068 315 447 165469 blot0910@gmail.com70 Christ UMC Olean71
Faith Journey UMC Clay, NY3130
Big Flats UMC, Big Flats, NY48
The Rev. Gary Kubitz61 136 Walnut Pk., Rochester, NY 1462262 607 624 931463 greeceumcpastor@gmail.com64 Greece UMC6665
University UMC, Buffalo, NY4342
The Rev. Alan Kinney25 5135 Comstock Rd., Brewerton, NY 1302926 873027 518 390 088328 akinney3@twcny.rr.com29
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Conference Secretary write to the President of the United States to1 encourage him to support and sign this legislation:2
607 358 402346
90 W Market St., Corning, NY 1483050 607 654 345051 dianneroe42@gmail.com52 Corning First UMC, Corning, NY5453
Upper New York Annual Conference
First UMC Bainbridge, NY3736
401 Highgate Ave., Buffalo, NY 1421539 716 862 423540 revshowers@gmail.com41
Linda Bergh, Co Chair10 116 Edna Rd., Syracuse, NY 1320511 315 492 850712 lindagarybergh@gmail.com13
Submitted by: The Upper New York Task Force on Peace With Justice in Palestine/Israel:8 9
Bellevue Heights UMC Syracuse, NY1514
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 43
607 761 032727 bsmith@binghamton.edu28 Fairport UMC3029
The Rev. Doug MacKey19 816 Route 50, Burnt Hills, NY 1202720 518 399 5144 X30221 pastdm@gmail.com22 Burnt Hills UMC2423
The Rev. Rebekah Sweet7 208 E. Court St., Ithaca, NY 148508 570 647 82679 revbeckiesweet@gmail.com10 St. Paul's UMC Ithaca1211
The Rev. Marti Sword Horrell13 66 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 1382014 607 432 410215 mswordshorrell@gmail.com16
Jeffrey W Morey37 308 Carton Rd., Syracuse, NY 1320738 Bellevue Heights UMC4039
Dr. Blenda Smith25 133 Helen St., Binghamton, NY 1390526
The Rev. Robert Long1
[3]
[5]
[2]
[1) Findings of the U.S. Congress, preliminary to drafting legislation on human rights of Palestinian children (5)55 Ibid. (9)56 Ibid. (22)57 Matthew 5:43 4858 Matthew 7:1259 “Kairos Palestine, A Moment of Truth”60
833 Oregon Ave., Niskayuna, NY 123092 518 372 10833 bikealong2@nycap.rr.com4 First UMC Schenectady5 6
The Rev. Dr. Robin Blair48 16 State St., Bloomfield, NY 1446949 315 729 448550 revrobinblair@gmail.com51 East Bloomfield UMC & Ionia UM52
First UMC Oneonta1817
The Rev. Martha Fischer41 111 Sherwood Acres Dr., Apt. H 29,42 Herkimer, NY 1335043 315 219 509844 Thierolf1944@gmail.com45 Herkimer UMC4746
[6]
Carmen Vianese31 87 Mill St., Nunda, NY 1451732 585 468 593533 carmenfsvianese2@Twc.com34 Nunda UMC3635
[4]
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 44
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 45
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 46
We continue to seek information on what tools/resources our local churches need in order to make38 their communities more welcoming for those with disabilities and share those resources as we39 continue our work for Annual Conference.
We believe that all people are created in the image of God and have sacred worth. We also believe29 that it is vital to the body of Christ to celebrate the spiritual gifts of people with all abilities so that we30 can best witness the beauty and diversity that God has created in our communities.
We look forward to hearing more from the churches, districts, and conference to help us discover what42 accessibility challenges need to be met throughout the Conference (at Annual Conference, District Days,43 or church services) and offer suggestions on how to meet those challenges as we are able.
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One important change to the grant is that we hope to provide four $500 grants in the next year. Of course,19 this takes funding, which happens through Accessibility Sunday offerings so, again we continue20 encouraging local churches to join in these efforts.
Accessibility Concerns Team
We are here to support, train and assist local churches of the Upper New York Annual Conference of33 the United Methodist Church to best serve those with accessibility concerns.
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The Accessibility Concerns Team has been hard at work organizing and growing even amidst the COVID1 19 pandemic. We continue our endeavors to assist in making our Annual Conference a place where2 everyone is included and valued. We have shown some marked improvements over the last few years and3 will keep learning and growing as we work toward full inclusion!
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We also continue to update our page on the Annual Conference’s website as needed, continue to monitor9 for grant applications, and discuss further resources, including adding an outline of service for Accessibility10 Sundays (https://www.unyumc.org/resources/accessibility).
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Please join us in helping transform the world by becoming the most accessible church possible.
Our goal is to make the community of Christ accessible to all people.
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46 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 47
We continue to collect accessibility survey data each church completed over the past few years. We are23 reviewing information received from 2021 church charge conferences. We continue our analysis as we24 move through the pandemic.
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Our mission statement remains as follows:
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We continue our work toward greater social media presence. This remains a work in progress. The grant13 application remains available. Please remember that you must have celebrated Accessibility Sunday and14 must have taken an offering for the grant in order to be eligible to apply , since it is a self funding grant.15 Additionally, churches must also complete accessibility audits with their Conference reports to be eligible16 for grants from this fund. (Visit the above link for more information.)
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Thank you to all our volunteers who help make it possible and to everyone who is looking out for others6 both during AC and the rest of the year.
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Loreen Jorgensen has been volunteering with entering our records into Past Perfect Software and with31 the addition of our intern Brielle, we have two people familiar with the software and inserting entries. We32 hope to complete a new box level inventory of the archives and load that information into Past Perfect.
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Archives and History, Commission on
The Archives itself is still a work in progress as we try and catalog and organize the archives of four6 conferences merged together while still processing closed church records, which are a huge workload7 when the churches are not aware of what should be sent to the archive and send 30 boxes for example.8 The Commission has trained volunteers to assist local churches in what should be sent to the archives to9 regulate the volume of boxes received.
5
We have lost our archives assistant due to the retirement of Karen Campolieto and are now struggling23 without that necessary, though inadequate, position. We really need a trained archivist to establish our24 archives in a sustainable way. Thanks to Sue Slenker we were able to partner with Syracuse University and25 the Upper New York Conference in getting a paid student intern Brielle Popolla to work in the archives26 approximately 10 hours or so a week and remotely when we cannot get in due to COVID restrictions. Sue27 also recruited and scheduled local volunteers. However, after their orientation, new COVID restrictions28 have prevented them from coming to the archives. We hope they will be able to start by late March 2022.
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The Conference Historical Society held one remote program and we hope to have in person events in41 2022. Our hosting of the NEJ of Archives & History for 2020 is now going to be virtual on May 10 & 11,42 2022 6:30 9:30p.m., with speakers covering the Women’s Rights movement which started in our43 Conference.44
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 48
The Commission on Archives and History has been challenged this past year in many ways but has been1 resilient with God’s help in carrying out its ministry. With the building being closed for a considerable2 period we were dependent on our one day a week Archives Assistant Karen Campolieto to keep us from3 being overwhelmed by unprocessed closed church records.4
The Conference has provided a web page for the Archives, and we post news about the archives and35 provide useful information there. One recent feature was about our former Archivist Karen Stalters who36 was awarded the National Ministry of Memory award for her work in the Troy and Upper New York37 Conferences. In addition, a workable procedure with the Conference has recently been established to get38 some financial support from churches that are closing to help preserve their records in the archives.
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According to the Book of Discipline, it is the responsibility of the District Superintendent to bring closed12 church records to the Archives in Liverpool. This is a critical requirement to be sure the Archives receives13 them both for Church and local use as well as for legal reasons. This past year volunteers assisted in14 transporting by truck and processing many boxes of records from one district to prevent their loss during15 a move. We were notified by a western conference that one of our closed church’s records showed up on16 eBay and with negotiations, we were able to acquire most of them. These records according to the seller’s17 agent were left in the church building when it was sold. So, it is apparent we need to keep reminding18 District Superintendents that this is a requirement to bring closed church records to the Archives and that19 we can assist them in reviewing the records before the District Superintendent brings them to the20 archives. We have also started outreach based on the list of churches that are closing.
3
Submitted by: Ken Jones, Chairman, Commission on Archives & History4
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022
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With God’s help and the support of the Conference, District Superintendents, interns, and eager1 volunteers ,we hope for a brighter future for our Archives in the coming years.2
Finally, we as the College Ministries Team have decided that it is time for a change of leadership and so12 we have begun the process of discerning who will next lead this team following Annual Conference 2022.13 Until that time, and indeed following, we will continue to do our part to make disciples of Jesus Christ for14 the transformation of the world, starting with our college students.15
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 50
Samuel Smith, Chair17
We also know that there is much that still needs to be done in order to truly meet the spiritual and material7 needs of the Conference’s students to the best of our ability. With this in mind, the College Ministries8 Team will spend the next year continuing to seek out new ways to be in ministry with and for the students9 of Upper New York, guided by the Book of Discipline, driven by the needs and input of the students, and10 firmly rooted in the Wesleyan values of higher education and student ministries.11
College Ministries Team
Members: Samuel Smith, Emily Allen, Jeff Aiosa, Eric Helms, Michael Terrell, Eunice Kim, Zachary18 Stahlsmith, Rhonda Chester, Debbie Earthrowl, Karen Woodworth, Bill Gottschalk Fielding19
In Peace,16
The College Ministries Team has continued to carry out our work as a committee throughout these1 challenging and uncertain times. We have persisted in doing what we can to care for the college students2 of the Upper New York Annual Conference, including gathering information directly from students3 themselves and, of course, providing scholarship grants to those who are called to serve their neighbors4 and be in ministry in a variety of ways. These are some of the ways in which we, as the College Ministries5 Team, have been fulfilling our role and we will continue to carry out these functions.6
As it becomes clear things will not simply “go back to normal” the Communications Team continues to35 lead the way in learning to do vibrant ministry while living with COVID 19. It is likely the coming year will36 see many more challenges, but the Communications Team will continue to be sure the story is told, and37 our ministries together may continue.
Throughout all these challenges, successes, and learnings, all regular Conference communication channels24 remained uninterrupted, including:
Submitted by: Stephen Hustedt, Dir. of Communications40
• The Bridge30
Communications Report
In fact, at the annual gathering of the United Methodist Association of Communicators, the Upper New8 York Communications Team was recognized as best in class for our COVID 19 response. While being9 recognized by peers is always appreciated, the greater satisfaction is in the individuals and churches who10 were helped and were able to continue their ministry in new and exciting ways as a result of the response.
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• The Conference Website31
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 51
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Another focus that began last year was being clear about the Conference focus and the history that got19 us to where we are today. The website has been restructured to make our focus the most important20 information and readily available. There are also many communications pieces that have and will continue21 to go deeper on this important part of our lives together
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• The Advocate27
• The Weekly Digest28
• Various as needed communications
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It was another unique year for Upper New York Communications filled with digital events, distance1 learning, and trying to understand how to best do ministry in a world so impacted by COVID 19. That said,2 there were many learnings from the previous year of life with COVID 19 that allowed us to grow and3 improve as we continued to face many of the same challenges. Furthermore, all the hard work put in4 responding to COVID 19 was recognized both by local churches seeking support and even by other5 communicators around the United Methodist Connection.6
The Digital Annual Conference that took place in 2021 was also greatly improved over the one that13 happened in 2020. This was in part because a new vendor, GNTV was used and in part because much had14 been learned at the previous digital Annual Conference. It is hoped that we will be able to return to an in15 person format in the coming year, but if not, it is certain that another Digital Annual Conference will be16 even better.
• UNY Notes29
• Conference Social Media interactions32
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c) Facilitate the development of full human potential10
Discernment Events for Deaconesses and Home Missioner Ministry13
• Home Missionaries: Active – 5, Retired - 9028
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Another exciting word of update from Deaconess Megan Hale, Executive with the National DHM Office:34 February 2022 the Order held our first ever DHM Racial Justice summit to continue our work towards35 confronting racism. In October 2021, for the first time, DHM from the US met virtually with DHM in the36 Philippines fulfilling our fourth mandate of building global community through the church universal!37 Another event was held in April 2022 to hear from individuals whose lives have been impacted by DHM38 both in the Philippines and US.
Welcome Janice Dawn Tabangin to the UNY Conference, who serves as a Deaconess in the New Faith44 Community at First United Methodist Church in Ontario, Canada. Janice serves as the pianist and organist45
7
Discernment Events are held at various times and locations throughout the year. There is also the option19 to attend virtual discernment events. There will be an event in August 2022. That information will be20 shared with Communications to get the word out when the date is set. For additional information and the21 latest dates for these events, please e mail: deaconess@unitedmethodistwomen.org
Deaconesses/Home Missioners are Lay Persons in The United Methodist Church (UMC) who feel called by1 God to a full time vocation in service with those who are marginalized and in need in the world today.2 There is an opportunity to be a part of a supportive community in connection with The UMC as a3 deaconess or home missioner. Deaconesses and home missioners function through diverse forms of4 service directed toward the world to make Jesus Christ known in the fullness of God’s ministry and5 mission, which mandate followers to:6
• Home Missioners: Active – 10, Retired - 127
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Deaconess/Home Missioner, Order of (DHM)
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• D/HM Candidates – 54 (Home Missioner – 15, Deaconess – 40)
• Deaconesses: Active – 195, Retired – 11126
d) Share in the building global community through the church universal
a) Alleviate suffering8
In May 2022, we welcomed 19 new DHM and 8 transferring DHM to our order. Also, 45 DHM (those from31 2020 and 2021) were consecrated at the United Methodist Women’s National Assembly on May 20, 2022.
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Our Upper New York Conference D/HMs are appointed by the Bishop and serve in their districts and the41 Conference with their diverse gifts of communications, chaplaincy, healing ministry, and law.
Despite the challenges of COVID, we're continuing to grow! Our current numbers as of Feb. 1, 2022, are:2425
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 52
During a period of discernment, we listen for the call of God on our lives. The Deaconess Home Missioner14 Discernment event is an opportunity to explore God's call to vocational ministry. During these 2 3 days15 we explore scripture, hear and share call stories, and learn what it takes to be in relationship as a16 Deaconess or Home Missioner, all in a retreat like setting.
b) Eradicate causes of injustice and all that robs life of dignity and worth9
Susan Silhan, Deaconess , Mountain View District Email: Healing.wholenessministry@gmail.com6
Kevin Nelson, Home Missioner, Albany District Email: kmichael07@gmail.com
Contact for National Office10 Website: https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/dhm11 Email: deaconess@unitedmethodistwomen.org12 Call: 212 870 385013
8 9
If this calling is for you or someone you know, we want to hear from you!
of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 53
in her church, facilitates bible studies with children and adults, organizes community outreach and1 participates in the choir. Welcome, Janice, to The Upper New York Conference!2
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3
Denise Walling, Deaconess, Albany District Email: walling_d@msn.com7
13th Session
• Pastor Abigail Browka10
• Rev. Dr. Sung Ho Lee14
Episcopacy, Committee on the
• Mrs. Kelli Farrell11
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• Rev. Dr. Bill Allen – Chairperson8
Rev. Dr. Bill Allen, Chairperson – UNYCOE – 2016 202239
The chair and vice chair of the COE are determined as the result of their order of election to the General17 Conference delegation from UNY. The rest of the COE members are chosen by the Bishop.18
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13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 54
The Upper New York Committee on the Episcopacy (COE) is elected at the beginning of a quadrennium1 and then serves for the entirety of the quadrennium Because of the COVID 19 Pandemic, the current2 quadrennium has continued longer than the normal four year period. The current UNY COE was elected3 in 2016 and is continuing in its duties until the 2016 quadrennium is completed. We are grateful to have4 been able to support Bishop Webb and his family here in UNY.5 The UNY COE is made up of the following people:6 7
Respectfully submitted,38
• Pastor Dr. Scott Johnson13
• Mrs. Pat VanVleck
• Mr. Greg Forrester – Vice Chairperson9
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The Jurisdictional Conference will meet on November 2 4, 2022. When that JC is complete, a new COE will32 be formed to support and encourage the UNY bishop and her/his family through the new quadrennium.33 We ask that the laity and clergy of the UNY Conference take seriously our privilege and responsibility of34 holding up the UNY Bishop and her/his family in our prayers. We also ask that you keep the new COE in35 your prayers as they seek to do their duties faithfully.
• Pastor Olga Gonzalez Santiago12
The role of the COE is to support the Bishop by praying for him and his family, by ensuring that the25 episcopal residence meets the needs of the family, by blessing the family with encouragement and26 hospitality throughout the year, by providing a listening ear for the Bishop, and by assisting the Bishop in27 receiving evaluative feedback concerning his leadership. Typically, some members of the COE will meet28 at least once at the episcopal residence to make sure all is well. However, we were unable to do this in29 2021.
In 2021, the UNY COE continued to meet with Bishop Webb. We met via conference calls on ZOOM. It is19 important to recognize that confidentiality is a fundamental element of the COE. The COE serves as a type20 of S/PPRC for the Bishop. Therefore, we have made a solemn covenant with Bishop Webb to share neither21 specific content nor tone of COE meetings. This environment creates a space for grace, trust, and honesty22 in all our interactions.
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 55
Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A)
The Conference Council on Finance and Administration continues working on the policies and procedures1 with the finance staff, forming the budget and other Discipline mandated tasks of CF&A.
This past year was another challenging year as we adjusted our spending plan and continued to cope with4 the effects of the COVID pandemic. We were able to obtain a second Payroll Protection Program loan5 which was a tremendous help in providing for the needs of the Conference. We are also extremely6 thankful to all of the churches that paid their ministry shares in full for 2021 and we rejoice with those7 churches who increased their giving in these challenging times. We continue to work on our policies and8 practices regarding those churches that are not fully paying their Ministry Shares.
2 3
I offer thanks to the members of CF&A (Rev. Naomi Annandale, Roger Cullen, Sue Godshall, Rich Griffin,20 Pastor Jenni Piatt, Rev. Gerald Piper, Rev. Grace Warren, Bob Flask, Rev Jeff McDowell, Susan Ranous, Rev.21 Noel John, and Rev. William Gottschalk Fielding) for their service and ministry, to the Finance Staff,22 Conference Treasurer, and to the Boards of Trustees and Pensions and Health Benefits, Conference23 Leadership Team, Executive Staff, Bishop, and the Director of Connectional ministries for their continued24 support.
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Thanks to the Ministry Share collections giving by local churches and the use of our operating reserves,11 we were able to again remit 100% of our general church apportionments for 2021.
In proposing the 2023 Ministry Share Budget, we have worked diligently to control the expenses within14 the Ministry Share budget. Our work includes working to reduce the financial obligations of the local15 churches as we work together to provide the revenue and resources necessary for the financial support16 of the vital ministries of the United Methodist Church here in the Upper New York Conference and around17 the world.
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Submitted by: Holly E Roush, Chairperson27
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Worldwide Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (WIDEA) is a strategic focus area for GBHEM to align its29 work with the mission and ministry of congregations and constituents around the world. This renewed30 commitment includes advanced staff development in intercultural competency, active listening, and a31 deeper understanding of and appreciation for difference so relevant programs and services may be32 developed, offered, and implemented more equitably and effectively.
GBHEM seeks to promote innovative and experiential opportunities for transformative learning, higher1 education, and ministry formation worldwide. The agency works with key partners, churches, and2 institutions in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Eurasia, Latin American and the Caribbean, and North3 America to offer connectional, contextual, and collaborative programs to support the Church, the4 Academy, and the world. Among its various activities, GBHEM is responsible for two initiatives approved5 by General Conference: The Methodist Global Education Fund for Leadership Development (MGEFLD) –6 which includes the Grants and Scholarships Program (GRASP) – and the Central Conference Theological7 Education Fund (CCTEF). The agency also maintains Regional Hubs for Leadership, Education and8 Development (LEAD Hubs) in various locations around the world, has helped create and support the9 International Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities (IAMSCU), and works with10 regional education associations on five continents. GBHEM is currently partnering with general agencies11 and other organizations to support important projects on COVID 19 vaccine equity, mindfulness and12 wellbeing, net zero emissions, human rights, and the promotion of a culture of generosity throughout the13 United Methodist worldwide connection.
Hundreds of years before Amazon.com, John Wesley stuffed the saddlebags of circuit riders with books of42 theology and biblical interpretation selling them to fund the movement while spreading it literally.43 GBHEM continues this innovative spirit by leveraging social enterprise opportunities and creative44 partnerships as a way of reducing its reliance on apportionments while continuing to focus on delivering45 the very best services, products, and programs to United Methodist constituents around the world.46 the
In 1972, The United Methodist Church reaffirmed its support of the 11 historically black colleges and16 universities related to the denomination by creating the Black College Fund and this year we celebrate its17 50th Anniversary. Support for the Black College Fund supports the education of world changing leaders18 by investing in the hopes and dreams of students from around the world. Continued support for the Black19 College Fund renews the vision for the next generation of transformational leaders.
13th Session of
Higher Education and Ministry, General Board of (GBHEM)
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We celebrate GBHEM awarding more than 2,250 students a total of $4,084,979 in scholarships in 2021.22 These future leaders range from first year freshmen to doctorate level students across the denomination.23 We are grateful for the support received in recognizing United Methodist Student Day, World Communion24 Sunday, and Native American Sunday which helps fund a portion of our scholarships. The remaining funds25 for these awards come from gifts, annuities, and endowments GBHEM has invested and administered for26 decades.
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GBHEM remains committed to building and sustaining collaborative cross conference networks that foster35 collegiality and guide credentialing for ordained and licensed ministry. We have partnered with conference36 leaders to clarify the role of those in ministry while assisting in the interpretation and application of37 relevant paragraphs within The Book of Discipline. We have supported the work of recruiting, guiding, and38 credentialing candidates and clergy through the development of Passage - a comprehensive registry39 resource - as well as a virtual onboarding module for new district and conference board members.
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Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 57
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The same spirit of service and leadership that first inspired John Wesley lives on in each of us. Today,1 GBHEM looks confidently to the future taking bold and creative action, remaining good stewards, and2 continuing to support The United Methodist Church in innovative and meaningful ways.3
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Greg Bergquist, General Secretary5
Drew Griffin27
Mark Adsit20
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Shafeegh Habeeb28
Deborah Clyde25
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Linda Barszykowski21
Robert Mueller34
Richard Preston35
Avary Halliday29
Sam Lasher31
JJ Warren41
Jennie Young Walcz43
Elyse Muder33
Ellen Mall John32
Grace Lynn Besse22
Aaron Bouwens23
The laity in Upper New York continue to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ in a variety of creative1 ways while adapting to the ever changing landscape of challenges in the time that God has called them to2 leadership.3
Brenda Shelmidine37
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Anna Welch Wood42
Hap Skellen38
Darlene Dennis26
Peter Lagueras30
Blenda Smith39
We give thanks and praise to God for them and their service. The members of this board include:
With a shortened schedule due to the postponed 2020 Annual Conference, the board has only met 2 times15 in 2021. We look forward to a more normal schedule following Annual Conference 2021.
Carmen Vianese40
Jessica White44
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These disciples serve the churches of Upper New York in a variety of ministries, giving generously of both5 their time and talents. In seeking ways to identify and equip new leaders for the church, they add to God’s6 kingdom. They serve tirelessly in their local churches, they serve on district and regional ministry teams,7 and they serve this Annual Conference.8
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Anna Buell24
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Steve Ranous36
In February, the Conference Lay Leader and the Associate Conference Lay Leader attended The10 Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders 2021 Convocation, hosted by Discipleship Ministries. Held11 virtually this year, lay leaders from around the global connection gathered to share about local ministries12 and receive valuable training on anti racism initiatives.
Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of
• Adirondack District: Lee Ackley, Sharyl Backus, Karen Butters, Carla Snyder27
As of Feb 2, 2022, Upper New York Annual Conference has over 500 active Lay Servants, 46 Lay Speakers19 and 103 Certified Lay Ministers.2120
• Transforming Congregation Leadership to Transform Live (Phase 1 and Phase 2)42
Among these numbers are five newly affirmed Lay Speakers:22
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• Cornerstone District: Cora Martin, Tim Hadley, Laura Lindquist23
We also affirmed 12 new Certified Lay Ministers:26
Lay Servant Ministries is the premier lay leadership development program available within the United1 Methodist connection. Lay Servants grow as disciples of Jesus Christ who then go and make other disciples2 through their leadership and witness.3
• Albany District: Rita Pickett28
• Crossroads District: Michael Ingersoll, Judy Lieber Butler, Shirley Pease29
• Stretch Out Your Hand – Exploring Healing Prayer
We are dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ committed to serving in whatever ways we are called in the45 Upper New York Conference. Praise be to God!46
As we move forward in 2022, we look back at the continued challenges of 2021 and witness the hand of11 our awesome God through it all. The pandemic continued but some districts were able to bring back some12 “in person” classes. The number of courses offered in 2021 increased a bit. One of the positive results of13 this pandemic is that Districts continue offering Lay Servant courses via Zoom. Some courses are being14 offered in person, some by Zoom, and others are being offered as hybrid (offered in person and via Zoom15 at the same time). This continues to be a blessing within our Conference and beyond! We fully expect that16 offering courses by Zoom will continue to be a common practice in the Conference. God is Good!1817
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• Niagara Frontier District: Rodney Stringham
In 2021, there were over 40 courses offered across our Conference with over 350 Lay Servants in33 attendance. These Lay Servants are equipped and empowered to serve as disciples of Jesus Christ through34 a myriad of ministries including: VIM, Small Group Leaders, Trustees, SPRC members, Sunday School35 Teachers, Visitation Coordinators, Prayer Leaders, Pulpit Fill, … and the list goes on. We also had a few36 participants from other Conferences in our courses.3837
The UNY Conference Lay Servant Ministry Team also approved three new Alternate Advanced courses39 that may be used as credit for 10 hour advanced courses. They are:
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• Mohawk District: Deborah Brewer, Brenda Brucker, Jacqueline Kim30
Lay Servants serve within their local church and beyond in ways that inspire other laity to deepen their5 commitment to Christ and yield more effective discipleship, including the interpretation of Scripture,6 doctrine, organization, and ministries of the church. They lead, assist, and support the programs of the7 church; assume leadership roles; lead prayer meetings; facilitate small groups and Bible studies; teach8 Sunday School; conduct congregational and community life; and foster caregiving ministries. They are9 leaders who serve through leading, caring, and communicating ministries in their local church and beyond.10
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• Albany District: Bruce France, Theodore Vickery, Jr.2524
Lay Servant Ministries
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May God continue to inspire the Laity in our Conference.23 May God continue to work in us.24
• Oneonta – Cathy Honrath
• Crossroads – Darlene Dennis and Robert Mueller6
May God continue to lead us in our time of waiting and expectation.25 May God fill you with peace and comfort as we continue to move forward to healing – physically,26 emotionally and spiritually.27 May God be with us all as we continue in ministry together.2928
• Mountain View – Sue Silhan and Ernest Warren10
• Cornerstone – Cora Martin and Warren Vandewark5
• Finger Lakes – Jennie Young Walczyk7
• Mohawk – Ken Guilfoyle9
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I have been serving as Conference Director of Lay Servant Ministries for about 18 months now. I would15 not be able to do all that I do without the wonderful team beside me. Thank you to the awesome District16 Directors for your dedication and hard work.
District Directors:1
• Binghamton – Mel Patterson and Don Birtch4
• Niagara Frontier – Tracy Hagler
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• Northern Flow – Donna Fitchett
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Respectfully Submitted,30 Linda M. Barczykowski31 Conference Director of Lay Servant Ministries32
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I don’t think any of us expected the pandemic to last two years, but God has continued to work in and19 through us during all of it. He has shown us new ways to minister and new ways to teach those in20 leadership.
• Albany – Nancy Goddard3
• Adirondack – Bruce Hazard2
• Genesee Valley – Deb Clyde8
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Looking into 2022, there is reason for great hope. A new Director of Missional Engagement will be hired18 as well as new VIM Coordinators. It is anticipated that there will be an increase of opportunities to serve19 at the HUB in Liverpool and great hope there will be a growing number of VIM trip opportunities opening20 once again.
Missional Engagement
During this transition, however, great work continues to happen in service to Christ and the church. The6 Mission Central HUB located in the United Methodist Center in Liverpool continued to gather supplies,7 pack kits, and connect people with the kits during their time of need. The pandemic certainly had an8 impact on the functioning of the HUB by limiting the size and number of groups. In fact, there was a brief9 season when there were no groups allowed for the safety of everyone. Moving into 2022, this has begun10 to change, and the HUB is welcoming groups to serve the various expressions of the HUB.
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In Christ26 Missional Engagement Leadership27
You can find more information at the Conference website under the Mission tab. We look forward to23 serving with you in the near future.
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For the Missional Engagement ministry of the Upper New York Conference 2021 was a year of transition.1 With the retirement of Mike Block, the Director of Missional Engagement, and the transition of Roger and2 Donna Cullen as the VIM Coordinators for Upper New York there has been no shortage of filling the gaps3 and strategizing for the days ahead.4
The ongoing impacts of the pandemic have limited the Volunteers in Mission groups as well as the Early13 Response Teams addressing disasters. Of note there was excellent disaster response to flooding the14 Southern Tier of New York as well as to Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center in the summer of 2021. In15 both cases, servants showed up to clear the aftermath of significant flooding events.
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All three Native American churches in the UNY Conference lost many loved ones during the pandemic and19 all three were closed for a time. The pastors serving all three churches left their appointments in 2021.20 There is an ongoing need to provide culturally competent spiritual leadership for all of our Native Churches21 in the Conference.
The Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM) advocates for Native peoples in our churches1 and communities and educates others regarding the history and current challenges affecting our Native2 brothers and sisters. CONAM also promotes Native American Ministries Sunday (NAMS) and administers3 the Conference portion of contributions. NAMS funds continue to assist our three Native American4 Churches with ongoing ministries and operational expenses. Funds were also used to assist the Native5 American Outreach Transportation Program (NAOT). NAOT, serving individuals on Onondaga Nation and6 in the Greater Syracuse area, was identified as an essential service and continued to operate during the7 pandemic. Each year, grant applications for NAMS funds are available for churches, organizations, and8 individuals within the UNY Annual Conference. Email CONAM@unyumc.org for details.
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Members of CONAM are updating training sessions originally offered in 2015 to meet the continued need24 to educate individuals regarding the history and present effects of colonization on Native Americans and25 the need to live out the promises made at the 2015 Act of Repentance. The updated program will be26 offered to individuals, churches, and organizations.
13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference
CONAM worked closely with the Northeastern Jurisdiction Native American Ministries Committee11 (NEJNAMC) to develop a plan of action for the 2021 2024 Quadrennium and an inclusion statement for12 LGBYQ individuals. We endorsed the position paper on full inclusion, sharing the announcement through13 the UNY Conference e-news. We also supported a letter from the Native American International Caucus14 to the Council of Bishops calling for a “Day of Truth and Repentance for Our Children” on Oct.- 6, 2021.15 The result was a five week series of articles reviewing the charges from the Act of Repentance and16 informing Conference members of the history and ongoing trauma caused by Indian Boarding Schools.
Submitted by: Sharon A Schmit, Chair - CONAM@unyumc.org
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An information table for the 2022 Annual Conference will provide information to raise awareness for29 Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the ongoing discovery of graves at boarding30 schools. We welcome individuals with a passion for Native ministry and invite all to visit our table at31 Conference or contact us personally. Every church/charge is required to designate a local church32 representative to Native Ministries on their church charge conference forms. A list of local church33 representative contacts is used to communicate with local churches regarding current Native issues and34 the celebrations of Native American Ministries Sunday, Indigenous Peoples Day, and A Day of Truth and35 Repentance for Our Children.
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Kae Wilbert retired as our able and long serving CONAM chair and is now an emeritus member on the38 committee. Present leadership includes: Sharon Schmit, Chair; Brooke Conklin, Administrative Assistant;39 Blenda Smith, Treasurer; and Kae Wilbert, Secretary. Other members include: Marilyn Anderson, Sue40 Crawson Brizzolara, Thom White Wolf Fassett, Carolyn Huston, Rose Kingsbury, Mary Alice Nyhan,41 Bethany Printup Davis, and Rosalie Schotanus In 2021, our CONAM lost Don Washburn, a well loved42 committee member and faithful advocate for Native peoples.
Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM)
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As we move forward, we recognize that no matter what happens with the denomination, all Methodists39 will need to be engaged in finding new ways of reaching new people! So, our team is committed to40 continuing to find new, better ways of supporting people who are seeking to follow the dreams God has41 placed on their hearts!
Since the pandemic came and changed everything for every church and Conference ministry, the New5 Faith Community Team has joined everyone in adapting to continue to meet our mission. The primary6 training/equipping tool we use is Launchpad, which until 2020 was always held in person over a weekend.7 COVID forced us to create an on line option and because no one wants to sit on a Zoom call for 9 10 hours8 over back to back days, we broke it down over six evening sessions, over a period of weeks. Teams had9 time between sessions to meet, process what they were learning, and apply it to their own context. We10 learned quickly that this was actually a better mode of learning. Since then, we have decided to never go11 back to in person Launchpad. Instead, we will offer two Launchpads each year, providing a great learning12 experience for up to 20 persons.
God is still putting dreams in the hearts of people to plant new places for new people! The New Faith1 Community Team of the Conference continues to work to come alongside and support them as they follow2 the vision God has given them.
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In addition to Launchpad, the New Faith Community has been improving our support of people after15 Launchpad! We have started offering Greenhouse Groups. These are coaching groups for people who16 leave Launchpad with a plan and seek to implement it. Greenhouse Groups are led by experienced17 coaches and planters and last from 6 12 months.
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In the fall of 2021, the New Faith Community Team also offered an on line learning experience called20 “What Now?,” a series of podcast style conversations with three nationally recognized experts, around21 issues of life in the church during and after covid. Those who attended received great information about22 the epidemic of loneliness in the world, how to start a new “fresh expressions” faith community, how to23 improve the on line worship experience for people who find that the best choice, why every church MUST24 work to improve their online disciple making, etc. After the event was complete, the team created a UNY25 NFC YouTube Channel so that that others can watch and learn from these videos. Since then, a couple of26 hundred people have watched these videos. You can find and watch them yourself by searching “Upper27 New York New Faith Communities” in YouTube.
The best news is that our New Faith Communities continue to reach new people. The Hispanic/Latino30 planting team has started two new churches in 2021 and they have plans for further multiplication in the31 years to come. The pastor of the Miso church in Buffalo has started two new house churches, one in32 Rochester and one in Syracuse. Many churches are exploring starting new fresh expressions of their33 church in “third spaces” (outside their church building, in places where people already gather) in their34 communities. Other small churches are following a pattern of combining efforts with other congregations35 in their area; casting new vision, creating new leader teams, and exploring new ways of being church. The36 NFC Team will continue to support all these efforts.
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Submitted by: Rev. David Masland
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6. Jonesville UMC (Clifton Park, NY) STAHL Alcohol & Addiction Recovery Center $2,00017
The conference board of church and society or equivalent structure shall also name a conference Peace1 with Justice Coordinator who will be responsible for administering the conference Peace with Justice2 Special Sunday Offering receipts and for coordinating peace with justice ministries. (2016 Book of3 Discipline ¶629.2)4
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Respectfully,34 Heather Smith35
Peace with Justice Coordinator36 peacewithjustice@unyumc.org37
5. North Main St. UMC (Gloversville, NY) Gun Violence - It's time to talk. $1,18516
7. Eastern Parkway UMC (Schenectady, NY) Scholarship to Black Methodists for Church Renewal18 Gathering $2,00019
2. Labor Religion Coalition of NYS Clergy Connections with Farmworker Organizing $2,00012
4. African Ministries of Aldersgate UMC (Rochester, NY) African Community Youth Education to Live14 Beyond Drug Addiction $1,00015
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If you have questions about any of these ministries, I would be happy to share more information or put24 you in touch with those in charge. Additionally, some of these projects have already been highlighted in25 Conference Communications.
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1. First UMC of Phoenix, NY Loads of Love Laundry & Feeding Missions $2,00011
8. New York State Council of Churches Anti Racism Conversations on Approach, Policy, and20 Community Building $2,00021
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Peace with Justice
In 2021 we received the most Peace with Justice grant applications in the history of the Upper New York6 Conference! Each year, the Social Holiness Team considers applications for financial support of new and7 emerging justice ministries. In April we received three requests and in October we had another six. We8 were thrilled to be able to support every one of the following ministries:
3. Faithful Citizen, Inc Mobilizing Vaccine Turnout: Resources for Church Leaders $1,80313
These grants are made possible by your continued support of the Peace with Justice Sunday offering - one28 of the six Special Sunday Offerings listed in ¶824 of The United Methodist Book of Discipline. It is my hope29 that as we move into the future - be it as United Methodists or otherwise - each one of us will continue30 to support - with our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness - the justice and social action ministries31 begun in the Upper NY area.
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9. Clara's Closet Refugee Services (Buffalo, NY) Welcome the Stranger $2,0002322
Karen Peterson (co chair)25 Rev. Len Bjorkman Kay Philips26
Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel, Task Force on
Rev. Gary Doupe Shirley Stevens31 Linda Fiske Alice Trost32
Special prayers for Leah Mae Carlisle, co chair, in long term recuperation. Special thanks to Gary Doupe,37 whose wife, Elaine Cichowski Doupe, died over a year ago, and was also a member of the Task Force. Gary38 donated the cost of printing the brochures in her honor and memory. Thanks also to Merle Showers and39 Alan Kinney, donors to brochure mailing costs. Belated thanks to Elaine Chorley and Linda Fiske for 1240 years as Palestinian Dinner coordinators. Many thanks to all who volunteered on our brochure mailing.4241
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Some of this past year's actions: (1) Presentation to the 2021 Annual Conference of Petition “Because We4 Care”, an appeal for churches to study the Palestinian document, “Cry for Hope” and respond to one of5 the suggested actions (the petition was approved); (2) the production of a UNY UM Task Force on Peace6 w/ Justice in Palestine/Israel brochure, mailed to every church pastor and lay leader in UNYAC in7 November; (3) member participation in ZOOM webinars on current Palestinian justice issues, provided by8 UMKR (United Methodists for Kairos Response), MFSA (Methodists for Social Action), CMEP (Churches for9 Middle East Peace), and Amnesty International; (4) individual sign on for ACTION e mails to members of10 Congress on issues such as home demolitions and land confiscation, increased illegal settlement building,11 and abuse and incarceration of Palestinian children through Israeli military courts; and (5) monthly articles12 for the UNY Conference e mail weekly digest, written in support of the 2021 “Because We Care” petition.
Leah Mae Carlisle (co chair)
Tom Carlisle Christine Root29
Jonathan Brenneman Rev. Duane Priset27
Arlene Lundquest23
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Rev. Dick Barton Janet Lynch24
Thanks be to God; members of this Task Force have the joy and privilege of working for justice and being1 a voice for the Palestinian people.
Submitted by: Linda Bergh, Task Force co chair46
Dianne Roe28
Rev. Alan Kinney Susanne Wilkowski33 Rev. Gary Kubitz Beth Woolever34 Rev. Leanne Zeck3536
Current Task Force members:22
Plans for the coming year include: (1) submitting to the 2022 UNYAC the petition, “Defending the Human15 Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act”- H.R.#2590; 2)16 working on “5 Partnership Churches”, with those congregation members partnering in prayer and shared17 stories with 5 Palestinian families in vulnerable situations; and 3) reaching out to youth and young people,18 including young clergy, for participation with the Task Force and for consideration of using the Gary Bergh19 Scholarship for joining delegations on “peace and justice trips” to the Holy Land.2021
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Linda Bergh (co chair)
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Elaine Chorley Rev. Merle Showers30
To join the Task Force, for info on the Bergh Scholarship, or to receive info: Karen Peterson, Linda Bergh,43 Gary Doupe or Merle Showers
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The UNYAC BoPHB continues to support wellness incentives through the Virgin Pulse Health Miles37 Program. Participants can earn monetary rewards each year for walking, exercising and participating in38 wellness activities and coaching.
Retiree/Over age 65 Active Health Coverage through Via Benefits: The conference will continue our46
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The Board of Pensions and Health Benefits has worked to respond to the realities of COVID 19 and the1 impact that it has had on the church and the world. We have again extended the implementation of our2 “arrearages policy” to the end of 2022, knowing that churches are radically different than they used to3 be, and it can take time to adjust to new realities.4
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Blended Rate (MED) Since our health benefit plan covers all full time clergy, our connectional41 responsibility requires that every church served by a full time pastor pay the Blended Rate. The Blended42 Rate is NOT an insurance premium for the individual currently servingas the church’s pastor. It is each full43 time church’s equal [connectional] share of the total Conference premium that provides health benefits44 for active clergy and their families throughout our diverse Conference.45
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The guidelines by whichour health benefits program is administered are presented here for the sake of25 clarity and understanding by all. Further information can be found on in the conference website:26 https://www.unyumc.org/about/pastors compensation , click on the link “Clergy Support Policies”:
Health Benefit Program Policies
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Health Benefits For Full Time Active (under age 65) Clergy: We continue to offer the Healthflex29 Exchange for eligible active clergy, which combines a blended rate for churches with multiple healthcare30 options for participants. The blended rate in 2022 is $14,000. Participants receive a premium credit and31 decide what plans work best for them. Participants are encouraged to elect a pre tax flexible spending32 account (HSA and/or FSA) to be deducted from their salary. The HSA and FSA are administered through33 Health Equity. The purpose of the pre tax benefit is to help participants pay for deductibles and other34 eligible medical, dental and/or vision expenses.
I love the work of the Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, because our work is the work of the whole.15 We serve the Annual Conference, seeking to do what we can to maximize fairness and justice while caring16 for those who are vulnerable. I am thankful to the entire board and its officers, and to the staff of both17 Upper New York and Wespath who inform us, support us, and implement our decisions.
In God’s Peace,20 Sara Baron21 Chairperson, UNY Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits
We continue to be aware that our job is to care for those who have served, while also attending to the6 needs of the churches they have served and are serving. This results in a constant awareness of balancing7 differing needs while seeking justice and fairness. As with all other Christians and all other parts of the8 church, we are “going on to perfection”, but we are not there yet. We are thankful for your grace as we9 continue to work on your behalf.
Below is up to date information about the programs we offer, policies we have in place, a look ahead, a12 look at this moment in time, and two action items for the Annual Conference to act on.
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Due to the pandemic, and understanding the struggle faced by churches and pastors, the UNYAC BoPHB39 voted to delay the enforcement of the arrearage policy through 12/31/2022 while graciously asking40 churches who are able, to please continue to pay their direct bills, and to contact the benefits office if you41 need to set up a special payment arrangement. Direct bill payments in 2020 were nearly 99%. In 2021,42 we saw 98% payment on current obligations. We are so grateful for the hard work churches are doing to43 provide for their pastors, and for the ways this care is prioritized.
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UNYAC HealthFlex Arrearage Policy (Effective 1/1/2020, Delayed until 12/31/2022): As you may be34 aware, the UNYAC BoPHB, with the support of the Cabinet, approved an arrearage policy to assist us in35 controlling the increasing deficits year to year, due to a small number of churches and/or pastors that36 were not paying their direct bills.
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agreement with Via Benefits to provide a choice of Medicare Supplement, Part D prescription, dental,1 vision, and/or Medicare Advantage health insurance plans for the conferences current and future eligible2 retirees who are already enrolled or will be enrolled in Medicare. These plans will continue to be combined3 with an individual Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for each eligible retiree and spouse, as4 applicable.
A retired participant is eligible for the Via Benefits program if they were an active participant in the11 Conference HealthFlex Benefit Plan for at least five consecutive years immediately preceding their12 retirement effective date. The retiree must have primary coverage at retirement through Medicare Part13 A and Part B.
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Retired Spouse HRA Deferral from AC 2020: The 2020 UNYAC referred back to the Board, a change to27 the HRA that was scheduled to begin January 1, 2020. We were requested to bring an updated proposal28 to the 2021 Annual Conference Session. We had no changes to bring to UNYAC 2021, and after an even29 more extensive time of analysis and conversation, we are not intending to change this policy at this time.30 The hard work of balancing the needs of retirees, their spouses, and our funding stream continues, but31 the policy we had submitted is no longer our plan.
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Clergy Who Retire Before Age 65: Clergy who retire before the age of 65 may continue their coverage in20 HealthFlex until their 65th birthday, with a cost share. The benefits office will provide you with a calculation21 of your premium amount once they are notified of your official intent to retire. If such early retired clergy22 choose not to continue in the Conference HealthFlex program until they become eligible for Via Benefits23 at age 65, (i.e., they drop HealthFlex to go onto a spouses healthcare program) they will forfeit their24 eligibility for Via Benefits and the retiree HRA. This decision is irrevocable.
The formula for retiree HRA funding is based on 3.33% of “fully funded HRA amount” per full time16 equivalent years of service up to 30 years of service and the 5 year vesting rule. CBOPHB determines the17 fully funded HRA amount annually.
Retiree Health Eligibility: Retired clergy, age 65 or above, must be enrolled with the Social Security7 Administration for coverage under Medicare Part A and Part B, before they can be enrolled in the Via8 Benefits network.
Pensions and Retirement Planning10 Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP) and Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP)—75% and above11 Appointments: We have not made changes to CRSP or CPP. CRSP pension benefits are for active clergy serving 75% time appointments and above. Clergy who voluntarily contribute at least 1% of their total13 compensation to their United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) account will receive a14 matching 1% CRSP contribution through the program to their defined contribution CRSP account, as15 prescribed in the plan agreement, insofar as their congregation pays their benefit obligation.
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The Board received the pension actuarial report from Wespath dated September 24, 2021, outlining the33 components of UNYAC’s CRSP DB, MPP Annuities as well as our conference specific Pre 82 report. For34 end of year 2021, the UNYAC 2020 owed a CRSP DB contribution in the amount of $1,608,465 which was35 due by December 31, 2021. Accordingly, the UNYAC BoPHB paid the 2021 CRSP DB contribution in its36 entirety. UNYAC’s CRSP is currently fully funded. The amount paid reflects current benefit accruals under37 CRSP DB.
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According to the report, for year end 2022, the UNYAC BoPHB is estimated to owe $1,536,187 to Wespath40 for the CRSP DB. For year end 2023, the UNYAC BoPHB is estimated to owe $1,380,399 to Wespath for41 the CRSP-DB.
Retirement: Julie Valeski, UNYAC’s Benefits Administrator, once again held a very successful retirement44 seminar for clergy and spouses who are approaching retirement age. We will continue this program in45 2022 2023.
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Special Grants: UNYAC BoPHB has been providing assistance via special monthly grants, as established1 in previous years and as provided for in The Book of Discipline.
Clergy Retirement Security Program Defined Benefits (CRSP-DB) and Ministerial Protection Plan (MPP)26 Annuities: The current retirement plan for clergy is CRSP, which replaced MPP. CRSP has two parts:27 defined contribution portion and the defined benefit portion. The defined contribution portion creates an28 account balance at Wespath that will be accessible to a participant after retirement. The defined benefit29 portion is distributed as a monthly benefit based on Denominational Average Compensation and years of30 service.
The 2021 special grants included two retired clergy, one CPP participant and two clergy widows equaling7 a cumulative annual payout of $22,407.36.
CRSP - To fund this plan, all congregations that have 75% time and above appointments are billed a18 percentage based on their pension based compensation (salary plus housing). There is no change to the19 13.8% billing to churches.
CPP – Churches with clergy in full connection, serving in 75% appointments as well as all fulltime22 appointed clergy, will continue to be billed 3% of the clergy’s pension based compensation (salary plus23 housing). CPP offers death, long term disability, and survivor benefits to clergy and their families.
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The Board of Pension & Health Benefits will annually review previous and future pension grants to retirees4 and widows/widowers but will not publish names, to protect their privacy and dignity.
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Investment Update : UNYAC’s Fossil Fuel divestment resolution has been implemented and we have9 begun making quarterly changes in our investments to remove our financial support of fossil fuels. It will10 be completed over a five year period, at the end of 2026.
*amount to be indexed for inflation.
Looking Ahead13
• A smaller amount of money will be put into clergy retirement accounts by their church(es) and44 the annual conference(s) which could lead to insufficient funds in retirement if clergy do not elect45 pre tax contributions from their paychecks to save for retirement46
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Wespath has recommended these changes to the clergy retirement plan so we can continue to provide28 reliable and sustainable retirement income to those who serve.3029
• $1 for $1 conference match on up to 4% of pay2524
The Compass plan is entirely Defined Contribution (DC). It is an account based plan, with three types of19 employer contributions:
• 3% contribution of pay23
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When General Conference is able to meet, there is a proposal on the table from Wespath to end the Clergy14 Retirement Security Program (CRSP) and move to a new plan called Compass. The Compass plan is still a15 retirement plan, but its design is significantly different from past retirement programs that were a16 combination of Defined Benefit (DB) and Defined Contribution (DC) .
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• $140 per month flat dollar contribution*22
• More support built into the Plan for lower paid clergy, and recent seminary graduates32
• Increased sustainability by Conferences, ensuring reliable retirement benefits for future34 generations of clergy35
• Balanced affordability with income adequacy - strives to provide sufficient retirement income for36 clergy, at a cost that is affordable to annual conferences37
• Once retired, your annuity provides you a guaranteed income stream for life (or some period),40 no matter how the stock market or the economy performs4241
• If a clergy person does not make their own pre tax contributions in addition to the Conference47
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Pros:31
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Financial Planning: Wespath has partnered with EY (formerly Ernst and Young) to offer free financial1 planning services to active participants, surviving spouses, and terminated and retired participants with2 a pension account balance of at least $10,000. EY’s financial planners provide confidential, objective3 guidance on making investment decisions, saving for retirement, managing debt, understanding tax4 issues and evaluating insurance needs. This service has been significantly under utilized. Retirement5 planning can be a confusing and stressful activity. The professionals at EY can assist you at no cost. We6 strongly encourage you to use this amazing service. You can get started by calling EY directly at 1-800 360 2539.7
• Lower cost to churches33
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Cons:43
• Provides flexibility that allows benefit portability for clergy and allows clergy the ability to leave38 account balances to their heirs39
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Disaffiliation Concerns10
The Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, by definition, must act in the best interest of participants and11 beneficiaries. We take this responsibility with utmost seriousness, and we are honored to serve all of the12 churches, all of the clergy, and all of the staff of the Upper New York Annual Conference of the United13 Methodist Church. We recognize that a time is coming when some of the churches and some of the clergy14 will depart from the Upper New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. In order to be15 able to do our work, we respectfully request that the Upper New York Annual Conference carefully16 consider any and all plans for local church departures, to ensure that those who leave with their assets17 are also taking with them their fair portion of our shared liabilities.18
• The Compass program moves more of the risk/reward to the clergy person as the markets2 fluctuate”, which means some clergy may need to revisit assumptions a little more often3
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It may be worth noting that if General Conference meets in 2024, and passes the legislation enabling the5 Compass plan, it will still take some time to implement. Under those conditions, it would likely come into6 effect in 2026. If the Compass plan passes, we will be working hard to keep everyone educated about the7 changes, what they mean, and how to create the most secure possible retirements under this new plan.8
contribution made on their behalf, their retirement balance will be much smaller in retirement1
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Religion and Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR)
We received 454 reports, which is a 54% response rate for the entire Conference.25
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o 8% would use/are using another strategy3837
o 22% would use/are using Admin/Church Council meetings30
o 11% would use/are using Adult Sunday School classes34
All 12 Districts submitted INR charge conference reports regarding their anti racism work. The good news22 is that this is a big improvement from last year, when only six districts responded to our request.
While dozens of churches are at the "thinking and reading about antiracism" stage, some groups have39 moved into actively dismantling it. Perhaps the most exciting news is that the Niagara Frontier District40 UMW has been approved for funding to help support local organizing campaigns to interrupt the school41 to prison (StPP) pipeline. The UMW will use this grant to mobilize educators and allies to increase42 awareness about the StPP in local churches and UMW units using the StPP Bible Study and other resources43 and hosting presentations from Buffalo organizations that are working on the issue. This D istrict UMW44 will also organize those who are willing to be effective advocates for changes in policies and legislation at45 the local, state, and national levels to engage with decision makers at all levels of government and local46
We've updated our facilitator training and held four workshops, training or re training almost 4015 facilitators. These people are then invited to join the UMC Upper New York Conference "Imagine No16 Racism" Resource Group on Facebook, which provides them with a forum to share resources and support17 one another as they engage in this hard but necessary work. One reader commented, "...thank you for18 your outstanding work. I have not seen anyone else doing the consistent quality and insightful posts that19 you have shared. That is especially true across the wider religious traditions."
In terms of resources/activities that have been or will be helpful in doing antiracism work,27
Of those responses, 346 churches, or 76%, say they are doing some form of antiracism work.26
At least six new groups have experienced the INR 2.0 curriculum in the past eight months. Participants are5 excited to learn and understand that racism goes far beyond individual and interpersonal acts, extending6 to institutions and systems in our society. As one participant said, "...this curriculum and the videos went7 to the heart of issues, words, attitudes, and our expressions from lack of understanding the impact." In8 addition, we've had multiple requests from churches and other groups to experience the curriculum and9 we currently have a waiting list of folks eager to participate.
The Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) has had a great year since last June's Annual1 Conference 2021. Yet, along with the celebrations, we continue to face challenges.
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o 16% would use/are using movie/video discussions32
o 14% would use/are using the Imagine No Racism curriculum33
o 11% would use/are using speakers36
o 11% would /are involved in anti racism marches35
Imagine No Racism (INR)
Throughout the year we've continued to update the INR 2.0 curriculum, editing for clarity and content. A12 CCORR sub team is strategizing to develop a youth curriculum.
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o 19% would use/are using book discussions31
o 30% would use/are using sermons28
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o 25% would use/are using Bible studies29
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After completing INR and with the help of a coach, one church in the Finger Lakes District began16 developing an Indigenous Land Acquisition Acknowledgement statement and plans to fashion a17 Sunday worship service around that statement. The church will invite Native persons to participate18 and hopes to foster a greater awareness of the history of the land.19
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In the Binghamton District, based on research of current events, church members write members of9 Congress and support groups that help combat racism.10
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In the Niagara Frontier District, the pastor and members of one church participated in and hosted31 their second annual community wide, anti racism worship service. This group also works on an32 ecumenical team which encourages awareness of systemic racism and efforts to discourage full33 participation of all citizens in the life of the community.
A Mountain View District church celebrated a church couple's adopting two children of color. They25 told us that they "...have supported them in prayer, presence, Christian education, and just the26 unconditional love of a church family....Our love for them, our investment in their spiritual growth27 and support of their education will continue for decades we pray....we are committed to living out28 our faith to view everyone as a forgiven child of God, regardless of skin color, race, gender, socio29 economic status or any other society label that might divide us."30
We continue to offer training to pastors and laity who have not yet experienced INR 2.0, and are currently45 finalizing a plan for commissioned clergy to complete INR through the Board of Ordained Ministry.46
In the Mohawk District, a church that led the community in first ecumenical study of the INR23 curriculum and is building a church library which includes many books on racial justice.24
Sadly, though, many churches are not involved in antiracism work for a variety of reasons. Quite a few of36 them simply claim that "there is no racism here," or "we have no problem in this area." Others believe37 that racism is purely an individual issue of character or that INR teaches critical race theory and is divisive.38 CCORR continues to engage these siblings on the importance of anti racism work.
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A Genesee Valley District church has created a social justice team that focuses on a local20 comprehensive plan, zoning issues, and school board issues around race and racism. A second church21 has created a dismantling racism group which is actively discerning its next steps.22
Here are other positive highlights from charge conference reports:5
One church in the Cornerstone District "works to be the church in the world around them," actively11 engaging in the communities, bringing injustices to light whenever they present themselves."12
Each church that submitted a report receives a customized email from CCORR thanking them for their41 report and responding to their efforts. This has generated some very fruitful dialog as well as some42 excellent opportunities for the CCORR team to be of additional service.
In the Albany District, one church has a ministry action plan and team dedicated to antiracism. In6 addition to two book studies, the team is working to develop a relationship with a non white church7 to better understand racism and build cross cultural bridges of mutual aide.8
school boards using UMW resources for national advocacy and action, as well as participation in state and1 local campaigns - particularly, collaborating with local partners to push the Buffalo School District towards2 accountability for implementing the restorative justice policy in the BPS Code of Conduct.3
In the Crossroads District, a lay member sends prayers to the church email list selected from UMC13 Discipleship Ministries INR prayers and provides each family a copy of Desmond Tutu's God's Dream,14 which offers inspiring message about diversity/equity/inclusion.15
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We remain strong allies with the three Native American churches in our Conference as they17 address significant challenges.
CCORR has also served as a resource for grant information for 25 churches in the Conference that13 are comprised mainly of People of Color.14
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Two of our team members have joined the Conference's Cross Cultural/Racial Appointments15 Team. CCORR also provided a list of resources to the Conference team's convener.16
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One member, who is not Hispanic, has been invited to, and joined the Hispanic Pastor's Covenant11 Group, which meets weekly.
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CCORR is committed to being a resource and ally to all People of Color in the UNY Conference, and is8 intentionally building relationships with Native American, Hispanic, Asian, and non U.S. People of Color.
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We're also strategizing ways to have resources in place for anyone who wants to engage in areas of racial justice work after having completed INR 2.0 through ministry action plans. We do this in part through a2 group commitment to serve as a resource to anyone wanting to move further forward in anti racism work.3 We also enable our commitment through continuous learning as we experience books, articles, and videos4 on the cutting edge of anti racism topics and scholarship.
Building Relationships
As Christians, and as United Methodists, we have an external and an internal responsibility to dismantle20 racism. Antiracism work gives us the opportunity not only to follow God’s call to work for justice but also21 to live into who we proclaim we are. Yes, racism is a large, interconnected, and often overwhelming22 system of beliefs, policies, and practices. All of us can find ways to interrupt and dismantle it. We can23 understand the system, and from there, find ways to dismantle it and take action. This is hard work that's24 done over a lifetime and CCORR is committed to continuing it, confronting racism, and eliminating it!25
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In the last year, COSROW has reached out to our community, lifted up women, and monitored Annual1 Conference for demographics of speakers.
Status and Role of Women, Commission on the (COSROW)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and29 learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is30 easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28 30
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We have reached out to our community by handwriting notes of greeting to those attending women’s4 retreats at Asbury and Sky Lake. The notes were accompanied by postcards intending to educate about5 COSROW and handmade chocolates from a small business to sweeten our greeting. The hope is to not6 only educate about our committee but let the women in attendance know they are loved and being7 prayed for during their “time apart”. If you are hosting or attending a women’s retreat this year, please8 reach out to Bryant Clark, bryantchristopherclark@gmail.com, and we would love to send some notes of9 encouragement to your group!
Our Facebook page has become a place of uplifting the inspiring women in our Annual Conference through12 a series we call Wonderful Woman Wednesday. Every other Wednesday, we introduce those who have13 “liked” our page to a woman who has been nominated. We have already highlighted many women and14 we want your nominations! Send an email to Krystal Cole, krystalcole96@gmail.com, with the name of a15 woman that has inspired you in our Conference (lay or clergy). Please follow along! Our page on Facebook16 is called Upper New York Commission on the Status and Role of Women.
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Many hours of work were put in by Margot Rankins Burd to compile data of who was speaking during the19 2021 session of Annual Conference. This work is essential. Every voice at the Annual Conference table20 should have the opportunity to be heard and paying attention to which voices hold the majority of the21 conversation educates us about the influence of our discussions and decisions. Continuing to identify22 ourselves every time we come to the microphone is a small burden, but an important piece of our process.23 Without identification at the microphone, the monitoring process is a difficult one. We thank you for your24 continued cooperation throughout the session. With no demographic numbers from registration from the25 2021 session, we don’t quite have the full picture, but from the numbers we do have, you can see the26 results of Margot’s hard work at the end of this report.
We are excited to announce that you can save the date for our upcoming virtual retreat Catch Your Breath,33 Oct. 21 22, 6:30 8:30p.m. each day. The theme is self care. Registration is open to clergy and lay women34 of all ages. We expect registration costs not to exceed $25 per person. A small portion of money raised35 will be going to End The Backlog, the purpose of which is, “identifying the extent of the nation’s backlog36 and best practices for eliminating it; expanding the national dialogue on rape kit testing through increased37 public awareness, sharing groundbreaking research, engaging communities and government agencies and38 officials, and advocating for comprehensive rape kit reform legislation and policies.
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In the next year we will continue to focus on planning and executing our virtual retreat, posting our41 Wonderful Woman Wednesday series, reaching out to women’s retreats, monitoring Annual Conference42 2022, and finding new ways to support women, and “advocate for full participation of women in the total43 life of The United Methodist Church.”44
The Commission on the Status and Role of Women (COSROW) advocates for the full and equal15 participation of women in the total life and mission of the Church. The four key goals of the Commission16 are to provide sexual ethics resources, monitor conferences, create trainings, and support women in17 leadership positions. Below are this Conference’s COSROW findings from monitoring this year’s Upper18 New York Annual Conference held virtually June 17 19, 2021.
Our team members include Vice Chair Margot Rankins Burd, Secretary Bryant Clark, the Rev. Vonda4 Fossitt, Ellen Klock, Barbara Nelson, the Rev. Sue Russell, and Caleb Smith. I am incredibly proud of the5 work our team has accomplished this year, all while meeting entirely virtually. COSROW is a true6 collaboration, and I can’t wait to see what this group is able to do in the year ahead!
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Shalom,9 Krystal Cole, Chair10
During Annual Conference in 2021, a total of 138 persons spoke. Of those 138 speakers, only two thirds24 gave all of the requested demographics at the beginning of their allotted time (Appendix A). In regard to25 gender of the speakers, more speakers identified as male than any other gender (41%). Sixty one percent26 of speakers identified as white, with the next largest segment being those who did not identify their race.27 The smallest segment of representation were our black brothers and sisters who were represented by28 less than 1% of our speakers (Appendix B). Finally, 46% of speakers identified as clergy while 29% were29 laity (Appendix C).30
Margot Rankins Burd, Vice Chair11 Commission on the Status and Role of Women
2019
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2021 UNYAC Monitoring Statistics Report
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If you are feeling a call to join COSROW, please reach out to krystalcole96@gmail.com. We would1 especially love to hear from any female clergy people that have an interest in this committee!
This year, no demographics were collected at registration, so the Commission does not have a baseline21 against which to compare.
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The Upper New York Commission on the Status and Role of Women recognizes opportunities for growth5 in Conference monitoring efforts. First, the Commission will create mechanisms for both in person and6 virtual speakers to remember the demographics to present. In the past, they have been listed on the7 microphones and other places, but no virtual reminder was created. Second, the current Commission8 commits to creating standards on how, what, and where data is collected and where it is published, not9 only for use in the current year but for historical comparison. Thirdly, this group promises to make10 published data as clear as possible so there can be no further confusion for this team or any other11 individual in our Conference about the metrics or meaning of presented data.
Finally, the Commission seeks to partner more closely with members of the Conference office staff to14 gather demographics at registration and encourage that all persons, including those on stage, speakers,15 and pre recorded videos at Annual Conference present their demographics so that this team may collect16 accurate data.
There is some discrepancy over how demographics have been recorded year over year and no universal1 place where they have been stored, so the Commission is not presenting historical data for comparison2 this year.
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2019 Appendix A21 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 76
Appendices
Appendix B1 Appendix C2 13th Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 77
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A vulnerable adult is someone aged 18 and over; who due to age, illness or a mental or physical20 condition, is less able to take care of himself/herself, or less able to protect himself/herself against21 harm or exploitation; including but not limited to physical and sexual abuse, neglect by self or other,22 financial or material exploitation, emotional or psychological mistreatment. Vulnerable adults are also23 those adults who work with children and youth who can be in a position where accusations of abuse24 could mistakenly arise; or, adults who have been abused either as a child or an adult.25 https://www.unyumc.org/resources/safe sanctuaries#Minimum%20Standards
The standardized Safe Sanctuaries Training program of the UNYAC is a large part of the SST's work. The28 training consistently receives very positive evaluations from participants. The training is led by facilitators29 who have completed six hours of training – the three hour basic course and a three hour Training of30 Trainers (TOT). They are recertified annually. We were able to do one Training of Trainers training, our31 first via Zoom. At this training 10 individuals were prepared to facilitate the standard, three hour Safe32 Sanctuaries training both in person and via Zoom. Currently, there are 55 certified trainers across the33 conference. We are prepared to hold two virtual TOT trainings in 2022.
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As we all know, the COVID 19 pandemic has made many of our ministries look differently. The SST36 implemented a Zoom format training which was developed last year. This training can be used both in37 person and on Zoom; keeping the training interactive and engaging like it had previously been designed.38 In 2021, we were able to train almost 300 clergy and laity from the Upper New York Annual Conference.
The Minimum Standards are reviewed as questions and concerns arise. During the past several years,8 there have been questions about who needs training and how often. We would like to remind the Annual9 Conference that all Clergy and anyone working with children, youth, or vulnerable adults are all required10 to take the UNY Safe Sanctuaries Basic Training, only once as per the Minimum Standards. However, the11 local church can require their clergy, staff, and laity to attend the training more than the Minimum12 Standards require. Refer to The Minimum Standards plus other resources that are posted on the13 Conference website for further clarification.
Who is considered a vulnerable adult? This is another question which we often receive. As we have16 learned over the years we are all vulnerable in one way or another. But for our purposes, a vulnerable17 adult is:
Safe Sanctuaries® Team (SST)
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The Safe Sanctuaries Team (SST) addresses policy making issues, training, and accountability related to1 Safe Sanctuaries. The SST establishes minimum standards and procedures, provides training programs,2 and assists local churches and Conference ministry programs in reducing the risk of abuse to children,3 youth, and vulnerable adults (2011 AC Safe Sanctuaries Resolution). We believe that reducing the risk of4 abuse in churches and ministries is essential. We believe there will be no vital congregations or new faith5 communities without leaders who are diligent in reducing abuse risks.6
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The team assists local churches in a variety of ways. Conference staff and team members address41 numerous questions during the year using email, phone calls, and face to face Zoom conversations. Many42 questions relate to the interpretation and implementation of the 2016 Minimum Standards. The Minimum43 Standards are just that, the minimum that the UNY Conference Safe Sanctuaries® team recommends. Each44 church is encouraged to begin with the Minimum Standards and create their policy around protecting and45 reducing the risk of all children, youth, and vulnerable adults in their church.46
Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference Oct. 6-8, 2022 79
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For the 2022 year, the SST has prescheduled all of their conference wide Zoom Basic and TOT trainings. A1 flier was sent out to all the districts to be shared with church leaders , if you did not receive it or would2 like to have one, please contact your district office or the SST. We are always looking for new members to3 help move us forward in keeping our children, youth, vulnerable adults, and Churches safe. Feel free to4 contact us anytime at safesanctuaries@unyumc.org
Prepared by: Christine Mitchell and Arlene Schmidt
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The Social Holiness Team has had an active and eventful year since the last Annual Conference of Upper1 New York in 2021. The team is comprised of representatives of the committees of the Upper New York2 Annual Conference that deal with the majority of the issues many people would consider the social3 ministries. These include, but are not limited to, Peace with Justice, Peace with Justice in Palestine and4 Israel, the Committee on Religion and Race (CORR), the New York State Council of Churches, the5 Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM), the United Methodist Women (UMW), Men’s Prison6 Ministry, and the Task Force on Immigration. Some may see these may as being the “social” ministries of7 the Church, I feel they are the “soul and life blood” of the Church.8
While we may hear of God and God’s will for us on any given Sunday in any number of United Methodist10 Churches, it is the other six days and the other 165 hours of the week when we can do more than just11 speak or listen to and about God’s presence. It is in these hours that we, the people of the United12 Methodist Church, live the faith we profess in the way we treat others, spend our resources, and care for13 and about others. While the time of worship may be vital for those already within the Church, it is the14 time and energy we spend outside of worship that will either demonstrate the love Christ lived and15 preached or we will fail to be the people God has called us to be through Jesus Christ. Prayer is more than16 a time to list our needs or needs of others to God but making the space and listening for the call of God17 for the Church to be active in ministries of caring and helping to shape the world in the manner Christ led18 us to. I am proud and humbled to be able to convene the members of this team.
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Social Holiness
2019
I feel that a committee that represents such diverse and unique ministries need be better represented in29 the leadership of our Annual Conference. While diversity needs to include race and ethnicity, it also needs30 to include diversity of theological understandings and practices for the leadership of our Annual31 Conference. At the present time we have limited and secondhand input in the leadership of this Annual32 Conference.
I am proud that the Social Holiness Team has representation of a great diverse theological stand and a35 greater number of ethnicities represented than almost any other portion of our Annual Conference. I feel36 we are a living and growing example that the United Methodist Church can be united with various37 understandings and interpretations of scripture. We need to be a witness to the world around us that we38 can not only list but continue to be a vibrant and strong witness to the claim God has upon us through our39 common call to diverse ministries and caring.40
During this year the Social Holiness Team has held two different classes online concerning gun violence.21 These were led by the representative of Peace with Justice Heather Smith. We have also just recently22 started a new series of pod casts. They are entitled “The Common Table”. The purpose of these pod casts23 is to bring people from varying theologies to a common table and share their thoughts and to see if there24 is common ground that lays between them. This, I feel, is vital to the very existence of Methodism as we25 are more a Church of boundaries and varying understandings of scripture than a Church of dogma and26 only one perspective concerning the interpretation of scripture.
• Unrestricted Net Assets: Net assets that are not subject to donor imposed restrictions.
Properties5
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• Permanently Restricted Net Assets: Net assets subject to donor imposed stipulations that may be41 maintained permanently by the Conference. Generally, the donors of these assets permit the42 Conference to use all or part of the income earned on related investments for program43 operations.44
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• Designated Unrestricted Net Assets: Net assets that are internally designated for a specific34 purpose or activity by the Conference.
The Annual Conference Board of Trustees maintains an insurance subcommittee who helps to design,18 implement, and monitor our Conference wide insurance program. This program has been underwritten19 by Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company since Jan 1, 2000. Our local representatives are American20 Church Group of New York and agents from American Church group have been working to visit each of21 our local churches and establish accurate replacement costs for our properties. This project involves over22 900 site visits and will be completed in the fall of this year. Any local church is invited to contact American23 Church group (contact information is found on our Conference web site) to set up an in person meeting24 with their local representative. Look for the Brotherhood Mutual booth at our Annual Conference25 gathering this year!
The Board of Trustees is currently managing 36 closed churches, two land only properties, 11 district6 parsonages, one episcopal residence, one conference center, five camp and retreat centers, and seven7 legacy issue properties. Each property has two trustees assigned to oversee these properties and8 buildings. The trustees also work to market and sell the closed churches, land, and legacy properties. They9 coordinate their parsonage work with district parsonage coordinators to maintain and address issues at10 each parsonage. District boards of Church Location and Buildings work to support the trustees on closed11 church properties within their Districts. Peter Abdella from Harter Secrest & Emery LLP serves as our12 Conference chancellor as we work to sell these properties. Working with municipalities (tax exempt13 issues), private groups (cemetery associations, tenants), real estate brokers and others, we resolve issues14 associated with these properties.
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Insurance17
Trustees, Board of
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• Temporarily Restricted Net Assets: Net assets subject to donor imposed stipulations that may or37 will be met either by actions of the Conference and/or the passage of time. Also includes camp38 and retreat centers, the Conference center and district parsonages.
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The activities of the trustees for 2022 include the purchase, sale, and maintenance of Conference1 properties. The trustees also manage the Conference’s master insurance program. A brief explanation of2 the trustees’ activities for the past year follows:3
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Trustee financial activity is accounted for and reported as a separate fund in the Conference. Net Assets:29 Net assets are categorized in accordance with Conference or donor designations as follows:
Financial Report28
Child Victims Act5
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Faithfully,11 Rev. Pamela Klotzbach, Trustee President12
The Trustees are continuing to work with our legal team as well as other Conference boards to monitor6 the lawsuits that have been brought against the Conference. With the guidance of our legal team and the7 boards involved, we will review these cases as they move forward. Further information will be shared at8 Annual Conference 2022.
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Commitments1
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There are currently three member churches with loan guarantees provided by the Conference with an2 outstanding loan balance of approximately $850,000.
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2019
We will be holding an in person Conference wide men’s retreat April 29 30 of this year. The 22 hour10 retreat, with the theme of “Iron Sharpens Iron,” will build upon the 35 men in attendance at the 202111 Spring Retreat and will again be held at Aldersgate Camp and Retreat Center in Greig, NY.
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By God’s grace for our Fall 2021 retreat held at Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center in Moravia, NY, we14 raised over $2,000 for the contents of United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) cleaning kits (also15 known as flood buckets, filled with flood emergency cleaning supplies). Men also brought donated kit16 contents that were assembled during our retreat. We will plan for a Spring time 2022 event to build17 UMCOR approved cleaning kits, at either a host church or the Mission Central HUB, located at our UNY18 Methodist Center, Liverpool NY.
Early Response Training (ERT, also known as “Disaster Response”), Amending Through Faith training,25 wheelchair ramp, and blessing box building training are also in our plans for 2022, while always watching26 the latest COVID 19 meeting restrictions. When it is safe, we will follow through with such27 events/trainings to disciple and mentor men of all ages.
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We will partner with the Society of St. Andrew to schedule four potato drops during the Fall of 2022 (date30 and locations are yet to be determined). We will make scheduling potato drops in the Albany and the31 Rochester areas a priority.
We currently have three completed blessing boxes (outdoor wood cabinets that provide a 24 hour34 emergency food resource filled with non perishable foods and hygiene products) to help those in need,35 be given to a willing church or men’s group.
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United Methodist Men (UMM)
The New Generation Methodist Men (NGMM)/Upper New York United Methodist Men’s (UNYUMM)1 goal for 2022 is to promote “serving others.” Here in the Upper New York Conference, our ministry focus2 in 2021 was to pray, and pray we did!! This year we will focus our efforts and resources on service to3 others in need. “Charity sees the need not the cause.” If we are to successfully carry out our planned in4 person NGMM/UNYUMM PowerPoint presentations in each of our three Regions of the Upper NY Annual5 Conference, we must follow all CDC guidelines regarding Covid 19 and its variants. We will continue to6 labor to draw men throughout this Annual Conference to pray first and foremost, to serve others in need,7 and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Binghamton District UMM President John Conklin and Conference UMM Prayer Advocate Ken Summers38 have successfully established a weekly Zoom prayer event that is open to all men of all ages throughout39 the Northeast Jurisdiction. Their NGMM/UNYUMM activity takes place most Tuesdays, at 7 8 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted by: Mark Jones, UNYUMM Conference President - 315 749 3700 msjwelshman@yahoo.com
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We will hold two UMM sponsored “Family Night at the Ballpark” fellowship events in 2022; the21 Binghamton Rumble Ponies (June 23 - AA Affiliate) and the Syracuse Mets (July 28 - AAA Affiliate) are22 annual events that raise money for local charities.
Make God bless and keep the UMM men’s ministries of the Upper NY Conference!
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Please do not hesitate to reach out to your District or Conference UMW executive teams for support of35 any kind. We recognize that the local units are doing the day to day mission and justice work that makes36 all the difference across UNY.
Since my last report, the UNY Conference UMW Leadership Team has worked on intentional connection1 with the District Leadership Teams, with the local units, through our partnership with the Board of2 Directors, and with those who work for us at the national office. We have continued to provide3 opportunities for spiritual growth through online bible studies, book studies, and learning seminars/live4 chats to engage our ladies with up to date information on immediate needs, justice issues, outreach5 efforts, and long term goals for education/information and ministry.6
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Serving Because of Jesus: Carmen FS Vianese, UNY UMW President39 Carmenfsvianese2@twc.com (585) 468 593540 “Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this Ministry, we shall not lose heart!!” ( 241 Corinthians 4:1 )42
As we continue our journey in 2022, the national office, along with our Board of Directors and PAG8 members, have successfully prepared for our Quadrennial Assembly gathering (Turn it Up!) that will be9 held in person in Orlando, Florida in May 2022. There will also be a live virtual connection for all who need10 to digitally join us for this exceptional event. The assembly will include phenomenal speakers and female11 Bishops from across the connection leading us in worship and communion.
United Methodist Women (UMW)
I am pleased to share that the UNY UMW plan to host our annual “Mission U” retreat this coming summer24 in person during Aug. 2022 in the Syracuse area. Please watch for details about dates, reservations,25 accommodations, learning topics, and cost on our UNY UMW official website:26 https://unyumw.wixsite.com/website .
I am also pleased that our ability to meet the needs of our neighbors across the UNY Connection was not29 hindered, as some may have feared. The UNY UMW Conference Project grants funding every year for a30 variety of out reach ministries via an application process. These grants have continued, with blessings of31 $26,500 given to 12 different grant recipients/ministries across our UNY connection in 2021. We hope to32 be able to give even more away during the 2022 grant process.
Another highlight of this gathering will be the launching of our “new branding” for the UMW organization,14 which will highlight our new logo, as well as our new focus on including women from all denominations15 to join us in our mission and justice work. Our organization will continue to “legally'' be the United16 Methodist Women, but our logo and our branding (catch name) will evolve, as it has been throughout our17 history; we have journeyed from the “Woman’s Missionary Association” to the “Woman’s Home18 Missionary Society” to the “Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society” to the “Women’s Society of World19 Service” to the “Women’s Society of Christian Service” to the “United Methodist Women” in 1972. Even20 with the new branding, our spiritual growth, learning, mission, and justice work will continue forward as21 it always has.
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• Equipping a disciple making culture31
A Transformational Leader is a disciple of Jesus Christ who leads transformation by:28
• Understanding the gifts and needs of their ministry setting30
When the calendar flipped from 2020 to 2021 there was great hope the global pandemic would soon be1 over, and life would return to the way we prefer it. Clearly that is not what happened, and congregations2 continued to have the opportunity to adapt and expand their ministry. Along the way the Vital3 Congregations ministries of the Upper New York have continued to work with leaders around the4 Conference. While it seems everything around us has changed, the mission of the church has remained;5 to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Further, the Conference has6 remained focused on living into this mission by discovering, developing, and deploying Christ following7 transformational leaders so that local congregations can move toward greater vitality.8
• Is continually transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit21
Vital Congregations
A vital congregation is:37
• Proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ25
• Joins God in the work that God is already doing45
• Grow, both numerically and spiritually over time40
• Boldly connects with the world around them while dismantling all forms of oppression and23 building up marginalized communities24
• Fostering a culture for people to be open and available to the work of the Holy Spirit29
• Inwardly transformed and outwardly focused38
• Building a culture of transformation that will outlast the leader34
• Serve the world radically like Christ, through life changing ministry and mission that build up the42 community of faith and transform lives and social conditions in the community and world (Micah43 6:8 and Luke 4:17 21)44
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• Have powerful stories, measurable fruitfulness, and life changing ministries46
• Inspiring and equipping others for works of evangelism, justice, and mercy33
• Creating, leading, and empowering a system of accountability to the mission3635
The ministry of Vital Congregations does not happen in isolation as many partners are needed to engage10 this work. Significant time was spent in relationship with the Conference Leadership Team, the Bishop’s11 Operational team a sub team of the Conference Leadership Team, the UNY Cabinet, Board of Ordained12 Ministry, the three Regions, and all 12 districts. Through these partnerships, we have been able to hear13 the needs of congregations and leaders around the Conference, as well as develop strategies to come14 alongside leaders in a greater ways. Part of the work resulted in the affirmation of some definitions to15 guide the ministry we share. Following are the definitions used as investment is made to help16 congregations find greater vitality:
• Participates with God to make other disciples2726
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• Seeks accountability to grow spiritually and missionally22
• Confesses faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord20
• Discovering, developing, deploying, and leading new and existing leaders32
• Spirit filled, forward leaning communities of disciples39
A Disciple of Jesus Christ is a person who:19
• Welcome all people (Galatians 3.28)41
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• Engaged disciples in mission and outreach
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Working with those definitions the programmatic strategies and experiments moved forward. There8 continued to be leadership incubators as well as the beginning of area teams. Area teams are gatherings9 of leaders from a similar geographic area or affinity focus of ministry. The leaders, clergy and lay come10 together to love, learn, and lead (L3) together to explore what God’s invitation would be for their ministry11 in collaborative ways. If you have not heard about area teams it is because we are starting small in a few12 areas and looking to grow in a more organic way rather than through a Conference initiative or edict. Be13 watching for more opportunities to journey in area teams in the coming months.
Not to be forgotten is the work of the Associate Director of Vital Congregations for Spiritual Life. Through23 her work, Nancy Dibelius has offered the gift of a video series of spiritual practices and disciplines. It is24 impossible to overstate the importance of the work being done to continue to develop the Spiritual life of25 the leaders in Upper New York through the ministry of Nancy. During this time the ministry of Tending the26 Soul has continued, albeit in an adapted form. Nancy has also worked on various projects for Districts and27 the Conference.
Markers of a Vital Congregation
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• New and growing Disciples
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• Generous giving
• Inviting and inspiring worship
The ministry will continue to work to come alongside congregations and leaders to live into the mission.30 We will continue to develop leaders so that the local congregations can be vital and thrive. We are grateful31 for the opportunity to serve God and the church in this way.
In Christ34
• Small group ministries
Along the way, work with individual congregations and Districts continues. This has meant coaching,16 consulting and being a resource as congregations navigate their next faithful steps toward greater vitality.17 In some situations, this has involved completing a ministry audit. The audit is a process by which the18 congregation is assisted by an outside team to do a health check up. Through the process,19 recommendations are developed and congregations are given the opportunity to choose the next step for20 them.
Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens, Dir. of Vital Congregations35
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The UNY Mission Central HUB put most operations on hold as state regulations associated with the1 pandemic put building occupancy on hold until July 2021. UMCOR kit counts dropped significantly during2 the HUB closure. Replenishing of supplies and return of volunteers are challenges. An established Amazon3 wish list is being promoted as one way to replenish and create cleaning kits. A few congregations have4 worked within COVID restrictions to pack and deliver kits.5
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Volunteers in Mission (VIM)
VIM Leadership39
Upper New York VIM Coordinator(s) meet with an advisory team consisting of 2 or more representatives40 from each district. All of VIM leadership including the coordinator(s) are volunteer.
UMCOR introduced materials for remote ERT Recertification and Basic. Seven UNY trainers took the10 UMCOR training on the modules. The pilot for remote ERT Basic is still open. Two trainers are not11 interested in offering remotely. UMCOR decided that trainers can only train in conference. Tools for in12 person registration, testing, evaluations, and materials creation were updated to be used in support of13 remote learning opportunities. Online training through VIM included a series of webinars through Zoom.
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Submitted by: Roger and Donna Cullen, UNY Volunteers in Mission Coordinators46
Feeding programs continue across the conference. Churches work with community resources, stores, and27 restaurants to meet the ongoing need. Amazon wish lists provide opportunities to donate. Volunteers28 across the connection donate and staff the feeding programs. Clothing needs are met with expanding29 clothes closets.
Upper New York Conference curtailed teams based on COVID 19 safety protocols. UNYVIM Facebook page36 continues to list opportunities to serve are updated regularly.
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The Director of Missional Engagement retired effective September 30, 2021. Greg Forrester contracted to7 support Disaster Response.8
Volunteers in Mission rebuild project following Halloween 2019 flood is being turned over to local16 agencies. The VIM program to rehabilitating housing in Rochester to house refugee populations requested17 support of a program to supply functioning, used laptops for the refugee population. A used truck18 outfitted with toolboxes and covered bed was acquired in January to allow the volunteer/refugee teams19 to transport tools and materials. August 2021 Storm Fred impacted 350+ homes and private bridges in20 Steuben County. In January, the Small Business Association began low interest loans to homeowners. The21 VOAD set up office space with some projects to be carried out by VIM. The Albany area Refugee Immigrant22 and Support Services (RISSE) used an UMCOR Mustard Seed grant to supply bicycles to immigrants and23 refugees. The project established connections in the five involved churches and with refugees or24 immigrants.
VIM work with organizations serving the pandemic specific needs including housing, tutoring, ramp32 building, etc. The pandemic created opportunities for service in new ways.
VIM Teams35
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Our eight year tenure as UNY VIM coordinators ends when the Conference names our replacement(s).43 We resigned from the position on Jan 12, 2022. The stepping down could lead the NEJVIM Board to name44 a replacement for Roger as treasurer.45
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Hannah Lasher and Sam Lasher both deserve special thanks and recognition for survey development,12 graphic design, and generally going above and beyond the call of duty in this group. We cannot thank13 them enough.
Due to pandemic burnout and a fresh leadership team, the Young Adult Council has spent the last year1 rebuilding. In addition to forming a new committee and setting new expectations and goals, the group2 also conducted a survey of the young adults in the Conference to get a better understanding of the needs3 and wants of others our age across the connection.
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To contact the Young Adult Council and find out about upcoming events, you may find our information on16 the Conference website under Young Adult Ministries, email us at youngadults@unyumc.org, or follow us17 on Facebook under the name Upper NY Young Adults.18
Guided by survey results, the Young Adult Council has set several goals for 2022 including a more robust6 social media presence, hosting a minimum of two in person gatherings, creating a packet of contact7 information for young adult groups that exist around the Conference, as well as suggestions on how to8 create a new one, and host at least one small group bible study. We are looking forward to creating new9 opportunities to connect after a couple of years hiatus.
Young Adult Council
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Against the backdrop of a global pandemic, Africa University harnessed new opportunities for missional27 engagement in 2021. The year’s highlights include:2928
This year, The United Methodist Church marks 30 years of vibrant, transformative ministry through Africa2 University. Thank you Upper New York Conference for your faithfulness and generosity in bringing the3 dream of Africa University (AU) to life.
• The installation of AU’s fifth Chancellor: Bishop Gaspar João Domingos of the Western Angola33 Episcopal Area was elected Chancellor following the death of Bishop John K. Yambasu of Sierra34 Leone.35
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o In 2021. AU was awarded the Jairos Jiri Humanitarian Award by the Government of42 Zimbabwe for its pandemic impact mitigation efforts.
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In celebrating its 30th anniversary, Africa University is honoring the past and looking to the future, while6 remaining true to its mission as the cornerstone ministry for United Methodist related leadership7 development in Africa.
• Effective online-only teaching, learning and student assessment: About 99 percent of students30 participated in online learning. Enrollment held steady at 3,060 students and more than 50031 graduates from 24 African countries were awarded degrees in July 2021.32
o AU’s students and graduates led and showed their love of neighbor with initiatives to feed39 hungry families, care for the environment, and improve the quality of life of legally blind40 parents and their children.41
o AU researchers received 2 million dollars in funding for regional initiatives to eradicate37 malaria, tuberculosis and other communicable diseases.38
Africa University
— Matthew 5:14 (CEB)1
Much like the year that preceded it, 2021 affirmed that God’s grace is sufficient in all circumstances. In16 January 2021, the students, faculty and staff grappled with the sudden death of Africa University Vice17 Chancellor, Dr. Munashe Furusa. As the year unfolded, national lockdowns continued to restrict travel and18 damaged livelihoods. Unable to be together on campus, the students, faculty, and staff grieved, pivoted,19 supported, and encouraged each other and persevered.
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• Research and community service:36
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From the first conversations in 1984 to formal approval at the General Conference in 1988, the planting10 of Africa University required vision, faith, and bold action in the face of predictions that it could never11 succeed. Africa University found advocates and friends in Upper New York, across the global Methodist12 connection, and beyond. The “Dream is Alive” was the rallying cry in March 1992 as the first 40 students13 from six African countries started lectures in renovated farm buildings.
Africa University is grateful to the Upper New York Conference for investing 100 percent of its budget22 commitment to the Africa University Fund (AUF) in 2021. Thank you for ensuring access to a life changing23 educational experience for African young people, many of whom are unable to fund a college education24 on their own!
You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden.
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Submitted by: James H. Salley, Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement11 Africa University Development Office12
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Africa University’s journey from day one to the present is a shared story of being salt and light. Africa1 University is also an Upper New York Conference success story of restoring hope, equipping, and sending2 forth young leaders to shape an abundant life for themselves and for the communities they serve.3
Thank you, Upper New York United Methodists for letting your light shine for young women and men who5 would otherwise be left on the sidelines. “A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden” …similarly, AU’s current6 students and its more than 10,000 graduates to date are that metaphor made real. Continue to walk7 alongside them, Upper New York Conference, as they hone their abilities, live fully into their God given8 purpose, and join in the work of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
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Our MDiv and MATM degrees include a required gateway year, vocational pathways, and experiential30 learning that develops and deepens adaptive leadership skills. The curriculum features a team designed31 and taught interdisciplinary sequence of core courses reflecting the integration of the theological32 disciplines and practices characteristic of the life of faith. The faculty have also articulated shared values33 that are infused across the teaching and learning at Drew. A commitment to anti racism, gender and34 sexual identity equality, eco sustainability, and environmental justice and interfaith understanding and35 cooperation.
In the spring and fall of 2021, Drew Theological School began returning to its Madison, NJ campus for1 some classes, meetings, and worship. As with many churches, in person events were held in spaces2 equipped for live streaming or Zoom participation. The shift to remote learning during COVID 193 pandemic thus significantly expanded our online course offerings and accessible community events. Now,4 a number of students in Drew’s masters’ programs will progress through their programs in U.S. and global5 locations far from New Jersey. This year, we welcomed 150 new students, again the largest class in a6 decade and have a current enrollment of 376 students.7
Drew University Theological School
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Drew cultivates pastors, preachers, deacons, activists, teachers, and thought leaders who are taking their9 place as the next generation of faith leaders and change agents. Diversity is a hallmark of our student10 body, including theological, vocational, age, and especially racial and national diversity, both international11 (Asian, African, and South American) and U.S. (black, white, Latinx, and Asian American) students. Our12 student body is truly global, with 35% of students from 21 different countries. For the first time in its13 history, Drew has an African student association initiated by Drew Theological School students from 1414 African countries that is already contributing richly to the Drew community both on campus and online.
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The faculty is committed to continuing to develop the curriculum in ways that take seriously, the wide24 range of lived experience and calls to ministry of the students that gather in our global classrooms. All25 degree programs at the Theological School include interdisciplinary courses that demand out of the box26 thinking, apprenticeship training that addresses real world issues, and modes of learning that promote27 adaptability and innovation.
Submitted by: Melanie Johnson DeBaufre, Interim Dean38
We have welcomed new faculty in Latinx ministries and world Christianity. We have also seen an increase17 in United Methodist students particularly interested in the school’s Gospel inspired traditions of social18 justice advocacy and widely inclusive ministry. We are proud that many United Methodist Global Fellows19 have recently chosen to continue their journey in ministry at Drew. Our UMC graduates are serving in20 Greater New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, and New York Conferences as well as conferences across the21 country.
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The Office of Wesleyan Engagement announced the “Rediscovering the Heart of Methodism.” This project37 is a missional initiative of DDS with the support of the Kern Family Foundation. It seeks to nurture38 innovative leadership within the Wesleyan tradition as a constructive and hope filled response to a39 turbulent ecclesial landscape.
This year the school launched a new partnership with North Carolina Wesleyan College which will enable9 qualified undergraduates to take master’s level courses at DDS beginning in 2022. The Duke Accelerated10 Pastoral Formation Program offers select undergraduates the option to begin coursework toward the11 Hybrid M.Div. or Master of Arts in Christian Practice (M.A.) degree programs while completing their12 baccalaureate degree. Funded by the support of the Kern Family Foundation, the Accelerated Program13 will help students lower educational debt and accelerate their timeline to engage in the field of ministry.
Supported by a gift from the Duke Endowment, the school launched To Heal the Wounded Soul, a project42 to strengthen Wesleyan pastors in the Carolinas who are Black, Indigenous, or people of color, including43 from the AME, AME Zion, CME, and UMC churches. Led by the Office of Black Church Studies and the44 Clergy Health Initiative the project will develop peer networks, support groups, and retreats to address45 the specific mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of this community.46
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Duke Divinity School
In the spring the school launched the Asian House of Studies, a formational community that will support16 Asian and Asian American students; build a network of Asian and Asian American students, alumni, and17 church leaders, and provide resources for Asian theological studies. Asian House of Studies is under the18 leadership of Sangwoo Kim, a consulting professor and senior director of the Methodist House of Studies,19 and Jung Choi, a consulting professor and senior director of Wesleyan Formation Initiatives.
Three new certificates were approved this year, and all can be earned as part of the residential M.Div.,22 Hybrid M.Div., M.T.S., and M.A. degree programs. The Certificate in Methodist/Wesleyan Studies is aimed23 at pan Methodist/Wesleyan students who want to engage in robust and intentional training in Wesleyan24 theology and spiritual practice in preparation for leadership positions in Methodist and Wesleyan25 organizations and churches, such as the United Methodist Church, AME Church, AME Zion Church, and26 Korean Methodist Church. In the Certificate in Latinx Studies, students will hone skills for ministry while27 becoming part of a learning community that is committed to and seeks to learn from Hispanic/Latinx28 traditions and cultures. The Certificate in Worship is designed to prepare DDS students to engage in29 practical formation and theoretical reflection on the worship in Christian congregations.
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DDS announced 12 full tuition fellowships to support incoming residential M.Div. degree program32 students who pursue a certificate in Black Church Studies or Latinx Studies. In addition to providing full33 tuition scholarships, the fellowships provide formation and mentoring opportunities and up to $24,000 in34 stipend support and internship opportunities. The fellowships begin in the fall of 2022.
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Edgardo Colón Emeric, the Irene and William McCutchen Associate Professor of Theology and1 Reconciliation and director of the Center for Reconciliation, began his two year term as the dean of Duke2 Divinity School on July 1. Colón Emeric earned both his M.Div. and Ph.D. from Duke and has been a3 member of the faculty since 2008. An ordained elder in the North Carolina Annual Conference of the4 United Methodist Church, he directs the Central American Methodist Course of Study and the Peru5 Theological Initiative and serves on the United Methodist Committee on Faith and Order and on both6 national and international Methodist Catholic dialogues. He is the first Latino dean of the school.7
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Respectfully submitted by Edgardo Colón Emeric23 Dean of Duke Divinity School24
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This academic year DDS welcomed the largest incoming class in the school’s history, with 259 new1 students. Enrollment in the M.Div. degree program increased to 133 students. The growth was heavily2 driven by the first cohort of 52 Hybrid M.Div. students. The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) welcomed 363 students, the Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) gained 33, and the M.A. saw 17 new students. The4 Master of Theology (Th.M.) enrolled 12 students, and the Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) enrolled seven new5 students. The Certificate in Theology and Health Care welcomed five residential students and a large first6 cohort of 14 students in the hybrid program. Across all degree programs at the DDS, 32 percent of the7 incoming class identified as a race or ethnicity other than white. Black students made up 18 percent of all8 students; Latinx students, six percent; Asian students, two percent; and American Indian students, two9 percent. Women made up 47 percent of incoming students across all programs.
Three new faculty members joined the faculty in 2021. Polly Ha is an Associate Professor of the History of12 Christianity whose work focuses on the history of Christianity and the construction of diverse confessional13 and ecclesiastical traditions in the Reformation and post Reformation world. Ronald K. Rittgers is the Chair14 in Lutheran Studies and Professor of the History of Christianity, and his research interests include the15 religious, intellectual, social, and cultural history of medieval and early modern/Reformation Europe,16 focusing especially on the history of theology and devotion. Daniel Castelo, William Kellon Quick Professor17 of Theology and Methodist Studies, taught intensive Wesleyan theology courses in Mexico, Honduras, and18 Brazil, and then took a teaching post at a Mexican seminary for three years. He has been an active19 participant in the Central American Methodist Course of Study program and recently has served as a20 doctoral mentor for the Hispanic Theological Initiative.
Thank you for this opportunity to bring you news from MTSO.
New initiative enhances scientific literacy for seminarians17 MTSO has a longstanding commitment to preparing religious leaders who are conversant in and respectful18 of science. An important part of that effort is “Questioning Science with Good Faith: Shifting the19 Engagement of Science in Seminaries,” a project that integrates science into church history and20 theological studies curricula, while also contributing to the public discourse on intersection of science and21 religion. The project is made possible by a $75,000 grant from the American Association for the22 Advancement of Science Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion program. The grant is funded by the23 John Templeton Foundation. In September 2021, MTSO offered an online, multi professional24 conversation, “Pastors, Pandemics, and Public Health: Building Collaborative Responses to COVID 19.”
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Full tuition scholarships extended to those pursuing United Methodist candidacy27 MTSO and the school’s donors pledged to extend a full tuition pledge to all prospective students who are28 pursuing United Methodist elder or deacon candidacy. The MTSO admissions staff is happy to answer29 questions about this initiative at 800 333 6876 or admissions@mtso.edu.
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Respectfully submitted by: Danny Russell, Dir. of Communications - www.mtso.edu
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The project utilizes MTSO’s distinct strengths in two distinct parts. Part One; “Connecting Pathways:8 Congregations and Other Ministry Partners,” supports existing religious leaders, focusing on anti racism9 training and resourcing. Working with partner organizations, MTSO helps faith leaders to assess land use10 and church food programs to assist in building community engagement. Part Two; “Connecting Pathways:11 Vocational Exploration Intensive for Young Adults,” invites young adults to imagine the possibilities for12 lifelong faith, offering experiential learning, theological reflection, worship, and relationships with healthy13 community leaders and vibrant faith communities. It introduces the whys and how’s of ministry,14 connecting participants with faith leaders, including some of those involved in Part One of the project.
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With $1 million grant, MTSO supports existing religious leaders and helps form new ones3 MTSO has received a five year grant of $999,665 to establish “Connecting Pathways: A Multi Faceted4 Approach to Strengthen and Sustain Current and Future Faith Leaders.” The project is being funded5 through Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative.6
Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO)
The Council strongly encourages congregations to advocate for the homeless and precariously housed in42 their community including the construction and preservation of affordable housing. We recently received43 a grant from Enterprise Community Partners to offer a landlord locator service in conjunction with44 Interfaith Assembly on Homelessness and Housing to work with congregations in New York City to find45
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• Our Statewide Ecumenical and Interfaith Advocacy Day took place virtually on Feb. 16, 2022. We20 were pleased to have Governor Kathy Hochul address us along with many other distinguished21 speakers including Dr. James Parrott from The New School who offered economic analysis of the22 state budget and The Rev. Dr. Roxanne Jones Booth, Co Pastor, Riverview Missionary Baptist23 Church in Coeymans, New York who offered anti racist and theological reflections as it relates to24 public policy. Eight seminars ,featuring many policy experts, were also held. Our comprehensive25 2022 legislative ask and video of all the presentations can be found at www.nyscoc.org. In March26 2022, we will begin holding monthly seminars examining the practice of anti racism.
• Equips faith leaders to advocate for laws and policies, consistent with our denominational16 partner’s social principles, which address structural racism, economic inequality, and17 environmental degradation
New York State Council of Churches
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The New York State Council of Churches:7
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The New York State Council of Churches, founded in the late 19th Century, represents 7,500 congregations1 across the State of New York. We are comprised of nine partner denominations including American Baptist2 Churches USA, Empire Baptist Missionary Convention (National Baptist Convention), The Episcopal3 Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Presbyterian Church USA, The Reformed Church in4 America, The Religious Society of Friends, United Church of Christ, and The United Methodist Church.5
• Certifies and supports Protestant chaplains in Department of Corrections and Community8 Supervision, Office of Mental Health, and Office of Children and Family Services as they seek to9 offer love and hope to so many who feel hopeless and have had little experience of being loved10 unconditionally. We urge fully ordained pastors, including those who may be serving as parish11 ministers, to consider applying for certification. The Department of Corrections and Community12 Supervision is in particular need of candidates to fill a number of openings. In October, we held13 our annual chaplain’s conference virtually which can be viewed at www.nyscoc.org
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• Promotes mission consistent development of church property. The Council and three other29 partners Interfaith Assembly on Homelessness and Housing, Interfaith Affordable Housing30 Collaborative, and Bricks and Mortals received a generous grant from Trinity Church Wall Street,31 to help us consult with congregations in New York City about repurposing their property to build32 affordable housing. In addition, the Council offers grants and assessments to congregations33 outside of New York City seeking to develop their property for affordable housing. Our34 predevelopment process is carefully detailed at www.iahcny.org. Of late, we offer consultation35 with our partner, Crauderueff Associates, to congregations across the state about their energy36 needs including access to solar. Bricks and Mortals, also offers consultation for New York City37 congregations including use of their space for non affordable housing purposes. We continue to38 produce Who is My Neighbor Seminars which offer expert guidance. Seminars can be found at39 www.nyscoc.org
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We thank our denominational partners for their support. You can view our virtual fundraising event which12 tells the full story of the Council on our website at www.nyscoc.org. We are next to the Capital building in13 Albany at 85 Chestnut Street, Albany, NY 12210. Office email is nyscocalbany@gmail.com; phone is 51814 436 9319. The Reverend Peter Cook is Executive Director and can be reached at pcook@nyscoc.org or15 508 380 8289.16
landlords who will accept housing vouchers one of the most effective, direct and immediate solutions1 to the affordable housing crisis.2
We are committed to the ecumenical and interfaith work and see building relationships across secular4 and religious lines as central to our mission. In the past year, we continue to advocate for religious5 freedom and human rights in India, Israel/Palestine, and Afghanistan. Of late, we have also reached out6 to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in response to the attack on Ukraine. Our ecumenical work is7 complemented by our participation in the National Council of Churches, the International Religious8 Freedom Roundtable, the India Working Group, and the Federation of Indian American Christian9 Organizations of North America.
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Saint Paul welcomed 45 new students for the 2021 2022 academic year. New student enrollment for the Fall43 semester increased by 44% (34 new students), with an overall increase for the year of 73%. With the COVID 1944 pandemic still in our midst, prospective students previewed the Saint Paul community and curriculum via online45 visits. Students joined in community worship, attended classes, and participated in online discussions with46 current students to discern if Saint Paul was indeed their choice for theological education. Enrollment remained47
As the global pandemic continues to bring challenges to our daily lives, Saint Paul School of Theology began the6 2021-2022 academic year, again offering students an option to attend courses via Zoom or on campus while7 maintaining safety protocols Our weekly chapel service continues to be available online, allowing staff and8 students to come together as one institution where all are invited to create a sacred atmosphere from wherever9 they are In addition to faculty and staff serving as chapel speakers, we were blessed to have alumni and special10 guest speakers Rev. Winter Hamilton of Manchester UMC, Rev. Delesslyn Kennebrew, Rev. Dr. Carol Cook11 Moore, and more. Chapel recordings are available on the Saint Paul YouTube channel for those who cannot join12 live.
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Saint Paul staff and faculty continue to contribute to the academy, church, and society. This year, we have had15 many faculty and staff changes. After many years of tremendous service to students and the Seminary, Dr.16 James Brandt and Dr. Hal Knight announced retirement plans effective at the end of the 2021 2022 academic17 year. In addition, Dr. Jeanne Hoeft will step down from her role as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean18 at the end of the academic year but will continue as faculty. New additions to the Seminary family include Dr.19 Joshua Bartholomew, Assistant Professor of Ethics, Church and Society; Dr. Tiffany Nagel Monroe, Executive20 Director of the Oklahoma Campus; and Rabbi Michael Zedek, Rabbi in Residence.
• Dr. Nancy Howell, Professor of Theology and Philosophy of Religion and Oubri A. Poppele Professor of27 Health and Welfare Ministries, was re elected to a second term on the Executive Committee of the28 International Society for Science and Religion. She also had an article published in a South African29 journal With more than a decade of service, she serves on the Broader Social Impacts Committee of30 the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian31
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• •Dr. Casey Sigmon, Assistant Professor of Preaching and Worship and Director of Contextual Education32 was invited to be a writer for "Lent Another Way," an e course, with The Plural Guild and The Many,33 and she offered the convocation address for Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Fall 2021. She34 also applied for and received a grant from the Wabash Center for Teaching to support my project35 entitled: "Resisting the Plagiarized Pulpit: Helping Students and the Professor to Find trust their voice36 through Artistic Instructional Design."37
• This January, Dr. Joshua Bartholomew, Assistant Professor of Ethics, Church and Society, was the guest38 speaker at a Kansas City event, "Black Theology and the Black Panthers: A Conversation with Dr. Joshua39 Bartholomew." In addition, he was recently interviewed by Climate Central for the article " 'A moral40 imperative': Monastic sisters in rural Midwest make faith based case for climate action."
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The faculty of Saint Paul School of Theology maintains high standards of scholarship, research, publication, and23 engagement. Over the past year, their many activities and publications have been so numerous that space24 permits only the sharing of selected highlights.
Educating tomorrow's leaders by offering on campus, online, and hybrid learning courses at a FLEXible schedule,1 Saint Paul School of Theology is a seminary of the United Methodist Church committed to the formation of2 people for innovative, creative ministry. Grounded in the academic study of faith and ministry, theology is3 practiced in a traditional classroom and a contextual curriculum.
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strong for the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program with promising growth in our newly designed Master1 of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) and Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) programs
Our aim has always been to utilize technology as a conduit to bring faculty and students together regardless of48 whether they are on campus or joining remotely through Zoom. We took a hard look at the distance learning
Saint Paul Board of Trustees added two new members to their ranks: Ms. Debra "Debbie" Buzard, Director of29 Outreach Ministry at First United Methodist Church of Kearney; and Rev. Martin "Tino" Herrera, Congregational30 Care Pastor at UM Church of the Resurrection. Through a Board initiative related to diversity and inclusion, the31 Saint Paul Board of Trustees has devoted a significant portion of the last year's meetings to church leaders with32 experience and expertise in creating more diverse and inclusive communities and organizations. Aiding Saint33 Paul's trustees in better understanding these issues, the Board hosted the Rev. Dr. Benjamin Boswell in April34 2021. Dr. Boswell, Senior Pastor of Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, described the anti35 racism work he has led in that community. The City of Charlotte awarded Dr. Boswell its Martin Luther King, Jr.36 Medallion for his work. In July 2021, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II of Kansas City shared his perspective on37 the racial and social justice issues confronting our nation and the efforts he and his colleagues in the House of38 Representatives hope to undertake in response. With the Board's assistance, led by Board Chair Rev. Dr. Tex39 Sample, the seminary focuses on its mission. Our trustees continuously enhance and evaluate the strategic40 plans to guide us into the future.
For the 2021 2022 fiscal year, Saint Paul Course of Study (COS) School educated 228 individual students, 49 of16 which were new students, with approximately 550 registrations and offering a total of 50 courses. Serving 3217 Conferences, including 94 Districts, 121 Full Time and 106 Part Time Licensed Local Pastors comprised these18 registrations. Saint Paul Course of Study School welcomed new Regional Director Dr. Lucas Endicott. Dr.19 Endicott has been serving as Associate Director for the Office of Mission, Service, and Justice at the Missouri20 Annual Conference and lecturing at Central Methodist University. Due to the continuing pandemic, the school21 has continued its course offerings in both asynchronous and synchronous online formats. Utilizing this online22 format, we reached students in 24 states. Plans include an increase in the number of hybrid course offerings.23 This fiscal year has also ushered in the new ability of online registration completed by the student and access to24 their student account through Populi as used by Seminary students. All our students share the same benefits25 by integrating Course of Study School into Populi, making them a more integrated part of the Saint Paul26 experience.
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In September, Saint Paul held the 2021 Harrington Lecture online featuring Dr. Eboo Patel. His lecture, "We4 Need to Build: Field Notes for Diverse Democracy," expanded knowledge and built skills, helping people become5 the kind of leaders our diverse democracy needs. In the Spring Semester, Saint Paul Evangelical Society, led by6 Dr. Hal Knight, hosted a forum given by Dr. Amos Yong, Professor of Theology and Mission, and Dean of the7 School of Mission and Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, on "The Holy Spirit and People of other Faiths:8 Relational Christian Witness in the 2020s." Later in the semester, the Evangelical Society hosted a lecture9 featuring Dr. Joy Moore, Professor of Biblical Preaching and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic10 Dean at Luther Seminary. And for the first time, on May 13, Saint Paul held a hybrid commencement celebration11 via Zoom, allowing graduates to come together from both the Kansas and Oklahoma Campuses with attendees12 viewing from around the country. We honored the 2022 Distinguished Graduate Award Winner and13 Commencement Speaker Dr. Stan Copeland during the ceremony.
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As we have happily reported in years past, Saint Paul is financially sound and operates with a balanced budget.43 These last years' changes have established a solid financial foundation for years of sustainability. As always, we44 continue to be grateful for donations from the community that provide technology, scholarships, and evolving academic programs to students. Our significant investments in technology have allowed us to maintain a hybrid46 educational delivery model providing a safe learning environment during the continuing pandemic.
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landscape during the pandemic to see how we could substantially enhance the classroom experience. After1 significant testing, we opted to replace our distance learning classroom technology with Neat's offerings,2 including technology still in development. All our classrooms began upgrades in Fall 2021 with offerings from3 Neat. Each smaller classroom added a 65" neat.board, a self contained screen that functions as a full Zoom4 room, as well as an electronic whiteboard. Anything written or drawn on these boards is transmitted through5 Zoom to the screens in the classroom and remote Zoom participants. This content can also be saved and emailed6 to all participants. We implemented neat.bars in other classrooms that connect to our classrooms' existing7 screens. We are currently implementing neat.bar pros, just released at the end of 2021, in each of our large8 classrooms. At Saint Paul School of Theology, we have always tried to be pioneers with distance learning9 technologies. We are very early in the lifecycle of this stimulating and groundbreaking technology. We are10 thrilled to partner with Neat and Zoom in revolutionizing the classroom experience.
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Saint Paul School of Theology is blessed to be your partner in ministry and help those seeking to discover more13 and answer the call. We are grateful for your support of our students and our seminary. May we continue to14 live into the call of Jesus Christ to be faithful witnesses for healing in these unsettled times and for generations15 to come.
President Neil Blair, Saint Paul trustees, faculty, staff, alumni, and students thank you for your prayers and18 support.
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• Hispanic, 100% in Spanish for Spanish speaking leaders, directed by Dr. Jorge Ochoa;18
As United looks forward to the next 150 years with gratitude and anticipation, the seminary remains33 committed to the preparation of faithful and fruitful Christian leaders to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
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Because United believes so passionately in this initiative, the seminary has dedicated additional resources23 to offer half tuition scholarships for inaugural students in its Houses of Study programs.24 United also introduced the Academic Dean’s Scholarship, which provides 50% tuition for the duration of25 a master’s degree program, and the Presidential Scholarship, awarding up to $5,000 per year to new26 students.
• Mosaix, in partnership with Mosaix Global Network and directed by Rev. Chip Freed;17
In honor of United’s 150th anniversary year, a generous donor gifted $2 million to help graduating students29 reduce their educational debt. Each graduate in the 2021 22 academic year will receive up to $20,00030 toward student debt from theological and previous academic studies.
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Dr. Kent Millard, President
• Fresh Expressions, directed by Dr. Michael Beck;16
For the past 150 years, United Theological Seminary has educated men and women for Christian ministry1 within the historic traditions of the United Brethren, Evangelical United Brethren and United Methodist2 churches. On October 11, 1871, United Theological Seminary, then Union Biblical Seminary, held its first3 classes in Dayton, Ohio. From a starting class of 11 students, the seminary has grown to 488 students in4 its most recent academic year,* representing 39 denominations, 11 countries, and 39 states. Today’s5 seminary serves a diverse student body that is 53% African American.**
* Student data represent 2020 2021 headcount enrollment.38
• Black United Methodist, directed by Dr. Vance Ross;19
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** Figure represents those who responded.39
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• Global Wesleyan, directed by Rev. Gregory Stover.
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On Oct. 10, 2021, the seminary celebrated its 150th anniversary and burned the mortgage on its current8 campus facilities, freeing up $400,000 annually to support student scholarships.
In 2021, United received a grant of $1 million from Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Pathways for Tomorrow11 Initiative to expand the seminary’s Houses of Study, which offer specialized master’s tracks to equip12 students for the unique ministry needs of the communities, movements and denominations they serve.13 The seminary has introduced six Houses of Study, currently enrolling for 2022 23:
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• Global Pentecostal, directed by Dr. Mark Chironna;20
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