Upper New York: Vol. 8 Issue 3 - Called to Give Thanks

ADVOCATE Upper New York

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

Called to Give Thanks

EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP | “DO SOMETHING” | THE FUTURE OF FINDLEY

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TABLE of CONTENTS

EFFECTIVE LEADERS The Rev. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan. led three study sessions During AC2016. Find out what lessons we learned.

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DON’T DESPAIR Crossroads Rev. Nola Anderson led the 2016 Memorial Service where she encouraged grievers not to despair.

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AND THE WINNER IS...

The Celebration of Ministry took on a different look this year. Learn what made this gala stand out.

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CREATING CHURCHLEVEL LEADERS The Leadership Report explains efforts to help increase the capacity of Christ-following leaders at the church level.

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DO SOMETHING The young people of Upper New York urges action. Find out what.

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AFRICA 360 CHALLENGE At AC2015, Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb’s challenged each church to bring $1,000 to AC2015 for Africa 360. The results are in...

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Registration . Photo by Matthew Williams

FROM the PUBLISHER Building on what was started at Annual Conference

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A DVOCATE

his issue of the Advocate is traditionally the issue that simply covers Annual Conference. In the past there has been a Pre-Conference and Post-Conference issue of the Advocate, but in an effort to continue to analyze how we are telling the story that system was reevaluated for 2016.

Keeping in mind the audience for the Advocate, people that we want to go deeper and become more connected to the Upper New York Conference and The United Methodist Church, the Pre-Conference issue of the Advocate was replaced with the Guide to Annual Conference 2016. This got the right information to the right audience.

Changes have also been made to the Post-Conference issue of the Advocate. Rather than simply republishing articles that appeared on the Conference website and in the Weekly Digest, those articles have been used as a basis for telling the story to people who we want to become more connected. The articles have been either simplified or expanded upon to tell the story of the great time of worship, business, and ministry that is Annual Conference, to an audience who may not yet even know what Annual Conference is.

The 2016 session of the Upper New York Annual Conference was a spirit-filled, exciting, and motivational time.

The hope is that this change to how Annual Conference has been covered in the Advocate in the past will help all people to be able to understand and appreciate this amazing event.

Stephen J. Hustedt, Editor/Publisher

On the cover Gathering at the table for AC2016 Opening Worship.

Read more on Pages 4-5.

Follow us online: www.unyumc.org www.facebook.com/uppernewyork www.twitter.com/uppernewyork

Upper New York

Vol. 8, Issue 3

Upper New York Area

BISHOP MARK J. WEBB Resident Bishop (315) 422-5027 bishopwebb@unyumc.org Editor/Publisher

STEPHEN J. HUSTEDT

UNY Director of Communications (315) 424-7878 x307 stevehustedt@unyumc.org Writer/Editor

SHANNON MOREHOUSE Conference Writer/Editor (315) 424-7878 x319 shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org Weekly Digest

KAREN CAMPOLIETO

Administrative Assistant to the Director (315) 424-7878 x304 karencampolieto@unyumc.org

Social Media/Web

ASHLEY RIDDELL

Multimedia/Web Coordinator (315) 424-7878 x320 ashleyriddell@unyumc.org Video Specialist

MARY DALGLISH

Conference Videographer/Editor (315) 424-7878 x304 marydalglish@unyumc.org

The Advocate is a publication of the

324 University Ave., 3rd Floor, Syracuse, NY 13210 (855) 424-7878 ď ´ www.unyumc.org 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. Materials in the Advocate may not be reproduced unless the item is accompanied by a copyright notation. Periodicals postage paid at Utica, New York 13504; USPS 14025. Subscriptions: $15 per year paid in advance to 324 University Ave., 3rd floor, Syracuse, NY 13210; or call (855) 424-7878; or visit www.unyumc.org. Postmaster: send address changes to Upper New York United Methodist Advocate, 324 University Ave., 3rd floor, Syracuse, NY 13210. We reserve the right to edit or decline any items submitted for publication.

Bishop Webb opens Annual Conference with thanks

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

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pper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb introduced his Opening Worship sermon on June 2 at the 2016 Annual Conference with the “table” as a metaphor of the foundation of faith God has equipped Upper New York Conference members to follow the mission of United Methodist Christians: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

“This foundation of faith, when fully experienced, becomes a foundation of Thanksgiving,” he said.

“It’s a foundation of thanks that comes when we remember who we are and who we are promised to be because of God’s work in Jesus Christ.”

“Because of our willingness to live out our faith in Jesus Christ, to be bold in our acceptance of God’s grace and loud in our proclamation of God’s grace, people are choosing to follow Jesus, and as they offer their lives more deeply in the ways of Christ, our neighborhoods and our communities are being transformed,” Bishop Webb said. “The world is being changed through the power and for the glory of God.” To demonstrate how communities 4 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

are being transformed, Bishop Webb played two videos that showcased what God is doing through the churches of Upper New York.

The first video, Thursday Nights (visit https://vimeo.com/165146126), showcased the Salem United Methodist Church’s effort to provide worship and a meal for families.

Thursday Nights begins with a meal, followed by scripture and activities.

What began with three mothers looking for a way to experience worship with their children grew into a group of more than 70 people worshiping on Thursday nights.

The second, Open Street Communion (visit https://vimeo. com/166202815), displayed The ROAD’s ministry. Every Friday, members of the new faith community hand out free lunches and offer prayer and communion to anyone walking by. In the winter, they also provide warm socks, sleeping bags, hats, and gloves. “The structure and system of the UNY Conference is to equip local churches to live out the mission in vital ways,” Bishop Webb said, following the videos. He added that the Conference’s primary task must be to increase the capacity of Christ-following leaders.

Bishop Webb confessed that he has become overly dependent upon himself, that, at times, he becomes distracted by voices that cause fear and doubt.

“What we must do is continue to commit to getting out of the

way, so that God will have God’s way!” he said. “God’s way, in our lives individually, God’s way in our life together, and God’s way in the life of this world we find ourselves called to serve in the name of Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Webb reminded the Conference of one of Apostle Paul’s messages, written during a time of disunity of almost every area of life.

“Paul writes about God’s plan for everything to be brought together through Jesus,” he said.

“It’s a letter that reminds us of who we are. It’s a letter that calls us to be serious about the task that only the Church of Jesus Christ can accomplish.

The Church must bring Christ to the world so that in Christ all things may be reconciled.”

“The prophet Jeremiah proclaimed the truth that the Apostle Paul raises in the letter, ‘For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity, to give you a future and hope,’” Bishop Webb said. “I don’t know what the future holds for The United Methodist Church, but I know what the future holds for the Church of Jesus Christ.”

He urged the crowd to live into the promises of the table as that is what we are called to do. He reviewed two main promises that we must continue to remember: Promise 1: Through Jesus Christ, we are chosen by God Bishop Webb described the three words he hated to hear as a child: “Let’s choose teams.” He joked that his prayer life was partially developed by praying that someone would choose him.

He then reminded the crowd of the amazing promise that God chooses us.

“Before the world was made, God chose us, and in that choosing, God had a purpose for us – that we would be, that we would become God’s holy people,” he said. ”God’s grace makes us different, and God’s grace demands and empowers us to live differently, and living differently boldly attracts others to the difference Christ will make in their lives. The difference draws others into the sufficiency of Christ, that they too may know the truth that God chooses them!”

Promise 2: Through Christ we are given power for the plan Bishop Webb mentioned the frustration of toys with fine print stating “batteries not included,” meaning that you get the toy, but the power to make it work is not included.

“This is not the kind of gift that God gives,” he said. “God’s gift – God’s call within our lives includes the power, the power of the Holy Spirit! We have been equipped with batteries!”

Bishop Webb explained that when people struggle with living out God’s call, it is never because God withdrew the power.

“There is always a reason for why the Church is not living the plan, but it is never because God withdrew the power!” he said. To exemplify the strength of God’s power, Bishop Webb proclaimed what Jesus said, “I will build my Church and the gates of hell will not overpower it!”

“The United Methodist Church will be in great shape when everyone, including me, goes to the table and trusts the grace of God and sufficiency of God,” Bishop Webb said.

Photos by Dan Wistrup and Matthew Williams

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First session with the Rev. Adam Hamilton:

Focusing on effective leaders

The Rev. Adam Hamilton

By Kathleen Rubino

ay two of the 2016 Annual D Conference session began with Study Session leader the

“...We need to figure out how to connect to people who don’t go to church and bring them in.”

Rev. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan. He led the Conference in three 90-minute training sessions throughout the day on June 3.

Rev. Hamilton started the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in 1990 with three other people – his wife, LaVon, and their two daughters, Danielle and Rebecca. It has since grown to more than 18,000 adults and children as of 2014 under his leadership. Rev. Hamilton has published 22 books – including “Leading Beyond the Walls.” He is a graduate of the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Texas, where he received the B’nai B’rit Award in Social Ethics.

Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb welcomed Rev. Hamilton to the Conference and gave a brief introduction. Then Rev. Hamilton took the mic and began the first session with prayer, followed by describing what each session would cover – the first session, 6 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

focusing on what makes an effective leader, what leaders do, unleashing the power of laity, and five key leadership principles.

He told the crowd that today might feel like “drinking from a fire hydrant” because of all of the tips and information he would convey, but encouraged everyone to find at least five good ideas from each session to implement within their own church or within themselves.

Rev. Hamilton said that today is a different time for the Church.

“The approach that worked in the past may not be the one that works in the present,” he said. “If we keep doing the same things without any change, we are going to see our churches get smaller and smaller. If we are going to reach new generations of people, we need to figure out how to connect to people who don’t go to church and bring them in.”

And step one towards that end is creating effective leaders.

Rev. Hamilton asked the crowd to make two lists: one with traits of a good leader and the other with traits of a poor leader. Then he told the crowd some of the effective traits that he identified, starting with humorous examples: brushes their teeth, wears deodorant, and irons their clothes and later stating that good leaders are authentic, possess integrity, initiate conversations, encourage other people, radiate possibilities, and can laugh at themselves.

And his advice with regards to the lists everyone made: Do all the stuff on the good leader list, and don’t do what is on the bad leader list.

Rev. Hamilton also described the role of leaders. He said leaders set the tone of the organization, clarify and champion the mission and vision, hold the organization accountable to accomplish the mission, are responsible for preparing the organization for the future by leading change, and evaluate and celebrate victories, while also addressing shortcomings.

Second session:

Effective worship and preaching

By Kathleen Rubino

fter wrapping up some points from the first session, Rev. Adam A Hamilton, founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan., dove into the topic of the second Study Session: effective worship and preaching.

He began with examples of what he and his congregation do: having people pray during the week over the seats in the sanctuary for those who will sit in them, praying at the alter before worship, and beginning worship with an upbeat welcome, where he identifies himself and expresses his gratitude for those in attendance.

According to Rev. Hamilton, there are five components of preaching that connects: Teaching people something they didn’t know before. For example, Rev. Hamilton explained in one sermon how the image most people have of the crucifixion is incorrect and demonstrated what it actually looked like and showed photos.

Sermons are meant to inspire people. One year for Mother’s Day, Rev. Hamilton and his church sought to bring mothers to the church. A photographer took photos, and there were free flowers and food. He preached about “the worst mother in the Bible,” Jezebel, to “make the mothers feel better about themselves afterwards,” he joked. Rev. Hamilton also showed a video, where fake interviews were conducted for a 24/7, no holiday breaks, zero-pay job, and the end of the video reveals that this job is the role of a mother, prompting emotional responses and gratitude for mothers.

Call people to action. Rev. Hamilton’s professor told him the story of a man who preached each week, but he didn’t change anything. This man taped a paper with the words “So what” on it to the front of the pulpit to remind him to call people to action in each sermon.

Relevant to daily life. Rev. Hamilton once undertook a six month-long adventure with farming, all to develop a sermon series. One sermon focused on “In life, manure happens.” His goal was to show people a plan for transforming and managing “manure” – life’s obstacles. He told his congregation about developing an MMP (manure management plan), and coincidentally, you have to turn manure every seven days to turn it into fertilizer.

Rev. Hamilton was able to use an everyday object and relate it to not only the Bible, but also to daily life.

It needs to be biblical.

In addition to these components, Rev. Hamilton also gave examples of the types of sermons, including pastoral care sermons, sermons that strengthen the church, and sermons that equip people to live out their faith in the world. He also mentioned giving people things to help them remember sermons, including a prayer tag and a compassion coin.

Photos by Dan Wistrup

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Rev. Hamilton’s final session:

Transitioning church visitors into members Why do people need Jesus Christ? Why do people need the Church? Why do people need our particular church?

By Kathleen Rubino

ccording to the Rev. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor A of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kan., these are three important questions pastors

and congregations must ask themselves.

Rev. Hamilton’s final Study Session at the 2016 Annual Conference session included tips for churches on how to prepare for visitors, an emphasis on connecting evangelism and social justice, and advice on how to transition someone from a visitor to a member.

Among tips for preparing for visitors, Rev. Hamilton recommends good signage so people know where to go, a friendly and informational answering machine message, a strong website that gives potential visitors more information, upgrading or repairing facilities to make them a place people want to be, using greeters, evaluating needs in the community and meeting them, and using programs to reach new people.

The Church of the Resurrection implemented their program Building Better Moms to reach out to and connect mothers in the local community. Mothers who attend this program study Bible verses relating to families, pray for each other, and have the opportunity to build friendships.

To bring an individual from a visitor to a member, Rev. Hamitlon recommends hosting coffee time with pastors, for the pastor to visiti the individual in his or her home and invite them to worship as well as present him or her with a notebook or mug, and discovering a potential member’s needs and meeting those needs.

The Church of the Resurrection met one new family’s needs by establishing a ministry for adults and children with disabilities that sets up programs for these individuals during worship, Sunday school, and during the week so that the families can be a part of the church.

And to keep current members involved and increase church attendance, Rev. Hamilton emphasized one word: incentivize.

Whether it’s offering a mug to members who attend at least 90 percent of worship services or something as small as a sticker, having a reward system motivates people to come to church.

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Photo by Dan Wistrup

The Rev. Adam Hamilton’s 2016 Annual Conference study sessions videos available for all At the 2016 Annual Conference, The Rev. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood,Kan offered three insightful 90-minute study sessions. He taught lessons on how churches can build leadership, offer effective worship and preaching, and transition visitors into members. The UNY Conference has been granted permission to post videos of his study sessions on Vimeo.

You can even use the same worksheet that Annual Conference attendees used during Rev. Hamilton’s study sessions. This worksheet is available at: bit.ly/hamiltonworksheet.

Study Session #1: Creating Effective Leaders The following characteristics are what Rev. Hamilton said that these are the leadership principles that churches need to follow: 1. It’s all about the people.

2. Healthy organizations have a clear MVP (mission, vision, and plan).

3. Change, innovate, improve, or die.

4. Intentional discipleship.

5. Discernment by nausea – being willing to do what unsuccessful

churches are unwilling to do.

To watch Study Session # 1, visit vimeo.com/170942096.

Study Session #2: Effective Worship and Preaching According to Rev. Hamilton, there are five components of preaching that create a connection for people. Sermons should: 1. Teach people something they didn’t know before.

2. Inspire people and elicit an emotional response.

3. Call people to action.

4. Be relevant to daily life.

5. Be biblical.

To watch Study Session #2, visit vimeo.com/170947455.

Study Session #3: Transitioning a Visitor to a Member Rev. Hamilton recommends hosting coffee time with pastors. He also advises the pastor to visit the individual in his or her home and invite them to worship as well as present him or her with a small token of appreciation like a notebook or mug.

To watch Study Session # 3, visit vimeo.com/170954752.

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Memorial Service CROSSROADS REV. NOLA ANDERSON ENCOURAGES GRIEVERS NOT TO DESPAIR

The Rev. Nola Anderson

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

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he Rev. Nola Anderson, Crossroads District Superintendent, spoke at the Memorial Service on Thursday June 2 at the 2016 session of the Annual Conference; her theme was “A Reason to Hope.” Anderson exposed the lesson that the little-

known book of Lamentations can teach us when we are faced with intense grief. Lamentations’ five chapters are considered funeral hymns; it is Jeremiah’s response to the destruction of Jerusalem and the desolation of Judah when invaded by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. Anderson painted a picture of what it must have been like for Jeremiah, “As he walks through the remains of the city, just imagine the scene.

It’s like one of the TV news reports showing a scene after an earthquake or a disaster zone following a fire, tornado, or hurricane: darkness, despair, sadness, and suffering. He’s at the lowest point he could possibly go.”

Though Lamentations is filled with Jeremiah’s cries of despair, there is a hinge that Anderson referred to that must be remembered. This hinge is found in Lamentations 3: 21-23, “but this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

The hinge is the hope we find in

God. The Lord’s steadfast love never ceases; despite the most tragic circumstances, the Lord’s steadfast love does not end.

The Memorial Service honored the 24 clergy and 27 clergy spouses that have recently passed away.

Anderson urged the loved ones of those who passed away within the past year, not to lose hope. She told these loved ones that grief is acceptable just like it was for Jeremiah. She said, “There is a very honest grief in Lamentations. The author does not propose any easy answers. No ‘things will be okay.’ No ‘this too shall pass.’ Just raw grief and lament. The first 16 verses of Chapter 3 get pretty intense. The image of God is not pretty, and the believer is not afraid to utter it.

Fortunately, by verse 17, the mood turns, and one last summary leads into verse 21, in which God’s lasting and eternal quality of hesed (loving kindness) is recalled.”

Visit bit.ly/AC2016memorialservice to read more about the 2016 Annual Conference Memorial Service.

Linda Houmiel’s Role in the Memorial Service Linda Houmiel, former Conference Clergy Care Assistant, became very close with families who have lost loved ones over the years. She is the one who is informed when a clergy or clergy spouse passes away. She keeps in touch with the families by calling and checking up on them multiple times. Each year, at the Annual Conference, she greets the family members who attend the Memorial Dinner.

Speaking of those who have passed away, Linda said, “These are amazing people that we have lost and to hear their life stories just makes you wish you had known them better.”

As for the families of those who have passed away, Linda expressed, “They are always steadfast in their love for God, even after losing someone.”

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Photo by Matthew Williams

The gift to the loved ones:

Local, Infused Olive Oil

Every year at the Memorial Service, the Conference chooses a gift for the loved ones of those who passed away. This year, the chosen gift was infused olive oil from Crystal City Olive Oil out of Corning, N.Y. The Rev. Chad Sayers was on the committee who selected the gift. He said, “We were looking for a gift to match our table theme and that honored the saints of the church. The sign of anointing with olive oil symbolizes restoration, healing, wholeness, and new life. It fit with our table theme, but also helped us look forward to what God is continuing to do through the ministry of these faithful saints.”

The 60 ml. bottle of olive oil that each family received was infused with such flavors as garlic, Tuscan Herb, Herbs de Provence, and lemon.

oil “...Anointing with olive ng, ali he n, tio ra symbolizes resto .” wholeness, and new life

In Memoriam

CLERGY

James Barrett

David W. Bouton

James Carr

Walter G. Connor Roger J. Crout

David L. Derk

Everett Fitts Peter Hanson

Theressa Hough

Robert A. Johnson

Donald Schalk

Verne Schattner

Herbert Loomis

Norman J. Mead

Dolen Morris

Stephen Parr Theodore Richards

Emerson Rugh

Andrew Russ Richard Anthony Santella

Verne Schattner

Roger Smith Jon C. Stenberg

Gregg Trask

Charles Warner

CLERGY SPOUSES Daniel Baker Karen Bartz Virginia Caldwell Hildred Brothers Cayce Nancy Clark Joseph Coltrain Linda Crout Mary Lou Day Dorothy Dolch Donna Doud Sarita Fiske

Elizabeth Freeman

Alberta Geisler Caroline Grant

M. Danielle Kish

Helen Jones

Wilma MacLaughlin

Vivian Mayo

Mary Emma Mohler

Mary Mowry

Lois Peterson

Alice Phelps

Mary Rowe

Marguerite Shumway

Leora Trembly

Carol Craik Viger

Alice Wheatley unyumc.org 11

Celebration of Ministry observed as a gala this year

Rev. Sherri Rood and Rev. Bill Mudge

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

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ay two of the 2016 Annual Conference ended with an electrifying Celebration of Ministry Gala, which mirrored the Academy Awards. This celebration included gold BobbleWebbs, musical transitions between recognitions, and envelopes with the names of those recognized.

Cornerstone District Superintendent the Rev. Sherri Rood and Adirondack District Superintendent the Rev. Bill Mudge hosted the Gala. An ongoing debate between the co-hosts about the appropriate attire for the gala added humor to the event. Rev. Mudge wore a suit, and Rev. Rood changed her outfit four times in between recognitions, until she finally wore what Rev. Mudge agreed was “gala-appropriate.” At one point, Rev. Mudge wore a plastic hard hat, saying he chose to wear it because ministry is “hard.”

The celebration recognized newly certified lay ministers, newly licensed local pastors, ordained elders, ordained deacons, those commissioned to perform the ministry of an elder, those commissioned to perform the ministry of a deacon, and retirees. Outstanding ministry awards were also presented at the Gala.

The One Matters Discipleship Award was created in 2015 to lift up churches that have, in recent years, moved from zero baptisms and zero professions of faith into 12 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

positive numbers as they focus on intentional discipleship. This year’s recipient was the Hilton United Methodist Church. In addition to a plaque, the church received $1,000 to encourage the continuation of their work in discipleship.

The Harry Denman Evangelism Award – presented each year one clergyperson and one lay person in each annual conference whose “exceptional ministry of evangelism brings people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ” – recipients were announced.

The laity recipient was Shari Schuck, who has helped more than 275 young people in grades 6-12 connect with at least one aspect of ministry there, while also shepherding over 50 adult leaders who have helped lead in some aspect of youth ministry.

The clergy recipient was the Rev. Joseph Pascoe, who has worked as a chaplain in jails and led youth retreats, men’s retreats, local church events, and prison ministry.

Under his leadership and service, the churches he has served have all grown exponentially, drawing people from the community and beyond.

At the end of the gala, confetti was thrown and a small reception was held with cookies and punch.

Celebration of Ministry. Photos by Matthew Williams

Graphic by Jason Moore

Retirees received lifetime achievement awards.

These following clergy retirees were recognized: Rev. Donald Alexander Rev. Viki Andrews Rev. Nancy Araujo Rev. Jane Baker Rev. Edward Bennett Rev. Theodore Bleck-Doran Rev. Beth Bouwens Rev. Michael Breunig Rev. Carl Chamberlain Rev. Daniel Corretore Rev. William Delia Rev. Jacob Denny Rev. Nancy Dulkis

Rev. Mona Fargo Rev. Bruce Fish Rev. Dean Flemming Rev. Robert Franke Rev. Henry Frueh Rev. Brian Gould Rev. Penelope Hart Rev. Margaret Hutchins Rev. Steven Ingerson Rev. David Lockwood Rev. Thomas Mott Rev. Duane Priset

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Spotlight on Bishop Mark J Webb “ ...He’s trudged through

over 400 inches of snow. He’s rocked with our youth at Up!Word and celebrated with our clergy about to retire.”

By Shannon Morehouse

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he June 3 gala at AC2016 ended with a celebration of Bishop Webb and his leadership since joining the Upper New York Conference four years ago. His wife Jodi, and sons Tyler and Ben, joined him on the stage. A video played illustrating Bishop Webb’s vast involvement throughout the Conference, from visiting congregations and food pantries to auctioning off cups of coffee at the 2015 Annual Conference session. See the video at vimeo.com/168375298.

The Rev. Rebecca Laird – pastor at the Cicero UMC and The ROAD – cited the beginning of Bishop Webb’s ministry as bishop, which began “on July 19, 2012 at 4:26 p.m. The next day, he received a call from the Rev. Dave Masland – a member of the Northeastern Jurisdictional Committee and the UNY Director of New Faith Communities – who told Bishop Webb his assignment: the Upper New York Conference.

“During these past four years, Bishop Webb has preached in over 100 of our churches, commissioned and ordained dozens and dozens of our pastors, presided over five sessions of Annual Conference – including this one – logged thousands of miles going east and west on I-90, north and south on I-81 and I-87, and every other direction on countless highways, streets, and back roads,” Rev. Laird said. “He’s trudged through over 400 inches of snow. He’s rocked with our youth at Up!Word and celebrated with our clergy about to retire.”

“He’s prayed and dreamed and planned with us and for us. He’s been our guide, our co-worker, and our friend. In short, he’s been our Bishop,” she said.

On July 15, 2016, Bishop Webb was reassigned to the Upper New York Conference.

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Bishop Mark J. Webb with wife, Jodi, and sons, Tyler and Benjamin. Photo by Matthew Williams

Looking ahead, Bishop Webb plans to focus on the following: • Increase the capacity of Christ-following leaders • Multiply the number of vital congregations that offer relevant and authentic worship, pathways for discipleship, mission, and outreach opportunities • Continue to create new places for new people • Address the racism that exists in our society and church • Call us to the discipline of prayer in new and bold ways • Increase the worship attendance in our churches • Increase our ministry with the poor and marginalized • Increase our ministry with youth and young adults • Increase the capacity of our stewardship And ultimately to: • Trust that God is leading us and to be obedient to the movement of God’s spirit!

Conference Lay Leader Elected

When it Comes to Leadership,

the laity leads the way

Conference Lay Leader, Dr. Scott Johnson, addresses the laity

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

U Susan Hardy

On June 3, during the afternoon plenary at the 2016 UNY Annual Conference, Susan Hardy, Cornerstone District Lay Leader was elected as the Conference Lay Leader. Susan brings with her decades of leadership skills.

In 2012, Susan was named as a member of Reaching Our Neighbors Mission Oversight Team.

By 2013, the team asked her to accept the role of convener.

Susan has also served on the FACT team and Nominations in the past few years. In her district, she accepted the role of District Lay Leader in 2014, and offers messages in 10 district churches as a Lay Servant Certified Speaker.

pper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb opened the laity session at the 2016 Annual Conference session by reminding everyone that “with our movement as United Methodists, the laity has always led the way.”

Before introducing Conference lay leader, Dr. Scott Johnson, Bishop Webb emphasized how important it is for the laity to continue to “lead us in ministry and lead us in how to be the body of Christ … to hold us accountable …to help us to be grounded and rooted to the one we call Jesus.”

Johnson began his sermon by asking the laity to celebrate the fact that the UNY Conference was started seven years ago, that seven years ago the Conference was considered “new.” He reminded the audience that new things eventually drop the “new” and become “things.” A new car will eventually become “the car;” a new suit will eventually become just another thing in the closet; and a new house will eventually become home.

Despite the fact that the Conference is no longer new, Johnson calls for Conference members to not take it for granted.

Johnson said. “We didn’t get here by accident … we’re here because God is definitely moving among us

… this world is being blessed by members of the Upper New York Conference, in the name of Jesus Christ. We are stronger together than we would have ever have been apart.”

Johnson described the four areas that these leaders must think about in order to effectively manage change: soul, mind, heart, and strength.

When it comes to the soul, ministry leaders need to be certain that the idea for change is coming from God. When it comes to the mind, leaders must answer the question, “Why do we need to change?” Johnson added that in order to demonstrate the need for change, leaders should stick with the facts.

“Show people something new,” he said. “Data is apolitical. Data makes it hard for people to counteract your suggestion for change.”

When it comes to the heart, Johnson recommends, “let[ting] people be allowed to be upset,” as “the emotion will eventually burn itself out to a point where working through it is possible.” Lastly, when it comes to strength, Johnson advised ministry leaders to clearly explain what needs to be done differently.

As the laity session came to a close, Johnson encouraged everyone to visit the numerous ministry booths throughout the Oncenter that showcase the various outcomes of effective ministry leadership throughout the Conference.

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Delving Deeper: 2016 Annual Conference Session

Full Length Videos Annual Conference Recap https://vimeo.com/170015651

Watch a full recap of the 2016 Annual Conference.

Opening Worship https://vimeo.com/170160910

The table has been set. Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb spoke about the foundation of giving thanks and the symbolism behind the kitchen table in his opening sermon.

Memorial Service https://vimeo.com/170458603

The memorial Service, led by Crossroads District Superintendent the Rev. Nola Anderson, honored fallen clergy and clergy spouses.

Leadership Report https://vimeo.com/170470933

The Conference Leadership Team revealed their “Farm-to-Table� concept to increase the capacity of Christ-following leaders.

16 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

Did you miss out on the 2016 Upper New York Annual Conference? For a quick overview, check out our recap video. If you would like to delve deeper, you can watch and download the following services and action items.

Celebration of Ministry https://vimeo.com/170505329

Mirroring the Academy Awards, the Celebration of Ministry recognized retirees, ordinants and commissioners.

Worship by Young People https://vimeo.com/170513215

A mock Annual Conference session , led by the young people, started the morning worship where the crowd was encouraged to “Do Something.�

Service of Ordination and Commissioning https://vimeo.com/170516841

The 2016 Annual Conference Session was concluded with the ordination and commissioning of an age-diversed group.

Browse our library of full length videos online at :

vimeo.com/uppernewyork

unyumc.org 17

The Leadership Report:

Local church success stories unveiled

Rev. Vonda Fossitt. Photo by Matthew Williams

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

C

ornerstone District Superintendent the Rev. Sherri Rood suggested that as we pull our chairs up to the table, we might reflect on the main work of the Conference and how it plays out.

“Simply put, our Conference is here to equip local churches to live the mission by increasing the capacity of Christ-following leaders,” she said.

The Rev. Aaron Bouwens, Conference Director of Vital Congregations described the strategy of developing training resources that are customized to suit individual districts as one way to help create local leaders.

“A great example of this is the Oneonta District’s Compass Project,” he said. “I had a conversation with Oneonta’s District Leadership Team, and together, we developed a way for small groups in the district to creatively engage the eight principles of Hand to Plow.”

These groups will meet the first hour to focus on loving God, using The Disciple’s Path by James Harnish as a guide. During the second hour, groups will learn together through a brief video session and reflection questions. Groups will conclude each session by asking members to reflect on how they will lead in light of the time they just spent.

The Rev. Vonda Fossitt, pastor at the High Street United Methodist Church in Binghamton, gave examples of two local churches that are creating leaders. The

18 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

Whitney Point UMC has increased connection among members of the congregation by having regular dinners, and the Bergen United Methodist Church has focused on the way in which small groups and retreats have been providing “living water that meets the deep thirst people have.”

Leadership is also involved in planting new churches.

A video about Casa de Dios in Syracuse was played, showcasing how this Spanish-speaking new faith community has grown from seven people to more than 40 people. A video about the Pillar in Rochester, was also shown, illustrating how this new faith community has invited people to come to the table through concerts, comedy shows, and festivals.

Under the Rev. Mark J. Webb’s leadership, it is exciting to see even more leadership success stories arise in local churches throughout the UNY Conference during the next four years.

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A Snippet of Leadership Events hosted by the UNY Conference To understand the UNY Conference’s commitment to leadership development, one only needs to see a listing of leadership-focused events that our conference hosted from Annual Conference 2015-Annual Conference 2016. Here is a snippet of some of those events.

Three Tending the Fire Sessions Tending the Fire offers the perspective and tools to be a more focused, effective leader.

Tending the Soul Retreats Tending the Soul is a program designed to train individuals in Spiritual Direction and Formation, as well teaching skills for leadership within their local congregations, district, and Conference. he training occurs during six retreats, each four days in duration, spread over a two-year period.

Four UNY Leadership Academy Sessions The purpose of the UNY Leadership Academy is to increase the leadership capacity within the Conference, and involves four retreat-style sessions.

“Now What?: Finding Resiliency in Your NFC After the Vision” New Faith Community event Keynote speaker, the Rev. Paul Nixon, author of eight books, and the Director of Path 1 in the Northeast (the new church planting arm of the United Methodist Church) spoke at this weekend retreat.

Evangelism Workshops for Clergy and Laity with the Rev. Jorge Acevedo The Rev. Jorge Acevedo, lead pastor at Grace United Methodist Church in Cape Coral, Fla., conducted four workshops for clergy and laity in Upper New York.

Launchpad Event at First UMC Liverpool Launchpad is BootCamp for anyone who is planting or planning to plant a New Faith Community.

unyumc.org 19

Upper New York Annual Conference Session 2016

RESOLUTIONS and PETITIONS

By Shannon Morehouse

H

ere are the results of each resolution presented. To read the full story, visit http://bit.ly/AC2016_resoultions.

UNYAC2016.1 – Local Church Right to Choose Insurance Provider, withdrawn UNYAC2016.2 – Change District Names, not supported So that all districts are described based on their geographic locale, this resolution called for the following districts to have name changes, effective July 1, 2016, or deferred to the Cabinet for the appropriate change dates: Cornerstone District becomes the Jamestown/Olean District, Crossroads District becomes the Syracuse District, Genesee Valley District becomes the Rochester District, Mountain View District becomes the Corning/Elmira District, Niagara Frontier District becomes the Buffalo/ Niagara District, Northern Flow District becomes the Watertown District UNYAC2016.3 – Restoration of Funding for Campus Ministries, supported with an amendment to include local churches in the process being developed to apply for funds.

This resolution called for an increase in the budget for campus ministries – including $80,000, restoration of the chaplain position at Syracuse University and that this amount increase by $15,000 each of the following three budget years to more fully fund other campus ministries.

It also called for the Conference Board of Higher Educa-

tion to clarify and develop a process by which colleges and universities apply to receive these funds and to advertise and promote the process.

UNYAC2016.4 – Ensuring Support for All Ministries, supported This resolution called for budget salaries for persons involved in ministries outside of the Conference (yet-tobe approved by the Conference) to fall under the “mustpay” or fixed portion of the budget of the UNY Conference.

UNYAC2016.5 – Restoration of Funding of the New York State Council of Churches, not supported This resolution called for the Conference to renew its financial support of New York State Council of Churches (NYSCC) by making a minimal commitment of $10,000 to be taken by a special Conference-wide offering. It also called for the UNY Conference to make a pledge of $20,000 for 2018 and increasing this amount by $2,750 each of the following four budget years to eventually equal $30,000, which is close to the $31,000 that the Conference previously pledged to the NYSCC UNYAC2016.6 – A Call for Budget Transparency, supported This resolution called for the Conference Council on Finance & Administration, beginning in 2018, to provide the Conference members with a detailed accounting of the proposed budget, listing the pay and benefits packages of each salaried employee separately from other operating costs. It also called for “must-pay” items to be marked as such and all “second tier” commitments to be noted.

UNYAC2016.7 – The Many Shades of God’s Hands, withdrawn UNAYC2016.8 – A Resolution to Study and Consider Carbon Pricing, supported This resolution called for the UNY Conference to study the issue of carbon pricing and to consider endorsing – at the 2017 session of Annual Conference – carbon pricing within the United States that is implemented in a structured, predictable way, in a manner that does not hurt persons of low income, and in conjunction with removal of fossil fuel subsidies.

UNYAC2016.9: UNYUMC Responds to Gun Violence, supported This resolution called for the Conference to classify every United Methodist Church as a “weapon-free zone.”

20 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

What will the future hold for Findley Camp & Retreat Center?

By Shannon Morehouse

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

A

t AC2016, there was a lot of deliberation over the resolution to close and sell Findley Camp & Retreat Center. On June 3, the Rev. David Cooke of Findley Lake UMC motioned to refer this resolution to the Trustees and Camp and Retreat Ministries to have them explore more options through conversation with the Family Bible Camp Board, Findley Lake UMC, and Fit 4 Life Ministry, and a recommendation by brought back to the 2017 UNY Annual Conference. This motion passed.

Because of the passion around Camp Findley, Adirondack District Superintendent, the Rev. Bill Mudge brought forth a motion to require every UNY congregation to appoint a Camp and Retreat agent with their leadership selection in 2016 to begin serving in 2017. This motion was also supported.

On June 4, Rev. Cooke proposed a substitute motion to the motion that was supported on June 3. He resolved, that the Board of Trustees be given the authorization, by the Upper New York Annual Conference, to determine the future use of Findley Camp & Retreat Center, based on the conversations with CRM, other interested UMC Cornerstone District congregations, and other interested Cornerstone District parties. If the participating parties have not defined a mutually acceptable alternative

by September 30, 2016, the parties may continue their efforts and the Board of Trustees of the Upper New York Annual Conference, in accordance with paragraph 2516 of The Book of Discipline, hereby may sell the property presently occupied by Camp Findley and hold and restrict the proceeds for capital expenditures for other Camp and Retreat Ministries. This substitute motion was supported as amended.

unyumc.org 21

A worship service lead by young people urges action

By Shannon Morehouse and Kathleen Rubino

O

n June 4, the final day of the 2016 Annual Conference, the a.m. worship service was led by the Conference’s youth. This service mirrored the business of Annual Conference, as young people who spoke the readings raised their cards as UNY members would do during plenary. J.J. Warren acted as Bishop, acknowledging the speakers, who voiced their reading, with a second reading spoken in Spanish.

Former Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM) Co-Chairs Emily Allen and Maya Smith took the stage to give an update on all that has transpired with regards to Conference youth – from Fall Gatherings to Up!Word.

“Overall the events gave us a nudge,” Maya began.

“This is only the beginning of the lives of young people in Upper New York,” Emily added.

As their speech went on, young people formed a line in the front of the room, holding up posters that stated what they have done in the past year.

“As a Church, God calls us to take action,” Emily said.

“How will you affect the lives of the people around you?”

The two former co-chairs then announced the new CCYM co-chairs, Katie Allen and Elyse Muder, and urged the crowd to “keep doing something.”

22 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

Laurel O’Connor, Africa 360 field coordinator, and Riley O’Flynn took the stage for the spoken word, where they professed God’s call to “STOP TALKING AND DO SOMETHING!” Following a rousing rendition of “Build Your Kingdom Here,” Elyse brought forth a motion for the UNY Conference members to strive to live their faith in God by speaking the truth of God’s unconditional love, by living a life of Christ-like mission, sharing their faith through action in the world. The resolution called for members to work together in Christian love and do something to live their faith.

J.J. then opened the floor to discussion, asking the audience to write down what God is calling them to do in the next year on the provided index cards. When finished, he asked them to come forward and attach the index card to one of the giant “to do” lists in the front of the room and discuss what is written on their cards as well as the resolution with those around them as they come forward.

J.J. ended the service, with these words, “The young adults of this Conference want you to know that you are surrounded not only by our love but by God’s love in this place and as you go forth into the world. Oh God, as we leave this time of worship, may we be so enthusiastic with the good news of the gospel that we have no choice but to do something!”

Photos by Dan Wistrup and Matthew Williams

Spoken Words Laurel O’Conner and Riley O’Flynn engaged attendees with their powerful spoken word. Here are some segments that were particularly moving.

Actions Speak Louder than Words Laurel: God is on the side of peace, and on the side of love, and on the side of community. We are heard more when we say less. A hug says more than 1,000 chants on street corners. A meal shared in Jesus’ name around the table says more than witty church signs. Hundreds of youth worshipping together at UpWord says more than the best articles on “reaching young people.” Building ramps and building bridges says more than simply talking about inclusion and equal access.

Riley: People will know we’re Christians not because we tell them, but because of our steps taken. Think of different ways. Put it into action. We’ve already made these steps forward, but we must be careful not to take any back. It’s time to celebrate the current church.

And charge forward into the future of this global community. We are here for a reason, for important work. But that reason is to go. Be strong. Be brave.

Jesus is Action Laurel: “Maybe I just don’t speak committee…Maybe I just don’t fit inside church structures…Maybe a place like this wasn’t made for a person like me.”

Riley: Or maybe it’s something different entirely. Maybe we speak a different language. Maybe we speak in verb.. We live the language of action.

Laurel: John Chapter 1 reads in Spanish, ‘En el principio existia el verbo.’ In the beginning was the verb. The verb was with God, the verb was God. The verb was God. Maybe verbs are God’s language. Pray. Give. Love.

Serve. Go forth and make disciples. Jesus calls us to action because Jesus is action.”

Laurel and Riley: “In the name of God, in honor of the gospel, go forth and do something!”

unyumc.org 23

Resolutions are not only for the New Year. At the June 4 service led by the Conference’s young people, the attendees were asked to write down a resolution they have centered around actively sharing their faith.

24 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

Photos by Dan Wistrup and Matthew Williams

“ Finish my M Div Thesis!”

a chu rch r o f r e “ Vol u nt eeren ce posit ion or conf lea d ership.” of

“Energiz e you t chu rches...w here h in all are in ou r chu no you t h rc find w ays to re hes, let us ac la t ch on to t he h ou t and u n chu rched.”

“Get wired t he chu rch t echnwit h new o l og y !”

bold ly .” e r o m k “ S p ea

“Learn more about pra yer so tha t I may em pow er the lay servants I tea ch to be more connected to God throug h pra yer.”

m en t u r t s n i “ Be a n ha nge.” of c

“ Be a n ea t o s o m r t o l is t e n doesn’t eone w ho f t hey maeel t ha t t t er.”

“H el p ot hers realiz e: ‘I ca n change things too.’”

ood eig h borh n is h t .” “ Wa lk ionships t la e r w ne a nd build

“Tea ch more, p rea ch less.”

“ D e l iv ot he er foo to 1 r gift s d a nd 2 w in m need ly f eekly y co m a m il mu ni ies t y .” unyumc.org 25

More than $773,000 raised for Africa 360 “This Conference dares to dream God-sized dreams...”

By Kathleen Rubino

“

Over the past two years, this Conference has been a part of a grand narrative,” said Laurel O’Connor, Africa 360 field coordinator. “In 2014, we took the unprecedented step of combining the stories of Imagine No Malaria and Africa University, seeking to raise funds to not only save children’s lives but raise up new leaders that are bringing peace and health to their home countries.”

On June 4 at the 2016 Annual Conference session, the people of Upper New York came together to celebrate Africa 360, the Upper New York Conference’s holistic plan for health and education initiatives in Africa.

O’Connor announced that the Conference raised more than $773,000 for Africa 360 – more than $226,000 for Imagine No Malaria and more than $536,000 for Africa University. Within the Conference, 452 congregations have participated in Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb’s challenge for each church to bring $1,000 to AC session for Africa 360.

“This Conference dares to dream God-sized dreams,” Laurel said. “More has been raised for Africa 360 than has ever been raised in this Annual Conference. That’s a God-sized dream fulfilled. More churches have participated in Africa 360 than have ever participated in a shared goal in this Annual Conference. That’s a God-sized dream fulfilled.”

26 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

The Conference raised money for Africa 360 through BobbleWebbs, mosquito net superheroes, youth-led lemonade stands, hoagie drive thrus, concerts, Giving Tuesday, and worship services,.

Laurel raised up the Niagara Frontier District, which raised the most money and had the most churches participating. She also recognized the Saratoga Springs and Endwell United Methodist churches, which raised the most funds in the past year for the campaign, as well as the Cabinet, who made Giving Tuesday a “resounding success.”

“But if your church hasn’t finished its goal yet, or had set a two-year goal, keep working,” she said. “Whether you use the Africa University Bible Study or the Africa 360 Lenten Devotional, there are still resources available.”

“God accomplishes more through us than we could ask or imagine, and that has happened here, through Africa 360,” Laurel said.

Photos by Matthew Williams

The 2017 Conference Budget

CF&A President, Larry Lake

By Shannon Morehouse

A motion was made by Rev. Abigail Browka for CF&A to lead the production of a narrative budget that includes one paragraph describing the ministry and priorities of each line item in our 2018 ministry share budget for the 2017 Annual Conference to be posted on the UNYAC website at least two weeks prior to the 2017 resolutions and petitions deadline of February 1, 2017. Rev. Natalie Hanson of Jamestown UMC brought forth an amendment for this motion that through March and April of 2017, there be regional listening and interpretation gatherings for the entire conference. This would include any other significant actions like sale of properties. Both the motion and amendment were supported.

Saturday morning, the 2017 budget was approved.

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

T

he Conference budget discussion spread across three plenaries at the 2016 Annual Conference: Friday’s afternoon plenary, an added Friday evening plenary, and Saturday’s morning plenary. Following Friday’s shortened dinner break, there was discussion about how the Conference budget reflects our priorities. Two amendments were proposed that would shift funding to ministry areas that saw budget cuts with the proposed budget and spending plan. Both amendments were not supported.

Discussion of the budget continued on Saturday.

Daily update videos a smashing success at Annual Conference

To view the June 2nd recap video, visit vimeo.com/169245344.

To view the June 3rd recap video, visit vimeo.com/169363239.

Each day during the 2016 Upper New York Annual Conference session, the UNY Communications Ministry Area produced daily update videos that recapped the previous day’s highlights in a fun and exciting way.

The videos were played at the beginning of the morning sessions June 3 and 4. The UNY Communications Ministry Area also published a brief recap video of the entire conference.

To view the 2016 Annual Conference recap video, visit vimeo.com/170015651.

unyumc.org 27

Service of Ordination and Commissioning Bishop Webb describes commitments needed to follow God’s calling

Photo by Mary Dalglish

“

...God has given us everything we need to accomplish this task of being the Church in the midst of dark and desperate world.

By Shannon Morehouse

“

shannonmorehouse@unyumc.org

Upper New York Area Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb ended the 2016 session of Annual Conference with the Service of Ordination and Commissioning.

This year there was a diverse age range in those being both ordained and commissioned. There were seven ordinates; the youngest was 29 and the oldest was 63, with 48 being the average age of the group.

There were four commissioners; the youngest was 26 and the oldest was 60, with the average age being 41.

28 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

The seven ordinates were: Pamela R. Carey Gail Ann Falsetti Matthew French John Paul Loeser Rachel Ann Morse Mary Grace Rublee Andrew Peter Sperry The four commissioners were: Stephanie Jo Brown Susan Marie Ranous Kevin Duane Slough Paul D. Winkelman

Bishop Webb’s Ordination sermon concentrated on three commitments for ordinands , commissioners, and the entire crowd to make in order to follow God’s calling.

Commitment # 1: Trust the one who calls Bishop Webb spoke of how people often question or doubt when they receive a call from God, responding, “Are you sure? I don’t think you have the right person. There must be a better plan.”

Bishop Webb said that in order to trust God more deeply, members of the church needed to come to know God more completely, to “allow God to push you into the depths of who God is.” Bishop Webb continued, “God desires people – The Church needs leaders who trust the one who calls - People who are seeking God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength. God is not calling us to be professional Christians, God is calling us to be people who are radical in our pursuit of God and because of that pursuit God will use us to radically change the world in the name of Jesus!”

Commitment # 3: Trust the promise of completion In discussing this commitment, Bishop Webb encouraged the ordinates, commissioners, and the entire crowd not to forget that the work God has begun in them will be completed, no matter what.

He shared stories from the bible, where even when individuals were “down to nothing,” God was “up to something.” For example, he shared the story of Job who lost his livestock, children, and his wealth.

However, God’s faith in Job and Job’s faith in God defeated Satan in a classic spiritual battle. God ended up restoring double-fold what Job had lost.

Commitment # 2: Trust the sufficiency of the one who calls Bishop Webb’s main point regarding this commitment was that God is enough! He said, “Our degrees, our credentials, our skills, our abilities, our strategies, our ideas, [and] our agendas will never be enough! Our leadership will always fall short, our sermons will often fall flat, and our good intentions will still miss the mark. But, God is enough! God has given us everything we need to accomplish this task of being the Church in the midst of dark and desperate world.” Bishop Webb said that if the people of the church truly believed in the sufficiency of God, “we would more boldly share our faith stories, we would more freely give of our resources – we would not be struggling with how to carry out all that we believe God is calling us to, rather we would be carrying it out in ways we can’t even begin to imagine.” Bishop Webb ended his point by asking those about to be commissioned and ordained to lead the members of the Church in trusting the sufficiency of the One who calls.

From the top left: M. French, A. Sperry, J. Loeser, R. Morse, P. Carey. From bottom left: G. Falsetti, M. Rublee. Photo By Dan Wistrup

Bishop Webb ended his sermon by saying how proud he was of the ordinates and commissioners.

He said “You have been called; you have been and will be equipped. The work God has begun in you will be completed.”

As Bishop Webb ordained and commissioned each person, he prayed for them alongside their family members. This service was a powerful reminder to all of God’s nudging. Individuals in the crowd who were feeling God’s nudge to become leaders in the church were encouraged to come forward and speak with current clergy about their calling.

unyumc.org 29

Class of 2016 Mary Grace Rublee Residence: Honeoye Falls Current Appointment: Honeoye Falls UMC MDiv: 2012, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Rochester

O rd ained

Matthew French Residence: Bergen

Current Appointment: Bergen UMC MDiv: Northeastern Seminary

ed O rda in

Rachel Ann Morse Residence: Homer Current Appointment: Homer First UMC

O rd a ine

MDiv: 2010, Union Theological Seminar, New York City

d

Andrew Peter Sperry Residence: Saratoga Springs Current Appointment: Saratoga Springs UMC

O rd a ined

MDiv: 2012, Drew Theological Seminary, Madison, NJ

Gail Ann Falsetti Residence: Schenectady Current Appointment: Burnt Hills UMC

O rd a ined

MDiv: 2014, United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio

30 UNY ADVOCATE 2016, Issue 3

“I believe one of the primary challenges of the Church today is to continue to encourage its members to grow and mature in our own faith. It’s then and only then that we can confidently move outside of the walls of the local church to share the love, grace, forgiveness, and mercy that we’ve received unconditionally from God through our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ.”

“The Gospel of Jesus Christ is still true and relevant, and people today are spiritually thirsty. There is tremendous opportunity for us to be a faithful church in new and exciting ways, which build off our Wesleyan heritage. I am humbled that God would call me for the set apart ministry of an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church at such a time as this.”

“Caring about the earth and about food is how I best care for people. Writing is how I best pastor people. I think I am not jaded, despite the fact that I’m pretty certain that things are going to get harder for everyone. I’m not worried, though. I have courage, and I have an imagination. And better, I’m planning on going wherever God goes.”

“In many ways [my grandfather] was a role model for me; when I was about eight, he taught me a lifelong lesson about God’s love. This message confirmed within me my calling to be a pastor. He explained the unconditional love of God and how God’s love for me can never be broken. I knew then I wanted to tell others about this love, and I haven’t stopped since.”

“I believe that this ministry of ordained elder has always been my vocation, although it took me a long time to realize that. While originally, I had answered the call as a local pastor…My experience serving in ministry has shown me that this vocation as an ordained elder is much more than a career or occupation; it is a lifetime call and commitment to serve in set-apart ministry.”

John Paul Loeser Residence: Kenmore Current Appointment: Wilson: Exley UMC

O rd a ine

d

MDiv: Methodist Theological School, Ohio

Pamela R. Carey Residence: Arkport

Current Appointment: Arkport UMC and Bishopville UMC

O rd a ined

MDiv: 2013, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity school, Rochester

Susan Marie Ranous Residence: Syracuse

Comm D ea conissioned

Certificate in Deacon Studies: Methodist Theological School, Ohio

Paul D. Winkelman Residence: Freeville

i s s io m m o C

n ed

Current Appointment: Freeville and Cortland: Homer Avenue UMC’s MDiv: 2014, United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio

Stephanie Jo Brown Residence: Cortland Current Appointment: Harmony UMC and Varna UMC

Commissioned

MDiv: 2012, Drew Theological Seminary, Madison, NJ

Kevin Duane Slough Residence: Avon

Current Appointment: Elmgrove UMC

io Commiss

n ed

MDiv: 2015, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Rochester

“In 1997, Kenmore UMC, where I was employed as the Maintenance Supervisor, received a new senior pastor, The Rev. Robert Pascoe. Almost immediately Bob saw leadership potential in me. [After several seminars and small groups], I began to feel called into full-time pastoral ministry in June, 2004. After exploring nine seminaries, I began my seminary education at Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO) in August, 2008.”

“I was first aware of my call to ministry as an early teen. I felt called to serve communion, to lead the church. I went on to become a Physical Therapist, to get married and have children. I was active in a Methodist Church…When the pastor (Jeff Losey) suggested that I might like to attend Seminary; I knew that I could no longer ignore the call.”

“My ‘dream job’ would be to use the background in accounting and administration, and my knowledge of stewardship, Scripture, evangelism, worship, theology, mission and policy and doctrine, to help churches, congregations, pastors, Districts and Conferences to fully understand stewardship and to grow their theology of stewardship, to allow all use of their talents, resources andtime to further the work of God.” “Throughout my time working in the fields of education and social work, my faith in Jesus Christ grew.

Throughout life transitions [becoming more involved in the spiritual realm], I grew closer to God, This sense of calling, this sense of service for others, and a great passion for the gospel of Jesus Christ, has led me to answer and continue pursuing this calling from God upon my life.”

“My call to ministry is centered around 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 and John Wesley’s call to always strive for holiness of heart and mind. I have tried to become a person that thirsts for righteousness, strives for peacefulness and attempts to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. I have always tried to be better in the present day than I was in the last.”

“My personal mission statement is to continue: to introduce people to Jesus Christ so that their lives may be reborn, empowered, and equipped to share the same love and hope that I have encountered with Jesus. Following the past 10 wonderful years pastoral ministry I look forward to the next 10, 20, or even 30 years of ministry serving my Lord and Savior,Jesus Christ!” unyumc.org 31

324 University Ave., 3rd Floor Syracuse, NY 13210