Advocate Winter 2022 Volume 14 Issue 2

ADVOCATE Upper New York

Spiritual Wellness

A publication of the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church

-The Rev. Timothy Phelps

What’s inside

Making time for yourself

“Sabbath is a practical activity. It is a day off from producing and consuming; to live and be, and be in relationship.” Learn how Sabbath can be an important part of your routine.

Pastor profiles

How can we navigate through times of uncertainty and change? Our UNY pastors have different ways of healing and techniques for taking care of themselves. Find out what worked for these pastors.

Spiritual direction

When people ask how we are doing, we often say that we are well when we really are not or we can’t quite say what’s wrong. Learn how spiritual direction can help you dive deep into this matter.

Pray for your pastor

One of the best ways we can support our pastors is to regularly pray for them. But it can be difficult to know exactly what we should pray for. Here are 15 ways to help you get started.

Support your pastor

Good health is a foundation for effective pastoral leadership. Here are a few suggestions you can use to support you pastor’s health and well-being.

Office: 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088. Telephone: (855) 424-7878. The Upper New York United Methodist Advocate is a publication of the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church, whose mission is to be God’s love with all our neighbors in all places. It is published two times a year. Materials in the Advocate may not be reproduced unless the item is accompanied by a copyright notation. Postmaster: send address changes to Upper New York United Methodist Advocate, 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., Liverpool, NY 13088. We reserve the right to edit or decline any items submitted for publication.

In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. Simon and his companions searched for Him; they found Him, and *said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.” - Mark 1.35-37

Have you ever been “splashed?”

I’m not talking about having water splashed on you in the swimming pool. I’m talking about the kind of splashing that went on in the locker room of the Chicago Bears football team during the 1990 NFL season. Splashing was a word that described an ongoing battle between the smaller defensive backs and the huge defensive lineman on the 1990 Chicago Bears team. The battle went like this: Following an exchange of verbal assaults, the big guys would circle around one of the small backs and trap him. Usually, the smaller, faster backs were able to get away, but if they were captured, they were splashed. Davis Tate, who weighed 180 pounds was splashed once. He was caught, dropped to the ground, and the 300-pound William “Refrigerator” Perry collapsed on top of him. That wasn’t the end of the ordeal. On top of Perry came 270-pound Richard Dent; on top of Dent came 275-pound Dan Hampton; on top of Hampton came another 270 pounds

in the form of Steve McMichael - 1,115 pounds of pain on top of a person weighing 180. When asked what it was like to be splashed, David Tate replied, “It hurts.”

Life has a way of splashing us at times. These last few years we have experienced what feels like a piling on. As we attempt to remain faithful to following Jesus and being the Church, we face neverending distractions and difficulties. We are weary – tired - EXHAUSTED! It’s a physical, emotional, and even spiritual exhaustion that we wrestle with.

But there is good news! Amid all that life throws at us, God promises to splash us with a grace and a faithful presence that does not weigh us down but sets us free and lifts us up. God offers to take our burdens and gives us rest – a rest that leads to renewal within our hearts, minds, and spirits. The psalmist says, “O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the one who takes refuge in God!” (Psalm 34:8)

If we are willing to be honest, most of the time we are the ones who stand in the way of the rest and renewal God offers. In the midst of life, we keep trying to push through; we keep believing that it is our strength and our efforts that will make a difference. We continue to rely on emptying vessels or worldly substitutes rather than looking to and being

dependent upon our great Shepherd who will guide us to springs of the water of life that never stop flowing.

Jesus, as a man knew what it was to get splashed – to have the demands of life deplete his entire being. As fully human, he knew all the emotions we know and experienced the same realities of a world that swirls around us. He knew that to be who God created Him to be and to fulfill God’s purpose for His life, He needed to position himself on a regular basis to be splashed by the presence and grace of His heavenly Father.

My friends, you and I were born to walk with God - to be God’s children - to have a relationship with God that is going deeper, wider, and higher. That is our first task, our primary purpose. Nothing else matters and everything else flows from it. When life pushes us around, we need to allow the Spirit of God to push us to a place where we can rest in the presence of God and be splashed.

In the first chapter of his book, Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster writes, “The life that is pleasing to God is not a series of religious duties. We have only one thing to do, namely, to experience a relationship and intimacy with God, ‘the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.’” (James 1:17)

Life will continue to come at us from all sides. Disappointments and hurt will continue to cause us to doubt and feel defeated. We will grow weary and tried

and wonder if God is still there and if God’s plan can still be trusted. Follow the example of Jesus! When life splashes you – run to the one who will splash you in a new way, an eternal way – a way that reminds you that you have been loved, chosen, and called by a God who will restore you, renew you, and sustain you for the journey of following and serving your God, serving those around you in the name of Jesus and offering to everyone the good news of hope in Jesus – Light of the world – Savior for all.

It has been a joy to serve with and among you. Thank you for the privilege! I will be praying for you. Praying that you will remain faithful to the call of God upon your lives – Praying that you will remain obedient to the Gospel of Jesus Christ – Praying that you stay faithful and bold in offering that good news to the world in word and deed. But most of all, I’ll be praying that you continue to let God splash you with the joy, hope, power, and life that only comes in pursuing Jesus above all else. And as God splashes you, I’ll rejoice in watching God use your life in Christ to splash the grace of God in you all over the place for God’s glory and the growth of God’s kingdom.

May it be for you! May it be for me!

Evidence of clergy’s declining wellness

By the Rev. Drew Sperry, Latham: Calvery UMC, UNY Conference Leadership Team, UNY Clergy Wellness Team

I’m overweight, on blood pressure medication, a workaholic—and a pastor.

For most of my career, my personal wellness has come second to my call as a servant leader in the church. The result has been a decrease not only in my physical and mental health but also in my ministry satisfaction and joy for living out God’s call. This impact became even clearer over the past two years as I worked tirelessly to try to lead my congregation through a global pandemic, international war, racial division, and the schism of our denomination. Through it all I could only watch from afar, almost an out-of-body experience, as my physical, mental, relational, and spiritual health declined. I buried myself in work; gained more weight, and closed myself off to others. There were days I felt ready to quit—ready to walk away from my call all together.

But as you might suspect, I’m not alone. Many other clergy, both in Upper New York and across our denomination, have been struggling with similar strains on their hearts, minds, and bodies. Recent studies have revealed a true health epidemic among our clergy. In several recent surveys, Mya Jaradat reports, clergy are reporting record rates of burnout and serious health impacts. In a March 2022 survey conducted by spiritual research firm Barna,1 “42% of pastors considered resigning — up from the 29% who did the same in January 2021.” The three biggest reasons clergy cited were “‘immense stress, feelings of isolation and loneliness, and political division.” Another

study from Duke Divinity School’s Clergy Health Initiative revealed that clergy see increased rates of depression, weight gain, and chronic illness than their lay counterparts.

The bad news, then, is clear: clergy are suffering more than ever before. Ministry can be a struggle that significantly impacts a clergy person’s emotional and physical wellness. But the good news is that we don’t have to suffer alone. The Upper New York Conference is investing in helping clergy make their health and wellbeing a priority. In 2020, the Conference Leadership Team created a team to begin researching issues facing clergy wellness and to make actionable recommendations that the Conference could use to help prioritize clergy wellness.

The team began its work by looking at existing national research on the topic. Using a compilation of recent studies, including (but not limited to) those conducted by the Barna Institute, Duke Divinity Clergy Health Initiative, Wespath, and several UMC Annual Conferences, the team was able to discern five primary dimensions of clergy health; spiritual, relational, financial, educational, and work-life balance. A surprising discovery was a consistent struggle for spiritual wellness, and particularly the lack of ability to practice Sabbath. Sabbath can be hard to define, and for many theologians it means different things. In this context, one working definition is; intentional time set aside to be in communion with God through rest.

Could Sabbath really be part of the answer? To be honest, it felt almost too simple of a solution, even a bit of an overspiritualization of a larger systemic issue of health justice facing our clergy. Sabbath seems to come up as a constant suggestion being offered by leadership when discussing clergy wellness, and it’s true that Sabbath cannot be a cure-all for the major health challenges facing clergy. However, there is an impressive amount of evidence to support it as a major factor in improving holistic health and wellbeing. According to the Duke Clergy Health Initiative 2016 Sabbath Report, clergy who maintain a regular Sabbath express greater spiritual wellbeing, positive mental health, ministry satisfaction, and higher quality of life. They also report lower experiences of depression and anxiety.2

With this information, the Conference Leadership Team enlisted the help of several sociologists from Skidmore College to help draft a survey to learn more about UNY’s culture of Sabbath and our clergy’s wellness, in order to learn how the conference could offer support and help. The team was incredibly pleased with clergy participation in the survey, having received 301 responses out of a possible 507. The results revealed several important trends in UNY clergy Sabbath practices. Among those who responded,

• 56% find it difficult in most weeks of the year to take one day of Sabbath for rest and spiritual rejuvenation

• The three most significant barriers to Sabbath included:

1. personal resistance to detaching from pastoral work

2. needs of the members of the congregation

3. obligations and expectations of family

• Clergy most frequently identified congregational/SPRC support and encouragement as what would be most helpful in taking a weekly day of Sabbath.

Visit bit.ly/Spiritual_Formation_Survey to view the UNY wellness survey results.

Visit bit.ly/Spiritual_Formation_Responses to view the UNY wellness survey report on the response.

Armed with this information, we can begin to shift the culture in our Conference to encourage and support the regular practice of Sabbath among clergy. The Bishop and Superintendents are already working to encourage and educate pastors and congregations about spiritual renewal opportunities and the importance of Sabbath. It is the Conference Leadership Team’s hope in the coming months to provide other opportunities for learning and growing in conference-wide understanding and practicing of Sabbath.

Sabbath is not the only answer to a clergy person’s holistic wellness, but it is a bigger factor than we may initially think. In recent months, as a result of my work on this team, I’ve begun to work toward maintaining a regular weekly Sabbath. While it hasn’t solved all my health and wellness issues, I have discovered that my Sabbath time helps me feel more hopeful about the future. I feel rejuvenated not only for my ministry but also for taking better care of myself. There’s a long road to better clergy wellness ahead— we’re going to need to rest up if we’re going to be able to walk it together.

1 https://www.deseret.com/faith/2022/5/11/23058739/religious-leaders-struggle-with-burnoutdepression-and-anxiety-pastor-mental-health-worker-shortage

2 https://divinity.duke.edu/sites/divinity.duke.edu/files/documents/chi/Sabbath%20Keeping-%20 Duke%20CHI.pdf

Why I Sabbath

By the Rev. Sara Baron, Schenectady: First UMC

As a kid I read the “Little House” books by Laura Ingalls Wilder and concluded that Sabbath was an awful thing I was glad to be free of. I’ve since changed my mind rather emphatically.

When I did Clinical Pastoral Education during seminary, one of the other people in my cohort was someone who made sense to me. I could see myself in him, and I could resonate with what he said. He was there, after a few decades of ministry, because he had overworked, burned out, taken short cuts, got caught, and was relearning ministry and reestablishing trust. This terrified me. I could see in him that my natural path in ministry was going to follow his, and that unless I did things differently, I too would be burned out and a danger to myself and others.

That simple fact scared me into taking a day off every week, and holding it sacred.

Then I happened to go to lunch with an old friend who had found great success in life, and then started attending church, and then found the message of church life-changing. By that point I was far enough into ministry to be a little bit afraid that nothing I did mattered, so I asked him about what exactly was so transformational about the message of Jesus for him. My friend replied that all his life he’d believed that he was what he could produce, and to learn that he was loved because God loves and not because of what he could do changed everything. It brought him peace. It freed him to love. It soothed his deepest fears.

Two things happened simultaneously in that conversation. I was reminded that what I did mattered, and I was reminded that I don’t need to do things that matter to be loved by God.

Meanwhile, I heard theologians say that the Sabbath was the center of the Ten Commandments, and Biblical scholars wrote that the extension of rest to all people was the beginning of God’s promises of a just society.

That lunch conversation and my continued learning about Sabbath set the stage. When the newly formed Upper New York Annual

Conference declared that clergy should have both a day off and a Sabbath, I listened. Initially; that felt radical and impossible, but I spent a year preparing myself and my church and then started having both a day off to do the errands my life required and a Sabbath. The Sabbath I used to savor relationships, to connect with the Divine, to be in my body, and to remember that I am made in the image of God who is and who rests. I am not just a producer and consumer. I am not just a pastor. I am a human being, beloved by God, and worthy of rest.

It changed everything for me, that intentional Sabbath. I regained my humanity, and I hadn’t even noticed that it was lost.

Most recently, I’ve been blessed to read about burnout and completing the stress cycle, and I’ve struck once again at the ancient wisdom of God and God’s people in building in Sabbath so we can live full and abundant lives, and not just burnout from constant work.

Sabbath is a practical activity. It is a day off from producing and consuming; to live and be, and be in relationship. I also think Sabbath is a way of life. A way of being faithful to God, of refusing the demands of capitalism, of believing in rest and wholeness and hope. I think it is a tool in loving God and my neighbor, and it is one I cannot do without. There are many demands in ministry, but I can’t meet them with the fullness of the gifts that God has given me unless I also practice Sabbath.

When none of that is enough, when I’m still tempted to break Sabbath, there is one final piece that helps keep me grounded. I want to be an example of the goodness of life with God, and the possibilities of a life grounded in grace. I want to show people that the demands and values of society for never ending production and consumption are not the best way to live. I want to share God’s love in the world, and I want to show people that it makes a difference in my life. And I can’t do that unless I practice what I preach. So, I Sabbath.

The benefits of Sabbath

Editor’s note: The following is an excerpt from Ryan Dunn’s article “How to be less busy,” which can be found on umc.org.

We should be resting, connecting with our important relationships, and letting God provide on our Sabbath days.

Practicing Sabbath sounds like a slippery slope towards excessive procrastination. After all, won't we be putting off tasks to tomorrow so we can enjoy a little downtime today?

My experience was quite the opposite. I committed far less procrastination. At least once a week, there was no tomorrow. I couldn't put off tasks to tomorrow, I had to resolve them today. I became more decisive and proactive — those are good things.

Sabbath Fridays

clergy, currently appointed to a three-church circuit in the Virginia Conference.

For about 20 years we have maintained a sacred and holy day as a Sabbath on Fridays. I was serving four churches in NY and Art was serving two when we began this. We call Friday “Date Day.” We nearly always do something together—it may be as simple as going to Skyline Drive to enjoy creation, breakfast on our pontoon boat in a nearby lake, going to Fredericksburg to grab a hot one from Krispee Kreme and a movie in a nearby city.

If one of us has a doctor’s appointment, we may go out for breakfast.

Additionally, there was the promise of rest and reward. I discovered it was a bit easier being disciplined today knowing that there was rest and reward tomorrow. I became much more focused and disciplined. Extra effort in the present meant enhanced relaxation and ease in the future. And none of this added to my anxiety about getting things done.

I take inspiration from that. Sabbath is not an arbitrary command. It's a practical expression of love.

Could you commit to that? There a number of ways to practice Sabbath — it's not just about taking Sunday off. When could you practice Sabbath?

We can be less busy. The world won't stop. Life won't fall apart. And by taking a day of rest, we might be reminded the presence of love in our lives.

We try to do no church work on Fridays, saving this time for the two of us and God. We have been married for 60 years. For 27 of those years, we have both been serving as pastors in small rural churched and even an 1,800-member churches in Virginia.

Time to rest, relax, take a Sabbath is as important at 79 and 80 years of age as it was at 2 and 53; we highly recommend it - we cannot imagine NOT taking a Sabbath/Date Day on Fridays.

By Pastors Art and Norma Jean Fellows, retired UNY

My experience in a covenant group

By the Rev. Corey Turnpenny, Church in the Wild

I've been a part of a clergy covenant group with three other clergy for over seven years. It's been hugely beneficial to my personal and spiritual life. The four of us were all in the same age bracket and similar stages of life and ministry.

At our first gathering, we shared communion together and shared our hopes for what our group could be. As we continued meeting, we formalized a basic covenant of understanding that helped us to be on the same page. We began to solidify as a group after some intentional time away together. We still laugh about the fun we shared on our first weekend away at a cabin.

But it wasn't until one of our members faced a real crisis that we sort of leveled up in our bond as a group. We all showed up to support our friend and help celebrate their birthday. Since then, we've continued to celebrate birthdays, and births of children, and other milestones.

We plan a day of fun before Annual Conference and meet either in person or on Zoom every month. Our group text is usually in the top 10 of my messages because we're in regular contact between meetings.

As the years have passed, we keep finding new levels of friendship and support. Having this group through the pandemic was incredibly important. We've journeyed and prayed with each other through all of life's transitions big and small. With just the right amount of intention we've been able to live out Paul's advice in Romans 12:15, "Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down."

I know I can count on my covenant group to provide accountability for me as I request it. When I need prayer support, they're the first people I reach out to. When I want to celebrate, I know they'll be there to share in my joy. I'm incredibly grateful to have them in my life. Getting a covenant group started takes prayer around the best people to bring together and intentional work at connecting and bonding. We've had some stretches where our group text was not as active, but we know we're there for each other. I'd encourage anyone wanting to start out to be intentional, allow the Spirit to lead, and just keep at it. It takes time but now in year seven our covenant group is just a regular part of my life.

Profiles

Wellness that works the wellbeing of our clergy and clergy families

Intentionally tending to

By Bekah Solar, Licensed local pastor, Three Mile Bay UMC and Point Peninsula UMC

Something new has come to the Northern Flow District. Well, not really something new, but certainly something different. I am Bekah Solar. I am a licensed local pastor, serving the congregations and communities of Three Mile Bay and Point Peninsula. I am also moonlighting as the Northern Flow District Associate for Younger Clergy and Clergy Families.

My passion is for clergy wellness and support. I get up each day and ask myself, how can I best help resource and equip clergy and other spiritual leaders to best live into whom God is calling them to be? How can I help you to be the best pastor you can be for your congregation and community today? As a clergy parent of three school-aged and younger children, I have experienced some of the chaos and uncertainty of ministry, both before and during the pandemic. I have spent long hours listening to the hearts and stories of my colleagues serving across the connection, as they struggled (and struggle, still) to find their next step- their next breath. I feel so honored to hold their sacred stories and bear with them as they explore their own spiritual landscapes. In grief and in love, through challenges and celebrations, these remarkable people of faith continue to lean into their calling and upon their God to sustain them in all that they do.

After several conversations with District Superintendent, the Rev. Mike Weeden, we wanted to find ways to help the spiritual leaders in the Northern Flow District to be nourished and nurtured in Christ as they live out their call. I always say, “Pastors are people, too.”

By tending to and caring for our spiritual leaders as whole people, by understanding that home influences work and work influences home and everything in between, we might bring to light the importance of spiritual health and wellness. As we seek to cultivate a culture of call, it becomes significant to note that spiritually healthy congregations and communities do not exist in a vacuum. Rather, they are strengthened by spiritually healthy leaders. When our spiritual leaders, both lay and clergy, take seriously the task of soultending, they may find the depths necessary

for continued engagement and leadership in pastoral ministry. This work takes place not only individually, but also communally.

In the Northern Flow District, our plan is to start on a smaller scale, and intentionally collaborate with younger clergy and clergy families to offer mutual support. By nurturing the fellowship and communion of these pastors, we can help them to find a community of support and creative brainstorming for active ministry. In tending to one another, this group will hopefully become a place to offer and receive prayer and encouragement.

The intentional designation of time and resources to care for those serving in itinerant ministry and their families helps us shine a spotlight on the absolute need for integrating soul-tending into a holistic ministry approach. Putting it another way, the Northern Flow District is actively investing in the spiritual wellness of the clergy serving their communities. Beyond working with this subset of pastors, the Northern Flow District will also be offering opportunities for all of our pastoral leaders to gather and fill their cups. At this time, we are planning on offering Advent, Lenten, and spring/summer gatherings. These are not meant to be planning events or work meetings, but the chance for our pastors to cross the threshold and enter into these seasons. Our hope is that they may encounter again the renewing presence of God and find themselves grounded in Christ’s Love.

As we journey together in ministry, it becomes imperative that we find cool, deep wells from which to draw support. By intentionally tending to the wellbeing of our clergy and clergy families, we are strengthening those who have answered God’s call and dedicate their lives to this service. If we can build up our leaders in spiritually healthy ways, we may find spiritually healthy communities of faith thriving across our District and across our connection. In these places, there is yet hope, that through the power of the Holy Spirit, the Good News of Jesus Christ may, in fact, still change the world.

Profiles

Wellness that works

Loving God, loving others, and loving yourself

By the Rev. Timothy Phelps, Spiritual Director, retired pastor / hospice chaplain

Spiritual wellness… what an appropriate topic for us to consider in this time of so much uncertainty. Inflation and rising costs. Baby formula shortage. War in Ukraine. Mass shootings across our country. Hatred. Churches in transition. Family situations. Health challenges and so much more. What can one do to navigate in this season of rapid change and uncertainty? Just as we have our annual physical checkup with our medical doctor, I invite us to do a spiritual wellness checkup.

Life is so fluid, constantly changing, keeping us off balance most of the time. Our perpetual busyness, doing, ought to, and should do lists, become obstacles to our ongoing health and wholeness. Spiritual wellness is all about slowing one’s life to be able to notice how you are really doing. It’s about opening one’s life more and more to the forgiving mercy, grace, and presence of the living Christ who gives us peace and changes our lives. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Spiritual wellness is a lifelong journey, a dayby-day choice of nurturing our relationship with God and with others.

When pressed for an answer, Jesus reminds us of what is important for us as disciples of Christ.

Jesus said, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’ This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’” These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the prophets hangs from them. (Matthew 22:37-40 MSG)

For me, this is what spiritual wellness is all about. It’s purposefully nurturing one’s relationships: Loving God, loving others, and loving yourself. This can be an overwhelming task, especially when thinking about it being a list of “ought to” and “should do” in our daily

activities. For example: I ought to be more consistent with my prayer time. Or I should be more kind to my next-door neighbor who isn’t always so kind to me. Or I should pay more attention to what my body is telling me (stress, aches, or sleepless night). All the “ought to” and “should do” pressure can distract us and keep us from spiritual wellness and living into the presence and peace that Christ can give us.

Instead of living a life of ought and should and doing, spiritual wellness comes from deep within through slowing your life, welcoming, and being in the presence of God. Spiritual wellness is a lifetime journey, seasoned with God’s kindness, patience, and grace. I am first to admit, in my own strength, I don’t always succeed in loving God, others, or myself all the time. I am equally convinced whether you are a lay person or clergy there is no greater purpose in one’s life than starting each day with a renewed passion to love God more, to love others, and to love yourself. Each day is a fresh start, a new beginning, a gift of God’s grace.

Our life experience and spiritual journey is uniquely our own story touched by the creativity, mercy, and grace of God. Spiritual wellness comes not out of obligation of “ought” and “should” but comes from a desire to “be” with God, others, and yourself.

Loving God

Loving God, as in any relationship, can only be healthy and strong if it is prioritized. Each day is a choice. Will I seek to Love God more? Will I set aside time to “be” with God through scripture, a devotional reading, silence, prayer? It is so easy to hop on the speeding treadmill of “doing” and “ought” and “should” when reading scripture, devotions, and prayer. We may think, if I just read a certain number of chapters of scripture, read a specific devotional, pray a designated

amount of time, that will show God my love for God. When what God desires for us is to just “be” present with God. There is a fine line between the law and grace, of “doing” and “being” in the presence of God.

What John Wesley called the Means of Grace1 can be a helpful reminder for us. Wesley named the Means of Grace being “an outward sign of inward grace,” coming from, prayer (private and corporate prayer), searching the scriptures (reading, hearing, and meditating on scripture), and The Lord’s Supper.

What are the spiritual practices that you currently find helpful for you? What practices might you need to set aside for now? What new spiritual practice might be helpful for you, at this time? I encourage us to be playful in our spiritual practices; try something new, not out of duty but out of your love for and desire to “be” present with God. Spiritual wellness comes from daily nurturing our relationship

with the living Christ through using all the means of grace God extends to us including personal and group spiritual practices like worship, Scripture, prayer, silence, etc., that draw us closer to God.

Loving others

As we are present with God through various spiritual practices, we also grow in spiritual wellness through loving others. A few years ago, at the motorcycle ride fundraiser for the hospice I worked for, I made an uncomfortable choice. At the picnic luncheon I could have been comfortable and sat with other hospice workers. Instead, I chose to sit with a man who was seated all alone. He had the biker look, long straggly hair, unkempt beard, huge, tattooed arms and leather vest. I thought to myself, “What would a square looking guy like me have in common with this biker?” The conversation that day turned into a sacred moment as he talked about his spiritual struggles and life journey. I am so thankful I was able to look past outer appearance and be able to be present with another individual.

I also think about our United Methodist family gathered at Annual Conference and all the diversity in spiritual and religious connections, life stories, and theological understandings. While attending our last inperson Annual Conference (2019), I chose to sit with, engage in conversation, and listen to as many individuals in each session and at each meal as possible. From all the diversity I heard arising from individuals’ faith and theology I was blessed by a deep sense of God’s calling expressed in each one’s life and life story.

There are times when it is very easy to love others. There are also times when it is difficult. In those difficult times, I have found this simple practice to be helpful. I take a deep breath to remind myself of God’s presence in my life and I say to myself, “That

is an individual who matters to God. That’s someone who is loved by God. How can I also love them?”

Loving myself

As we continue in our spiritual practices of being present with God, and making the choice to love others, especially the difficult ones, we also grow in spiritual wellness when we love ourselves. I am not referring to a self-centered, me-only focus, I am talking about slowing one’s life to be able to notice and tend to one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health. You are a unique individual, created and loved by God. Give yourself the gift of time and space to tend to your wellness. Proper diet, rest, renewal, and fun. Be mindful of the things that restore your health and well-being. If it's riding your Harley, go for it. If it’s walking in the woods or on the beach, schedule it. If it’s the need to set aside work responsibilities, plan a vacation. As we tend to our physical and emotional health, through caring for ourselves, we will have a greater energy and strength to practice loving God and loving others.

Spiritual wellness certainly involves our individual spiritual practices and daily choices, and it also is strengthened in community. We need each other’s love and encouragement as we navigate through life, together. “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2a NASB)

1 From Wesley’s sermon on “The Means of Grace” Wesley’s Works Vol. 5 p. 188, Baker Book House, 1979

Acknowledgment: I thank my spiritual director and peer spiritual direction supervision group for their prayerful review and editorial suggestions.

Profiles

Wellness that works

By Daniel J. Bradley, Pastor at Faith Journey UMC

Iam enough. It sounds simple, doesn’t it? I am enough. This is a hard concept to master in this world in which we are continually told we are not enough. If we could just sit with this simple phrase, “I am enough,” maybe we could understand how God sees us.

In 1994, I was a senior at Niagara Falls High School and I failed the Chemistry Regent’s exam with a 63. I passed the class with a 65 and was able to graduate with a local diploma from Niagara Falls City Schools.

That has been a sore spot for me and I still have nightmares about being in that exam room and not measuring up. Since then, I have achieved a Bachelor of Arts in Religion

(Ashland University, Ashland, OH), a Master of Divinity degree, (Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Rochester, NY) and am now in a Doctor of Ministry program at my alma-matter with an anticipated graduation date of 2025. This is also the year that my daughter will graduate with an Advanced Regent’s Diploma.

I had that dream again last night. I arrive at the exam and begin to work. The clock ticks and I try to pace myself, but I am anxious and nervous. I fill in the scantron sheets with my No. 2 pencil and try my hardest to work the formulas. I sweat and feel uncomfortable and then I am in my guidance counselor’s office hearing the news that I failed the exam. I won’t be receiving my Regent’s diploma. This scenario happened 28 years ago, and it still haunts me.

I decided to take the power out of this dream, and I wrote a letter to the Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents petitioning them to receive my Regent’s diploma 28 years later. I don’t know if it will do any good, but I had to put it out there in the universe. If you don’t ask, then you will never know what is possible.

We all live with dreams that are unfulfilled and sometimes it is for the best, however, when we realize that we are enough without the accolades and the pomp and circumstance of the applause of others is when we truly understand that we are enough.

Scripture is filled with prophets and prophetess’ that never received a regent’s diploma. Somehow God used them in the most powerful of ways. Habakkuk was one of those prophets. The book opens with Habakkuk complaining and griping to God about Israel’s circumstances. God speaks to Habakkuk and tells him to:

“Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still lthe vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.

(Habakkuk 2:2-3)

That is what I did when I sent the letter to the Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents. I even put it out there that I would be willing to sit for the 1994 Chemistry regent’s exam all over. I have no idea how he will respond. Perhaps my letter will end up in the circular file. Maybe, just maybe it will be honored. Only God knows.

What I do know is this: God is using me with all my imperfections to be the pastor, scholar, and author that God needs me to be at this time in my life. I am enough, not because a diploma says so, but because God says, “YOU ARE ENOUGH!” That’s all that should matter but, in my humanness, I can’t get over missing those two points on that exam.

We don’t get to do life over and fix the errors of our past. We do, however, get to chart a course for the future with what we have. I

have dreams that I hope will be fulfilled in God’s time. I want to be a traveling evangelist and teach bible at my alma-matter, Ashland University. I want to use every gift I have to lead people to Jesus. At this time, my ministry is at Faith Journey United Methodist Church in Clay, NY. I don’t know where the direction of God will take me, but I do know that I don’t need the approval of a Board of Regents to accomplish the wok that God has set before me. “I am enough.”

Jesus told his disciples over and over that they were enough. He gave them all the tools that they need to accomplish one of the greatest missions ever embarked on by the creator of the universe. It took them many times of affirmation and sometimes rebukes for them to understand the work that they were called to do.

What has God called you to do? What are you holding back from God?

You are enough and that is all you have to be in this world. Take heart dear friends and believe that God has called you from the time of your conception, birth, and baptism. You are enough, because God says so.

I put it out there in the universe and will wait for a response. I made it clear what I want and bathed the letter in prayer and supplication. I will wait for a response and in that time be content with what God has given me in this crazy world. Don’t wonder if you are enough; believe that God says, “You are enough, because I formed you and shaped you into the person that you have become.” Give thanks to God and let God lead you.

Habakkuk held no advanced degrees, but God used him. The disciples had no formal education, but God used them. God uses those who will put their hands to the plow and never look back. It’s a strange world that we live in, but the best comes from God when we acknowledge that we are enough for the journey ahead.

Go with God and be blessed as you walk down the road of experience, faith, and tradition.

Profiles

Wellness that works

From chronically ill to becoming well

By Pastor Michael Kelly, Mountain View District Associate and pastor of Odessa/ Catharine United Methodist and Montour Falls United Methodist Churches

My story begins nearly seven years ago when I was diagnosed with Lyme disease. I was fortunate that although my tests initially showed negative my doctors began a routine of Doxycycline immediately. Unfortunately, this went on for several months and required many cycles of Doxycycline.

My symptoms included severe gastrointestinal issues that were highlighted by multiple bouts of vomiting several times a week. I was referred to many different specialists and medical facilities, to no avail. I was put through what I believed every test imaginable, yet I was still suffering with the same results.

Finally, after three years, my friend and primary physician suggested that I take a trip to either the Cleveland Clinic or the Mayo Clinic. I agreed and he referred me to Dr. Michael Cline at the Cleveland Clinic.

We hit it off wonderfully and as we talked, I realized God’s piece in all of this. First my primary doctor never gave up but secondly Dr. Cline was just who I needed. He was a nationally recognized gastroenterologist, a teacher in medical schools, but even greater than that, Dr. Cline shared with me that his father was a retired United Methodist Elder, and he was a United Methodist that was going to take care of me. He went on to tell me that he and his wife, with a small group of others, had just done a church plant in Akron, Ohio. And again, he assured me that he would fix this.

I went back one more time and swallowed, what was called a smart pill, a small camera with telemetry and from those results he diagnosed what was truly wrong with me. The Lyme disease had left me with a condition called gastropathy. In layman’s terms it was nerve damage to my intestinal tract. I later found that it also left me with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, along with an autoimmune neurological disorder within my brain.

As you may be able to imagine, struggling with these chronic conditions can lead to depression. I was down and struggling, I had chronic issues including Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis, diabetes, and I was obese. But overall, my life was pretty good. I thought of the positives: I have a wonderful wife; I love my job; my churches were growing, and I felt successful as the District Associate, and I prayed some more. And the message came back to me, “I can only control what I can control and leave the rest up to God.” So I started to think, “What can I control?”

I went to my endocrinologist, and he told me that I was controlling my diabetes well but it was only because of the insulin, and that

I needed to consider gastric bypass. I had reached an embarrassing weight; even more embarrassing was the fact that it still wasn’t the heaviest that I had ever been.

I went and saw another specialist, a nutritionist, and nurse practitioner in nearby Ithaca. I made it very clear that I would not be seeking gastric bypass and I thought I could take control. She taught me a lot, including how me nearly dying when I was six months old from malnutrition and neglect led to what I have always dealt with.

Since July 13 of last year, I no longer need to take insulin, and I have lost 90 pounds and 10 inches off my waist. Of course, I still have more to go, but I have control because I have relied on God to steer me and put these folks in front of me and to help me when I needed it most.

And today, for the second time in two days, people have commented on how calm I look. Take control of what you can, but give it up to God. We all can do this, and we all have different things that we need to control and take control of, just don’t forget to take God along.

Dr. Laura LeCours helps support pastors’ wellbeing

By Shannon Hodson, UNY Conference Writer/Editor

While congregants rely on pastors to help support their wellbeing, pastors are appreciative when members of their congregation look out for them and help them to take Sabbath, to take care of their physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Many congregations throughout the Upper New York Conference have members in their congregation who work in the medical field and because of their knowledge of what it takes to be healthy and well, they can be an excellent support for their pastors.

Dr. Laura LeCours has been a medical doctor for dozens of years. She is deeply rooted in her membership at Saratoga Springs UMC. Her parents were confirmed and married there. She grew up in the church and was also confirmed and married there. Her children grew up there and were confirmed and married there as well. Her son is currently the Chair of Trustees. Dr. LeCours is currently the Lay Leader of the church and has served in several leadership roles there, including being the leader of SPRC, worship, and mission work.

Dr. LeCours is exceptionally enthusiastic about being a leader in her church; she exclaimed, “Being lay leader is a fun role to have!”

Pastors throughout the years at Saratoga Springs have always been able to rely on Dr. LeCours to help with whatever is needed at the church, but perhaps most important, Dr. LeCours has supported pastors in their health and wellbeing.

“It’s almost an impossible job to be a pastor—their job description really is to be committed to everyone’s lives. Members may just see them as the speaker from the pulpit. That is not all—think of the hospital visits, the funerals, and weddings they perform. There is so much that they must handle. And the pandemic with all the challenges that came with it and the division in the Church, makes their jobs even harder,” Dr. LeCours said.

One way that Dr. LeCours has supported her pastors’ wellbeing is by joyfully offering her lake house as a place for pastors to use for rest and renewal. She said “Pastors Drew (the Rev. Drew Sperry) and Heather (The Rev. Heather Williams) have used my lake house as a retreat space.”

She added, “And Heather goes there sometimes just to have a place to breathe.”

Rev. Williams explained that the lake house is one way among many that Dr. LeCours has helped support pastors; she said, “The lake house is just one piece of a larger picture. For me, in 20 years of fulltime ministry, I have felt supported by the congregations I have served with. What makes Laura stand out is that she advocates for her pastors to rest and renew for the work of spiritual leadership. She finds way to make it happen and even more importantly, she encourages the rest of the congregation to support the needs of the pastoral leadership. She's not just reminding you by asking questions like, ‘When will you take time off, Heather?’ She helps to clear the way to that much needed renewal. And why? Because she believes that a good leader needs time to restore for the journey ahead.”

Dr. LeCours suggested that congregants remember that “every single pastor is a person,” with the same essential need for rest and renewal as everyone else.

How will you enable your pastor to take time off and truly rest so that they may thrive as a spiritual leader?

Wellness through Spiritual Direction

What is Spiritual Direction?

When people want to know how you are doing, they often ask “How are you?” So often, we just answer, “Good,” even if we are not doing so well or maybe we can’t even articulate what is wrong.

Spiritual Direction dives deeper. It is both an ancient and current ministry of the Christian Church. In the United Methodist tradition, the foundation for Spiritual Direction was laid by founding father, John Wesley. Wesley believed the most important question we must ask, and answer is: How is it with your soul? How is your relationship with God? Spiritual Direction offers the time and space for exploring and deepening your relationship with God through the guidance and work of the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Directors are trained in deep listening and can guide you through many

practices to help your soul feel well, to bring about a genuine sense of joy and peace.

Who are the Spiritual Directors in Upper New York?

There are many who have had training in spiritual direction. In July 2018, a team of Spiritual Directors was gathered together within the Conference; the intent of the team was to teach individuals in the Conference about spiritual direction/formation, to provide support to District Superintendents, to be a resource for prayer in the Conference (including offering a prayer room at the Annual Conference sessions), to listen deeply to the needs/desires of local churches and offer guidance and support, to offer training in Wesleyan practices and spiritual disciplines, to offer retreats and workshops for lay and clergy, and to continue to discern ways to be in ministry in the Conference.

Visit https://bit.ly/UNYSpiritualDIrectors or scan this QR code to view the names and contact information for the members of this team.

If you are interested in meeting with a Spiritual Director, there is a list of individuals and organizations in Upper New York who currently offer Spiritual Direction. Visit https://bit.ly/meetaspiritualdirectorUNY or scan this QR code to see a list.

this personally communicating God, to grow in intimacy with this God, and to live out the consequences of the relationship.”—William A. Barry & William J. Connolly

Are

you interested in becoming a Spiritual Director?

Consider the “Tending the Soul” training! Tending the Soul is a program designed to train individuals in Spiritual Direction and Congregational Formation. “We define Christian Spiritual Direction as help given by one Christian to another which enables that person to pay attention to God’s personal communication to him or her, to respond to

The two-year training program offers learning and formational experiences in classroom and small group settings. The training includes home-based reading and reflection, experiential learning, and attention to the practice of spiritual disciplines. Along with learning one-on-one soul care in a more formal Spiritual Direction setting, this training program moves participants toward a posture of Spiritual Direction within the wider context of the neighborhood of one’s work, travel, and life in community

To learn more about Tending the Soul, visit https://www.unyumc.org/ ministries/tending-the-soul or scan this QR code.

For more information, contact the Rev. Nancy Dibelius at nancyd@unyumc.org or 518-369-9147.

to pray for your pastor ways15

1. Spiritual lives

By Joe Lovino, UMC.org

The life of a United Methodist pastor is filled with a variety of responsibilities. They preach, teach, visit, counsel, lead, consult, communicate, budget, clean, and so much more.

Pastoring a church is not a job that can be done well under the pastor's power alone. Every pastor relies heavily on God's guidance, strength, and peace as they live into their call.

One of the best ways we can support our pastors and show them our appreciation is to regularly pray for them. But it can be difficult to know exactly what we should pray for. To help get started, we've assembled 15 areas of pastors' lives and ministries where they would value your prayers.

Our pastors' spiritual lives are important to their finding the wisdom, strength, and guidance necessary to lead a church. Pray for your pastor’s growth as a disciple of Jesus Christ, as the Holy Spirit works through them to serve your congregation and community.

2. Time management

With all their responsibilities, United Methodist pastors need to become masters of their calendars. John Wesley knew this back in the 1700s. He instructed the preachers, "Never trifle away time." Pray for your pastors to use time wisely, including blocking out occasions for Sabbath rest, prayer, work, and family.

3. Families

Speaking of families, it is important to remember that our ministers may also be a spouse, a parent, and a child to parents who have needs. Remember to pray for your pastor's family.

4. Preaching

Delivering a great sermon (and the ones that are less than great) takes hours of study and preparation. Pray for your pastors as they prepare worship services, sacraments, and sermons. May they have the words to communicate what God has placed on their hearts.

5. Strength

The work of a pastor requires reserves of spiritual and emotional strength. Ask God to bolster ministers' hearts and minds, especially on days when they feel weak, inadequate, or unqualified.

6. Visiting ministries

Visiting people in hospital rooms, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, memory centers, hospice units, homes, and jail cells, is an important part of your pastor's job. Pray for her or his ability to connect with those who are struggling and to share God's comfort, peace, and hope.

7. Leadership

Pastors shepherd their congregations, lead individuals to Christ, and guide the church as a witness to the work of God in our communities. Pray for your pastor's ability to lead your congregation.

8. Decision-making

Being a leader includes making difficult decisions. Sometimes that means making a call when the "right answer" is elusive. Other times it is about making an unpopular choice. Pray for God to guide your pastor's decisions.

9. Ministry with the poor

Pastors are called upon to help those who do not have enough food, rent money, or the ability to pay a utility bill. They also lead their congregations to do the same. Pray that your pastor has the wisdom and resources necessary to help those in need, and that he or she might represent Jesus well to those who feel forgotten.

10. Communication

We've all sent a note, email, or text that is misunderstood by the recipient. Ministers reach out to so many people, miscommunication is nearly impossible to avoid. Ask God to make your pastor's communication clear and for grace when he or she is misunderstood.

11. Conflict

Conflicts sometimes arise when people miscommunicate and disagree. Some conflicts are serious, while others are petty. Pray for your pastor’s strength, wisdom, patience, and discernment as they navigate the conflicts that arise.

12. Vision

United Methodist pastors help set the vison for their congregations. Pray that your pastor may clearly see where God is leading your church and for opportunities for ministries to grow in those areas.

13. Finances

Money worries can be a big distraction. Pray for financial peace for your pastor, both with the congregation's budget and his or her family finances.

14. Health

Your pastor's physical health is important. Pray for them to take time to care for their bodies through rest, exercise, and eating well.

15. Encouragement

Pray for your pastors to be encouraged today. Pray that they might know in their hearts the differences they make in the lives of individuals, in your congregation, and in your community.

You can be an answer to prayer when you encourage your ministers. Write a note, text, or email to let them know what a difference they make in your life. They will surely appreciate it.

Ways to Support Your Pastor Across Five Dimensions of Well-Being

Good health is a foundation for effective pastoral leadership. The following “ways” are suggestions the Pastor/Staff Parish Relations Committee and the congregation can use to support their pastor’s health and well-being in all its dimensions—physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and financial—and thereby also support the mission and ministry of the congregation. You can learn more and view the full list provided by Wespath at https://www.wespath.org/assets/1/7/4775.pdf or scan the QR code.

Physical Dimension

• Consider fruits and vegetables, or other healthy foods as a welcome/appreciation gift instead of baked goods.

• Allow the pastor sufficient time for recovery from illness, injury, or surgery.

• Don’t insist the pastor “try everything” at food-related events or push him/her to eat unhealthy foods.

• Respect the pastor’s privacy regarding personal health issues.

Emotional Dimension

• Encourage the pastor to schedule two days off each week—a personal day in addition to a Sabbath day. Respect your pastor’s day off, contacting him/her only for “true emergencies.”

• Recognize that the role of a pastor requires a great deal of emotional energy. Be sensitive to more demanding times of the church year and arrange for additional support from lay members.

• Respect the privacy of the pastor and his/her family at home and in the community.

• Discuss any conflicts or disagreements first with the pastor directly and confidentially, giving him/her the benefit of the doubt and seeking reconciliation. Encourage others to do the same.

Spiritual Dimension

• Recognize that Sunday is a work day for the pastor. Encourage him/her to observe a Sabbath day, other than Sunday.

• Recognize that the pastor is also a Christian on a spiritual journey and will not have “all the answers.”

• Share with the pastor how his/her ministry has strengthened your own relationship with Christ.

• Support the pastor in practicing spiritual disciplines in a way that fits who they are and his/her personal relationship with Christ.

Social Dimension

Encourage the pastor to socialize with others outside the church “family” with whom he/she can “step outside” the pastoral role for a period of time.

Support the pastor in “getting out-of-town” regularly, particularly when serving in a small town, in order to engage in activities outside the church’s direct mission field.

Encourage the pastor to engage in hobbies and enjoyable recreational activities outside the church setting.

Avoid scheduling church meetings or activities requiring the pastor’s presence more than two nights a week.

Financial Dimension

• Understand that the pastor’s spouse may also work to support the family financially in order to reach long-term goals, such as sending children to college, retirement, etc.

• Budget adequate funds to cover the costs of the pastor’s continuing education, as required by The Book of Discipline

• Confirm your congregation supports the Ministerial Education Fund apportionment and other Conference-level funds supporting clergy education and scholarships.

• Be sure the pastor is aware of ways to make personal contributions toward his/her retirement and to utilize the financial planning resources available at no charge through Wespath Benefits and Investments.

Spiritual restoration in the wild

By the Rev. Henry Frueh, UNY Spiritual Director

Editor’s note: The Rev. Frueh is a retired clergy member of the Upper New York Conference, and a former hospice chaplain. He continues his ministry as a Spiritual Director.

Nature saved Jesus from burnout. Overwhelmed by pastoral demands, he retreated “to a deserted place,” had soul-talk with God, and returned with perspective and passion. (Mark 1:35-39 NRSV) He favored open air mountains, meadows, deserts, and the sea for silent retreats. He ministered in the synagogues; he was ministered to in the wild.

Trappist monk Thomas Merton advocated the same: “How necessary it is for monks to work in the fields, in the rain, in the sun, in the mud, in the clay, in the wind: these are our Spiritual Directors…” (italics added).

But how? Once free of confined church office, pulpit, meeting room, and hospital room, how do we “speak” with nature? How can a pine tree become our Spiritual director?

Francis of Asissi, patron saint of the natural world, in his Canticle of Creation helps us: “All praise be Yours, my God, through Brother Wind … Sister Water … Brother Fire … Sister Earth.” He knew wind, water, fire, and earth as his kin. They were family, the outdoors his home of origin, a “haven of blessing and a place of peace.”

Wind. Water. Fire. Earth. The same four elements the ancients identified as comprising the universe (also the same four that Merton named above). They are our natural Spiritual Directors.

Here’s a brief course in Spiritual Restoration in the Wild 101:

First, enter an undisturbed place of nature with no agenda. Check your onerous backpack of pastoral cares at the gate. Turn off the sound and fury of your mind (and your cell phone, and your music app).

Now … simply … observe and notice. Forget words. Use all five of your God-given senses. Listen. See. Touch. Smell. Taste.

“There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard;

Yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.” (Psalm 19:3-4 NRSV)

For those with “ears to hear and eyes to see,” these spiritual directors will guide. For example, “Sister Water.”

The element of fluidity and cleansing. Watch a stream flow around rocks dropped by a glacier 10,000 years ago. May our spirits be so fluid, so flexible, so adaptable to that which we cannot or should not control. For “love does not insist on its own way…” And when I immerse my muddy, overheated self into a frigid Adirondack stream, or my irritated self into a lake’s still waters, or my wounded self into the anointing salt waters of the sea … I hear the words, “Remember your baptism, and be thankful.” And I rise, dripping with “… goodness and mercy shall follow me….” “Brother Wind.”

The element of freedom, renewal, unpredictability, the Holy Spirit. Invisible, yet powerful in its effects. Wind bends, but does not break, fragile infant grass – yet uproots and splinters long-standing trees asunder. Wind clears stagnant air, portends change, carries the seeds of new life. “Lord, raise me up on eagle’s wings. Refresh my flagging spirit. Drench my parched soul. Enliven my stagnant sermons!”

“Sister Earth.”

The element of roots and fruits, of grounding, of nourishment. Walk barefoot upon God’s holy ground. Notice textures of rock, sand, dirt, vegetation. Be grounded, centered, drawn to the gravity of God’s love. Explore the life-giving layer of humus – a billion microscopic bacteria per teaspoon. Observe plant life rising in glorious forms. If sure of identification, taste wild bunchberries, partridge berries, raspberries. Make tea from crushed twigs of sassafras, black birch or hemlock trees. Above all, seek humus’ cousin, humility, the pastor’s superpower. For “love … is not boastful or arrogant.”

“Brother Fire.”

From 93 million miles away, the sun is the source of all fire on Earth. Feel its heat. Meditate on its gifts: the flames of illumination, of warmth, of purification, of inspiration, of community. At night, be a modern “wise one”: follow the fires of stars, planets, and moon toward the “one true light that enlightens the world.” Then, like Moses, return with face aglow from an encounter with the divine, love for God and flock, and passion for ministry.

For those whose circumstances negate a venture into the wild, these gifts of nature’s elements are still available. Museums of natural history bring them indoors for up-close (and sometimes, multi-sensory) observation. Streaming services offer detailed footage and commentary of far-flung aspects of creation. And books provide abundant fodder by insightful observers of nature; an excellent example is Annie Dillard’s, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek.

May the forest be with you!

Destressing in nature in Upper New York

By Shannon Hodson, UNY Conference Writer/Editor

In 2019, at age 67, Jack Layfield served as a chaplain on the Appalachian Trail, hiking 2,192 miles through 14 states in six months. Layfield said, “In everyday living in our world, all five of our senses are bombarded. We just have so much coming to us 24/7… Time spent outdoors can strengthen our faith and reveal a deeper meaning in our daily life.”

Many UNY pastors agree with Layfield. Based on the Spiritual Wellness survey administered to UNY clergy, 56 percent of respondents reported that time spent in nature most helps them with their spiritual growth.

You don’t have to hike the Appalachian Trail to find God in nature. Upper New York is filled with beautiful parks, lakes, trails, streams, and mountains where you can explore God’s beautiful creation, feel peace, and unplug from the day-to-day stressors that occupy your mind.

Get your dose of nature in every Region from East to West

The following pages contain just a few recommended places to visit to soak in God’s beautiful creation in each Region of the UNY Conference, including the glorious UNY Camp & Retreat Centers.

Region 1

Region 1 includes the Adirondack, Albany, Northern Flow, and Mohawk Districts.

Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center and Skye Farm Camp & Retreat Center

Adirondack (ADK) State Park

Aldersgate and Skye Farm are two of UNY’s five Camp & Retreat Centers.

Located in Grieg, NY, Aldersgate boasts over 200 wooded and open acres with gorgeous views on three Adirondack Lakes. Visit aldersgateny.org to learn more.

Located in Warrensburg, NY, Skye Farm is set in the tall pines of the Adirondack Park, with over 400 wooded acres with a gorgeous view of Sherman Lake. For more information, visit skyefarmcamp.org.

We are so blessed to have such a vast amount of nature as found in the Adirondack State Park. This is the largest park in the 48 contiguous states; it is larger than the state of Vermont; and nearly three times the size of the Yellowstone National Park. There are over 2,000 miles of trails for all activity levels.

There are more than 1,600 ADK mountains. There are also more than 2,800 lakes and ponds in Adirondack Park and more than 1,500 miles of rivers, fed by an estimated 30,000 miles of brooks and streams.

To select a place to visit in the ADKs, go to visitadirondacks.com.

For those up for a challenge, try the Fire Tower Challenge—climb the 25 mountains with fire towers at the top. Scan this QR code for more information.

For those up for the challenge of all challenges, you can become a 46er by climbing all 46 of the Adirondack High Peaks. For more information, scan this QR code.

Albany Pine Bush Preserve

Located between the majestic Catskill and Adirondack mountains, this 3,350 acre preserve offers visitors an experience rich in geological, natural, and cultural history. Known for its gently rolling sand-dunes, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is home to a unique variety of rare plants and animals, including the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly. For more information, visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Pitch Pine Bog

Pitch Pine Bog Conservation Area Nature Trail is a 2.9 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located at 7989 W Thomas St, Rome, NY 13440, features beautiful wildflowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, trail running, and nature trips and is best used from April until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Region 2

Region 2 includes the Crossroads, Finger Lakes, Genesee Valley, and Niagara Frontier Districts

Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center and Asbury Retreat Center

Casowasco Camp & Retreat Center and Asbury Retreat Center are two of UNY’s five Camp & Retreat Centers.

Casowasco, located in Moravia, NY, is set on gorgeous Owasco Lake. Casowasco boasts over 200 wooded acres, a beautiful gorge, and over a mile of shoreline. To learn more, visit casowasco.org.

Asbury Retreat Center is a peaceful place along the Eastern Shore of the stunning Silver Lake. To learn more, visit asburyuny.org.

The Finger Lakes

Perhaps the most well-known beauties of this region are the 11 Finger Lakes, which include Canadice, Canandaigua, Cayuga, Conesus, Hemlock, Honeoye, Keuka, Otisco, Owasco, Seneca, and Skaneateles. Each of the Finger Lakes ranges from 40 miles in length and up to 618 feet in depth. To learn more, visit fingerlakes.org.

Robert H. Treman State Park

This park near Ithaca, NY is an area of wild beauty, with the rugged gorge called Enfield Glen as its scenic highlight. Winding trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, one of which is 115-feet, to where visitors can see a mile-and-a-half down the wooded gorge as it winds its way to the lower park. To learn more, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/135.

Fillmore Glen State Park

One of the most unique features of Letchworth is The Autism Nature Trail (A.N.T.). The A.N.T. provides a safe and inclusive area for individuals with autism or other related disabilities. The accessible mile long trail hosts eight different sensory stations for individuals and families of individuals to experience and explore nature. Visit parks.ny.gov/parks/letchworth to learn more.

Fillmore Glen State Park, located in Moravia, NY, is an oasis of cool, dense woods crowding into a long, narrow gorge. Its hiking trails offer spectacular views and unique geological formations, including five waterfalls and a botanically rich glen. For more information, visit parks.ny.gov/parks/fillmoreglen.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is often listed as one of the top 10 wonders of the world. What makes Niagara Falls so impressive is the amount of water flowing over. Most of the tallest falls in the world have very little water flowing over them. It’s the combination of height and volume that makes Niagara Falls so breathtaking.

Located in Castile, NY, Letchworth State Park, renowned as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. The Genesee River roars through the gorge over three major waterfalls between cliffs--as high as 600 feet in some places-surrounded by lush forests.

Letchworth State Park

Region 3

Region 3 includes the Oneonta, Binghamton, Mountain View, and Cornerstone Districts.

Sky Lake Camp & Retreat Center

point. Friend’s Boat Launch makes the Allegany Reservoir available to the boating enthusiasts. The many hiking trails give opportunities to explore the naturally formed caves, plus the diversity of plants and wildlife. Learn more at parks.ny.gov/parks/alleganyquaker.

Binghamton University Nature Preserve

Located in Windsor, NY, Sky Lake is one of UNY’s five Camp & Retreat Centers. Set on the picturesque Sky Lake, there are many trails that meander through the bountiful forests with over 900-acres of forest and fields. To learn more, visit skylakecenter.org.

Alleghany State Park—Quaker Area

Located in Salamanca, NY, The Quaker area is known for its two lakes and wonderful camping experiences. It offers a sandy beach for swimming, two fishing piers, and a canoeing or kayaking access

The Binghamton University Nature preserve, encompassing over 190 acres of land, is home to deer, beavers, foxes, minks, muskrats, porcupines, and other mammals, a diverse amphibian and reptilian population, and over two-hundred 200 bird species, the broadest range to be sighted in any one place in the Southern Tier. The trail goes through a wooded area and wetlands with a well-maintained boardwalk.

Robert V. Riddell State Park

Located in Davenport, NY, Robert V. Riddell State Park offers more than 2,000 acres of fields and forested woodlands. The trail also meanders along Schenevus Creek with water access points, great for those who have dogs that love to take a dip. Visit parks.ny.gov/parks/18 for more information.

Nature at home

By the Rev. Janet Gleason, Minoa UMC

Editor’s Note: Some people do not have the ability to travel far. While that is not the case for Rev. Gleason, her appreciation of her backyard reminds us that the healing power of nature can be accessed in your own backyard or neighborhood.

Ihave to only step out my back door to be immersed in nature and to sense that I am on holy ground. Tall trees provide shelter for all the birds as well as this human. This summer I’ve shared the backyard with blue jays, cardinals, sparrows, mourning doves, grosbeaks, juncos, various finches, two types of woodpeckers—downy and redheaded. We hung a funky retro-looking-camper bird house early in the season and were delighted when a pair of wrens took up residence. Wrens—the songbirds of the backyard aviary.

As often as I could this past summer. I took my breakfast out to an Adirondack chair strategically placed so I could take in the various flower beds I’ve worked so hard to nurture. And often,I would find myself not eating alone—hummingbirds feasting in the Rose of Sharon hedge. Sitting on the patio many afternoons I might be rewarded with a butterfly or two - monarchs, fritillaries, swallowtails, and, of course, those little cabbage whites - flitting through the yard, perhaps making a momentary rest stop on a plump purple coneflower to refuel. I promised myself I would leave the seed heads this winter for the goldfinches to nibble at when the snow is deep and food scarce. Indeed, my backyard, quiet and secluded, has long been my sanctuary – the place that nourishes my spirit, the space where it is so easy to image God as the Creator of all that is.

It wasn’t long after we moved in five years ago, wanting to get some perennials in the ground that I had brought along with us, that I began to dig up the backyard - much to my husband’s amusement, or was it annoyance? Either way, I just kept

digging, eventually transforming that bare space into a colorful garden. And I kept discovering unexpected treasure – astilbe, Solomon’s seal, lemon mint, irises, peonies – even woodland plants like Mayapple and trillium - evidence that a previous resident must have loved that space as much as I did. I like to think it would have pleased her to know that someone is once again caring for the plants that must surely have brought her joy.

Today I take in the beauty of the flower beds and am reminded that Genesis 1 invites us to be co-creators with God, stewards of all that is. And yet, having a garden has also been a lesson in giving up any illusion that I am in control.

Funny how I keep needing to relearn that one! In the midst of my private little paradise are those pesky squirrels that gobble up birdseed as soon as I refill the feeder, dig up flower bulbs just because they can. And there is the occasional rabbit or groundhog or deer – each unwanted intruder reminding me that I share this earth with other creatures who also must eat. “But why can’t you share?” I sometimes demand of them. That’s when I’m sure they laugh at me, like little cartoon characters.

Shortly after we moved back to the area, my husband and I went to hear Onondaga Faith Keeper Oren Lyons speak. His stories were entrancing. Yet what I remember most is his simple statement, Mother Nature shows no mercy. He was reminding us of the fragility of creation and the consequences of our abuse. I think about that as God and I converse in my backyard. And I’m grateful that unlike Mother Nature, ours is a God of mercy and grace – amazing grace. I pause to count my blessings and offer up prayers of thanksgiving. And then it’s time to move back into the day and back to work, my mind a little clearer, my heart a little lighter, my desire to be useful to God renewed.

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Upper New York

A publication of the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church