2019 Upper New York Conference Journal, Volume I

Tenth Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference June 5-8, 2019: Vol. 1

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Letter from Upper New York Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb ...............................................................4

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Letter from Upper NY Conference Lay Leader, Susan Hardy .................................................................5

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Holy Conferencing Principles of the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church ...........6

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Organizational Motion .......................................................................................................................7

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Consent Calendar...............................................................................................................................9

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2019 Annual Conference Agenda Draft ............................................................................................. 10

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Recommendations ........................................................................................................................... 12

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Narrative Budget ..................................................................................................................................... 13

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Recommendation from the Board of Pension and Health Benefits ....................................................... 45

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Recommendation from Equitable Compensation, Commission on (CEC) .............................................. 47

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Recommendation from Camp and Retreat Ministries............................................................................ 49

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Recommendation from The Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel - Sovereign Debt of Countries Involved in Prolonged Military Operations ............................................................................ 50

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Cattaraugus United Methodist Church ........................ 53

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church ................. 54

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Friend United Methodist Church ................................. 55

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – McDonough United Methodist Church ........................ 56

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Newcomb United Methodist Church ........................... 57

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Open Meadows United Methodist Church .................. 58

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Plymouth United Methodist Church ............................ 59

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church .... 60

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – South Byron United Methodist Church ........................ 61

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church ...................... 63

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Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church .......... 64

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Resolutions and Petitions ................................................................................................................. 65

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UNYAC2019.1 - Action of Nonconformity with the General Conference of The United Methodist Church ..................................................................................................................................................... 66

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UNYAC2019.2 - UNYAC Response to Actions of 2019 General Conference ........................................... 82

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UNYAC2019.3 - A Call for Structural Change .......................................................................................... 88

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UNYAC2019.4 - Create a Team to Consider Processes for Future Movement of Congregations........... 89

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UNYAC2019.5 - Discerning Gifts and Graces for Ministry Without Partiality ......................................... 93

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UNY2019.6 - UNYUMC AU Scholarship Named for the Rev. Ann Stanton Blair ..................................... 98

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UNYAC2019.7 – UNYAC AU Scholarship Named for - Virgia Phoenix ................................................... 100

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UNYAC2019.8 - Caring for LGBTQAI+ Ministry Candidates .................................................................. 102

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UNYAC2019.9 - Assisting with the Interpretation of Speeches by Ecumenical Inter-Faith Leaders .... 103

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UNYAC2019.10 - Let’s Talk About Sex .................................................................................................. 105

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UNYAC2019.11 – A Call for Attention to the Worth of All Immigrants ................................................ 108

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UNYAC2019.12 - Standards for Conference Leadership by Bishop’s Appointment ............................. 109

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UNYAC2019.13 - Standards for Conference Leadership by Nominations ............................................ 111

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GC2020.1 - A Way Forward: Pursuing a Considered and Cooperative Schism ..................................... 112

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GC2020.2 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform A.......................................................... 114

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GC2020.3 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform B .......................................................... 115

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GC2020.4 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform C .......................................................... 116

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GC2020.5 - Reducing Resources in Construction .................................................................................. 118

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GC2020.6 - Assessing Local Church Potential Reform .......................................................................... 120

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GC2020.7 - Clergy Compensation Reform ............................................................................................ 122

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GC2020.8 - Mandatory Retirement Age ............................................................................................... 124

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GC2020.9 - Pastoral Definition Reform ................................................................................................. 125

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GC2020.9 - Pastoral Definition Reform ................................................................................................. 126

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GC2020.10 - General Conference Delegate Reform A .......................................................................... 127

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GC2020.11 - General Conference Delegate Reform B .......................................................................... 129

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GC2020.12 - Add Domestic Violence to the List of Chargeable Offenses............................................. 130

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GC2020.13 - Mission Reform A ............................................................................................................. 134

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GC2020.14 - Mission Reform B ............................................................................................................. 135

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GC2020.15 - Mission Reform C ............................................................................................................. 137

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GD2020.16 - Mission Reform D ............................................................................................................ 139

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Reports (Conference Teams) .......................................................................................................... 140

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Archives and History, Commission on (CAH) ........................................................................................ 142

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Camp and Retreat Ministries, Committee on (CCRM) .......................................................................... 143

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College Ministry Team (CMT)................................................................................................................ 145

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Conference Communications................................................................................................................ 146

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Connectional Ministries ........................................................................................................................ 148

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Episcopacy, Committee on (COE) ......................................................................................................... 149

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Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A) ............................................................... 150

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Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of ......................................................................................... 151

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Lay Servant Ministries ........................................................................................................................... 153

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New Faith Communities........................................................................................................................ 155

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Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM) ......................................................................... 156

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Ordained Ministry, Board of (BOM) ...................................................................................................... 157

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Pension & Health Benefits, Conference Board Of (CBOPHB) ............................................................... 160

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Religion & Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR) ........................................................................ 162

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Safe Sanctuaries Team .......................................................................................................................... 163

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United Methodist Men (UMM)............................................................................................................. 164

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United Methodist Women (UMW) ....................................................................................................... 167

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Vital Congregation ................................................................................................................................ 168

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Volunteers in Mission (VIM) ................................................................................................................. 169

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Young Adult Ministries .......................................................................................................................... 171

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Youth Ministries, Conference Council on (CCYM) ................................................................................ 172

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Reports (Connected Organizations) ................................................................................................ 173

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Africa University .................................................................................................................................... 174

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Boston University School of Theology .................................................................................................. 175

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Candler School of Theology .................................................................................................................. 177

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Drew University Theological School...................................................................................................... 179

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Higher Education and Ministry, General Board of (GBHEM) ................................................................ 180

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Methodist Theological School in Ohio .................................................................................................. 181

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New York State Council of Churches ..................................................................................................... 182

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United Theological Seminary ................................................................................................................ 184

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Letter from Upper New York Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb Dear sisters and brothers of the Upper New York Area, Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus the Christ!

Very shortly, we will gather for the annual session of the Upper New York Conference of The United Methodist Church. Together, we will have the opportunity to acknowledge the many ways God is at work in our individual lives, our life as the body of Christ and in the life of the world among us. In a fresh way, we will proclaim our identity as followers of Jesus Christ and renew our commitment to the mission of partnering with God ‘to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world”.

The 2019 Annual Conference session will be filled with times of worship, study, fellowship, and, of course, some important times of discernment, conversation, and decision. These are uncertain days within the life of The United Methodist Church and the time we will spend in holy conferencing will allow us to embrace who we are in relation to God, one another, and the world around us, as we fully understand the awesome privilege and responsibility we have to boldly be the Church in the 21st century!

Our theme this year is Together in Prayer – Moving Beyond Our Comfort Zones. Through all we do during our time together, we will be guided by the truth and promise that we have been invited and fully equipped by God to accept and share in a fresh, bold way the transforming work of God’s amazing grace in our lives and in the lives of others.

We will be blessed to have the Rev. Dr. Vance Ross, pastor of the historic Central UMC in Atlanta GA and Dean of the Chapel of Spiritual Life at Emory University as our study leader. Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball, resident bishop of the West Virginia Area of The United Methodist Church will be our preacher for the Service of Commissioning and Ordination on Saturday, June 8, 2019. Our own Rev. Dr. Sherri Rood will be the preacher for our annual Memorial Service.

As we worship throughout our time together, we will have multiple opportunities to offer our financial gifts to undergird some very exciting ministries. We will receive offerings that will support our “Clergy Care Fund” (financial assistance for clergy and families), our “Helping Hands Fund” (financial assistance for laity of our congregations), the NEJ Mission of Peace, New Faith Community Development and the UNY Mission Central Hub. We will have the awesome task of electing delegates to the 2020 General and Jurisdictional Conferences, as well as discussing and acting upon reports, petitions, and recommendations. The pages in this workbook will prepare you to engage fully in all that we will consider when we gather. I hope you will take the time to read each report and every page. I urge you to surround your reading, preparation and consideration in prayer.

I am grateful to be a part of this place called Upper New York, and to share the journey of ministry with each of you.

God is accomplishing amazing things in us and through us and for everything God has called us to in the days ahead, God has promised all that we need! I know we are ready to allow God to use us in ways we have not yet dreamed or imagined. So, come prepared for an amazing experience of faith, community, and celebration, as we gather June 5-8, 2019 at the Oncenter in Syracuse.

I look forward to greeting you, worshipping with you, and watching what God will do as we live Together in Prayer – Moving Beyond Our Comfort Zones.

Mark J. Webb Resident Bishop, Upper New York Area

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Letter from Upper NY Conference Lay Leader, Susan Hardy May the peace of Christ be with us, as we prepare to gather for the Tenth Session of our Upper New York 2019 Annual Conference!

Do you remember your first experience of Annual Conference? I was amazed then, and continue to be gratefully impressed each year, by the powerful scholarship of the bible study leaders, the excellence of shared worship services, and the engaging music throughout our times to gather. And I always witness some of the most convicting messages ever in the sermons of Bishop Webb and our young people. Praise be to God for such active discipleship!

But, in my first experience of Annual Conference, I also felt a bit overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of UMC participants, the skillful wielding of Robert’s Rules of Order by a few, and the enormous amount of business to be conducted in a few days. I was not alone in this. You will not be alone, either.

Therefore, family in Christ, here are some things I learned from that first experience, and would like to remember for each UNY Annual Conference: • • • • •

Read through the documents in our Journal Part I before we gather together.

Contact the authors of any resolutions or petitions that raise questions that you wish to have explained before we meet to vote on them.

Have a working knowledge of Robert’s Rules of order—but do not fear going to a microphone, because someone (often our Bishop) will help frame and clarify questions.

Bring a jacket, or a wrap. The air conditioning can be a bit frosty.

Make friends with someone who knows where to find coffee/snacks/help.

We are called by God, each and every one of us, through the power of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of Jesus Christ, to be God’s family. May we gather in peace and courage, to be “Together in Prayer-Moving Beyond our Comfort Zones” for this 2019 Upper New York Annual Conference.

Grateful for God’s grace and peace, Susan Hardy UNY Conference Lay Leader, 2016-2020

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Holy Conferencing Principles of the Northeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church Ephesians 4:3 [Make] every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace • • • • •

Every person is a child of God. Listen before speaking.

Strive to understand from another’s point of view.

Speak about issues; do not defame persons. Disagree without being disagreeable.

Pray, in silence or aloud, before decisions. Let prayer interrupt your busyness.

Strive to accurately reflect the view of others.

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Organizational Motion 1. This is the tenth session of the Upper New York Conference held on June 5-8, 2019 at Syracuse Oncenter, Syracuse, N.Y. 2. The session shall be governed by the rules of General Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Roberts Rules of Order 11th edition shall govern all procedural questions where the rules of General Conference cannot be applied.

3. Holy Conferencing affirms our covenant with God and one another. At any time during the proceedings, the bishop may call for a moment of discernment and prayer before a vote is taken.

4. The published agenda available on the website shall be the official agenda for the Annual Conference.

Questions about the agenda may be directed to the executive assistant to the bishop.

5. All reports without recommendations shall be placed on the consent calendar. The Bishop’s Address to the Conference, the Report of the Conference Lay Leader and the Superintendents’ Report are automatically exempt from this rule. Further, upon proper motion from the floor, any report may be lifted from the consent calendar and placed on the agenda by a one-third vote of the Conference body.

6. The roll call of attendance shall be taken from credential cards presented at the time of registration.

7. Lay members are those specified by the 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶32, Article I. Selection of Lay Equalization Members, as required in ¶32, Article I. was determined according to the Rules for Determining and Selecting Lay members to the Annual Conference, adopted by the Committee on Sessions on February 14, 2011.

8. Clergy entitled to vote are those specified by the 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶602, subject to the limitations contained in the same paragraph.

9. The voting area of the Conference [“bar of the Conference”] shall be the floor area of the convention center. Guest and non-members may be seated in the designated visitor seating area. Persons standing or seated outside the bar of the Conference shall have no voice on legislative matters or balloting.

10. Securing the Floor: Conference members wishing to speak to the Conference shall raise their colored placard at their seat and wait to be recognized by the Bishop. When recognized they shall move to the nearest microphone. Please state your name, and your church (laity) or appointment (clergy).

11. To ensure the accuracy of the minutes and faithfulness to the intention of the mover, motions and amendments from the floor must be submitted in writing to the Secretary of the Conference on a form provided for this purpose. A copy of the written motion or amendment will be provided by the author to the secretary after the amendment has been made. No motion or amendment will be voted on unless it is provided in writing. To facilitate this, as a motion or amendment is made, members of the conference staff or volunteers will provide the speaker with the proper form documenting the motion or amendment. The documented motion or amendment will be taken to the conference

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secretary by the conference staff or volunteer. A copy will be provided to the author as soon as possible.

12. No person shall speak more than once upon the same question and shall be limited to not more than three minutes, except the maker of the resolution or the chairperson of the agency submitting the resolution, who shall have up to five minutes to open and three minutes to close debate.

13. The Journal Editor shall have sole authority to edit, condense, organize and print the Upper New York Conference Journal/Yearbook. All material from this session must be submitted in writing by no later than July 1, 2019.

14. The Director of Communications shall be responsible for reporting to the general periodicals of The United Methodist Church and secular news media. All references for printing by the Conference official publication shall be subject to editing and condensing by the editor.

15. No material may be distributed within the bar of the annual conference sessions without prior review of the Agenda Committee of the UNY Sessions team: Rev. Nola Anderson (Dean of Cabinet), Susan Hardy (Conference Lay Leader), and Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding (Director of Connectional Ministries).

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Consent Calendar

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Camp and Retreat Ministries, Committee on (CCRM)

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College Ministry Team (CMT)

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Conference Communications

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Connectional Ministries

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Episcopacy, Committee on (COE)

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Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A)

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Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of

Archives and History, Commission on (CAH)

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Lay Servant Ministries

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New Faith Communities

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Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM)

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Ordained Ministry, Board of (BOM)

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Pension & Health Benefits, Conference Board Of (CBOPHB)

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Religion & Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR)

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Safe Sanctuaries Team

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United Methodist Men (UMM)

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United Methodist Women (UMW)

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Vital Congregation

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Volunteers in Mission (VIM)

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Young Adult Ministries

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Youth Ministries, Conference Council on (CCYM)

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2019 Annual Conference Agenda Draft Wednesday, June 5, 2019 7 AM – Check-in & Registration opens 9:30 AM - Blessing of the space 10 AM – Opening Worship – Offering for Mission Central Hub 11:30 – 12:30 PM Lunch 1:30 PM – Circle Conversation 3 – 5:15 PM Clergy Session – Offering for Clergy Care Fund Laity Session – Offering for Helping Hands 5:30 PM Dinner 5:30 PM UNY Awards Dinner (Invitation Only) 7:30 – 10 PM Plenary 11 PM – Last Bus Thursday, June 6, 2019 7 AM - Check-in & Registration opens 8 AM - Gathering Music 8:15 AM – Teaching Time: Rev. Vance Ross 9:15 AM – Short Break 9:30 AM – Plenary 11:30 – 12:30 PM - Lunch /Affinity Group luncheons at Reserved Tables 11:30 - Extension Ministry Luncheon (Invitation Only) 1:30 PM Plenary 5:30 PM – Dinner Memorial Dinner (by invitation only) 7:30 PM – Memorial Service 9 PM – Ordination Rehearsal 11 PM – Last Bus Friday, June 7, 2019 7 AM - Check-in & Registration opens 8 AM – Gathering Music 8:15 AM – Teaching Time: Rev. Vance Ross 9:30 AM – Plenary 12:15 – 1:30 pm- Lunch/CORR sponsored workshops (4) 1:30 PM – Plenary 5:30 PM – Dinner Ordinand and retiree dinner (by invitation only) 7:30 PM – Blessing & Anointing Service 8:30 – 10 PM Plenary 11 PM – Last Bus

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Saturday, June 8, 2019 8 AM – Gathering Music 8:15 AM – Worship led by the Young Adults and Youth – Offering for Mission of Peace 9:30 AM – Plenary 12:15 PM 1:30 PM – Lunch 2 PM – Ordination – Bishop Sandra Steiner-Ball preaching – Offering for New Faith Community planting Voting for General and Jurisdictional Conferences will take place during Plenary Sessions.

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Recommendations 12

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Narrative Budget 13

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Recommendation from the Board of Pension and Health Benefits Housing/Rental Allowance 2020 The Upper New York Conference adopts the Housing/Rental Exclusion Resolution which designates 100% of United Methodist pension, severance or disability income as housing exclusion in accordance with IRS Code section 107 for the year January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020 as follows: WHEREAS, the religious denomination known as The United Methodist Church (THE “Church”), of which this Conference is a part, has in the past functioned and continues to function through Ministers of the Gospel (within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code section 107) who were or are duly ordained, commissioned, or licensed ministers of the Church (“Clergypersons”); and, WHEREAS, the practice of the Church and of this Conference was and is to provide active Clergypersons with a parsonage or a rental/housing allowance as part of their gross compensation; and, WHEREAS, pensions or other amounts paid to active, retired, terminated, and disabled Clergypersons are considered to be deferred compensation and are paid to active, retired, terminated, and disabled Clergypersons in consideration of previous active service; and, WHEREAS, the Internal Revenue Service has recognized that the Conference (or its predecessors) as an appropriate organization to designate a rental/housing allowance for Clergypersons who are or were members of this Conference and are eligible to receive such deferred compensation.

Therefore, be it resolved 1. That an amount equal to 100% of the pension, severance, or disability payments received from plans authorized under The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church (the “Discipline”), which includes all such payments from Wespath, also known as the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits, during the period January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020, by each active, retired, terminated, or disabled Clergyperson who is or was a member of the Conference, or its predecessors, be and is hereby designated as a rental/housing allowance for each such Clergyperson; and 2. That the pension, severance, or disability payments to which this rental/housing allowance designation applies shall be any pension, severance, or disability payments from plans, annuities, or funds authorized under the Discipline, including such payments from Wespath and from a commercial annuity company contracted by Wespath to provide an annuity arising from benefits accrued under a General Church plan, annuity, or fund authorized under the Discipline, that result from any service a Clergyperson rendered to this Conference or that an active, a retired, a terminated, or a disabled Clergyperson of this Conference rendered to any local church, annual conference of the Church, general agency of the Church, other institution of the Church, former denomination that is now a part of the Church, or any other employer that employed the Clergyperson to perform services related to the ministry of the Church, or its predecessors, and that elected to make contributions to, or accrue a benefit under, such a plan, annuity, or fund for such an active, a retired, a terminated, or a disabled Clergyperson’s pension, severance, or disability plan benefit as part of his or her gross compensation.

NOTE: The rental/housing allowance that may be excluded from a Clergyperson's gross income in any year for federal (and, in most cases, state) income tax purposes is limited under Internal Revenue Code section

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107(2), and regulations thereunder, to the lesser of: 1) the amount of the rental/housing allowance designated by the Clergyperson's employer or other appropriate body of the Church (such as this Conference in the foregoing resolutions) for such year; 2) the amount actually expended by the Clergyperson to rent or provide a home in such year; or, 3) the fair rental value of the home, including furnishings and appurtenances (such as a garage), plus the cost of utilities in such year. Each Clergyperson or former Clergyperson is urged to consult with his or her own tax advisor to determine what deferred compensation is eligible to be claimed as a housing allowance exclusion.

Submitted by: Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits

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Recommendation from Equitable Compensation, Commission on (CEC) The mission of the Commission on Equitable Compensation is to help struggling local churches to establish sound financial footing, so they can build leadership capacity, make disciples, and transform the world.

The Commission on Equitable Compensation administers funds used to support clergy salaries for churches with pastors appointed full time where those churches are temporarily unable to meet minimum compensation standards.

It is our policy to support churches that demonstrate the potential for moving back to full self-funding.

The Commission on Equitable Compensation works with the Bishop’s Cabinet to encourage right–sizing appointments and other local church staffing, to prevent the need for conference support. In 2018 we once again saw a reduction in the number of churches requesting funding, which is a sign that the downsizing efforts of the cabinet are helping. For the spring of 2019, however, the number is up slightly.

In addition, we have created a line for Missional Grants which is being administered by the Bishop’s Cabinet along with the Sustentation Grants and the Appointment Grants. Along with these changes we have also added to the grant request requirements that the churches participate in the Vital Signs Dashboard program.

We are responsible for bringing to the Annual Conference Session, recommendations with respect to the Minimum Compensation Base, the increment for years of service, and any other measures that would insure that our clergy are fairly supported in their work.

This year we bring three recommendations for approval: The Minimum Base Compensation (remains unchanged), the increased increment amount for years of service, and the additional amount for a multiple pastoral charge (remains unchanged).

Minimum Base Compensation 1. We recommend for 2020 that the standardized minimum base compensation that was established for the Upper New York Annual Conference effective January 1, 2017 stay the same. Those minimum base salaries are set according to credential level, for all full time clergy persons as noted below: (No Changes)

Full connection (elders & deacons): Provisional (elders & deacons): Associate: FT LP completed Course of Study or MDiv: FT Local Pastor: 33 34

Base $39,984 $38,556 $37,842 $37,128 $35,700

(Less than full time appointments shall receive a base salary pro-rated according to the appointment.)

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2. With the following recommendation, we will reach our goal of a yearly increment equal to 1% of the minimum base compensation for each credential level for up to 25 years of full time equivalent service. We recommend the following increment amounts for 2020:

Full connection (elders & deacons): Provisional (elders & deacons): Associate: FT LP completed Course of Study or MDiv: FT Local Pastor: 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Increment $400 $386 $378 $371 $357

These increments are based on full-time employment years for service up to 25 years.

3. We recommend that an additional $500 for each additional church on the pastoral charge (over one), not adjusted for part-time appointments remain in place. (Unchanged) 4. We recommend that no pastor’s salary can be decreased as a result of this policy, as long as they retain their current appointment. (Unchanged) 5. All churches are encouraged to offer a salary increase of no less than the 10-year average increase in the consumer price index in order to account for increases in the costs of living. Churches are encouraged to consider further raises based on exceptional service.

There are no changes to the Clergy Housing Policy for 2020.

There are no changes to the Accountable Reimbursement Plan policy for 2020.

The members of the Commission on Equitable Compensation for 2018-19 have included: Lauren Swanson (Chair for 2017-2018), Paula Kuempel (Chair for 2018-2019), Lynne Blake, Penny Brink, Sean Chanthasone, De Dunn, Peggi Eller, Bill Hatfield, Robyn Hays, Patience Kisakye, Pam Klotzbach, John Laskowski, Ray Noell, Nancy Rhodes, Mitchel Smith, and Ex Officio Members: Bob Flask, Bill GottschalkFielding, Susan Latessa, Vicki Swanson; Cabinet Representative: Rich Weihing, and Conference Staff Support: Julie Valeski.

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Recommendation from Camp and Retreat Ministries Designation of Sale Proceeds WHEREAS, the Western New York Conference approved the sale of vacant land (three lakeside wooded lots) on the Asbury Retreat Center (formerly Camp Asbury) parcel per the 2008 Journal; and WHEREAS, the Western New York Conference resolved that the net sale proceeds from the sale of the land be restricted as a permanent endowment fund solely for the purpose of providing earnings for scholarships at either Camp Asbury or Camp Findley; and WHEREAS, following the 2008 resolution, the sale of the lakeside wooded lots did not immediately proceed since negotiations still needed to occur with the Silver Lake Institute over the amount that it was entitled to from the proceeds and these negotiations were finally completed in 2018; and WHEREAS, at the June 19, 2010 Uniting Session of the new Upper New York Annual Conference, the new Conference approved a resolution stating that any, and all standing resolutions of the four New York Conferences, including the Western New York Conference, were repealed and rescinded; and WHEREAS, after the merger of the four New York Conferences in 2010, there was a need to assess our overall real estate holdings and undertake a strategic plan process for the new merged Conference’s camp operations, which included the former Camp Asbury; and WHEREAS, upon the recommendation from the Committee on Camp and Retreat Ministries (CCRM) in 2018, the Upper New York Conference Trustees (“Trustees”) approved the sale of the land and the terms of such sale and the closings finally were completed on June 27, 2018; and WHEREAS, the Upper New York Conference no longer owns Camp Findley; and WHEREAS, the Upper New York Conference has repurposed Camp Asbury into a year-round retreat center now known as Asbury Retreat Center; and WHEREAS, Asbury Retreat Center does not offer summer camp programs; and WHEREAS, CCRM has recommended to the Trustees and the Trustees have agreed that the net sale proceeds of the lakeside wooded lots ($367,680, after payment of closing costs and payment to the Silver Lake Institute) be used for capital improvements at the Asbury Retreat Center.

NOW THEREFORE, upon motion being made, seconded and carried, the following resolution was adopted at the annual meeting of the Upper New York Conference: BE IT RESOLVED, that the internal restriction to place the net sale proceeds of the lakeside wooded lots in a permanent endowment fund is hereby rescinded, and further BE IT RESOLVED, that the net sale proceeds of the lakeside wooded lots, including the principal and any income, shall be used for capital improvements at the Asbury Retreat Center as recommended by CCRM and approved by the Trustees.

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Recommendation from The Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel Sovereign Debt of Countries Involved in Prolonged Military Operations Book of Discipline (¶): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rational: Whereas, “sovereign debt” is a term used to describe bonds that are issued by a nation’s government as a means of borrowing money from organizations or persons who purchase the bonds; and Whereas, the money raised from the sale of such bonds can be used at the discretion of the government that issues the bonds; and Whereas, holders (buyers) of government bonds are therefore on record as supporting, through their purchase, whatever activities the country that issues (sells) the bonds may choose to do; and Whereas, the Human Rights Investment Guideline of Wespath Benefits and Investments (formerly named the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits), an administrative agency of The United Methodist Church, states: “Wespath also may exclude from investment the sovereign debt of any country demonstrating a prolonged and systematic pattern of human rights abuses…,” Whereas, in addition, The United Methodist Church, through its general agencies and annual conferences, strives to be accountable to our Social Principles through screening against investment in military occupations; and Whereas, The United Methodist Church’s Social Principles state: “…we endorse the United Nations, its related bodies, the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court as the best instruments now in existence to achieve a world of justice and law,” (The United Methodist Social Principles, ¶165.D); and Whereas, three nations have held subject populations under prolonged military occupation: Morocco has occupied Western Sahara since 1976; Turkey has occupied Northern Cyprus since 1974; Israel has occupied the Palestinian territories since 1967, thus denying the subject populations their selfdetermination in violation of the system established by the Charter of the United Nations and International Law in general, and Whereas, the above-named occupying powers have been named by United Nations Security Council resolutions and/or International Court of Justice rulings as having engaged in prolonged military occupations and are thereby violators of international law and are responsible for human rights abuses, generally including reduction of food assistance to refugees, failure to protect civilian persons, land confiscation, home demolition, and violence against civilians; and Whereas, Amos 5:24 says “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” and Psalm 103:6 says “The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed,”

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Therefore be it resolved that the Upper New York Annual Conference prayerfully calls upon the boards and agencies throughout the connection and its own investment managers to add to their human rights guidelines explicit language with regard to governmental debt so as to exclude those governments maintaining a prolonged military occupation that have been the subject of United Nations Security Council resolutions and/or International Court of Justice rulings, and to align their portfolios accordingly, avoiding the governmental debt of each such country until the time when each government ends their military occupation; and Therefore, be it further resolved that the churches in the Upper New York Annual Conference who have investments prayerfully consider with their own investment managers excluding from their investment portfolios governmental debt from governments maintaining a prolonged military occupation that have been the subject of United Nations Security Council resolutions and/or International Court of Justice rulings until the time when each government ends their military occupation, and Therefore, be it further resolved that the Upper New York Annual Conference submit this resolution to the General Conference 2020.

Date of submission: March 7, 2019 Submitted by: The Upper New York Task Force on Peace with Justice in Palestine/Israel Linda Bergh, Co-Chair 116 Edna St., Syracuse NY 13205 315-492-8507 lindagaryberg@gmail.com Bellevue Heights UMC – Syracuse Leah Mae Carlisle, Co-Chair 437 Lachenauer Drive, Watertown, NY 13601 315-778-7511 leahtomc@gmail.com Asbury UMC – Watertown Karen Peterson, Co-Chair 116 Greenridge Drive, Horseheads, NY 14845 607-739-3141, 607-333--2269 dpeterson1@stny.rr.com Horseheads UMC – Horseheads Task Force Members: The Rev. Merle Showers 401 Highgate, Buffalo, NY 14215 716-862-4235, 716-390-7084 cell revshowers@gmail.com University UMC – Buffalo Elizabeth Woolever 240 Cobb Terrace, Rochester, NY 14620

49 585-355-4381 50 ewoolever03@gmail.xom

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Asbury First – Rochester

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Elaine Chorley 4765 Rosemary Lane, Liverpool, NY 13088 grma03@outlook.com Gethsemane UMC Dianne Roe 90 West Market Street, Corning, NY 14830 607-654-3450 vineandfig@aol.com First UMC – Corning Bob Long 833 Oregon Avenue, Niskayuna, NY 12309 518-372-1083 bikealong2@nycap.rr.com Retired UM Pastor relating with First UMC Schenectady Donald Snyder 6018 Unionville Road, Bath, NY 14810 dongrace52@hotmail.com Centenary UMC – Bath Thomas D. Carlisle 437 Lachenauer Drive, Watertown, NY 13601 tdcremodel@gmail.com 315-778-7510 Asbury UMC - Watertown Grace Snyder 6018 Unionville Rd., Bath, NY 14810 dongrace52@hotmail.com Centenary UMC – Bath Ron Bretsch 7 Elm Street, Norwood. NY 13668 315-353-2735 bretscra@potsdam.edu Norwood UMC – Norwood Rev. Dr. Duane W. Priset Retired Pastor 6425 Salt Road, Clarence, NY 14031 716 228-4185 eilikrineias@icloud.com Attend: Marilla UMC & Williston UMC

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Christine Root 7 N Meadow Circle, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-384-5506 christiew067@gmail.com Saratoga Springs UMC Elaine and Gary Doupe 243 Mt. Pleasant Rd, Bainridge, NY 13733-3224 607-743-5062 gary@doupe.com ehendickson001@stny.rr.com First UMC – Bainbridge, NY

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Cattaraugus United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Cattaraugus United Methodist Church was organized in 1857, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 162 years; WHEREAS, on June 12, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Cattaraugus United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Cattaraugus United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Cattaraugus United Methodist Church from June 30, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Cattaraugus United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on June 12, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Cattaraugus United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Cattaraugus United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Cattaraugus United Methodist Church be transferred to the Wesley United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church was organized in May 24, 1894 and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 124 years; WHEREAS, on January 09, 2019, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church from December 31, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on January 09, 2019 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Elmira: Riverside United Methodist Church be transferred to the Elmira: New Beginnings United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Friend United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Friend United Methodist Church was organized in 1855 and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 163 years; WHEREAS, on August 30, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Friend United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Friend United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Friend United Methodist Church from July 31, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Friend United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on August 30, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Friend United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Friend United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Friend United Methodist Church be transferred to the Penn Yan or Yatesville United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – McDonough United Methodist Church WHEREAS McDonough United Methodist Church was organized in 1832, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 186 years; WHEREAS on July 16, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that McDonough United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the McDonough United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the McDonough United Methodist Church from July 05, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that McDonough United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on July 16, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the McDonough United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the McDonough United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the McDonough United Methodist Church be transferred to the Oxford United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Newcomb United Methodist Church WHEREAS Newcomb United Methodist Church was organized in 1875, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 143 years; WHEREAS on October 17, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Newcomb United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Newcomb United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Newcomb United Methodist Church from October 31, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Newcomb United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on October 17, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Newcomb United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Newcomb United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Newcomb United Methodist Church be transferred to the Long Lake United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Open Meadows United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Open Meadows United Methodist Church was organized in November 19, 1990, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 29 years; WHEREAS, on January 09, 2019, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Open Meadows United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Open Meadows United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Open Meadows United Methodist Church from January 19, 2019 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Open Meadows United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on January 09, 2019 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Open Meadows United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Open Meadows United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Open Meadows United Methodist Church be transferred to the Magnolia United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Plymouth United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Plymouth United Methodist Church was organized in 1845, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 174 years; WHEREAS, on January 24, 2019, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Plymouth United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Plymouth United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Plymouth United Methodist Church from January 31, 2019 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Plymouth United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on January 24, 2019 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Plymouth United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Plymouth United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Plymouth United Methodist Church be transferred to the Norwich: Broad Street United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church was organized in 1895, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 123 years; WHEREAS, on September 12, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church from September 12, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on September 12, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that pursuant to provisions of Discipline 2549[3], title to all the real and personal tangible and intangible property of Rochester West Avenue United Methodist Church is immediately vested in the Upper New York Conference of the United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees and the payment of expenses, be allocated and transferred to the New Horizon Faith Center; RESOLVED, that the membership of the Rochester: West Avenue United Methodist Church be transferred to the New Horizon Faith Center United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – South Byron United Methodist Church WHEREAS, South Byron United Methodist Church was organized in December 3, 1951 and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 68 years; WHEREAS, the Rev. Vonda Fossitt the Genesee Valley District Superintendent, comprehensively assessed South Byron United Methodist Church’s past, present and potential ministry, after prayerfully and extensively meeting with, listening to and guiding the congregation; WHEREAS, the members of the South Byron United Methodist Church convened at a duly noticed Church Conference held on November 3, 2018 and voted in favor of closing the church pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; WHEREAS, the District Superintendent determined that South Byron United Methodist Church no longer serves the purpose for which it was organized and recommended that it be closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline; WHEREAS, in relation to the proposed closure, the District Superintendent recommended that control and possession of all real and personal property of the South Byron United Methodist Church vest in the Annual Conference Trustees, and all real and personal property of the South Byron United Methodist Church be transferred to the Annual Conference, and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference, and that the balance of the assets formerly of the South Byron United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); WHEREAS, the District Superintendent recommended that the membership of South Byron United Methodist Church be transferred other United Methodist churches as the individual members select; and WHEREAS, Bishop Mark J. Webb, a majority of the District Superintendents, and the Genesee Valley District Board of Church Location and Building received and consented to the District Superintendent’s closure recommendations; RESOLVED, that South Byron United Methodist Church is closed June 30, 2019; and it is further RESOLVED, that control and possession of all real and personal property formerly held in trust by South Byron United Methodist Church is hereby vested in the Annual Conference Trustees, and that the Annual Conference Trustees are authorized to sell and convey the real estate in accordance with market conditions; and it is further RESOLVED, that following the sale of the real estate, the balance of the assets formerly of the South Byron United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and it is further RESOLVED, that all real and personal property of the South Byron United Methodist Church be and hereby is transferred to the Annual Conference, and that the balance of the assets formerly of the South Byron United

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Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the South Byron United Methodist Church be transferred to other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church was organized in 1839 and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 179 years; WHEREAS, on November 13, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church from November 13, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on November 13, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that pursuant to provisions of Discipline 2549[3], title to all the real and personal tangible and intangible property of Utica Asbury United Methodist Church is immediately vested in the Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all real and personal property be transferred and conveyed to the New Hartford United Methodist Church, in trust, provided that 75% of the net assets received by New Hartford UMC, after payment of expenses by New Hartford UMC, are administered and used in direct support of new faith communities in the greater Utica urban area in consultation with Rev. David Masland, Director of Upper New York New Faith Communities; and RESOLVED, that the membership of the Utica: Asbury United Methodist Church be transferred to the New Hartford United Methodist Church, or other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Resolution for the Closure of a Local Church – Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church WHEREAS, Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church was organized in 1894, and faithfully served its community in ministry for over 124 years; WHEREAS, on November 13, 2018, Resident Bishop Mark J. Webb and the District Superintendents of the Upper New York Annual Conference Cabinet met and, upon full and deliberate consideration, declared that Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church was no longer used, kept, or maintained by its membership as a place of divine worship and no longer served the purpose for which it was organized and/or incorporated; and WHEREAS, the Cabinet further determined and declared that exigent circumstances existed requiring the immediate protection of the local church's property for the benefit of the denomination; WHEREAS, immediately upon the Cabinet's declaration of exigent circumstances, all real and personal, tangible and intangible, property of the Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church vested in the Annual Conference's Board of Trustees, with denominational authority to hold and dispose of the property in its sole discretion subject to the standing rules of the Annual Conference; and WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees faithfully and diligently administered the real and personal property of the Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church from November 13, 2018 until this session of the Upper New York Annual Conference; it hereby RESOLVED, that Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church is closed pursuant to the provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church; and it is further RESOLVED, that all actions taken by the Annual Conference Trustees following the Cabinet's declaration on November 13, 2018 are affirmed; and it is further RESOLVED, that the balance of the assets formerly of the Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church, including all net sale proceeds, shall be transferred to and administered in accordance with the New Beginnings Fund of the Upper New York Annual Conference; and that the balance of the assets formerly of the Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church, including the net sale proceeds, after administration by Conference Trustees be allocated and transferred in accordance with the standing resolutions and policies of the Upper New York Conference with respect to closed churches effective during the Quadrennium (January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020); RESOLVED, that the membership of the Watertown: Bethany United Methodist Church be transferred to other United Methodist churches as the individual members select.

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Resolutions and Petitions 65

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UNYAC2019.1 - Action of Nonconformity with the General Conference of The United Methodist Church Book of Discipline (¶): multiple Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): 000.0 Conference Committee/Agency, et al. that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Board of Ordained Ministry, Conference Council on Finance and Administration, District Committees on Ordained Ministry, Bishop Mark Webb, Committee on Investigation Financial Implications: Yes (no expenditures) Rationale: WHEREAS an estimated 67–70 percent of U.S. delegates voted against the Traditional Plan adopted by the 2019 Special Session of General Conference, the body as a whole voted to stand in opposition to the unfolding insights into God’s will and refused to make space for the missional needs of The United Methodist Church in the United States; and Whereas, the Upper New York Annual Conference as a body and the members of the Upper New York delegation to the 2019 General Conference overwhelmingly affirm and celebrate God’s inclusion of LGBTQIA+ persons as full, equal, and celebrated participants in all aspects of the life of the church and have repeatedly adopted resolutions and legislation to that effect; Therefore, be it resolved, that in affirmation of our commitment to a fully inclusive, grace-filled, compassionate church, The UNYAC will not conform to, comply, or cooperate with any provisions of the Traditional Plan, unconstitutional or otherwise, or The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church that discriminate against LGBTQIA+ persons, including marriage (161.B), the incompatibility clause (161.F), ordination and appointments (304.3), homosexual unions (341.6), AC funding ban (613.19), GCFA funding ban (806.9), chargeable offenses pertaining to being “a self-avowed practicing homosexual” or to officiating at weddings regardless of sex or gender identity (2702.1b,d), or any other provisions of the so-called Traditional Plan that may survive constitutional review by the Judicial Council, including provisions relating to minimum penalties or the composition, certification of membership, and responsibilities of the Board of Ordained Ministry, among many others.

Be it further resolved that no UNYAC funds or monies (either directly through payments or indirectly through the time of employees of the conference) shall be expended for the purpose of background investigations, complaints, or clergy trials pertaining to LGBTQIA+ ordination and marriage.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Home Missioner Kevin M. Nelson 906 Rankin Ave, Schenectady, NY 12308 212-729-4059 kmichael07@yahoo.com

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First UMC, Schenectady Co-Signers: Karyn L. McCloskey 1058 Garner Ave., Schenectady, NY 12309 518-429-7289 klmccloskey@verizon.net First UMC, Schenectady

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J.J. Warren 127 Franklin St., Penn Yan, NY 14527 warrenjj97@gmail.com Penn Yan UMC, Penn Yan Rev. Rebekah Sweet 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, NY 14217 716.875.5091 Revbeckiesweet@gmail.com Kenmore UMC, Kenmore, NY, UNYAC Ted Finlayson-Schueler 1085 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13210 schoolbusted@safetyrules.net University UMC, Syracuse, NY Pastor Rebekah L Solar 13 Church Street, Morris, NY 13808 607-263-5162 rebekah.solar@gmail.com Morris & Edmeston UMCs, Morris, NY Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Quick 32 Barnes Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 315-729-7099 bethquick@gmail.com First UMC Gouverneur and N Gouverneur UMC Rev. Sara E. Baron 906 Rankin Ave., Schenectady, NY 12308 607-435-2201 s.baron@gmail.com First UMC, Schenectady Lois L. Atkinson 2413 Loudon Place, Niskayuna, NY 12309 LoisLynn@nycap.rr.com

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First UMC, Schenectady Rev. Amy B. Gregory 428 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054 seniorpastor@delmarmethodist.org First UMC Delmar Rev. Teressa M. Sivers 402 North Aurora Street, Ithaca, NY 14950 607-273-5971 tsivers@stpaulsithaca.org St. Paul’s UMC, Ithaca Rev. Dana Carroll 390 Closson Road, Scotia, NY 12302 518-894-9468 danacarroll06@gmail.com First UMC, Schenectady Dion Marquit 18 Elm Street, Nassau, NY 12123 518-915-3393 revberdan@aol.com Grace UMC, Nassau Janet B. Huston 59 Glenridge Rd., Scotia, NY 12302 518-399-0919 hustonjp24@gmail.com First UMC, Schenectady Michele A. Cole 663 Bozenkill Rd, Altamont, NY 12009 micheleacole@yahoo.com First UMC, Schenectady Katherine Cleary 1085 E Genesee St., Syracuse NY 13210 315-247-8984 Rev. Richelle Goff 31 W. Church St., Fairport, NY 14450 (315) 532-5823 rduchano@gmail.com Fairport UMC

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Stephen Shepherd 1085 E Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210 wingdude88yt@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse, NY

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Susan Bates 1085 East Genesee St., Syracuse NY 13210 sbates53@verizon.net University UMC, Syracuse NY Louis Patterson 15 Lafayette St., Schenectady NY 12305 destined25@gmail.com First UMC Schenectady Ann Jackson 2419 Jaffrey Street, Niskayuna NY 12309 aejackson@nycap.rr.com Eastern Parkway UMC Schenectady Robert F. Long 833 Oregon Avenue, Niskayuna, NY 12309 bikealong2@nycap.rr.com First United Methodist, Schenectaday Sue Penny 2012 Regent St., Niskayuna, Ny 12309 sue.penny1@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Schenectady, NY Carey Merrill 2148 Morrow Ave., Niskayuna, NY 12309 careymerrill@yahoo.com Eastern Parkway UMC, Schenectady Rev. Dr. T. Mark Ledbetter 943 Palmer Ave., Schenectady, NY 12309 Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church Cathy Woodruff 2165 The Plaza, Niskayuna, NY 12309 Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church Barbara Armstrong 1198 Ardsley Rd., Schenectady, NY 12308 barmstrong2343@gmail.com First United Methodist Church, Schenectady

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Irene Coburn 76 Spring Road, Scotia, NY 12302 reeniebug56@yahoo.com Scotia United Methodist Church Alice Nash 17 Haigh Ave., Schenectady, NY 12304 photogirl12@gmail.com First United Methodist Church, Schenectady Rev. Philip Richards 22 Jerry Drive, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 Plattsburgh United Methodist Church Darrin Nash 17 Haigh Ave., Schenectady, NY 12304 team45racing@gmail.com First United Methodist Church, Schenectady Rev. Kimberly Ferrel 1160 Macedon Ctr Rd, Macedon, NY 14502 kimberlyshines@gmail.com Macedon Center/South Perinton UMC Rev. Mark Marino 60 Crary Ave., Binghamton NY 13905 markb.marino@gmail.com Central Endicott UMC Dr. Barbara Thorington Green 204 Allen Rd., Port Crane, NY 13833 pb1278@aol.com Harpursville UMC Rev Linda Clemow 724 Hightower Way, Webster, NY 14580 soulsourcestudio1@gmail.com 607-434-0500 Asbury FUMC, Rochester Thomas Schmidt 3296 Turner Rd., Jamestown, NY 14701 tschmidt@netsync.net 716-499-1786 Laity, Hurlbut Community UMC

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Elyse Muder 10 Terrace Hill Dr, New Hartford, NY 13413 mude7179@fredonia.edu 315-520-5142

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Loa Bagg Noyd 20 Grove St. Windsor, NY. 13865 Lomaloalou@aol.com 315-382-3927 Windsor United Methodist Church Pastor Heidi R. Chamberlain 10 Willard Street, Malone, NY 12953 airheidi@yahoo.com 315-528-4709 cell, 518-521-3460 hm Malone: Centenary UMC Rev. Carl Chamberlain 10 Willard Street, Malone, NY 12953 pastorcarlchamberlain@yahoo.com 607-382-1403 cell, 518-521-3460 Brushton UMC Extension Ministry: Protestant Chaplain Upstate Correctional Facility, Malone, NY Ellen Taylor Bacon 303 Kidd Castle Way, Webster, NY 14580 Syracuse: University UMC Margaret Parish 163 Heritage Cir. #207, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-435-4001 Margparish@yahoo.com First United Methodist Oneonta Jennifer Chapman 747 Hampton Ave, Schenectady, NY 12309 (518) 894-1010 jennyps121@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC, Schenectady, NY Samuel Smith, Co-Chair, College Min. Team 10 Arthur Rd., Newtonville, NY 12110 518.605.8453 sesmithac@gmail.com Newtonville UMC

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Rev. Steven M. Smith 10 Arthur Rd., Newtonville, NY 12110 518.322.7746 boston.redsoxfan@hotmail.com Newtonville UMC Randall Roeser 834 Parkside Ave, Schenectady, NY 12309 rroeser834@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First United Methodist Church Rebecca Quail 664 Sacandaga Rd., Schenectady, NY 12302 Ranaspp@yahoo.com Eastern Parkway UMC Robert Bour 1385 Ruffner Road, Niskayuna, NY 12309 518-229-6036 rmsbour2@msn.com Eastern Parkway UMC The Miller Family 43 Edison Drive, Niskayuna, NY 12309 Eastern Parkway UMC Nancy E Jones 921 Main St. Clifton Park, NY 12065 Jonesne625@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Teddi Anne Urriola 636 Kayleigh Dr., Webster, NY 14580 teddianderson@yahoo.com Asbury First United Methodist Church Rev Dr Cathy Hall Stengel 1621 Rush Henrietta TL Rd., Rush, NY 14543 cathyhallstengel@gmail.com Rush United Methodist Church

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Heather Smith, Peace with Justice Coor.

10 Arthur Rd., Newtonville, NY 12110 518.368.2209 beezermcgee@yahoo.com Newtonville UMC

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Lucinda Haag, Lay Servant 3400 Brockport Spencerport Rd., Spencerport, NY 14559 cindyhaag@live.com Adams Basin UMC Patricia Roeser 834 Parkside Ave., Schenectady, NY 12309 patriciaroeser2@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Kathy Courtney 224 Stafford Road, Palmyra, NY 14522 kcourtney@rochester.rr.com Macedon Center UMC Janet Hubbard 200 Darwin Drive, Amherst, NY 14226 Retired-Elder Clergytwo@aol.com Rev. Dr. Dana Horrell 41 Ford Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 Leslie Kintner 106 Wilsbach Hall, Oneonta, NY 13820 Ljkintner@gmail.com First United Methodist Church, Oneonta Bryant Clark 214 Madison St., Waterville, NY 13480 Bryantchristopherclark@gmail.com Park UMC: Hamilton, Waterville UMC E. Brooke Conklin 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Sprgs, NY 12866 bjconklin@aol.com Saratoga Springs UMC Caleb Smith 10 Arthur Rd., Newtonville, NY 12110

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518.495.8138 csmith45@oswego.edu Newtonville UMC Rev. Heather Williams 8 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 Pastorheather@saratogaumc.org Saratoga Springs UMC Rev Thomas Clemow 724 Hightower Way, Webster, NY. 14580 TClemow@gmail.com Rev. Dr. Robin Olson 154 Prince Street, Needham. MA 02492 rolson@bentley.edu Bentley University Susan Williams 1053 Belridge Rd., Niskayuna, NY 12309 swilliams18@nycap.rr.com Eastern Parkway UMC, Schenectady, NY Jessica Montmarquet-Nadeau and Family 680 Maple Lane, Niskayuna, NY 12309 jessica.montmarquet@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Lucina B Hallagan Conference Dir of Lay Servant Ministries 102 Highland Avenue, Newark, NY 14513 (315) 945-9444 lucinahallagan@gmail.com First United Methodist, Newark, NY Rev. Colleen Hallagan Preuninger 1460 University Drive, Winchester VA 22601 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Shenandoah University Janet Daly and family 132 Swan Street, Scotia, New York 12302 Scotia United Methodist Church Bill Gerstler and family 833 Red Oak Drive, Niskayuna, NY 12309 williamgerstler@gmail.com

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Eastern Parkway UMC

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Rev. Bruce Webster 204 Falstaff Road, Syracuse, NY 13214 revbfw@yahoo.com Kirkville United Methodist Church Rev. Dr. Christopher H. Evans 154 Prince Street, Needham, MA 02492 Boston University School of Theology Susan Cumings 99 Elsmere Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church Rev. Jan McClary Rowell jmrweaver@gmail.com 9 Van Buren St. Albany NY 12206 518-429-3396 Emmaus UMC Albany Rev. Kim Krause 20 Hillcrest Dr. Ravena, NY Pastorgraceumc@gmail.com Grace UMC - Ravena Janet Reitz 1210 Rosehill Blvd., Schenectady, NY 12309 janetreitz79@gmail.com Eastern Parkway UMC Dr. W. Thomas Deever 39 Park Circle Dr., Fairport, NY 14450 Fairport United Methodist Church Brenda L. Deever 39 Park Circle Dr., Fairport, NY 14450 Fairport United Methodist Church Diane Withiam 1196 Ridge Road, Lansing, NY 14772 diane.withiam@gmail.com Lansing UMC Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady 1050 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607 scady@asburyfirst.org Asbury First UMC

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Jane Tucker 2 Vanderberg Dr., Fairport, NY 14450 Fairport United Methodist Church Daniel Shannon 1013 Gladstone St., Schenectady, NY 12303 Danshannon64@icloud.com Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church Linda Shannon 1013 Gladstone St., Schenectady, NY 12303 Lshanno2@icloud.com Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church Cory Jones 15 Chateau Drive, Whitesboro, NY 13492 cory@trinitywhitesboro.com Trinity UMC: Whitesboro Rev. Marti Swords-Horrell 41 Ford Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-4201 Pastor@firstumc-Oneonta.org First United Methodist Oneonta Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost 17 Nanticoke Ave., Endicott, NY 13760 pastormichellebt@gmail.com Central United Methodist Church, Endicott Rev. Jane Sautter 9864 Sessions Road, New Hartford, NY 13413 pastorjfs@gmail.com Retired Ronald Tucker 2 Vanderberg Drive, Fairport, NY 14450 Fairport UMC rftucker7@gmail.com Rev. Roger G. Richards 733 Partridge Place, Endwell, NY 13760 Retired rrichards52@gmail.com Robert Kirkland Smith 123 Vera Circle, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-7644

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rsmith210@twcny.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca

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Richard W. Tenney 220 Banks Road, Brooktondale, NY 14817 607-277-6510 rwt1@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Tigran Catrchyan 505 Lake Road, Dryden, NY 13053 607-319-5114 mnyavu@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Allison Chatrchyan 505 Lake Road, Dryden, NY 13053 607-319-5114 amchatrchyan@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Holly Mathison 85 Heron Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-793-5198 drydenbelle@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Lydia Dolch 110 Sycamore Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-339-8092 lydiadolch@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Rev. Deborah Allen 201 Westview Lane, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-1265 dallen@stpaulsithaca.org St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Patricia Sipman 306 East Yates Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-227-8815 sipwoman@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Rev. Eunice Tabor 4 Horizon Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-319-0228

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etabor1@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Marilou Slattery 209 Esty Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-3433 mjs334@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Lynn Martin 123 West Groton Road, Groton, NY 13073 607-591-3022 blmart15@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Karen Kaufmann 110 Northway Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-0528 tunafiki@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Carolyn Aslan 521 Strawberry Hill Cir Apt. 2, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-279-7223 St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Steve Beyers 1328 Slaterville Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-7324 swb75@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Carolyn Beyers 1328 Slaterville Road, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-7324 cbeyers@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Phyllis Hewitt Highland 3 Renwick Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-280-0816 phh1@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Diana Crouch 2 Knollwood Drive, Freeville, NY 13068 607-592-9803

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DianaLynneC@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca

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Jami Breedlove 2 Knollwood Drive, Freeville, NY 13068 607-592-9804 breedlovejami@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Anne Horst 2591 North Triphammer Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850 518-947-0332 ahorst@stpaulsithaca.org St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Steve Johnson 115 Salem Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-0969 skj29@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca George E. Gull 44 Tupper Road West Danby, NY 14850 607-342-1298 geg3@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Jim and Elaine Troy 519 Giffords Church Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306 518-356-2687 lanie600@nycap.rr.com First United Methodist, Schenectady Rev. Mary A. Kelly 216 Beard Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214 716-833-3193, 716-597-1894 kellchamp@yahoo.com Central Park UMC (Buffalo) Cynthia Howell 984 Ridge Rd., Lansing NY Lansing United Methodist Church Lansing NY

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Marsha Lawrence 39 Draper Ave., Plattsburgh NY 518-949-0918 Munger39@charter.net Plattsburgh UMC Mary Ann Marshall 1930 Ferguson St., Schenectady, NY 12303 518-355-1733 First UMC, Schenectady Mike Mullin, Licensed Local Pastor 1050 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607 (585) 271-1050 mmullin@asburyfirst.org Asbury First UMC, Rochester Carol Haack 2419 Jaffrey St., Niskayuna, NY 12309 518-280-0243 Eastern Parkway UMC Paul D. Reed, Local Licensed Pastor 1974 Beach Rd., Apalachin, NY 13723 697-972-6060 Cualum86@gmail.com Little Meadows UMC Cindy Smith 314 Lake St., Saranac Lake, NY 12983 518-891-3915 csmith314@gmail.com First UMC Saranac Lake, NY Mitchel Smith 314 Lake St., Saranac Lake, NY 12983 518-891-3915 mitchcin@roadrunner.com First UMC Saranac Lake, NY Mia Helligrass 1630 Union St. #1, Schenectady,Ny 12309 miahelligrass@gmail.com 518-901-9946 Marge Barnes 242 Brett Brae, Clinton, NY 13323 315-864-8613

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barnes.marge@yahoo.com

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Nelson Price 6305 Hamlet Crest, Jamesville, NY 13078 nprice@twcny.rr.com Ian Pershing 168 Irvington Rd., Rochester, NY 14620 914-462-6428 IVPershing@gmail.com Asbury First UMC, Rochester Starke Donnally 141 Clarke St., Syracuse NY !3210 starke3@gmail.com University UMC Syr. - Life member by emphatic choice Linda Holly 401 Dwight Ave., Endicott, NY 13760 dicklindaholly@verizon.net Central UMC, Endicott Beth M. Drew 4569 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dell Place, Jamesville, NY 13078 bmdrew@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse Dick Breuninger 59 Plains Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-2234 <dickbreuninger@gmail.com> Oneonta 1st UMC, Oneonta Dr. Joseph Cousins 89 Coventry Rd., Endicott, NY 13760 jtcousins@yahoo.com Central United Methodist Church, Endicott Phyllis R. Cousins 89 Coventry Rd., Endicott NY 13760 phlilly@icloud.com Central UMC, Endicott, NY Rev. Ann S. Blair 6610 SE 69th Ave., Portland, OR 96206 Retired Elder

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Beverly Hart 28 Sugarmills Circle, Fairport, Ny 14450 Macedon Center UMC Pat Dupont, Licensed Local Pastor 402 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620 St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Rev. Brett Johnson 2039 County Road 4, Stanley, NY 14561 pastor.brett.johnson@gmail.com Seneca Castle & Weedsport UMC Jeanne Finlayson-Schueler 118 Shirley Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224 jeannefs327@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse Rev. Robert Dean PO Box 356, 2615 Main Street Maine, NY 13802 Pastor.rdean@gmail.com Maine Federated Church Kim Philby 358 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-435-1625 Kim.zebulske@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Bob Bensen 14 Harrison Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-7959 Bensenr@hartwick.edu.

First UMC Oneonta Mary Lynn Bensen 14 Harrison Ave., Oneonta NY. 13820 607-432-7959 Maryl.bensen@oneonta.edu First UMC Oneonta Priscilla Thompson 1 Taft Ave., Oneonta. NY 13820 607-432-0904 First UMC Oneonta

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Bruce Von Holtz 2906 Franklin Depot Rd., Sydney Center, NY 13839 607-829-5930 bfvonholtz@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta

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Cherilyn Lacy 64 East St., Oneonta NY 13820 607-432-5340 Cherilynlacy@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Margaret Lilja 175 Lake Shore Dr. S, Maryland, NY 12116 607-433-2598 Humanwheels76@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Jean Lilja 175 Lake Shore Dr. S, Maryland, NY 12116 607-433-2598 Mjlilja@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Flora Beth Cunningham 135 Park Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-8054 FloraBeth.cunningham@oneonta.edu First UMC Oneonta Joe Pudlewski Box 71, 2849 County Hwy 8, W. Oneonta, NY 13861 716-982-4414 Pudlewskij@fmail.com First UMC Oneonta Lorrie Wolverton Box 46, W. Oneonta, NY 13861 607-432-2623 Lwolverton2828@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Nancy Fodero 4349St.Hwy 7, Lot 32 Oneonta, NY 13820 Nancyfodero@gmail.com

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607-435-7188 First UMC Oneonta Beverly LeBeau 6 Highland St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-433-2285 Blebeau@live.com First UMC Oneonta H Laverne Thomas 74 East St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-433-2228 Thomashl@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta Dr. Jennifer Withington 35 College Terrace, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-4817 Jennifer.withington@oneonta.edu First UMC Oneonta Gail Niles 21 Woodside Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-0094 Gailhn21@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Dick Miller 15 Forest Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-8751 Millerym@verizon.net First UMC Oneonta Nancy Bondurant-Couch 45 Union St., Oneonta NY 13820 607-433-0575 Nancybcouch@yahoo.com First UMC Oneonta Rev. Dave Rockwell 5 O’Neill Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-267-4060 Darwell@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta Mary Rockwell 5 O’Neill Dr., Oneonta,NY 13820 607-267-4060

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Marywell@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta

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Lucille Wiggin 80 Chestnut.St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-1022 Lucillew@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta Rachel Ainsley-Hamblin 40 Main St., Oneonta, NY 13820 Wrgimah@hotmail.com First UMC Oneonta.

Eric Wilson 8 College Terrace, Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-5980 Ewilson@cnymail.com First UMC Oneonta Donna Stone 32 Riverside Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-353-7796 First UMC Oneonta Allison Bookhout 2906 Franklin Depot Rd., Sydney Center NY 12839 607-8295930 Bookoutajay@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Irene Morrissey 47 Spruce St., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-7932 Imorrissey5@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Janet Frankl Box 39, Otego,NY 13825 607-287-1496 Janetfrankl@yahoo.com First UMC Oneonta Mary Breuninger 59 Plains Dr., Oneonta NY 13820 607-432-2234

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Marybreuninger@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Barbara Wilson PO Box 155, Slingerlands, NY 12159 wilsonbarbaraa@hotmail.com First UMC Delmar Deborah Suparmanto 11 Boylston Dr., Delmar, NY 12054 DSuperma@gmail.com First UMC Delmar Jeff Peterson 12 Holbrook Way, Delmar, NY 12054 jmkb.peterson@gmail.com First UMC of Delmar JoAnn S Supan 324 Wellington Rd., Delmar, NY 12054 JASS11942@aol.com First UMC of Delmar Jane M ONeill 87 Walden Fields Dr., Delmar, NY 12054 jane@sourcerx.com First UMC Delmar Mike and Lori DePauw 2 Farone Dr., Oneonta NY 13820 607-287-9091 Mldepauw@stny.rr.com First FUMC Oneonta Karen Short 5573 State Hwy, Oneonta NY 13820 kshort1@stny.rr.com First FUMC Oneonta James F ONeill 87 Walden Fields Dr., Delmar, NY 12054 jim@sourcerx.com First UMC Delmar Shelly Snider 37 Grove St Apt D, Oneonta, NY 13820 First UMC Oneonta

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Joyce Powell 5358 State Hwy 7, Oneonta, NY 607-431-9029 Powellrich36@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta, NY

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John Jurgensen 556 Gifford Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-267-4967 Johnjmouse@mail.com First UMC Oneonta Scott Amundsen 556 Gifford Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-267-4967 Scottsteaux63@gmail.com First UMC Oneonta Joyce Flynn 4708 Howlett Hill Rd., Marcellus, NY Jhflynn56@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse Katherine Flynn 401 Natick Circle, Camillus, NY kkflynn44@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse David Hart 14 Yorkshire Ln., Delmar, NY hartde@verizon.net FUMC Delmar, Delmar Karen Peterson 12 Holbrook Way, Delmar, NY kbp.peterson56@gmail.com FUMC Delmar, Delmar Carla DiMarco 15 Rotterdam Dr., Glenmont, NY cvdimarco@gmail.com FUMC Delmar, Delmar Susan Wuerslin 133 Tallmadge Place Albany, NY sawuerslin@gmail.com FUMC Delmar, Delmar

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Denise L. Gisotti, Licensed Local Pastor FUMC of Delmar 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, NY, caringministries@delmarmethodist.org Joe Gisotti 12 Carriage Rd., Delmar, NY golfing517@yahoo.com FUMC of Delmar Juluanne Sciandra-Looney 763 Altamont Rd., Altamont, NY 12009 julie@sciandra.net FUMC Delmar Raymond OBrien 1 West Lane, Latham, NY 12110 Rayobrien35@gmail.com First UMC Delmar Sharon McCarthy 10 Shepherd Ave., Oneonta NY 13820 607-433-2185 Skmccarthy@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta Sara Culotta 701 N. Tioga St., Ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 229-4439 sara.culotta@gmail.com St. Paul’S UMC Ithaca Barbara Werham 19 Gunderman Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-277-8565 bwerham@aol.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Danette Johnson 115 Salem Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-0969 danetteijohnson@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Pamela Lillard 57 Millard Rd., Newfield, NY 14867 607-272-6446 psl1@cornell.edu

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St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca

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Linda Wintje 133 Sunbury Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-8375 lwintje728@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Glenna W. Morgaris 199 Tareyton Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-1281 gmorgaris@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Danny Scott 301 Hook Pl., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-3504 dws11@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca J. MIchael Keller 39 Eastlake Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-279-9539 michaelKell89@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca William D. Highland 3 Renwick Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-8172 william.highland44@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Howard Longhouse 34 Benson Rd., Freeville, NY 13068 607-257-7442 hlonghouse@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Carolyn Longhouse 34 Benson Rd., Freeville, NY 13068 607-257-7442 hlonghouse@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Tina Champion 798 South Plain St., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-262-0974 frosty.tina@yahoo.com

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St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Michael Culotta 114 N. Lincoln St., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-1287 culotta@mindspring.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Robert Kirkland Smith 123 Vera Circle, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-273-7644 rsmith210@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Timothy Lillard 57 Millard Hill Rd., Newfield, NY 14867 607-272-6446 clumsydad@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Julie Huntsman 2151 County Hwy 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337 607-547-7054 juliedoub@gmail.com Fly Creek UMC, Administrative Board Chair Tom Huntsman 2151 County Hwy 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337 607-547-7054 huntsman.tom@gmail.com Fly Creek UMC, Lay Leader, Trustee Mark Hartsuyker 819 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-339-1900 mhartsuyker@protonmail.ch St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Cliff Martin 406 Winston Ct. #3, Ithaca, NY 14850 607-241-6831 calanmartin@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Charles Tilton 305 Gunderman Rd., Spencer, NY 14833 607-273-8446 ctilton@ithaca.edu

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St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca

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Karen Kaufmann 110 Northway Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-0528 tunafiki@twcny.rr.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Donald Mckechnie 1660 Slaterville Rd., Ithaca, Ny 14850 607-277-7112 dmckech@ithaca.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Jacqueline Bonner 1660 Slaterville Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-272-7112 jfbspumc@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Alice Meilman 131 Cambridge Pl., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-592-3559 alicemeilman@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Patricia Woodworth 305 Ganderman Rd., Spencer, NY 14883 607-273-8446 woodworth@ithaca.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Barbara Morrill 27 Whitetail Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-319-0300 b.morrill@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Nancy Potter 44 Tupper Rd., West Danby, NY 14883 607-591-5811 np20@cornell.edu St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Michael J. McGandy 209 Bogart Ave., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-280-3321 mjm475@cornell.edu

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St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Andrea Downing Zheng 402 Warren Pl., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-304-1160 uniqueohiowoman@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Andreanna Downing Zheng 402 Warren Pl., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-304-1160 lolhaiimanna@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Richard Tabor 4 Horizon Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-319-0228 rctabor2003@yahoo.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Kathie Modisher 196 Creamery Rd., Brooktondale, NY 14817 607-539-1179 bkmodisher@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca Kim stockwell 4631 State Hwy 205, Hartwick, NY 13348 607-437-2713 kimstockwell@msn.com Fly Creek United Methodist Church Debbie Gall 1 Weigand Ln., Delmar, N.Y. 12054 518-439-0455 gall.debbieandken1@gmail.com FUMC Delmar Rev. Mike Willis 141 Carol Ave., Vestal, NY 13850 mwillis1@stny.rr.com Vestal UMC Lisa Richards 733 Partridge Pl., Endwell, NY 13760 Central UMC, Endicott, NY lburrightrichards@gmail.com

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Carol Lowery 9 Cumberland Ave Apt 1, Plattsburgh NY 12901 Cjjuntunen@yahoo.com 917-655-1587

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Dr. Briana Calore 678 County Highway 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337 Fly creek United Methodist church Brianacalore@hotmail.com 650-521-4121 Byron Wilson P. O. Box 155, Slingerlands, NY 12159 bwilson78v@gmail.com First UMC Delmar Barbara Wiley 81 Wheeler Re., Glenmont, NY barbarawwiley@gmail.com First UMC Delmar Christian Doran 104 Dumbarton Dr., Delmar, NY 12054 First UMC Delmar Eileen Deming-McNabb 251 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 (518)489-1752 Eileenmcnabb@hotmail.com First UMC Delmar Pastor Sharon Rankins-Burd 1115 North Winfield Rd., West Winfield, NY 13491 315-765-1716 pastorsharon@windstream.net Fly Creek and Schuyler Lake UMCs Bev Hargrove 88 Beaver St., Cooperstown, NY 13326 bhargrove@stny.rr.com 607-547-5751 Fly Creek United Methodist Church Leah Giordano 20 Lyons Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 518-439-2067

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leahggiordano@gmail.com First United Methodist Church of Delmar Marthalyn Sweet 91 Grimsby Rd W, Buffalo, NY 14223 570-470-6354 mmmk.sweet@gmail.com First United Methodist Church Gouverneur Birney Dorr Kellogg 318 Highland Parkway Apt2, Buffalo, NY 14223 716-207-5551 kelloggbirney@gmail.com Kenmore First United Methodist Church Susan Madison-Antenucci 25 Stonewall Ln., Delmar, NY 12054 518-859-6754 smadiant@gmail.com First United Methodist Church of Delmar Rev. Corey Turnpenny 7309 Collins St. Whitney Point NY 13862 570-417-7693 pastorcoreyt@gmail.com Whitney Point UMC Rev. Doug Mackey 327 Kingsley Rd., Burnt Hills, NY 12027 518.924.4790 pastdm@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMCoy John and Sally Ten Eyck 43 Tygert Re., Altamont, NY 12009 518-765-2535 smteneyck@yahoo.com Delmar UMC Rich and Carol Beiter 31 Oldox Rd., Delmar NY 12054 beiterrc@hotmail.com First UMC Delmar Marsha Clements 898 CR 34, Potsdam, NY 13676 mafclements@gmail.com

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Potsdam United Methodist Church

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Rev. Vivian Ruth Waltz 5095 Lower Ct., Hamburg, NY 14075 716-982-6501 humcdeaconvivian@verizon.net Hamburg UMC Mary Fiess Shaffer 16 Pasture Gate Ln., Delmar, NY 12054 maryfiess@aol.com First United Methodist Church-Delmar Sarah Jay Lewis 6 Roosevelt Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 Oneonta First UMC Rachel Hansen 2 Handsome Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 607-287-0357 Rachelhansen@stny.rr.com First UMC Oneonta Rev Dr Jeff Losey 7151 Podunk Rd., Trumansburg, NY, 14886 jlosey@twcny.rr.com Trumansburg UMC Pastor Joel Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave., Troy NY, 12180 joelholcomb@gmail.com UMC at Berlin Emily Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave. Troy NY, 12180 emilyjholcomb@gmail.com Christ Church Troy Sharen Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave., Troy NY, 12180 sharenholcomb@gmail.com Christ Church Troy Elaine Barrett 1744 St Rte 12 Lot 00, Binghamton, NY 13901 barrettelaine@yahoo.com

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Rob and Ruth Leslie 119 Hasgate Drr., Delmar, NY 12054 rwleslie2@gmail.com Wendy Evenden 6655 Taylor Rd., Hamburg, NY 14075 wendyev@msn.com Hamburg UMC, Hamburg Nicholas Cartagena 25 Linda Ct., Delmar, NY 12054 nickcartagena2@gmail.com First UMC Delmar Nancy Summers 1549 US Highway 11, Castle Creek, NY 13744 nsummersweaver@gmail.com Whitney Point UMC Paul Sweet 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 paulksweet@gmail.com North Gouverneur UMC Rev. DeeAnne L. Lowman 1 Colonial Dr., Schenectady, NY 12306 Dlowman82@gmail.com Shifrah Consul Newtonville UMC Vito Sciscioli 205 Alanson Rd., Syracuse, New York 13207 Vsciscio@twcny.rr.com University United Methodist Church Janet Sciscioli 205 Alanson Rd., Syracuse, New York 13207 University United Methodist Church Thomas Boll 407 Halton Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224 tboll@twcny.rr.com University United Methodist Church

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UNYAC2019.2 - UNYAC Response to Actions of 2019 General Conference Book of Discipline (¶): Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: N/A Rationale: (see below) Whereas, using appropriate, quality biblical scholarship, there is no biblical mandate to discriminate against LGBTQIA+ persons and relationships.

Whereas, the United Methodist Church is capable of great nuance in the matter of biblical interpretation as displayed in its treatment of issues such as divorce and the ordination of women, but reverts to simplistic literalism when it comes to the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ persons in its life and ministry; and Whereas, the United Methodist Church has singled out LGBTQIA+ persons for special punitive action while ignoring the “clear biblical teaching” on other matters such as pensions (Matthew 6:19-20); and Whereas, much of the Traditional Plan had already been ruled unconstitutional before it was voted upon; and Whereas, the first general rule that John Wesley gave the people called Methodists concerns “doing no harm”; and Whereas, United Methodists promise “to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves”; and Whereas, by passing the Traditional Plan, the denomination has done great, and perhaps irreparable harm to our LGBTQIA+ siblings, their families and friends.

Therefore, be it resolved, that the Upper New York Annual Conference (UNYAC) condemns the decision of the 2019 General Conference to pass the Traditional Plan and apologizes for the harm that it has caused LGBTQIA+ persons, their families, their friends, and the body of Christ. “We affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God,” but we also assert and affirm that no human being is incompatible with Christian teaching; and Be it further resolved, that we strongly recommend that UNYAC refrain from expending funds or monies (either directly through payments or indirectly through the time of employees of the conference) for the purpose of background investigations, complaints, just resolutions, or clergy trials pertaining to LGBTQIA+ ordination and marriage.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019

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Submitted by: Rev. Rebekah (Beckie) Sweet 32 Landers Road, Kenmore, NY 14217 (570)647-8267 revbeckiesweet@gmail.com UNYAC, serving Kenmore UMC Other signees: The Saratoga Springs UMC Mike Russo, Church Council chairperson 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12855 (518)584-3720 tony51@nycap.rr.com Karyn L. McCloskey 1058 Garner Ave., Schenectady, NY (518)429-7289 klmccloskey@verizon.net Schenectady: First UMC Rev. Rebekah Solar 13 Church St., Morris, NY 13808 (607)263-5162 Rebekah.solar@gmail.com Morris and Edmeston UMCs Roxann M. Cator 8 Seymour St., Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)240-6207 roxcat40@aol.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Dion Marquit 18 Elm St., Nassau, NY (518)915-3393 revberdan@aol.com Nassau: Grace UMC Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Quick 32 Barnes St., Gouverneur, NY 13642 (315)729-7099 bethquick@gmail.com Gouverneur: First and North Gouverneur Morgan Reed 1974 Beach Rd., Apalachin, NY 13732 (607)972-6062 mlreed2594@gmail.com

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Little Meadows UMC Rev. Doug Mackey 327 Kingsley Rd., Burnt Hills, NY 12027 (518) 925-4790 Pastdm@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMC Jeff Carpenter 2242 Bradley Crk. Rd., Johnson City, NY 13790 (607)785-5339 sheliacjc@aol.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan Preuninger 1460 University Dr., Winchester, VA 22601 (316)527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Shenandoah University Home Missioner Kevin M. Nelson 906 Rankin Ave, Schenectady, NY 12308 (212)729-4059 kmichael07@yahoo.com Schenectady: First UMC Pastor Sharon Rankins-Burd 1115 North Winfield Rd., West Winfield, NY 13491 (315)765-1716 pastorsharon@windstream.net Fly Creek and Schuyler Lake UMCs Blenda Smith 133 Helen St., Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)761-0327 bsmith@binghamton.edu Binghamton: Fairview UMC

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Rev. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, retired 4019 Ball Diamond Rd., Hector, NY 14841 (607) 546-4626 elevation1200@gmail.com UNYAC Martha E. Wiltberger 190 Lorelee Dr., Tonawanda, NY 14150 (716) 693-2897 mwiltberger@hotmail.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Gary Doupe 243 Mt. Pleasant Road, Bainbridge, NY 13733-3224 (607) 743-5062 gary@doupe.com Bainbridge: First UMC Michael R. Turner 2531 Nicole Dr., Niagara Falls, NY 14304 (716) 731-9184 frogmrt@yahoo.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Thomas A. Clemow (Retired) 724 Hightower Way, Webster, NY 14580 (607) 287-7561 Tclemow@gmail.com Rochester: Asbury First UMC Jessica Itotia 58 Chaplin Dr., Buffalo, NY 14223 (716) 812-5850 Jaitotia@gmail.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Heather Williams 8 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (315) 391-3500 pastorheather@saratogaumc.org Saratoga Springs UMC Shirley Readdean 2232 Turner Ave., Schenectady, NY 12306 (518) 372-7065 whirly@earthlink.net

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Schenectady: First UMC Rev. Carl Chamberlain 10 Willard St., Malone, NY 12953 pastorcarlchamberlain@yahoo.com Brushton UMC Sheila Carpenter 2242 Bradley Crk. Rd., Johnson City, NY 13790 (607) 785-5339 sheliacjc@aol.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Nancy Raca 287 Wilmot Rd., Rochester, NY 14618 (585) 754-1078 revnancyraca@gmail.com Sophia Community Ilona Horvath 245 Lower Stella Ireland Rd., Binghamton, NY 13905 (607) 759-1090 ilonarick1@gmail.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost 17 Nanticoke Ave., Endicott, NY 13760 (518) 312-2465 pastormichellebt@gmail.com Endicott: Central UMC Beverly Rainforth 29 Lincoln Ave., Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)743-3932 bevrain429@gmail.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Heidi R. Chamberlain 10 Willard St., Malone, NY 12953 (518) 521-3460 airheidi@yahoo.com Malone: Centenary UMC E. Brooke Conklin 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 584-3379

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bjconklin@aol.com Saratoga Springs UMC Pastor Michael H. Terrell 43 Court St., Canton, NY 13617 (315) 854-4233 willnosdadd12@gmail.com Canton UMC Jennifer Stamm 160 LaSalle Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217 (716) 603-4470 JDStamm@gmail.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Carmen L. Perry P.O. Box 33, Chautauqua, NY 14722-0033 (716) 946-2269 carmenperry10@yahoo.com Hurlbut Memorial Community UMC Barbara Weaver 253 Braxmar Rd., Tonawanda, NY 14150 (716) 228-9801 dweaverb2@gmail.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Rachael Jordan 187 Main St., Massena, NY 13662 (561) 543-3133 22rjordan@gmail.com Massena: First and Grace UMCs Rev. Evelyn A. Woodring 7799 Boston-Colden Rd. Box 87, Colden, NY 14033 (716) 941-5165 RevEvW@aol.com Buffalo: South Park UMC Barbara Metivier One Fox Run Lane #612, Orchard Park, NY 14127 (716) 864-2616 metivierbv@msn.com Elma UMC Rev. Dr. Victor Metivier, retired

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One Fox Run Lane #612, Orchard Park, NY 14127 (716)361-0296 metivierby@msn.com UNYAC, Elma UMC Rev. David E. Simmons retired 623 Stone Circle, Watertown, NY 13601-3267 bdsimm34@gmail.com (315)788-7418 Watertown: Asbury UMC Jeanne Finlayson-Schueler 324 University Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210 (315)446-6333 jeannefs327@gmail.com Syracuse: University UMC Rev. Elizabeth Mowry retired P.O. Box 355, Grafton, NY 12082 (315)243-0233 Revmowry@aol.com Stephentown Federated Church Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd 1809N, Chevy Chase, MD 20816 (585)705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Rochester: Asbury First UMC Rev. Jan McClary Rowell retired 9 Van Buren St., Albany, NY 12206 (518)429-3396 jmrweaver@gmail.com Albany: Emmaus UMC Ted Finlayson-Schueler 324 University Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210 (315)446-6333 schoolbusted@safetyrules.net Syracuse: University UMC Rev. Teressa M. Sivers 402 North Aurora St., Ithaca, NY 14850 (607)273-5971 tsivers@stpaulsithaca.org Ithaca: St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UMC

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Teagen Krause 584 Frederick’s Rd., Johnson City, NY 13790 (607)237-7788 office@mainefed.org Union Center UMC Rev. Robert Dean 2615 Main St., Maine, NY 13802 (607)862-3387 pastor.rdean@gmail.com Maine Federated Church Margot Rankins-Burd 3908 Fountain St., Apt. 4, Clinton, NY 13323 (570)560-2472 margotgracerankinsburd@gmail.com Fly Creek UMC Rev. Dr. Donald L. Weaver retired 253 Braxmar Rd., Tonawanda, NY 14150 (716)837-1039 dweaverb2@gmail.com Kenmore UMC Rev. Mary A. Kelly 216 Beard Ave., Buffalo, NY 14214 (716)833-3193 kellchamp@yahoo.com Buffalo: University Park UMC Rev. Dr. Charles B. Grimm 40 Browns Ave., Scottsville, NY 14546 (585)889-2215 chapgrimm@gmail.com Rush UMC Rev. Paul E. Robinson retired 625 Championship Dr., Victor, NY 14564 (585)433-8188 revper@gmail.com UNYAC Rev. Leon I. VanWie, retired P.O. Box 777, Brownville, NY 13615 (315)771-9142 leonvanwie@gmail.com UNYAC L. David Suits

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5 Willoughby Dr., Albany, NY 12205 (518)869-9436 sits.dave@gmail.com Colonie: Pine Grove UMC Rev. William E. “Bill” Burdick retired 1205 Mariposa Ave., Unit 430, Coral Gables, FL 33146 (937)475-3076 we_burdick@iCloud.com Rochester: Asbury First UMC M. Sue M. Burdick 1205 Mariposa Ave., Unit 430, Coral Gables, FL 33146 (937)475-3076 msmburdick@gmail.com Rochester: Asbury First UMC Rev. Amy B. Gregory 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 (607)226-6366 seniorpastor@delmarmethodist.org Delmar: First UMC Daniel K. Sweet 91 Grimsby Rd., West, Buffalo, NY 14223 (570)352-8472 danielsweet.10@gmail.com Gouverneur: First UMC Rev. Corey Turnpenny 7309 Collins St., Whitney Point, NY 13862 (570)417-7693 pastorcoreyt@gmail.com Whitney Point UMC Diana Crouch 2 Knollwood Dr., Freeville, NY 13068 (607)347-4427 DianaLynneC@gmail.com Ithaca: St. Paul’s UMC Deacon Bonnie LeValley 26 Greentree Rd., Tonawanda, NY 14150 (716)692-0754 bonlev@hotmail.com Kenmore UMC

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Jami Breedlove 2 Knollwood Dr., Freeville, NY 13068 (607)347-4427 BreedloveJami@gmail.com Ithaca: St. Paul’s UMC Rev. Jan Clark 254 Robinson St., Binghamton, NY 13904 (607)724-6886 fairpastor@aol.com Binghamton: Fairview UMC Deborah Byers 2 Belle Ave., Troy, NY (518)273-6005 dogclover@aol.com Troy: Christ UM Church Rev. Donald A. Easton retired 17481 US Route 11, Lot 2C, Watertown, NY 13601 (315)569-8887 Pchman@twcny.rr.com UNYAC, Watertown: Asbury Richard Culver 7 Campbell Road Court, Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)724-0793 rculver75@gmail.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Holly Nye 9 Briarwood Dr., Saratoga Springs, NY (518)399-5144 hnye515@gmail.com UNYAC, serving Burnt Hills Margaret Culver 7 Campbell Road Court, Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)724-0793 rculver75@gmail.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC

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Rev. Lea Harding 286 Deyo Hill Rd., Johnson City, NY 13790

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(607)798-7818 lharding@umhwc.org United Methodist Homes – Hilltop Campus Stephanie Charnetsky 75 Orchard Ave., Johnson City, NY 13790 (607)765-0811 s.charnetsky@gmail.com Binghamton: Tabernacle UMC Rev. Gail Lewis 32 Fradine Dr., Cheektowaga, NY 14227 (716)984-1140 revgml@aol.com Williamsville UMC Virginia B. Dewey 1085 East Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210 (315)488-2285 vbdewey@outlook.com Syracuse: University UMC Robert Dewey 1085 East Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210 (315)488-2285 vbdewey@outlook.com Syracuse: University UMC Starke Donnally 1085 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210 (315)472-2140 starke3@gmail.com Syracuse: University UMC Betsy Wiggins 305 Carlton Drive, Syracuse, NY 13214 (315)439-2925 bwiggins@twcny.rr.com Syracuse: University UMC Elizabeth Noonan 3 Brintnall Place, Binghamton, NY 13905 (607)592-5783 elizabethnoonan7545@gmail.com Binghamton: Fairview UMC

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UNYAC2019.3 - A Call for Structural Change Book of Discipline (Âś): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (Âś): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: none Rationale: Considering the 2019 General Conference, it is time to restructure the UMC. Whereas, Enormous cultural and theological gaps remain in our global church; and Whereas, The Council of Bishops, The Commission on a Way Forward, and the 2019 General Conference were unable to find a satisfactory resolution to the impasse in the United Methodist Church around LGBTQ clergy and same-gender weddings in our churches; and Whereas, The Traditional Plan passed at the 2019 General Conference serves as a rejection of compromise and a theologically diverse denomination; and Whereas Only structural separation will allow all Annual Conferences and Local Churches to effectively Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.

Therefore, Be It Resolved That the Upper New York Annual Conference notify the Council of Bishops that the stipulations of the Traditional Plan are not acceptable for our Conference; and Be It Further Resolved That the Upper New York Annual Conference call on the 2020 General Conference to adopt a structural realignment of the United Methodist Church that creates an expression of Wesleyan Methodism that allows for both traditional and progressive understandings of LGBTQ Clergy and samegender weddings to co-exist within the Church; and Be It Further Resolved That given the forthcoming structural change, we encourage Bishop Webb, the Board of Ordained Ministry, and other members of the conference leadership team to, as an act of grace, impose an immediate moratorium on any punitive action related to LGBTQ Clergy and same-gender weddings.

Implemented By: Secretary of the Annual Conference Date of Submission: March 27, 2019 Submitted by: Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady 1050 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607 585-271-1050 x117 scady@asburyfirst.org Asbury First United Methodist Church

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UNYAC2019.4 - Create a Team to Consider Processes for Future Movement of Congregations Book of Discipline (¶): ¶260; ¶2501-2552 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency, et al. that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Conference Trustees, Office of Human Resources/Benefits, Office of Camps and Retreats, Board of Ordained Ministry, Finances; others as may be deemed necessary through this work.

Financial Implications: Many possible – will be determined through the work proposed.

Rationale: The current state of the UMC is such that many congregations are considering their future with regard to the denomination. Our current processes do not seem sufficient to address the need should a large number of congregations seek to shift to an alternative Methodist denomination. Therefore, it is proposed that a team be created to identify and address possible issues that may arise should that path become available.

Whereas, the Incompatibility Clause (¶ 161f), the ban on performing same sex weddings (¶341.6) and prohibition on allowing “practicing” homosexuals to be ordained (¶ 304.3) have long been points of contention and debate among the members of the United Methodist Church, consuming a great deal of energy that could otherwise be expended in furthering our mission; and Whereas, the creation and subsequent actions of the Wesleyan Covenant Association that identified a preparation to create a new denominational structure have strengthened conversations among many United Methodists, with various viewpoints in this debate, about some leaving to form an alternative denomination; Whereas, the 2016 General Conference put all legislation on related issues aside, established the Commission on the Way Forward, to study these issues and potential resolutions of the debate, and called for the 2019 Special Session of General Conference to present and possibly address the findings of the Commission on the Way Forward; all with the goal of finding a Way Forward for our denomination that would finally bring a resolution to this debate in a way that would maintain and strengthen the unity of the church; and Whereas, the Way Forward Commission worked for three years in a model of cooperation, consensus building and Holy Conferencing to examine the issues and alternative “Ways Forward” that might attain the goal of ending this debate and allowing our energies to be spent in more productive ways; and at the conclusion of their study the Commission identified a Way Forward, which the majority of Bishops agreed with; and Whereas, the 2019 Special Session of General Conference rejected by a narrow margin the recommendations and results of the Holy Conferencing conducted by Commission on the Way Forward, and the recommendation of the Council of Bishops; and Whereas, the actions taken by the Special Session of General Conference, 2019, failed to create a true way forward and instead chose a path that has led to many United Methodists around the World, the

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United States and Upper New York to feel that the General Conference has failed in finding a Way Forward that maintains and strengthens the unity of the church; and Whereas, in response to that failure we have already seen the extensive pain, anger and sense of abandonment to many members of the United Methodist Church; the loss of many members and the potential greater future losses as members of congregations and entire congregations consider their future; as well as significant actions of protest, dissent and non-conformity; and Whereas, it is now clear that the United Methodist Church, as it has existed, is in danger of losing many members and congregations on both sides of this debate; and Whereas, the current procedures outlined in the Book of Discipline with regard to Churches choosing to leave an Annual Conference (Âś 260 to change Annual Conferences) or the denomination (no clear procedures even identified in the BOD), were not designed to address such widespread movement/loss of congregations and are insufficient to address the needs which may arise if such large scale exits to an alternative denomination come to be; and Whereas, the Special Session of General Conference, 2019, attempted to address some specific areas of this need through Petitions 90016 and 90017 (Pension Responsibilities and CRSP Amendment), and Petition 90066 (Disaffiliation), (but failed - depends on what JC determined about Constitutionality); and Whereas, the reality is that many other issues may arise and need to be addressed which have not already been considered; and Whereas, in the Creation of the Upper New York Conference from its four predecessor conferences many similar issues were identified, and despite pre-planning, experience showed that there were many additional issues that needed to be addressed; and Whereas, while it is our fervent hope that the unity of the United Methodist Church, which we all love, can be preserved and these actions not be needed, we must recognize the potential that such unity will not be preserved, that barriers to unity may be put in place leading to eventual separation and that it is prudent to be able to address the issues if the need arises.

Therefore, be it resolved that: The Upper New York Annual Conference will create a team to examine in detail the issues involved in any large-scale separation movement of churches and clergy to an alternate Methodist denomination which may be developed, and which are not already addressed by the Book of Discipline.

This team will examine, among other issues that may be relevant: â&#x2014;?

How the Trust Clause and other property related sections of the Book of Discipline (Paragraphs 2501-2552) will be addressed so that all congregations are treated equally and equitably;

â&#x2014;?

Developing a process by which a congregation can identify to the Annual Conference its wish to transfer to another denomination and provide a timetable for the process of transfer. This process and timetable should include steps that can be related to decisions to be made in the future (such as the establishment of an alternative denomination);

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●

Examine issues of jointly held resources and how an equitable distribution of those resources may be made should there be a denominational split (resources such as Camping and Retreat ministries which are not associated with individual congregations); or how such resources may continue to be available equitably to both expressions of Methodism if such joint associations are possible.

●

Identify and develop a process by which ordination and other forms of licensing, certification and evidence of completion of requirements for various forms of ministry can be transferred without loss of such recognitions.

●

Examine the important issues of pensions, pension liabilities and other such issues to find equitable solutions that do not create harm to individual churches or to the Annual Conference; this may include transferring such responsibilities and liabilities to whatever “new thing” may be created.

●

Identify and examine other issues which may arise and be relevant in such a denominational split of the congregations of Upper New York so that treatment is equitable, and harm is minimized as we seek how to continue to make disciples for Christ in our multiple and varied contexts.

This team will be comprised of: Two individuals from each district, one clergy and one layperson, to be chosen by the District Leadership Teams in consultation with District Superintendents; each of these persons will have voice and vote on all issues; Additionally, the team will include Conference staff with experience and knowledge in their specific fields to assist the team and to provide information. These individuals will have voice, but only vote on questions relating to their areas of expertise. These team members will include: two individuals from the Conference Leadership Team, two members of the Conference Board of Trustees; a representative from the Conference Treasurers Office a representative from the Conference Human Resources/Benefits Office a representative from the Conference Office of Camps and Retreats.

The team will also include one District Superintendent as a representative of the Cabinet who will serve with voice but no vote.

Finally, names of individuals with a willingness to serve and expertise in legal, financial and other matters deemed important by the initial team should be submitted to this team to create a pool of individuals from which they can select to assist the team as such skills are needed. The need for specific skills may expand as the team conducts their work and this expansion will be allowed and addressed as needed. As with Conference staff, these individuals are included to provide information and expertise and will serve with voice, but only have vote on issues for which they provide important information.

The team should be driven by those attending and serving the individual congregations who will be most affected and the most intimate with their individual needs. Despite this, all conference personal should be available for consultation as the team deems needed.

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Recommendations of this team should be given a high level of importance and their detailed final report and recommendation should be reported at the next meeting of Annual Conference for approval by the full body.

Finally, it is understood that should a succeeding General Conference address any of these concerns and create new sections of the Book of Discipline that will address such needs as this team may address, those procedures would supersede the work of this team.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Rev. Douglas Mackey 327 Kingsley Rd, Burnt Hills, NY 518-925-4790 pastdm@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMC The Rev. Dr. T. Mark Ledbetter, Clergy 99 Elsmere Ave. Delmar, NY 12054 478-960-0140 m.ledbetter2@gmail.com Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church.

Rev. Rebekah (Beckie) Sweet 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, NY 14217 570-647-8267 revbeckiesweet@gmail.com Kenmore UMC

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UNYAC2019.5 - Discerning Gifts and Graces for Ministry Without Partiality Book of Discipline (¶): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: UNY Board of Ordained Ministry and UNY District Committees of Ordained Ministry Financial Implications: none Rationale: James, the servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ tells us that “if you show partiality, you commit sin.”

Whereas, the Apostle Paul proclaimed, “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7); and Whereas, James, the servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, prophesies “You do well if you really fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you show partiality, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors” (James 2:8-9); and Whereas, as a diverse people of God who bring special gifts and evidence of God’s grace to the unity of the church and to society we are called to be faithful to the example of Jesus’ ministry, (para. 140 “Called to Inclusiveness”); and Whereas, inclusiveness means openness, acceptance, and support that enables all persons to participate in the life of the Church…therefore inclusiveness denies every semblance of discrimination (para. 140 “Called to Inclusiveness”); and Whereas, we affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth created in the image of God, (para 161G Human Sexuality); and Whereas, all persons regardless of…sexual orientation are entitled to have their human and civil rights ensured (para 161G Human Sexuality); and Whereas, we as United Methodists are committed to supporting those rights and liberties for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation (para. 162J Equal Rights Regardless of Sexual Orientation); Therefore, be it resolved that the Upper New York Board of Ordained Ministry and Upper New York District Committees of Ordained Ministry aspire to examine Candidates for Licensed or Ordained Ministry, and Licensed Local Pastors for Continuance as a Local Pastor with the sole intent of discerning their call to, and gifts and graces for, ministry without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Rev. Vivian Ruth Waltz 5095 Lower Court, Hamburg, NY 14075 716-982-6501 humcdeaconvivian@verizon.net Hamburg UMC

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Sarah Jay Lewis 6 Roosevelt Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 Oneonta First UMC

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Pastor Joel Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave. Troy NY,12180 UMC at Berlin joelholcomb@gmail.com Rev. Amy B. Gregory 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 seniorpastor@delmarmethodist.org 607-226-6366 First UMC Delmar Margaret Parish 163 Heritage Circle #207, Oneonta, NY 607-435-4001 Margparish@yahoo.com First UMC Oneonta Leslie Kintner 106 Wilsbach Hall, Oneonta, NY 13820 First United Methodist Church, Oneonta Julianne Sciandra-Looney 763 Altamont Road, Altamont, NY 12009 julie@sciandra.net FUMC Delmar (NY) Andrea L. Looney 67 Munson Rd. Chesterfield, MA 01012 FUMC Delmar (NY) JoAnn S Supan 324 Wellington Rd., Delmar, NY 12054 JASS11942@aol.com FUMC Delmar, NY Jamie L Cable 28 Maywood Drive, Delmar, NY 12054 Jlsgoes@verizon.net FUMC Delmar Rev. Teressa M. Sivers 402 N. Aurora St., Ithaca, NY 14850 tsivers@stpaulsithaca.org

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St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UMC Ithaca Rev Dr Jeff Losey 7151 Podunk Rd Trumansburg, NY, 14886 jlosey@twcny.rr.com Trumansburg UMC Susan A. Wuerslin 133 Tallmadge Place Albany, NY 12208 sawuersli @gmailcom Janet Hubbard 200 Darwin Drive, Amherst, NY 14226 Jnhubbard2@Gmail.com The Rev. Dr. T. Mark Ledbetter 99 Elsmere Ave., Delmar, NY 12054 518 439 1829 m.ledbetter2@gmail.com Clergy, Eastern Parkway UMC Barbara Wiley 81Wheeler Road, Glenmont, NY. 12077 Barbarawwiley@gmail.com FUMC Delmar Mary Louise Jackson 7 Wakefield Court, Delmar, NY 12054-2309 MLJ7W@yahoo.com FUMC Delmar Denise Gisotti Licensed Local Pastor 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar NY 2305; Caringministries@delmarmethodist.org FUMC Delmar Louisa Soleau 125 Brockley Drive, Delmar, NY 12054 athistle@aol.com Joan Kapral 44 Dover Drive, Delmar, NY 12054 Jkapral18@gmail.com

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Dion Marquit PO Box 456, Nassau, NY 12123 revberdan@aol.com

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Pastor Rebekah L Solar 13 Church Street, Morris, NY 13808 607-263-5162 rebekah.solar@gmail.com Morris and Edmeston UMCs Emily Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave., Troy NY, 12180 emilyjholcomb@gmail.com Christ Church Troy Sharen Holcomb 15 Bleeker Ave., Troy NY, 12180 sharenholcomb@gmail.com Christ Church Troy Angela Neal 8 Brockley Drive, Delmar, NY 12054 angela.neal12054@yahoo.com FUMC Delmar Young Do, LMSW, CASAC 13 Gail Ave., Albany, NY 12205 youngd2000@gmail.com FUMC Delmar Stephanie Do, LMHC 13 Gail Avenue, Albany, NY 12205 stephdo.lmhc@gmail.com FUMC Delmar Deborah Suparmanto 11 Boylston Dr., Delmar, NY 12054 Dsuperma@gmail.com FUMC Delmar Karen Peterson 12 Holbrook Way, Delmar, NY 12054 kbp.peterson56@gmail.com Jeff Peterson 12 Holbrook Way, Delmar, NY 12054 jmkb.peterson@gmail.com

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Rev. Rebekah (Beckie) Sweet 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, NY 14217 Revbeckiesweet@gmail.com UNYAC, serving Kenmore UMC Michele Cole 663 Bozenkill Road, Altamont, NY 12009 Micheleacole@gmail.com FUMC Schenectady Leah Giordano 20 Lyons Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054 leahggiordano@gmail.comb FUMC Delmar Maia Boswell-Penc 510 Russell Road, Albany, NY 12203 mboswellpenc@gmail.com Unity Church of Albany (formerly of FUMC Delmar) Margot Rankins-Burd 3908 Fountain St., Apt 4 Clinton, NY 13323 margotgracerankinsburd@gmail.com Fly Creek UMC Rev. Christopher Wylie 5346 Elm Drive, Lewiston, NY 14092 cwylie98@aol.com Rev. Pamela Carey 8 Highland Drive, Dryden, NY 13053 drydenumcpastor@gmail.com Rev. Mary A. Kelly 216 Beard Ave., Buffalo, NY 14214 716-833-3193, 716-597-1894 kellchamp@yahoo.com Buffalo: Central Park UMC Cheryl Lasher 57 Homestead St.., Albany, NY 12203 518-482-3802 C57lasher@gmail.com Albany: Albany UMC Conference

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Paul D. Reed, Local Licensed Pastor 1974 Beach Road, Apalachin, NY 13732 697-972-6060 cualum86@gmail.com Little Meadows UMC

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Debbie Gall 1 Weigand Lane, Delmar, NY 12054 518-439-0455 gall.debbieandken1@gmail.com FUMC Delmar-Delmar, NY Pastor Heidi Chamberlain 10 Willard Street, Malone, NY 12953 518-521-3460 airheidi@yahoo.com Malone: Centenary UMC Diana Crouch 2 Knollwood Drive, Freeville, NY 13068 607-347-4427 dianalynnec@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca, NY Jami Breedlove 2 Knollwood Drive, Freeville, NY 13068 607-347-4427 breedlovejami@gmail.com St. Paul’s UMC Ithaca, NY Paul Sweet 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 570-647-8142 paulksweet@gmail North Gouverneur UMC M. Patricia Hunt Perry 21 Hite Ct. West, Schenectady, New York 12303 phpjoy@aol.com Unity Church, Albany New York son at FUMC Delmar, NY Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Quick 32 Barnes St., Gouverneur NY 13642 315-729-7099 bethquick@gmail.com

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North Gouverneur/First UMC Gouverneur Teddi Urriola 636 Kayleigh Dr. Webster, NY 14580 (585) 705-0338 teddianderson@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Carmen L. Perry PO BOX 33, Chautauqua, NY 716-946-2269 carmenperry10@yahoo.com Hurlbut Memorial Community UMC Ted and Jeanne Finlayson-Schueler 1085 East Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13224 315-446-6333 schoolbusted@safetyrules.net University UMC, Syracuse Rev. Sara E. Baron 906 Rankin Ave., Schenectady, NY 12308 607-435-2201 s.baron@gmail.com First UMC Schenectady Pastor Rachael Jordan 187 Main St., Massena, NY 13662 561-543-3133 22rjordan@gmail.com Massena: First and Grace UMC’s Rev. Douglas Mackey 327 Kingsley Rd., Burnt Hills, NY 12027 518-925-4790 pastdm@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMC Lucinda Haag 3400 Brockport Spencerport Rd., Spencerport, NY 14559 585-352-4893 cindyhaag@live.com Adams Basin UMC Melysa Acevedo 138 3rd St., Troy, NY 12180

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518-590-5448 macetorr@gmail.com Christ Church Troy Rev. Kimberly S. Ferrel 16 Greenvale Drive, Rochester, NY 14618 315-986-2306 kimberlyshines@gmail.com Macedon Center UMC/South Perinton UMC

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UNY2019.6 - UNYUMC AU Scholarship Named for the Rev. Ann Stanton Blair Book of Discipline (Âś): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (Âś): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: The Board of Global Ministries' Africa University Development and Initiatives Team, Conference Treasurer Financial Implications: None Rational: At the first full Annual Conference of Upper New York, held in Rochester, NY in June 2011, members of Conference approved action to establish a one million-dollar ($1,000,000) Scholarship Fund to assist students at Africa University. The purposes of this action were: 1) to provide monies to cover 8 perpetually funded scholarships, at $125,000 each, for students; and 2) to become a common mission for members/congregations of UNYUMC that would be a unifying ingredient for those coming from culturally differing conference experiences into the emerging new conference.

Initial fund raising was sufficiently successful to underwrite two (2) full scholarships by the time of Annual Conference, 2013. At that conference legislation passed naming these scholarships after Bishop Marcus and Mrs. Barbara Matthews, and Julius and Anola Archibald.

As of March 29, 2019, the balance of funds raised and/or transmitted to the Africa University Development Office towards the Upper New York Scholarship Fund was $631,794. At $135,000 per scholarship (the current needed amount to fulfill a scholarship in trust), there are funds available for additional fully funded scholarships to be named and made available to Africa University students.

Whereas: There is an opportunity to honor additional persons who have contributed to growth and justice for students of Africa; and Whereas: The Rev. Ann Blair served several congregations in Wyoming and Upper New York Conferences, sharing her dedication to both local and global ministries; and Whereas: Rev. Blair's training, personal examples of generosity, and creating ways of sharing and solicitation led her to become a founding member of the Upper New York Conference Africa University Scholarship Task Force as a natural place to serve; and Whereas: Her commitment to Africa University is a continuation of her prior involvement with missions in Zimbabwe and a life-long appreciation for the benefits of excellent education and providing the resources for it.

Therefore be it resolved that one scholarship be named The Rev. Ann Stanton Blair Scholarship to honor her lifelong commitment to the UMC in ministry and mission.

Date of submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Bob Long 833 Oregon Avenue, Niskayuna, NY 12309 518-372-1083

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bikealong2@nycap.rr.com Retired UM Pastor relating with First UMC - Schenectady Carmen FS Vianese 87 Mill Street, Nunda NY 14517 585-468-5935 carmenfsvianese2@twc.com Nunda UMC Shirley Drake Byers 124 Gull Avenue, Broadalbin, NY 12025-0033 518-883-8156 sdcjbyers2@gmail.com Broadalbin UMC Robert B. Kolvik-Campbell 417 Park St., Sherrill, NY 13461 315-363-1061 pastorbob@hotmail.com

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UNYAC2019.7 – UNYAC AU Scholarship Named for - Virgia Phoenix Book of Discipline (¶): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: The Board of Global Ministries' Africa University Development and Initiatives Team, Conference Treasurer Financial Implications: None Rationale: At the first full Annual Conference of Upper New York, held in Rochester, NY, in June 2011, members of Conference approved action to establish a one million dollar [$1,000,000] Scholarship Fund to assist students at Africa University. The purposes of this action were: 1) to provide monies to cover 8 perpetually funded scholarships, at $125,000 each, for students; and 2) to become a common mission for members/congregations of UNYUMC that would be a unifying ingredient for those coming from culturally differing conference experiences into the emerging new conference.

Initial fund raising was sufficiently successful to underwrite two [2] full scholarships by the time of Annual Conference, 2013. At that conference legislation passed naming these scholarships after Bishop Marcus and Mrs. Barbara Matthews, and Julius and Anola Archibald.

As of March 29, 2019, the balance of funds raised and/or transmitted to the Africa University Development Office towards the Upper New York Scholarship Fund was $631,794. At $135,000 per scholarship [the current needed amount to fulfill a scholarship in trust], there are currently funds available for additional fully funded scholarships to be named and made available to Africa University students.

Whereas, there is an opportunity to honor additional persons who have contributed to growth and justice for students of Africa; and, Whereas, Virgia Phoenix has for 70 plus years provided superb leadership within the United Methodist Church and in interfaith settings in Boston, Brooklyn and the Capital District of New York and within Troy and Upper New York Conferences; and Whereas, the Albany District designated a named scholarship in Virgia's name on February 8, 2015; and Whereas, In an article in the UNYUMC Advocate lifting up this named scholarship, Virgia is quoted as saying: “Africa and education being so much part of my DNA ... it is my hope that such a scholarship ... will be a long 'Usahwira' (Shona for 'beautiful friendship') now and into the future” with Africa University; and Whereas, In recognition of her life-long ministry within the UMC, Virgia was the 2014 recipient of the UNYUMC Harry Denman Evangelism Award.

Therefore be it resolved that one scholarship be named the Virgia Phoenix Scholarship.

Date of submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Bob Long 833 Oregon Avenue, Niskayuna, NY 12309

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518-372-1083 bikealong2@nycap.rr.com Retired UM Pastor relating with First UMC - Schenectady Carmen FS Vianese 87 Mill Street, Nunda NY 14517 585-468-5935 carmenfsvianese2@twc.com Nunda UMC Shirley Drake Byers 124 Gull Avenue, Broadalbin, NY 12025-0033 518-883-8156 sdcjbyers2@gmail.com Broadalbin UMC Robert B. Kolvik-Campbell 417 Park St., Sherrill, NY 13461 315-363-1061 pastorbob@hotmail.com

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UNYAC2019.8 - Caring for LGBTQAI+ Ministry Candidates Book of Discipline (¶): 340.C.1.d Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Upper New York Annual Conference Board of Ordained Ministry and associated District Committees on Ordained Ministry Financial Implications: None Rationale: “Do you really think that [a] vote at General Conference can stop the Trinity from creating LGBTQ Christians and then recklessly sending them to lead Methodist churches?” – Bishop Will Willimon Whereas, God who sees the human heart often pours out the gift of vocation in ways that astound human expectation, Whereas, God has called and is calling persons from the LGBTQAI+ community into Licensed and Ordained Ministry in the United Methodist Church, Whereas, recent decisions of the 2019 General Conference have presented unique discouragements and barriers to LGBTQAI+ Candidates, Whereas, we recognize the existence of the Queer Clergy Caucus of the United Methodist Church and celebrate the capacity of its members to offer unique emotional and spiritual support, mentoring, and affirmation to those encountering the stress of navigating a calling from God while struggling under our church’s current human sexuality doctrine, Therefore, let it be resolved that the Board of Ordained Ministry and all District Committees on Ministry be provided with and encouraged to offer contact information of a Queer Clergy Caucus support person to any Candidate whose status in the Candidacy process is affected the restrictive human sexuality language of our Discipline.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Rev. Harold Wheat 31 West Broadway Salem, NY 12865 607- 339-8200 haroldwheat@gmail.com Salem/Centenary Parish

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UNYAC2019.9 - Assisting with the Interpretation of Speeches by Ecumenical Inter-Faith Leaders Book of Discipline / Book of Resolutions paragraph (Âś): Conference Committee/Agency, et al. that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Bishop and Annual Conference Planning Team Financial Implications: Yes Rationale: While information provided by ecumenical interfaith leaders can be potentially enlightening, it may be difficult to interpret for some members of Annual Conference without a way to connect what is said by such leaders with Methodist/Wesleyan Christian beliefs and teachings that are our background source of reference.

Whereas we are Christians, most without substantial familiarity with non-Christian faiths; and Whereas the purpose of inviting leaders of other faiths to speak to us is to educate us on their beliefs and practices; and Whereas all of us can better understand what is shared with us by a leader of another faith if we have a familiar context or frame of reference with which to connect it; and Whereas there are many diverse perspectives within the Conference on what constitutes proper Methodist doctrine, the traditional doctrine proclaimed by John Wesley and adopted by his spiritual descendants is the most elementary common ground on which all our varied perspectives are based.

Therefore be it resolved that each time a leader of another faith is invited to speak to Annual Conference, a Christian leader who is familiar with the faith of the non-Christian presenter will also be invited to share their views with us, both in a presentation to the full conference body and in the small group sessions along with the non-Christian presenter, to help us to better understand whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been shared with us by relating it to traditional Wesleyan Methodist Christian doctrine and means of interpretation; and Therefore be it further resolved that the Christian and non-Christian presenters will have equal time and opportunities in which to share their ideas with the full Conference body, that both leaders would join in a third session, such as a panel discussion, so conference delegates may have the opportunity to compare the perspectives presented, and that both presenters will address the same topic in their presentations.

Date of Submission: March 4, 2019 Submitted by: Edwin Jaqua 57 E. Lake Rd., Cohocton, NY 14826 585-794-1941 ejaqua@gmail.com Wheeler and Prattsburgh UMCs Submitted by: John Loeser

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338 Lake St., Wilson, NY 14172 716-949-4930, 716-751-6057 johnloeser@yahoo.com Exley UMC

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UNYAC2019.10 - Let’s Talk About Sex Book of Discipline (¶): ¶ 161.G Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: N/A Financial Implications: cost of books to participants (if not available through local UMW) Rationale: It is no secret that sexuality is a topic that makes many people uncomfortable. Far too often, the Church has remained silent or perpetuated a message of brokenness regarding the experience and expression of individuals’ sexuality. This implication of inherent brokenness has contributed to the pain that many in the United Methodist Church are currently experiencing. Many conversations around human sexuality have focused on policy and legislative strategy. By broadening the conversation, we can not only more fully understand the intersectionality of human sexuality, our faith, and our cultural context, but we can also become more comfortable as individuals and develop language to better offer compassion to people in times of trauma.

Whereas, ¶ 161.G of the 2016 Book of Discipline states, “We affirm that sexuality is God’s gift to all persons.”

Whereas, we need to first commit to a process of learning, self-reflection, and discussion before we endeavor to teach.

Therefore, be it resolved… that within the Upper New York Conference each actively serving clergy person will collaborate with a lay leader to lead a study utilizing the book “The Bible and Human Sexuality: Claiming God’s Good Gift” by Ellen Brubaker.

Therefore, be it further resolved that these study groups will utilize circle process to further discuss the intersections of our faith, human sexuality, and our culture.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Marthalyn Sweet 91 Grimsby Rd W, Buffalo, NY 14223 570-470-6354 mmmk.sweet@gmail.com Gouverneur First UMC

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Other signees:

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95

Alisyn Klock CMB 615 36 Madison Ave., Madison NJ 07940 607-239-7332 aklock00@yahoo.com Central UMC Elyse Muder 10 Terrace Hill Drive, New Hartford NY 13413 315-520-5142 mude7179@fredonia.edu Rev. Colleen Hallagan Preuninger 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester VA 22601 315-527-7383 Shenandoah University Charge conference: University UMC Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Quick 32 Barnes St., Gouverneur NY 13642 315-729-7099 bethquick@gmail.com Gouverneur First UMC/North Gouverneur Rev. Kimberly Ferrel 1160 Macedon Center Road, Macedon, NY 14502 315-986-2306 kimberlyshines@gmail.com Macedon Center UMC/South Perinton UMC Alice Nash 17 Haigh Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12304 518-225-3886 photogirl12@gmail.com First United Methodist Schenectady Rev. Rebekah (Beckie) Sweet 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, NY 14217 570-647-8267 revbeckiesweet@gmail.com Kenmore UMC Pastor Rebekah L Solar 13 Church Street, Morris, NY 13808

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607-263-5162 rebekah.solar@gmail.com Morris and Edmeston UMCs Rev. Teressa Sivers 402 N. Aurora St., Ithaca, NY 14850 607-723-5971 Tsivers@stpaulsithaca.org St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UMC Rev. Corey Turnpenny 7309 Collins St., Whitney Point NY 13862 570-417-7693 pastorcoreyt@gmail.com Whitney Point UMC Rev Dr Cathy Hall Stengel 1621 Rush Henrietta TL Rd., Rush, NY 14543 cathyhallstengel@gmail.com Rush UMC Rev. Heidi R. Chamberlain 10 Willard Street, Malone, NY 12953 518-521-3469 airheidi@yahoo.com Malone: Centenary UMC Rachel Stuart Provisional Elder, PhD student in Hebrew Bible at Emory 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322 rachel.erin.stuart@emory.edu Tara Barnes 110 Highland Ave., Binghamton, NY 13905 tarambarnes@gmail.com Tabernacle United Methodist Leslie Kintner 106 Wilsbach Hall Oneonta, NY 13820 570-885-5188 Ljkintner@gmail.com First United Methodist Church, Oneonta Rev Amy B. Gregory 428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, NY 12054

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607-226-6366 seniorpastor@delmarmethodist.org First UMC Delmar

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E. Brooke Conklin 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 bjconklin@aol.com Saratoga Springs UMC Rev Alicia Wood 1085 East Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13210 Pastoraliciawood@gmail.com University UMC, Syracuse Marge Barnes 242 Brett Brae, Clinton N.Y. 13323 315-864-8613 barnes.marge@yahoo.com VanHornsville UMC The Saratoga Springs UMC Mike Russo, Church Council Chairperson 175 Fifth Ave. Saratoga Springs NY 12866

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518-584-3720 tony51@nycap.rr.com Paul Sweet 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 570-647-8142 Paulksweet@gmail.com North Gouverneur UMC Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (585) 705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Pat Dupont, Licensed Local Pastor 402 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 Patrickjdupont@gmail.com St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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UNYAC2019.11 – A Call for Attention to the Worth of All Immigrants Book of Discipline (¶):166 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Bishop and Social Concerns Financial Implications: Brief Rationale: Whereas, we are people of God, who commands that we love our neighbors as ourselves, and one of our neighbors who cooked for the local food pantry for 10 years was taken from cooking to prison, because his citizenship has not been established-- even though he has worked for ten years to become a citizen; and Whereas, we of the United Methodist Church believe in a God of compassion, and we find need for a more formal pronouncement to the United States government that just treatment of all human beings is part of our nation’s character; and Whereas, treatment of by ICE and government immigration has been cruel, unjust, and inhuman, according to standards given in scripture and our Book of Discipline, separating children from parents and even causing death; and Whereas, visible, well-advertised, unified denouncement of such treatment by the Council of Bishops, or the National United Methodist Church has not been made known nor promoted in a formal declaration.

Therefore, be it resolved that the Upper New York Conference send a Declaration of Hope to the Council of Bishops that they will send a formal demand, that the US Government promote compassionate and just treatment To ALL immigrants, no matter their status as illegal or legal; and Therefore, be it resolved that being aware of this inhuman treatment and no visible signs of success after a decade, the government be made accountable for such anti-United States treatment and reprimandedeven asked to apologize; and Therefore, be it further resolved that the statement of the Council of Bishops strongly support legislation as soon as possible to both increase the ability to become citizens and protect those already seeking citizenship from deportation.

Date of Submission: February 14, 2019 Submitted by: Mr. Daniel McIntyre, Laity and Pastor Joy Lowenthal 990 Hoosick Rd. Troy, NY 12180 518-727-2764 joylow69@gmail.com Center Brunswick UMC

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UNYAC2019.12 - Standards for Conference Leadership by Bishop’s Appointment Book of Discipline (¶): Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: none Rationale: The leadership of the Upper New York Conference should be role models for all. Since the positions listed below are by, or partly by, the Bishop’s nomination and are not voted on by the delegates to annual conference, it is reasonable to expect that they uphold the Book of Discipline in all financial administration of The United Methodist Church.

Whereas, the 2016 Book of Discipline ¶263 states that six church-wide special Sundays with offerings shall be celebrated in each United Methodist Church. These offerings are Human Relations Day, UMCOR Sunday, Native American Ministries Sunday, Peace with Justice Sunday, World Communion Sunday, and United Methodist Student Sunday; and Whereas, the pastor of a church is responsible for the financial administration of the congregation; to faithfully model and ensure that denominational obligations are met (¶340.2.c BoD); and Whereas, we are called to be a connectional body, together with all United Methodists, participating in the ministries of The United Methodist Church; and Whereas, the delegates to Annual Conference are not able to nominate or vote on certain appointments regarding our leadership.

Therefore, be it resolved that beginning with the 2020 appointment year, the Bishop shall appoint only pastors (Elders, Commissioners, Deacons, Licensed Local Pastors, and Certified Lay Ministers when serving as the sole pastor of a congregation) whose churches have received all six special Sunday offerings for at least two consecutive appointment years leading up to the announcement to serve in any of the following capacities: District Superintendents Conference Leadership Team Board of Ordained Ministry Committee on Episcopacy Administrative Review Committee Committee on Investigation Rules Committee Date of Submission: March 28, 2019 Submitted by: Heather Smith, Peace with Justice Coordinator & Convener of the Task Force on Special Sunday Giving Mailing address: 10 Arthur Road, Newtonville, NY 12110

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Phone number: 518-368-2209 Email address: beezermcgee@yahoo.com UNY local church/charge membership: Newtonville UMC

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UNYAC2019.13 - Standards for Conference Leadership by Nominations Book of Discipline (¶): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Committee on Nominations Financial Implications: none Rationale: The leadership of the Upper New York Conference should be role models for all. Since the positions listed below are work areas that deal with the finances of the Conference, local churches, or the use of monies collected through the special Sunday offerings, it is reasonable to expect that those involved would uphold the Book of Discipline in all financial administration of The United Methodist Church.

Whereas, the 2016 Book of Discipline ¶263 states that six church-wide special Sundays with offerings shall be celebrated in each United Methodist Church. These offerings are Human Relations Day, UMCOR Sunday, Native American Ministries Sunday, Peace with Justice Sunday, World Communion Sunday, and United Methodist Student Sunday; and Whereas, the pastor of a church is responsible for the financial administration of the congregation; to faithfully model and ensure that denominational obligations are met (¶340.2.c BoD); and Whereas, we are called to be a connectional body, together with all United Methodists, participating in the ministries of The United Methodist Church.

Therefore, be it resolved that beginning with the 2021 slate of nominees, the Committee on Nominations shall put forth only pastors (Elders, Commissioners, Deacons, Licensed Local Pastors, and Certified Lay Ministers when serving as the sole pastor of a congregation) whose churches have received all six special Sunday offerings for at least two consecutive appointment years leading up to the annual conference session to serve in any of the following capacities: Committee on Finance and Administration Commission on Equitable Compensation Global Ministries Team Disaster Relief Coordinator College Ministry Team Social Holiness Team Commission on Native American Ministries Date of Submission: March 28, 2019 Submitted by: Heather Smith, Peace with Justice Coordinator & Convener of the Task Force on Special Sunday Giving 10 Arthur Road, Newtonville, NY 12110 518-368-2209 beezermcgee@yahoo.com Newtonville UMC

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GC2020.1 - A Way Forward: Pursuing a Considered and Cooperative Schism Book of Discipline (¶): / Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Council of Bishops Financial Implications: approximately $1,475,990 Rationale: Through the departure of individuals, the disaffiliation of congregations, and the consciencebound disobedience of whole conferences and jurisdictions, the United Methodist Church is already in the early stages of a large-scale schism. Recognizing this reality and developing a considered and cooperative plan for amicable division is, both spiritually and practically, the healthiest option available for moving forward in mission and ministry.

Dividing the assets and liabilities of the United Methodist Church, in a manner that honors our history, maintains as much of what we have built together as possible, and creates new structures that empower the resultant bodies to move forward effectively in ministry will take years of careful work, and require the participation of persons representing the interests of each of the resultant bodies. If we do not move quickly to initiate this work, we will miss our opportunity.

Whereas the example of scripture, as modelled by Paul and Barnabas, is to undertake separate ministries when disagreements threaten our mission (Acts 15:36-41); and Whereas the model of the early church was Christian unity not rooted in polity and property-ownership, but in shared love for Christ and commitment to God’s ongoing redemptive work in the world; and Whereas the history of the Methodist tradition demonstrates, through the birth of such bodies as the AME, AME Zion, Wesleyan, Free Methodist, and Nazarene churches, that the formation of new ecclesiastic structures within the holy catholic church can expand her sacred work; and Whereas the exhortation of John Wesley to “do no harm” testifies against the current condition of the United Methodist Church, wherein persons across the spectrum of theology and practice are vilified, and spoken about rather than with, by those who disagree with them; and Whereas the witness of the United Methodist Church, herself, is harmed by our disunity and by the harm we continue to cause one another; and Whereas the further harm inflicted by a unilateral schism can be observed in the experiences of bodies such as the Episcopal Church and the Presbyterian Church (USA); and Whereas the honest evaluation of our current structures and finances reveals that the United Methodist Church could not continue in its current form after suffering decreases in membership and giving consistent with the experiences of other bodies undergoing unilateral schism.

Therefore, be it resolved that the General Conference request the Council of Bishops establish a new Commission on a Way Forward, comprised of both clergy and laity from a representatively diverse crosssection of theological and geographic contexts, tasked with drafting a proposal for the formation of two,

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or more, independent Methodist denominations; and Therefore, be it further resolved that this new Commission on a Way Forward be charged with presenting an actionable plan for amicable schism to General Conference 2024 for consideration.

Date of Submission: March 28, 2019 Submitted by: Nathanael E Lange, LLP 5 Park Avenue, Middleport NY 14105 716-578-1122 pastornate.lange@gmail.com Middleport UMC

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GC2020.2 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform A Book of Discipline (¶): NEW after ¶1205 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Young People’s Ministries serves a vital role towards fulfilling the mission of the church. By its nature, the DMYP is made up of at least twenty-four young people who have a heart for connectional church leadership. The Global Church and its boards and agencies will greatly benefit from these leaders’ voices not being solely concentrated in one body.

Be it resolved that the following ¶NEW be added to the Book of Discipline after ¶1205: ¶NEW. Division Members who are Young People Serving on General Boards and Agencies as Members at Large — A youth or young adult member of the division may, should they so desire at the onset of division membership, serve on any General Church leadership body of their choosing, except for those whose members are elected by the General Conference, as an at large member with voice and vote. A person serving in this capacity shall not be counted for that board or agency’s representation purposes. At least 50% of the cost for attending meetings and other functions related to membership within that body shall be paid for by the receiving board or agency with Young People’s Ministry paying the remaining balance.

This provision shall not apply to any member of the division who is elected to the General Board of Discipleship in accordance with ¶1205.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GC2020.3 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform B Book of Discipline (¶): 1207 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Many boards and agencies currently have a young person or young people serving as members.

Being the only young person in a leadership role can feel isolating; so, having a space where young leaders can be young leaders together will help to promote a feeling of solidarity amongst the community of young leaders serving the global church.

Be it resolved that ¶1207 in the Book of Discipline be amended by adding a new §3: ¶1207. Membership—…3. Young People Serving as Members of General Boards and Agencies—Any youth or young adult who is serving on a General Board or Agency shall be invited to attend division meetings and functions in order to promote camaraderie and fellowship amongst young leaders throughout the connection. These persons shall have voice but no vote. At least 50% of the cost for attending these meetings and other division functions shall be paid for by the sending board or agency with Young People’s Ministry paying the remaining balance.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 (315) 527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 (585) 732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GC2020.4 - Division on Ministries with Young People Reform C Book of Discipline (¶): 1206 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: For many young people, the DMYP is their entry into leadership at the global church level. This means that for many, there is a lack of knowledge surrounding the process of being elected to leadership, the roles of leadership, or even who in the division possesses the gifts and graces to serve in leadership capacities. Rather than organizing the division at the first meeting, which is the current practice, some carry-over in leadership who possess institutional memory will aid in the transition process from division to division. Furthermore, the current executive leadership structure of having only two chairs, one youth and one adult, has led to a tendency of those positions being biased towards division members from the U.S. Be it resolved that ¶1206 in the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶1206. Structure—The Division on Ministries with Young People shall be organized around three basic units: United Methodist Youth, United Methodist Young Adults, and United Methodist Workers With Young People. Executive leadership of the division shall be elected by the division halfway through the quadrennium, and these elected leaders shall serve in that capacity until halfway through the next quadrennium. Executive leadership shall consist of: 1.

Four co-chairs to be elected by the division, comprised of: a.

One youth from the U.S., b. One young adult from the U.S., c.

One youth from the central conferences, and d. One young adult from the central conferences 2.

One secretary to be elected by the division 3.

The chair(s) of each of the three basic units to be elected by the respective basic units 4.

The chair(s) of any other committee or structure deemed necessary by the division to be elected by the respective committee or structure.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com

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Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GC2020.5 - Reducing Resources in Construction

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Book of Discipline (¶): 160

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•

that all United Methodist institutions, organizations, and local churches shall prefer the modification of existing structures over demolition and replacement with new construction wherever the choice is available.

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•

that the same shall prioritize measures for decreasing environmental footprint and reliance on nonrenewable energy resources whenever additions or modifications are made to existing structures.

Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): 1035 Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Conference Secretary Financial Implications: N/A Rationale: We often forget that the first steps in conservation of resources are the reduction of resource usage in the first place and the reuse of resources we already have available. Instead, we often behave as though recycling alone will solve the damage done to creation by human patterns of overconsumption and exploitation of natural and human resources. Furthermore, large institutions such as universities and businesses are often presented with financial incentives to build new environmentally-conscious buildings (with tax reductions and grants for LEED certifications and such) but are rarely offered the same benefits for the reuse and modification of existing buildings toward the same goal of sustainability. We as a church should seek to change habits of resource overconsumption in construction of both church and secular buildings.

Whereas we humans are tasked with governance over the living things of creation (Gen 1:28); and Whereas we are made in the image of God (Gen 1:26–27) and therefore should exercise that governance not exploitatively or for our own gain but rather with the same love and care God has for all creation and the knowledge that an integral part of the God’s salvation is that all “may have life, and have it abundantly” (Jn 10:10); and Whereas our Social Principles (Discipline ¶160) affirm that “All creation is the Lord’s, and we are responsible for the ways in which we use and abuse it. Water, air, soil, minerals, energy, resources, plants, animal life, and space are to be valued and conserved because they are God’s creation and not solely because they are useful to human beings”; and Whereas the Book of Resolutions ¶1035 states that “We understand climate justice not simply as an environmental or economic concern but rather as a deep ethical and spiritual concern that the Church must address so that abundant life is ensured for our children and future generations” and calls “all United Methodist institutions, organizations, and local churches to incorporate climate stewardship…into the design of facilities”.

Therefore, be it resolved that the Upper New York Annual Conference petitions the 2020 General Conference to resolve the following:

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that the same shall support the establishment of financial incentives both within and outside the Church for modification of existing structures rather than new construction.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Rachel Stuart 201 Dowman Dr., Atlanta, GA 30322 rachel.erin.stuart@emory.edu UNY local church/charge membership: Provisional Elder, PhD student in Hebrew Bible at Emory Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd, 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (585) 705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Pat Dupont, Licensed Local Pastor 402 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 Patrickjdupont@gmail.com St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Marthalyn Sweet 91 Grimsby Rd W., Buffalo, NY 14223 570-470-6354 mmmk.sweet@gmail.com Gouverneur First UMC Pastor Lynnette Cole Box 848, Schroon Lake, N.Y. 12870 518-817-8495 Colelynnette@gmail.com

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GC2020.6 - Assessing Local Church Potential Reform Book of Discipline (¶):(¶)213 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: The process to assess a local church’s potential can be a vital tool in focusing a congregation’s ministry within its community and its missional effectiveness. Yet right now, it is used as the precursor to closing a church. By clarifying “the future viability of the congregation” with clear benchmarks such as a failure to fill leadership roles within the church with the prescribed recommendation or no professions of faith for consecutive years, the process can be utilized in a manner that is more missionally effective.

Furthermore, before a congregation changes its administrative committee structure, it ought to subject itself to this process to ensure that the change in structuring will, in fact, help the congregation fulfill its call to ministry within the community. Lastly, when composing the task force, care ought to be taken to ensure that voices from the congregation who both are fresh to the congregation and those who possess institutional memory of the congregation are included in the study process.

Be it resolved that ¶213 of the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶213. A Process for Assessment of Local Church Potential—Since every congregation is located in a community in some type of transition, every local church is encouraged to study their congregation’s potential. Upon the request of the congregation the district superintendent shall appoint a study task force to assist in an extensive study of the past, present, and potential ministry of that local church.

Alternatively, the district superintendent may shall appoint such a task force when the future viability of the congregation is in question, when the leadership structures within the congregation fail to meet the prescribed representation standards as set forth in the Book of Discipline, when the congregation seeks to operate under an alternative administrative committee structure to the one set forth in the Book of Discipline, when the congregation has had fewer than one profession of faith per year for more than two years, or with formal approval from the pastor appointed to the congregation and the congregation’s lay leader, whenever he or she they deems it necessary for other reasons. The task force shall be composed of an equal number of lay and clergy persons and shall include persons from that congregation who have been a member of the congregation for, when possible: fewer than five years, five to twenty years, twenty to fifty years, and more than fifty years. However, the task force shall not be chaired by a person from that congregation.…

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd, 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (585) 705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com UNY local church/charge membership: Asbury First UMC

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Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.7 - Clergy Compensation Reform Book of Discipline (¶): (¶)624 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Throughout the connection and within annual conferences, there is a great disparity amongst the compensation of our clergy members serving in the local church. Some churches are able to afford to give their appointed pastor(s) extremely comfortable compensation packages. Others struggle to pay even the base minimum compensation package set by the Annual Conference. This disparity would be righted if clergy compensation didn’t come from the local church, but rather the Annual Conference. Our clergy are not hired by the local churches, but are rather appointed to serve in a congregational setting or congregational settings by the Executive of the Annual Conference. Therefore, the burden of compensating our pastors should fall on the Annual Conference. However, this paradigm shift will take a great deal of care in order to be implemented properly, and therefore time must be spent in study and preparation for this change.

Be it resolved that ¶624 of the Book of Discipline be amended by adding a new §3: ¶624. Payment Obligation—…3. By 2028, every Annual Conference shall take on this payment obligation for every clergy appointed to a local congregation according to a fixed formula and schedule set by the annual conference that accounts for ordination status, degree(s) earned, family status, and years served.

The Annual Conference shall bear no payment obligation for clergy serving in extension ministry settings not historically funded by the Annual Conference; however, clergy serving in the local congregation shall have all of their years served in ministry counted whether or not those years were served in a local congregation. In the interim, representatives from the Conference Council on Finance and Administration, the Commission on Equitable Compensation, the Order of Elders, the Order of Deacons, Associate Members, Provisional Members, Local Pastors, and the Cabinet, or their equivalent bodies, as well as the conference Treasurer and Chancellor shall form a task force to explore how to implement this change in such a way that is expeditious, effective, and just for the clergy and the local congregations.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University

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Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GC2020.8 - Mandatory Retirement Age Book of Discipline (Âś): 357.1 Book of Resolutions paragraph (Âś): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: General Conference Financial Implications: Rationale: Whereas, there has been significant increase in life expectancy and vitality; and Whereas, the age of persons entering ordained/Licensed ministry has risen; and Whereas, there is great value in the experience of clergy 72 old and above.

Therefore, be it resolved that the age of mandatory retirement be raised from 72 to 76.

Date of Submission: March 21, 2019 Submitted by: Rev Dr Jeff Losey 7151 Podunk Rd, Trumansburg, NY 14886 607-387-9024 jlosey@twcny.rr.com Elder serving Trumansburg UMC

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GC2020.9 - Pastoral Definition Reform Book of Discipline (¶): 339 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Currently, a key segment of our clergy is not defined as pastors. Ordained and provisional deacons are thus barred from some protections that are extended to “pastors”. For example, if a clergy member of an annual conference engages in a relationship and/or behavior that undermines the ministry of an ordained or provisional deacon, the deacon arguably has no ground to bring the clergy member up on charges (cf ¶2702.1.f). This petition corrects that oversight by providing clarity.

Be it resolved that ¶339 in the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶339. Definition of a Pastor—A pastor is an ordained elder, probationary deacon (according to 1992 Book of Discipline), associate member, provisional elder, or local pastor approved by vote of the clergy session and may be appointed by the bishop to be in charge of a station, circuit, cooperative parish, extension ministry, ecumenical shared ministry, or to a church of another denomination or on the staff of one such appointment. Ordained deacons in full connection and provisional deacons, with all rights, privileges, and responsibilities granted to them in the Discipline shall also be defined as pastors.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.9 - Pastoral Definition Reform Book of Discipline (¶): 339 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Currently, a key segment of our clergy is not defined as pastors. Ordained and provisional deacons are thus barred from some protections that are extended to “pastors”. For example, if a clergy member of an annual conference engages in a relationship and/or behavior that undermines the ministry of an ordained or provisional deacon, the deacon arguably has no ground to bring the clergy member up on charges (cf ¶2702.1.f). This petition corrects that oversight by providing clarity.

Be it resolved that ¶339 in the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶339. Definition of a Pastor—A pastor is an ordained elder, probationary deacon (according to 1992 Book of Discipline), associate member, provisional elder, or local pastor approved by vote of the clergy session and may be appointed by the bishop to be in charge of a station, circuit, cooperative parish, extension ministry, ecumenical shared ministry, or to a church of another denomination or on the staff of one such appointment. Ordained deacons in full connection and provisional deacons, with all rights, privileges, and responsibilities granted to them in the Discipline shall also be defined as pastors.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.10 - General Conference Delegate Reform A Book of Discipline (¶): 14 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Many young lay delegates to the General Conference are also in the process of answering a call to ministry. If they have been elected for a four-year term and a special session has been called and the Annual Conference chooses to not elect a new delegation for the special session, advancing in the candidacy process ought not prevent them from finishing out their four-year term, especially since the chance of them becoming a fully ordained clergyperson before a special session is called is highly unlikely.

Be it resolved that ¶14 in the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶14. Article II. — The General Conference shall meet once in four years at such a time and in such a place as shall be determined by the General Conference or by its duly authorized committees. The change in the preceding sentence shall become effective at the close of General Conference in 2016. A special session of the General Conference, possessing the authority and exercising all the powers of the General Conference, may be called by the Council of Bishops, or in such other manner as the General Conference may from time to time prescribe, to meet at such time and in such place as may be stated in the call. Such special session of the General Conference shall be composed of the delegates to the preceding General Conference, regardless of change in a delegate’s lay/clergy status, or their lawful successors, except that when a particular annual conference or missionary conference shall prefer to have a new election it may do so. The purpose of such special session shall be stated in the call, and only such business shall be transacted as is in harmony with the purpose stated in such call unless the General Conference by a twothirds vote shall determine that other business may be transacted.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620

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(585) 732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.11 - General Conference Delegate Reform B Book of Discipline (¶): 35 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: In many Annual Conferences, clergy members in full connection are outnumbered by the other types of clergy members of the Annual Conference. These clergy persons have no representation at the General Church level, and yet they ought to.

Be it resolved that ¶35 in the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶35. Article III.—The clergy delegates to the General Conference and to the jurisdictional or central conference shall be elected from the clergy members in full connection and shall be elected by the clergy members of the annual conference or provisional annual conference who are deacons and elders in full connection, associate members, and those provisional members who have completed all of their educational requirements and local pastors who have completed course of study or an M. Div. degree and have served a minimum of two consecutive years under appointment immediately preceding the election.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GC2020.12 - Add Domestic Violence to the List of Chargeable Offenses Book of Discipline (¶): ¶ 2702.1 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): N/A Conference Committee/Agency, et al. that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Conference Secretary Financial Implications: N/A Brief Rationale: Domestic violence is not currently among the chargeable offenses listed in the Book of Discipline, thus creating a gap in the various forms of misconduct for which bishops, clergy, local pastors and diaconal ministers may be held accountable (sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, harassment, sexual harassment, and gender discrimination are all among the offenses listed). ¶ 162.F of the 2016 Book of Discipline states, “We affirm the right of women to live free from violence and abuse…”

According to the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline, Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse, or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.

Domestic violence does not discriminate. Anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender can be a victim – or a perpetrator – of domestic violence. It can happen to people who are married, living together, or who are dating. It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

Domestic violence includes behaviors that physically harm, arouse fear, prevent a partner from doing what they wish or force them to behave in ways they do not want. It includes the use of physical and sexual violence, threats and intimidation, emotional abuse and economic deprivation.

Many of these different forms of domestic violence/abuse can be occurring at any one time within the same intimate relationship.

The following Power and Control Wheel is one method of describing what occurs in an abusive relationship. Although it uses she/her pronouns for the victim and assumes a male perpetrator, abuse can happen to people of any gender in any type of relationship.

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https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/understanding-power-control-wheel/ Furthermore, for Christians, domestic/intimate partner violence is a violation of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will for humanity, a violation of the minimum standard of loving our neighbors and our families as ourselves, and a violent attack on the kin-dom of God. In order to strengthen the ability of an annual conference to hold clergy accountable (or jurisdictions in the case of bishops) to their commitment, upon seeking ordination, to â&#x20AC;&#x153;...mak[ing] a complete dedication

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of themselves to the highest ideals of the Christian life,” including in regard to “integrity in all personal relationships…” pursuant to ¶ 304.2, the following resolution is made.

Therefore, be it resolved, the Upper New York Annual Conference petitions the 2020 General Conference to amend ¶ 2702.1, adding a new subpoint (m), as follows: ¶ 2702.1 A bishop, clergy member of an annual conference (¶ 370), local pastor, clergy on honorable or administrative location, or diaconal minister may be tried when charged (subject to the statute of limitations in ¶ 2702.4) with one or more of the following offenses: or (l) fiscal malfeasance; or (m) domestic violence.

Additionally, a footnote shall be added to this subpoint as follows: For the purposes of this provision, domestic violence--also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse, or relationship abuse--shall be defined as a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship. Domestic violence includes behaviors that physically harm, arouse fear, prevent a partner from doing what they wish or force them to behave in ways they do not want. It includes the use of physical and sexual violence, threats and intimidation, emotional abuse, and economic deprivation. Many of these different forms of domestic violence/abuse can be occurring at any one time within the same intimate relationship.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Co-Submitted by: Home Missioner Kevin M. Nelson, on behalf of the FUMC Schenectady Church Council, adopted on Tuesday, February 12th, 2019.

906 Rankin Ave, Schenectady, NY 12308 212-729-4059 kmichael07@yahoo.com UNY local church membership: FUMC Schenectady Co-Submitted by: Vicki Wills, on behalf of North Chatham UMC Administrative Council, adopted on Sunday, February 17th, 2019.

4274 NY-203, North Chatham, NY 12132 518-766-3535 vbwills@fairpoint.net North Chatham UMC Co-Submitted by: Paula Miller, on behalf of Church Council, Burnt Hills United Methodist Church, adopted on Monday, February 11th, 2019.

BHUMC, 816 Route 50, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 518.399.5144 burnthillsumc@gmail.com ; pbmiller0@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMC

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Rev. Sara E. Baron 906 Rankin Ave, Schenectady, NY 12308 518-374-4403 s.baron@gmail.com Full Elder, UNY Conference

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E. Brooke Conklin 23 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 518-424-4801 bjconklin@aol.com Saratoga Springs UMC Rev. Carmen L. Perry PO BOX 33, Chautauqua, NY 14722 716-946-2269 carmenperry10@yahoo.com Full Elder, UNY Conference Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd; 1809-N; Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC - Rochester Rev. Kimberly S. Ferrel 16 Greenvale Drive Rochester, NY 14618 315-986-2306 kimberlyshines@gmail.com Full Elder, UNY Conference

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Alice E. Nash 17 Haigh Ave, Schenectady, NY 12304 518-225-3886 photogirl12@gmail.com FUMC Schenectady Darrin G. Nash 17 Haigh Ave, Schenectady, NY 12304 518-506-4928 team45racing@gmail.com FUMC Schenectady Rev. Douglas Mackey 327 Kingsley Rd, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 518.925.4790 PastDM@gmail.com Burnt Hills UMC Rev. Rebekah Sweet, senior pastor 32 Landers Rd., Kenmore, NY 14217 (570) 647-8267 revbeckiesweet@gmail.com Kenmore United Methodist Church Rachel Stuart Provisional Elder, PhD student in Hebrew Bible at Emory 201 Dowman Drive Atlanta, GA 30322 rachel.erin.stuart@emory.edu

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GC2020.13 - Mission Reform A Book of Discipline (¶): 120 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Though the Church was instituted by Christ, it is still human in its composition. Therefore, the Church is bound by the same limitations as we are. Humans don’t make disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ calls his disciples. This is upheld in our doctrinal standards (cf Articles VIII and XIII of the Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church and Articles V and VII of the Confession of Faith of the Evangelical United Brethren Church). Our mission ought to reflect our human limitations. The best we can do is help point others to Christ, but Christ will call and make his disciples with or without us.

Be it resolved that ¶120 of the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶120. The Mission—The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the world. Local churches and extension ministries of the Church provide the most significant arenas through which disciple-making occurs. reflect the light and love of Jesus Christ through the entire world so that disciples are made, and the world may be transformed.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Lay Member of Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 (585) 732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.14 - Mission Reform B Book of Discipline (¶): 121 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Though the Church was instituted by Christ, it is still human in its composition. Therefore, the Church is bound by the same limitations as we are. Humans don’t make disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ calls his disciples. This is upheld in our doctrinal standards (cf Articles VIII and XIII of the Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church and Articles V and VII of the Confession of Faith of the Evangelical United Brethren Church). Our mission ought to reflect our human limitations. The best we can do is help point others to Christ, but Christ will call and make his disciples with or without us.

Be it resolved that ¶121 of the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶121. Rationale for Our Mission—The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world reflect the light and love of Jesus Christ through the entire world so that disciples are made and the world may be transformed by proclaiming the good news of God’s grace and by exemplifying Jesus’ command to love God and neighbor, thus seeking the fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world. The fulfillment of God’s reign and realm in the world is the vision Scripture holds before us. The United Methodist Church affirms that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and the Lord of all. As we make disciples, we respect persons of all religious faiths and we defend religious freedom for all persons. Jesus’ words in Matthew John provide the Church with our mission: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you” (28:19-20) and “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, and with all your mind. . . .You must love your neighbor as you love yourself” (22:37, 39). “I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing…This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (15:5, 12-13) …John Wesley, Phillip Otterbein, Jacob Albright, and our other spiritual forebears understood this mission in this way. Whenever United Methodism has had a clear sense of mission, God has used our Church to save persons, heal relationships, transform social structures, and spread scriptural holiness, thereby changing the world. To be truly alive, we embrace Jesus’ mandate to love God and to love our neighbor one another and to make disciples of all peoples reflect Christ’s life throughout the whole world.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC

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Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Fairport UMC

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GC2020.15 - Mission Reform C Book of Discipline (¶): 122 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Though the Church was instituted by Christ, it is still human in its composition. Therefore, the Church is bound by the same limitations as we are. Humans don’t make disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ calls his disciples. This is upheld in our doctrinal standards (cf Articles VIII and XIII of the Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church and Articles V and VII of the Confession of Faith of the Evangelical United Brethren Church). Our mission ought to reflect our human limitations. The best we can do is help point others to Christ, but Christ will call and make his disciples with or without us.

Be it resolved that ¶122 of the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶122. The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission—We make disciples as we: We reflect the light and love of Christ as we: • • • •

•

Proclaim the gospel, seek, and welcome and gather persons into the body of Christ; Lead persons to commit their lives to God through baptism by water and the Spirit and profession of faith in Jesus Christ; Nurture persons in Christian living through worship, the sacraments, spiritual disciplines, and other means of grace, such as Wesley’s Christian conferencing; Send persons into the world to live lovingly and justly as servants of Christ by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, caring for the stranger, freeing the oppressed, being and becoming a compassionate, caring presence, and working to develop social structures that are consistent with the gospel; and Continue the mission of seeking, welcoming, and gathering persons into the community of the body of Christ.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 Email address: i.urriola@yahoo.com UNY local church/charge membership: Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com

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Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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GD2020.16 - Mission Reform D Book of Discipline (¶): 123 Book of Resolutions paragraph (¶): Conference Committee/Agency that would be affected by/responsible for implementation if passed: Financial Implications: Rationale: Though the Church was instituted by Christ, it is still human in its composition. Therefore, the Church is bound by the same limitations as we are. Humans don’t make disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ calls his disciples. This is upheld in our doctrinal standards (cf Articles VIII and XIII of the Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church and Articles V and VII of the Confession of Faith of the Evangelical United Brethren Church). Our mission ought to reflect our human limitations. The best we can do is help point others to Christ, but Christ will call and make his disciples with or without us.

Be it resolved that ¶123 of the Book of Discipline be amended as follows: ¶123. The Global Nature of Our Mission—The Church seeks to fulfill its global mission through the Spiritgiven servant ministries of all Christians, both lay and clergy. Faithfulness and effectiveness demand that all ministries in the Church be shaped by the mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ reflecting the light and love of Jesus Christ through the entire world.

Date of Submission: March 29, 2019 Submitted by: Ian C. Urriola 5500 Friendship Blvd., 1809-N, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 585-705-9334 i.urriola@yahoo.com Asbury First UMC Rev. Colleen Hallagan-Preuninger (FE) 1321 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA 22601 315-527-7383 colleenpreuninger@gmail.com Extension Ministry, Shenandoah University Charge Conference Membership: University UMC (UNY); Braddock Street UMC (VA) Rev. Pat Dupont (Licensed Local Pastor) 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 585-732-9071 patrickjdupont@gmail.com Extension Ministry, St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality Charge Conference Membership: Fairport UMC

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Archives and History, Commission on (CAH) The UNY conference archives were surveyed/reviewed twice in 2018 - first on January 16 by Dale Patterson from GCAH (General Commission on Archives & History) from whom CAH received his report in March - and second by Amelia Parker from Documentary Heritage and Preservation Services for New York (DHPSNY) on September 20, whose report is scheduled for 2019.

District representatives were identified to guide closing churches in sorting their records prior to the records being forwarded to the archives. Volunteers were trained on November 3 and a webinar produced for future use.

Four CAH members attended the Northeastern Jurisdictional Commission on Archives & History annual meeting May 8 - 10 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Awakeningsâ&#x20AC;? of Evangelical and United Brethren, etc.

UNYCAH is planning on hosting the NEJCAH meeting on May 19 - 21, 2020, in the Finger Lakes area of the Upper New York Conference.

The Historical Society of the United Methodist Church gave two Ministry of Memory Awards in 2018. One was to a nominee of Upper New York Conference (confirming an earlier nomination by Wyoming Conference which was partly in NYS and partly in Pennsylvania) of the Rev. John Topelewski for his historical work in the Wyoming Conference. At his request, his wife Nancy was included in the award.

The Upper New York United Methodist Historical Society (UNY-UMHS) was active also. Public meetings were Saturday, June 16 in Clyde with a theme of Methodist Churches of Wayne County (along with a walking tour of Clyde churches and museum) and Saturday, September 22 at the UNY Conference Center with a program featuring Elmira churches.

UNY-UMHS made its Facebook site public (https://www.facebook.com/groups/UNYUnitedMethodistHistoricalSociety/) and produced four issues of a new quarterly newsletter UNY Historical News & Views, which was emailed to its members.

Elected members of the UNYCAH team in all or part of 2018 were: Ken Jones (Chair), Nancy Rutenber (Secretary), Karen Staulters, Margaret and Lee Flanders, Rev. Betsye Mowry, James Hare, Rev. Don Hoff, Rev. Cathy Lee, Rev. James Lesch, Loreen Jorgensen, Peter Agnew, Thomas Place, Susan Slenker, Ralph Taylor, Richard Ward, and Betsy-Baker Whitney. Emeritus members (designated by CAH) are: Merle and Catherine Doud, Ray Leonard, Gilbert Smith, and Ken Summers.

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Camp and Retreat Ministries, Committee on (CCRM) Your Committee on Camp and Retreat Ministries (CCRM) has continued the work of advising and guiding our Camp and Retreat staff in providing places and experiences for the purpose of making disciples for Jesus Christ. As partners with the local church, and other organizations doing good in the world, we served nearly 7,500 guests at our five centers in 2018. Of the 7,500 guests, approximately 2800 were children and youth involved in a transformational experience of community at a summer program.

While all our centers offer similar quality experiences, each of our centers have a unique specialty: • • • • •

Aldersgate, while still offering a week of summer camp and a family weekend, specializes in offering Christian Hospitality to week long guest camps Asbury has continued to offer quality Christian hospitality as a year-round retreat facility with the unique opportunity to serve guest groups during warm weather months Casowasco specializes in leadership development and summer camp programming while offering year-round retreats and Christian hospitality to guest groups Sky Lake excels at offering multiple weeks of Christ focused experiences for differently abled populations and seasonally offering Christian hospitality to guest groups year round Skye Farm has a renewed focus on adventure programming and is offering a wide range of new programs

Generous donors assisted over 300 campers in making camp possible for families that would otherwise not be able to send a child to camp. Donors also gave to specific projects this year such as renovations to two small cabins at Skye Farm, new bathroom facility in Hamer Lodge at Aldersgate, and staining of Founder’s Lodge at Sky Lake. In collaboration with the Wilmott Foundation, Asbury has begun a three-year improvement project on Wilmott Lodge which included new siding and new roof this year. Donors continue to support improvements to Galilee Lodge at Casowasco. The generosity of our donors is critical for the advancement of the mission and vision of camp and retreat ministries.

As outlined in our Strategic Plan for Ministry, we are excited to launch project specific campaigns for each site working with donors and foundations to renovate or construct facilities at each site that will help to sustain these vital ministries for years to come.

We recognize and acknowledge the challenges related to ministry in a changing world with large facilities with many needs. We have reduced staff, streamlined operations and continue to work on increasing ministry revenue. We celebrate the collaborative work we did with the finance department to specifically ascertain what net assets rolled into the conference from previous conferences and are pleased to now have a comprehensive list.

Many of our participants report making a first time or renewed commitment to follow Christ at our facilities.

It is said that more than half of the people in full-time ministry today have made life-changing decisions at camp. Many not only gave their lives to Christ, but also learned their leadership skills there.

The Upper NY Conference, through Shared Ministry, advocacy, participation and contributions equip leaders from our local churches, grow transformational young adult leaders, introduce creation care and stewardship to young people and invite all who spend time on our sites the opportunity to live a life of discipleship.

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We describe the power of camp as: •

Transformed lives: At camp, young people have the mental room to consider some of the most important issues of life. This break from the craziness of their regular routine allows campers to think about their future, to evaluate unhealthy patterns, and to discover the truth that there is a God, God loves them, and God wants a relationship with them.

•

Adult mentors: According to researchers, kids spend on average less than 40 minutes in meaningful conversation with their parents each week. At camp, caring adults, counselors and mentors come alongside campers, helping them think through decisions and experiences in a way that will prepare them for their future. Many campers point back to a positive role model they met at camp as one who helped shape the direction of their lives.

•

Nature and adventure: Richard Louv, author of Nature Deficit Disorder is quoted as saying, “Kids are plugged into some sort of electronic medium 44 hours per week.” Because of this Louv also says; “Now more than ever we need nature as a balancing agent.” Our camps are set in some of the most beautiful spots in the state. Campers explore nature, participate in new adventures and test their limits in a healthy environment surrounded by the grandeur of God’s creation.

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Lifelong friendships: Good friends who exert positive peer pressure can make all the difference in a kid’s life. Friendships with caring adults and other campers, forged through shared experience and the compressed time at camp, can last a lifetime and provide a connection that helps young people navigate the challenges of life.

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Temporary Community: In a setting separate from their daily routine, with an opportunity to shed the expectations and pressures of others, campers are freed up to truly be themselves, to live above artificial limitations and blossom into who they were created to be.

If you haven’t been to one of our facilities recently, we encourage you to connect with one of our staff members or committee members at our Conference display to hear more about your ministry.

Respectfully submitted, Eden Rotella, Chair of CCRM and Mike Huber, Director of CRM Eden Rotella – Chairperson Shafeegh Habeeb – Vice Chairperson

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College Ministry Team (CMT) John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement, began his ministry on a university campus. As a student he dedicated much of his time to focusing on spiritual growth. After becoming a fellow at Lincoln College, John Wesley and his brother Charles began meeting regularly with some of their fellow students. Together, their “Holy Club” studied scripture, broke bread, and extended their ministry by visiting debtors and other criminals in prison. Over time this group grew in number and reputation, earning some derogatory nicknames such as “Bible Moths” and, yes, Methodists.

We, as the College Ministries Team of Upper New York, are working to tap into our earliest roots and setting college students across the conference on fire with the Spirit. More specifically, we are working to get local churches more involved with campus life, either by providing them with the tools for hosting a group in their facilities or helping them to encourage and support groups on campuses.

During the 2018-2019 year, however, we have been focusing more on understanding our spiritual gifts as individuals and as a committee. With new faces and new leadership, we have set goals of starting two new campus ministries per district this year. As we look forward to the coming year as a committee, we are hopeful and inspired in our work to create disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

In Peace, Sam Smith and Meg Morin Co-Chairs, College Ministries Team Elyse Muder, Caleb Smith, Zachary Stahlsmith, JJ Warren, Rev. Jeff Aiosa, Emily Allen, Pastor Karen Woodsworth, Rev. Eunice Kim, Pastor Rhonda Chester, Rev. William Gottschalk-Fielding, and Rev. Debbie Earthrowl

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Conference Communications Once again, Conference Communications have been blessed over the last year to lead the way in sharing our story and empower leaders through information, education, inspiration, and connection. What has worked well in the past continues to stand strong.

• • •

• • • •

The Advocate has both informed and inspired with issue themes including: Boldly Living our Call, Going where God Calls, Spiritually Planning our Way Forward, and Inviting and Inspiring Worship.

Supplemental publications have also been an important part of how we live together with publications including the Narrative Budget Booklet, and The Upper New York Conference Journal.

The Bridge continues to serve its audience well, providing a sampling of Conference and United Methodist Church life to the people in the pews about twice a month. The goal of the stories in the Bridge is to connect churches to each other, to the Conference, and to the United Methodist Church, while pointing the readers to resources, where they can go deeper.

UNY Notes and the Weekly Digest remain committed to informing church leaders about the important news and events taking place around the Conference.

Video Ministry continues to supplement both events and news around the Conference in a dynamic and exciting way. There has been a special focus on social-media-friendly videos that are shorter and often serialized.

The Conference Blog continues to be a great way for individuals in Upper New York to share their voices directly and start a dialog. The blog has also been integrated well into social media.

The Conference website reaches a variety of audiences with everything from motivational news items and blogs to church forms in an organized and user-friendly way.

This year, much effort has gone into fully embracing and utilizing social media as a means of connection and feedback. As mentioned above, special attention has been given to making social-media-friendly videos, but much more has been done to improve reach and interaction on Facebook in particular. As a result, numbers of followers have greatly increased, but more importantly, the number of interactions has greatly improved.

There are other areas that Conference Communications has been working to be forward thinking, as well.

For example, Conference Communications teamed with the IT ministry area to launch the Annual Conference App. The app had a 90% usage rate and was very well received. It has also replaced the Annual Conference Guide as the primary way of orienting delegates at Annual Conference.

There is also a shift in the information that has previously been shared through the Advocate. Moving forward there will only be two issues of the Advocate annually. However, a new web-friendly communications channel is launching called Focus On. Similar to the Advocate, the web features will dive deep into particular issues around what it means to be United Methodist in Upper New York. The primary audience, people that leaders want to “go deeper” (new church members, new leaders, people being primed for leadership, etc.), is also the same as the Advocate. Church members will be encouraged to visit the Focus On web features through QR codes (quick response code or barcode that points to a website or applicaton), direct links, and more.

The past year was the first official year of the Conference Leadership Team acting as direct advisors on Communications Ministry, and the approach has worked very well. Communications ministry in Upper New York is stronger than ever.

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In the coming year, strides will continue to be made in social media and other areas where momentum is moving forward while the tried and true communications methods will be maintained and enhanced like the movement to the Focus On section of the website.

As in the past, the Communications team is blessed to be able to lead the way in sharing our story and is excited for the ministry the lies ahead. Through Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grace, we will have amazing stories to tell in the coming year.

Submitted by Stephen J. Hustedt, Director of Communications

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Connectional Ministries This past year has been rich and rewarding in many ways. Let me name a few highlights and one vision for the future. One of the biggest blessings this year has been helping our Conference Commission on Religion and Race launch the “Imagine No Racism” initiative (INR). On a personal level, INR has helped me see how racism distorts my view of myself and my view of others. It has also challenged me and hundreds of others to question how the Church and the world-at-large are structured by racist ideas and practices and to imagine and work for a more just, inclusive and Christ-like Church and community.

With the retirement of Vicki Swanson last June, I’ve also taken on primary responsibility for planning the Annual Conference session. There’s quite a learning curve for that work, but I’m blessed with a great team of staff and volunteers who demonstrate the importance of teamwork and collaboration.

Another ongoing and fruitful place of collaboration for me has been the Conference Leadership Team. Here I’ve continued to help build systems and resources to increase the capacity of lay and clergy leaders in our local churches. Indeed, it is out of this work that a vision for some future work has emerged.

The Conference Leadership Team has organized its monthly meetings around the L3 format: Loving (God and each other); Learning and Leading. One of the learning resources we are using is Henry Cloud’s Necessary Endings. In this book Cloud outlines the need for healthy organizations to engage in regular “pruning” of structures and projects. He likens this to cultivating a healthy rose bush. If you want beautiful flowers, you need to 1) prune the mediocre buds in favor of the truly excellent; 2) remove what is unhealthy and stunted; and 3) cut away the deadwood to make space for growth. The aim isn’t to diminish the bush, but to release its potential. Reading and applying this to our context, I’m convinced that it’s time for us to do some pruning in our organization, specifically with our committee structure.

As a conference, we’ve lived and worked together with a structure adopted almost a decade ago. We’ve learned a few things in that time about what works for us and what could be improved; about what helps our congregations fulfill their mission and what may be hindering them.

All conference committees, teams, and boards exist to serve the ministry needs of our local churches. Many of our existing teams do this work very well; others struggle. Because the local church is ultimately the focus of our committees, teams, and boards, I believe any effective revision of structure will begin with input from local churches. In the year ahead, I want to find ways to listen to local church leaders to hear what tools and training they need from our committees, teams, and boards to be more effective in ministry. The closer we align the work of our committees, teams, and boards with the needs of our churches, the more things can blossom in our conference.

To close this report, let me end with a word of thanks to the members of the Upper New York Conference.

On July 1st I will begin my tenth year in this role. It’s been and remains an incomparable privilege to serve you and to serve with you. Thank you for the friendship, support, challenge, grace, and example you offer.

You are a blessing to me.

Submitted by Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, Director of Connectional Ministries

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Episcopacy, Committee on (COE) The Upper New York Committee on the Episcopacy (COE) is elected at the beginning of a quadrenium and then serves for the entirety of the quadrenium. The current Upper New York COE was elected in 2016 and is in its third year of supporting Bishop Webb and his family in UNY. The UNY COE is made up of the following people: • Rev. Dr. Bill Allen – Chairperson • Mr. Greg Forrester – Vice-Chairperson • Pastor Abigail Browka • Mrs. Kelli Farrell • Pastor Olga Gonzalez-Santiago • Mrs. Susan Hardy – UNY Conference Lay Leader • Dr. Scott Johnson • Rev. Dr. Sung Ho Lee • Mrs. Pat VanVleck The chair and vice-chair of the COE are determined as the result of their order of election to the General Conference delegation from UNY. The rest of the COE members are chosen by the bishop.

In 2018, the UNY COE continued its pattern of meeting at least twice a year with Bishop Webb. We also met via conference calls on ZOOM when necessary. It is important to recognize that confidentiality is a fundamental element of the COE. The COE serves as a type of S/PPRC for the bishop. Therefore, we have made a solemn covenant with Bishop Webb to share neither specific content nor tone of COE meetings.

This environment creates a space for grace, trust, and honesty in all our interactions.

The role of the COE is to support the bishop by praying for him and his family, by ensuring that the episcopal residence meets the needs of the family, by blessing the family with encouragement and hospitality throughout the year, by providing a listening ear for the bishop, and by assisting the bishop in receiving evaluative feedback concerning his leadership. Typically, some members of the COE will meet at least once at the episcopal residence to make sure all is well. We will do this again in 2019.

We look forward to supporting and encouraging Bishop Webb and his family throughout the remainder of this quadrenium. We ask that the laity and clergy of the UNY Conference take seriously our privilege and responsibility of holding up Bishop Webb and his family in our prayers.

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Finance and Administration, Conference Council on (CF&A) The Conference Council on Finance and Administration (CF&A) continues working on policies and procedures with the finance staff, forming the narrative budget and the other Discipline-mandated tasks of CF&A. Several milestones during 2018 and 2019 have included: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Publishing (for the third year) a narrative budget booklet, to better enable everyone to understand the 2020 Ministry Share Budget and what is accomplished through the ministry shares paid by local churches.

Our 2018 General Church Apportionments were paid in full. o Several Local Treasurer Handbooks have been generated by CF&A and published in its section of the Conference website. These handbooks cover the following topics: Clergy Payroll; Finance and Minimum Standards; Payroll; Clergy Compensation; Local Church Audits; Ministry Shares; and various Resources.

We were also delighted to hire Bob Flask as our new Conference Treasurer. He started with us in September 2018, and has been working diligently with this team, Finance staff, Bishop, Executive Staff and many other agencies and teams.

Our two-part budget work continues. We are working to control Ministry Share budget spending and have communicated with each of the teams, requesting their spending needs, what they have accomplished, and how their work supports the vision, mission and primary task of the Conference.

While many churches paid 100% of their Ministry Shares in 2018, and some churches increased their Ministry Share giving, CF&A recognizes that one of its primary tasks for 2019 and beyond will be work in stewardship education and training, as well as working with teams and groups on their own stewardship.

We continue to endeavor to meet our task of faithfully and prayerfully strengthening our financial resources through fervent prayer, fiscally sound policies, and faithful stewardship practices, providing the revenue and resources necessary for the financial support of vital ministries of the United Methodist Church here in the Upper New York Conference and world-wide.

I offer thanks to the members of CF&A (Naomi Annandale, Roger Cullen, Nancy Dibelius, Sue Godshall, Rich Griffin, David Hays, Jenni Piatt, Gerald Piper, Holly Roush, Larry Lake, Bob Flask, Jeff McDowell, and Bill Gottschalk-Fielding) for their service and ministries, to the Finance Staff, Conference Treasurer, and to the Boards of Trustees and Pensions and Health Benefits, Conference Leadership Team, Executive Staff, Bishop and the Director of Connectional Ministries for their continued support.

Blessings, Rev. Susan M. Ranous, President

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Laity and Conference Lay Leaders, Board of

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Our United Methodist denomination affirms the partnering of Clergy and Laity in all ministries and missions.

Our Conference Board of Laity collaborate with the Conference Lay Leader, much like the Cabinet of District Superintendents work with our Bishop. Each of us has responded to God’s call on our lives to grow toward vital and fruitful leadership.

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Members of the Upper New York Board of Laity include our Conference Lay Leader (Susan Hardy), associate CLL (Drew Griffin), all District LLs and Co-DLLs, Conference Director of Lay Servant Ministries (Lucina Hallagan), Vice-President of United Methodist Men (Steve Ranous), President of United Methodist Women (Carmen Vianese), CCYM co-chairs, YA co-chairs, two at-large members, and a conference staff liaison (Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens).

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We meet via video conferencing, which saves funds, time, and supports safety in challenging travel seasons.

These meetings are published in advance on our Weekly Digest online calendar.

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Our Book of Discipline offers five purposes for our Conference Board of Laity:

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• • • • •

Remind laypersons that Jesus personally called and taught disciples, who were laity, like us, and that such calls are ongoing Promote fruitful stewardship practices Offer training for lay members to Annual Conference Guide and support lay ministries at all levels; promote Laity Sunday Develop and guide local church leaders

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How did we exercise our responsibilities from January-December 2018?

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Susan and Lucina collaborated to create and film an orientation to Annual Conference 2018 for lay members.

This was available through the conference website and part of our pre-conference briefings.

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Speakers for Laity Session 2018 affirmed how each one was called and inspired to boldly engage in fruitful stewardship and ministry at all levels: local church, district, conference, jurisdictional, national, and global ministries.

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A majority of BOL members serve on District Leadership Teams and various District committees. Many shape- -and often teach-- classes for local church leaders through District Days and Lay Servant Ministry classes. As an example, Oneonta DLL Anna Buell and her District Superintendent, Everett Bassett, practice an outreach ministry, “Can I Get a Witness?” that was shared in their district, as well as at Cornerstone District’s annual learning event in February 2018. Another example is how our Albany District DS, Rich Weihing and DLL, Ellen Mall-John, created a monthly leadership training for laity that began in the fall of 2018.

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Most of our Board of Laity, along with their clergy partners, also participated in the several prescribed sessions of our Imagine No Racism initiative in 2018.

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As Conference Lay Leader, I submit an annual budget, write a report for inclusion in our Annual Conference Journal 1, chair/co-chair Board of Laity, Rules, and serve on Nominations, Episcopacy, Conference Leadership Team, Sessions, Resolutions and Petitions. I annually convene our AC Laity Session. In response to Bishop Webb’s invitation, I also attend Extended Cabinet meetings and some events with the Full Cabinet.

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Beyond our conference, I was elected as one of four conference lay leaders to serve on the Legislative Committee of Annual Association of Conference Lay Leaders at our February 2018 meeting in Georgia, at

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Epworth-by-the-Sea. I also serve as secretary for the North Eastern Jurisdiction of Annual Conference Lay Leaders. The NEJ ACLL met in Springfield, Massachusetts in October and experienced multiple prayer practices as well as a growing movement in simple church communion and meal outreach practices. Our workshop, “Impact: Reclaiming the Call of Lay Ministry”, introduced us to Kay Kotan, Director for Equipping Vital Congregations for the Susquehanna Conference.

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Looking for a powerful example of an unlikely person called by God to do something impossible? Take a closer look at the story of Nehemiah in the book bearing his name in our bibles. And keep listening…God is calling you for something, too!

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Susan Hardy, UNY Conference Lay Leader

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Lay Servant Ministries Lay Servant Ministries is one of the most significant lay leadership development programs already available within the United Methodist connection. Through this system of equipping and empowering, lay servants have the opportunity to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, who then go and make other disciples.

Lay Servants are to serve within and beyond the local church in any way that will inspire the laity to deeper commitment to Christ and more effective discipleship, including the interpretation of Scriptures, doctrine, organization, and ministries of the church. They lead, assist, and support the program emphases of the church, lead meetings, small groups, Sunday School, conduct or assist in conducting services of worship and present sermons, provide leadership for congregational and community life, and foster caregiving ministries. They are the leaders who serve through leading, caring and communicating ministries in their local church and beyond.

As we move forward into 2018 we are pleased to share there has been a noted increase in the understanding of the process and requirements for being a Certified Lay Servant along with the additional requirements for those Certified Lay Servants who are called and equipped to serve the church in pulpit supply, Certified Lay Speakers. The 2016 General Conference brought new legislation regarding the certification of Certified Lay Ministers and we are in process to bring our Conference into compliance.

In 2018 the Upper New York Annual Conference had over 600 active Lay Servants, 39 Lay Speakers and 72 Certified Lay Ministers. Among these numbers are newly affirmed Lay Servant Lay Speakers: • • • • •

Albany District: Sara Halsey, John S. Potter, Jr., Perry Read Binghamton District: Linda Bonney Olin, Deborah Borelli, Margaret Clark, Nancy Shaw Crossroads District: Jonathan Edwards, Jody Lieber-Butler, Cynthia Saarie, Diana Cordes Genesee Valley District: Darrell Rublee, Carmen Vianese Mohawk District: David Dudgeon, Wendy Grosjean

We also re-affirmed 12 Certified Lay Minister and affirmed six new Certified Lay Ministers: • • • • •

Adirondack District: Glenn Harrison Crossroads District: Pam Kelsey-Gossard Mohawk District: Margaret Donaghy Mountain View District: Chuck Carver Niagara Frontier District: Lynn Ende, Lori Gondek

There were approximately 80 courses offered across our Conference with over 600 Lay Servants in attendance. These Lay Servants then go out and serve as disciples of Jesus Christ through a myriad of ministries including: VIM, small group leaders, trustees, SPRC members, Sunday school teachers, visitation coordinators, prayer leaders, pulpit fill … and the list goes on.

We are dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ committed to serving in whatever ways we are called in the Upper New York Conference. Praise be to God. Respectfully Submitted, Lucina B. Hallagan, Conference Director of Lay Servant Ministries

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District Directors: Adirondack – Bruce Hazard Albany – Nancy Goddard Binghamton – Sandy Kosty & Mel Patterson Cornerstone – Cora Martin and Warren Vandewark Crossroads – Jonathan Edwards Finger Lakes – Jennie Young-Walczyk Genesee Valley – Deb Clyde Mohawk – Ken Guilfoyle Mountain View – Marilyn Farwell and Peter O’Niell Niagara Frontier – Tracy Hagler and Linda Weatherall Northern Flow – Donna Fitchett Oneonta – Cathy Honrath Member-At-Large – Earnest Warren (Cornerstone District)

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New Faith Communities The Holy Spirit continues to call new people to plant new places for new people in Upper NY Conference!

Thanks be to God! As of February 1, 2019, there were 96 groups of people actively planting new faith communities in our Conference, and ten others working on plans! Most of these are being planted by existing churches.

Many New Faith Communities fall into the category of what we call “Fresh Expressions” of church… NFCs that gather people in public places outside the church to explore faith through non-traditional worship, prayer, and conversation. Many others are what we describe as a “Church within a Church” strategy… a new worshiping congregation gathering on an evening, in the Fellowship Hall, or using a radically different style of worship. In a few other cases, our people are using a “multi-site” approach… an existing church sending a group of their people to another space to duplicate the worship style and disciple-making plan that has proven fruitful at their home base. All of these approaches are showing fruit.

We do continue to do some planting in a more traditional “parachute” style. Almost all of our ethnicminority church starts fall in this category. They start with a single-family gathering people in their home for worship, prayer and study, and over time the group grows large enough to move into a formal church space for large group worship. Examples of this approach that are proving very fruitful include: •

“Casa de Dios” in Syracuse is now worshipping around 100 each week and is actively growing leaders to launch a second site elsewhere in the months to come.

•

“New Harvest” in Utica and “God Is Enough” in Amsterdam, are both reaching Hispanic/Latino people in those cities and growing stronger by the day. Each of them has multiple house groups that are coming together for large group worship.

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“Immanuel UMC” in Rochester continues to support 6+ house church startups in the homes of church members. Any of these might grow to a new church in the future.

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The “Karenni Good News and New Hope UMC” in Mattydale, is now worshipping 80+ each week with 25-30 children and youth. This congregation has now received the former Mattydale UMC building, and is sharing their space with two other faith communities.

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The “Nepali UMC” shares space with the Karenni church, and also worships with 70+ people every week! This congregation has a bunch of preschoolers walking around during worship on Sunday!

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“Foundation UMC” in Vestal, is now averaging over 130 in worship, and has had as many as 180 some Sundays! Many of the people coming to this church have not been in church in 30+ years and are reclaiming their faith in Jesus Christ.

On February 1-2, 2019, some 32 people attended our fourth Launchpad event. They represented eleven new projects, each a new vision filled with possibilities. With God’s help, there will be hundreds of more coming in the future! We hope everyone is openly asking God to show them if their church is next!

Submitted by Rev. Dave Masland

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Native American Ministries, Committee on (CONAM) Ministry Highlights from 2018: The main focus of CONAM for 2018 was to continue to develop understanding and meaningful ministry relationships with the three Native American UMCs within our conference geographic area.

CONAM has gifted the Conference Center with three gifts: A print of Kateri Tekawitha by a Mohawk artist, a replica of the Hiawatha WamPum Belt, and a map of the Conference highlighting the location of the three Native UMCs. These are placed throughout the conference center with particular attention to thoughtful and prayerful locations. We hope those in attendance at the Conference Center for meetings will take a few moments to observe and enjoy these artifacts.

Four Corners UMC has long had a beautiful communion chalice and plate by celebrated Haudenasaunee sculptor Peter Jones. They decided to gift the other two churches with the same communion set, although engraved with the clan animals unique to each of the territories. These gifts were given at our February 2018 meeting, with the added gift that artist Peter Jones had decided to offer these as gifts himself.

We ask for prayers from members of the Conference for our ministry with the Onondaga Nation. A longtime ministry is the Native American Outreach Transportation Program which services elders and others in need with transportation to medical appointments and the pharmacy. We are badly in need of a new vehicle which requires grant writing to obtain the funds. We prayerfully request support from the Conference to find a person(s) with grant writing experience to assist us.

New Projects for 2019: Upper New York CONAM is hosting the NEJ Native American Ministries Committee annual meeting in October 2019 at the Conference Center in Liverpool. Although the annual meeting for NEJNAMC encompasses a business meeting, it also is a time for cultural experiences particular to each Native territory.

We are looking forward to bringing Haudenasaunee (Iroquois) cultural experiences to our NEJ friends.

Invited guest speakers are Rev. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, Seneca and Michael Martin, Onondaga, Director of Native American Community Services of Erie and Niagara Counties.

Additional cultural experiences are planned trips to the Ska-nohn Center in Liverpool and the Onondaga Territory. Individuals may also extend their NY visit by continuing on to visit Ganondagan State Historic Site in Victor and Niagara Falls.

Submitted by Kae Woodruff Wilbert, Chair CONAM membership: Marilyn Anderson, Seneca; Bethany Printup-Davis, Tuscarora; Brooke Conklin; Dan Cook, Mohawk Sue Crawson-Brizzolara, Dine, Peenpac; Rev. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, Seneca Carolyn Huston; Lisa Jacobs, Mohawk; Roselynn Kingsbury, Cree Doug Mackey; Mary Alice Nyhan; Sharon Schmit, Mohawk Rosalie Schotanus, Onondaga; Blenda Smith, CORR Liaison Donald Washburn, Mohawk; Kae Wilbert, Cherokee, Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, DCM

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Ordained Ministry, Board of (BOM) The Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) is privileged to have the ministry of caring for the clergy of the Upper NY Conference from the first perception of a call through retirement. We work through the 12 District Committees on Ordained Ministry (dCOMs), and in close partnership with the Appointive Cabinet. BOM is the credentialing body for clergy seeking licensing, commissioning and ordination in the Upper New York Annual Conference. The Board of Ordained Ministry has a wide scope of responsibilities in cultivating and supporting excellent clergy leadership; these tasks are outlined in ¶635 of the 2016 Book of Discipline.

The Board’s membership is made up of clergy [deacons, elders, local pastors, and associate members] and at least 20% laypersons, appointed by the Bishop. Attention is paid to gender, ethnic diversity, age, and geography in the appointment of members. We work in six broad areas: standards and qualifications (of ordination candidates); clergy status; clergy effectiveness; dCOM coordination; recruitment/enlistment; and oversight of the Provisional Members program.

The co-chairs of the BOM serve overlapping 4 - year terms (e.g. 2014 -18 and 2016 - 20). Currently the cochairs are the Rev. Sue Russell, who was elected in 2016, and the Rev. Brian Fellows who was elected in 2018. Stacy Taylor, a layperson from the Cornerstone District, is our Vice-Chair with responsibility for stewardship, new member orientation, and team building. The Rev. Brooke Newell from the Northern Flow District is our newly elected Secretary. The Rev. Tom Pullyblank is Registrar. The Rev. Ann Kemper is assisting the registrar in preparing the BOM section of the Business of Annual Conference (BAC) which is the official record of the status of every clergy person in the conference and is published annually in the Conference Journal. The Rev. Glen Hardman coordinates the psychological assessments. The Rev. Leon VanWie coordinates our background checks. The Rev. Anne Cole coordinates our continuing education grants.

Leading the Board’s divisions this year are the Rev. Eleanor Collinsworth, standards and qualifications; the Rev. Carmen Perry, clergy status; the Rev. Bob Kolvik-Campbell, clergy effectiveness; the Rev. David Piatt, dCOM coordination; the Rev. Brooke Newell and the Rev. David Herman, provisional program; and the Rev. Lee Carlson and layperson Crystal Martin, recruitment and enlistment. The Chairs of the Order of Elders (Heather Williams and Bob Kolvik - Campbell), the Order of Deacons (Sheila Price and Dee Finch [not on BOM]), and the Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members (Anne Cole and Timothy Middleton) serve on BOM as ex-officio members with vote.

Much of our work during the year builds toward the interview retreat in March, when we interview candidates, and engage in discerning God’s movement and guidance in raising up future leaders for our church. Throughout February, board members are hard at work reading candidate materials, watching sermon videos, and praying for the candidates and the BOM. This year we had 10 candidates for commissioning as elders, and 3 candidates for ordination as deacon and 8 for ordination as elders. Those who have been approved by the BOM for Commissioning, for Associate Membership, Ordination, and Recommendation of Orders are recommended to the full members of the Annual Conference for approval.

The culmination of each Annual Conference Session is the service of ordination and commissioning through the laying on of hands by the bishop and other full members of the Conference.

In September and January, the provisionals division offers a retreat for those on the path toward ordination.

Candidates for full membership must attend three of four retreats offered in two years of provisional membership. Retreat content focuses on spiritual formation and continued learning of knowledge and skills for ministry.

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The BOM is responsible for coordinating a school to license local pastors. Rev. Caroline Simmons coordinates the school. The Upper New York Annual Conference offers the opportunity for local licensed pastors to continue their mandated study in the Corse of Study (COS) through classes offered in our Conference Center facility through Wesley Seminary.

BOM officers participated in training provided by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry in the areas of recruitment, enlistment and care of candidates, in the creation of evaluation programs to meet the requirements of the new provisions ¶349.3 of the 2016 Book of Discipline, and in psychological assessment.

The BOM is working with the cabinet on developing a formal review process for clergy to take place every eight years of a clergyperson’s career. This began with all active clergy taking the LPLI survey. This 8-year assessment process is required to be in place by 2020.

The BOM provides financial support for students in seminary, in the Course of Study (COS) for Local Pastors, and in doctoral studies. We also provide support for continuing education of active clergy and retirees serving churches. This is accomplished using Ministerial Education Funds (MEF) from United Methodist Student Day offerings, invested funds and bequests, and Shared Ministry monies. Many thanks are due to Genesee Valley District Administrative Assistant Betsy O’Flynn, who has handled COS registration and reimbursement, and Crystal Martin and Lee Carlson who handle seminary financial aid.

The Board Executive Committee meets with the cabinet at least twice a year. This is an excellent way to build community and communication, as we work in our different, yet complementary, ministry areas. A representative of the Cabinet (the Rev. Sherri Rood) serves, ex-officio with vote, on BOM, and two other Superintendents, the Rev. Nola Anderson and the Rev. Carlos Rosa-Laguer as members of the BOM. The Bishop’s Executive Assistant, the Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, is present with us for much of our work on an advisory basis. In the spring, we work with the cabinet to prepare the BAC. This task is handled ably and cooperatively between the board registrar, Rev. Tom Pullyblank, Rev. Ann Kemper, and the bishop’s office.

Many thanks are due to Mary Bradley, the Bishop’s Administrative Assistant, who is a tremendous help to both the BOM and the cabinet.

The Rev. Brian Fellows has replaced The Rev. Matthew Stengel as the representative of UNY Conference in the Northeastern Jurisdiction Board of Ordained Ministry. This body shares best practices of the 9 annual conferences’ BOMs and approaches to common struggles.

We, the co-chairs, are immensely grateful for the time, energy, prayer, and faithful service given by every member of the Board. It is a holy and humbling work that we share, and it is only possible through the loving effort of many faithful people working together. Thanks be to God! Submitted by Susan Russell and Brian Fellows, UNY Board of Ordained Ministry Co-Chairs UNY Board of Ordained Ministry members, as of March 2019: Rev. Nola Anderson, Bill Barber, Rev. Denise Bowen, Rev. Anne Canfield, Rev. Lee Carlson, Rev. Yohang Chun, Pastor Anne Cole, Rev. Eleanor Collinsworth, Brooke Conklin, Rev. Greg DeSalvatore, Brian Ethington, Rev, Brian Fellows, Rev. Jennifer Green, Rev. Richelle Goff, Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding (advisory), Keith Grinnell, Rev. Glen Hardman, Rev. David Herrmann, Rev. Youngjae Jee, Rev. Ann Kemper, Rev. Mark Kimpland, Rev. Bob Kolvik‐Campbell, Rev. Rick LaDue, Crystal Martin, Pastor Donna Martin, Rev. Karen McCaffery, Rev. Timothy Middleton, Rev. Pam Mikel-Hayes, Rev. Bill Mudge, Rev. Brooke Newell, Louise Ortman, Rev. Carmen Perry, Rev. David Piatt, Rev. Sheila Price, Rev. Tom Pullyblank, Rev. Sherri Rood, Rev. Carlos Rosa-

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Laguer, Rev. Sue Russell, Rev. Sundar Samuel, Lynn Shipe, Rev. Caroline Simmons, Rev. Chuck Smith, Rev. Steven Smith, Rev. Matthew Stengel, Jamie Stevens, Stacy Taylor, Pastor Michael Terrell, Rev. Bill Vallet, Rev. Leon VanWie, Denise Walling, Rev. Heather Williams.

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Pension & Health Benefits, Conference Board Of (CBOPHB) The Board of Pensions and Health Benefits of the Upper New York Annual Conference is an active group of lay and clergy that is dedicated to faithfully serve the people and churches with compassion and responsibility. Our work is directed by the Book of Discipline, the laws of the federal and state governments, as well as the actions of this Conference. Board members have a wonderful mix of attention for details and vision for present and future needs for pension and health benefits. We have representatives from the Cabinet and the Commission on Equitable Compensation, as well as the knowledge and skill of Susan Latessa, Director of HR/Benefits, the Benefits staff, Bob Flask, Conference Treasurer, and Peter Hang, Wespath (General Board of Pension and Health Benefits) Liaison.

2019 Board members are: James Alexander, Rev. Jane Baker, Rev. Sara Baron, Edward Bartholomew, Ken Diller, Rev. Penni Farrington, Robert Gould, Carolyn McKay, Jeffrey Nowak, Rev. Mary Rublee, Mike Turner; Ex-Officio Staff: Susan Latessa, Julie Valeski, Bob Flask, Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, Rev. Abel Roy; Wespath Liaison: Peter Hang.

The Board works to provide stability around essential matters of health and pension for the valued clergy and employees of UNY. There were few changes in our benefit plans during the past year; as we maintain the quality services that have been afforded to conference members in the past years.

Attention by the Board continues to be given to these areas: ➢ Developing and supporting effective leaders. ➢ The Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan. ➢ Funding of the Pre-82 Plan. ➢ Education and information for Conference leadership, churches, clergy and employees. ➢ Updating policies and practices as needed to meet changing needs. This has led us to create three sub-committees to address key topics: o Arrearage Sub-Committee to address lack of 100% funding from churches and clergy, and the impact on benefit sustainability. o Healthcare Sub-Committee to discuss future health care plans, that serve the needs of those covered with equitable funding from all parties. Like many conferences, companies, and persons across the country, our Board regularly discusses health insurance to find balance between what the churches can afford, what the clergy can afford and what is sufficient coverage.

We’ve taken three actions to that end: 1. Implemented a 2% personal contribution for anyone enrolled in our 2019 medical plan.

2. Utilize the benefits of the “small employer exception” Medicare rules which allow small employers; aka churches, to enroll persons over 65 in Medicare Parts A & B and provide a supplemental plan for secondary insurance. Doing so helps to keep costs down for the whole system due to our practice of spreading the overall costs of the plan to all eligible entities.

3. Development of a potential rollout plan to join other conferences in offering a Health Flex Exchange program. This plan could offer a wider variety of plans, help keep costs to the churches in check, and allow individuals to make choices around how they spend their personal health care dollars. We’re still reviewing this program to see if it makes sense for the Upper New York Conference.

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o

Investment Sub-Committee ❖ Participation on the Upper New York Conference investment committee. The Upper New York Annual Conference has assigned responsibility for the investment policy relating to Pensions and Health Benefits to the Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits. ❖ The recommendations approved by the 2017 & 2018 Annual Conference related to investment screenings and investment account recommendations has been referred to this sub-committee.

Please note that elsewhere in these pre-conference materials you will find the recommendations of the Board.

Additional information regarding the Board’s recommendations: ➢ The Past Service Annuity Rate (PSR) for the Pre-82 pension plan for 2020 is being recommended to remain at the current 2019 PSR ($645). At the end of last year, the Board voted to shift funds around to overfund the Pre-82 pension plan in anticipation of any impacts that could come from the General Conference Special Session. To remain over funded, the Board is recommending that we remain at the current 2019 Past Service Annuity Rate (PSR) for the Pre-82 pension plan and not increase it for 2020. ➢ The Board’s recommendation related to the housing allowance continues to be in order.

While a federal district court judge ruled the exclusion from taxation of a minister’s housing allowance as unconstitutional, the ruling is under appeal. Wespath’s legal department and the Church Alliance (a coalition of 37 religious entity benefits boards) are monitoring the case. The practical effect of the ruling will be delayed until the appeals are exhausted, which may take several years.

With gratitude to an amazing group of individuals who are willing to share their God given gifts and talents as part of the Upper New York Annual Conference, and with deep faith in our creating, redeeming, and sustaining God, this report is presented to the Conference.

Respectfully submitted by Mary Rublee, Chair of the Board of Pensions and Health Benefits

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Religion & Race, Conference Commission on (CCORR) CCORR assumed oversight for Imagine No Racism at Annual Conference 2018 as the Bishop’s Task Force to Eliminate Racism ended and passed that charge to CCORR. This endeavor is, and will continue to be, a longterm commitment to eliminate racism.

Major goals of this work continue to be: (1) understanding deeply the issue that compelled the Northeast Jurisdictional Council of Bishops to write the 2016 Call to Action; (2) understanding the theological mandate for racial justice; (3) exploring ways racial prejudice may be impacting lives and communities; (4) equipping members of every local church to engage in conversations about racism and privilege, and; (5) engaging opportunities to participate in ministries of racial justice in local or regional communities.

Over one hundred Imagine No Racism small groups have met in the past year. We have received feedback that was positive and not so positive about the curriculum the General Commission on Religion & Race (GCORR) developed with us. That feedback has guided revisions to the curriculum. District advocates continue to learn and develop their role as supporters of small groups and their facilitators. Many clergy and laity have not been part of small groups yet for varied reasons. We continue to form small groups in local areas. If your do not know of small groups in your area, please contact the regional coordinator below for your district.

To resource our work and gather evaluative data as we continue to improve this journey to Imagine No Racism, we have four regional coordinators that oversee three districts each. Currently, they are: • • • •

Rev. Nancy Raca – Finger Lakes, Mountain View & Binghamton - revnancyraca@gmail.com Rev. Jeff Hodge – Crossroads, Northern Flow & Mohawk - unysecretary@yahoo.com Dr. Charles Syms – Genesse Valley, Niagara Frontier & Cornerstone - buffalo615@gmail.com Ms. Georgia Whitney – Adirondack, Albany & Oneonta - georgiawhitney1@roadrunner.com

CCORR members: Blenda Smith (Convener), Sandra Allen, Julius & Anola Archibald, Pam Burns, Jeff Hodge, Linda Hughes, Scott Johnson, Rachael Jordan, David Kofahl, Aaron Moore, Nancy Raca, Shirley Readdean, Teressa Sivers, Rebekah Sweet, Charles Syms, Harold Wheat, Georgia Whitney, Carrie Wolfe & Evelyn Woodring, Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, DCM

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Safe Sanctuaries Team The Safe Sanctuaries Team was established at the 2011 Annual Conference. The team’s focus is on building healthy congregations by establishing minimum standards and procedures, providing training, and assisting local churches in reducing the risks of abuse to the most vulnerable among us.

Highlights of 2018 include many opportunities for individuals to complete the standardized UNY Safe Sanctuaries training offered by volunteer trainer across Upper New York. One of those opportunities was held at the Conference Center with several staff members participating. One hundred trainers are certified for 2019 with 29 completing Training of Trainers in October. Numerous Safe Sanctuaries related questions and situations have been addressed by Conference Staff and team members. Safe Sanctuaries Compliance Forms were reviewed and compliance is improving every year.

Church’s efforts to create safe ministries are necessary and appreciated. The Safe Sanctuaries Team’s display at 2018 Annual Conference was a time to share resources and connect with individuals from across Upper New York. A new resource on safe use of social media was on display. Church Mutual provide copies of Safe Sanctuaries and Ministries with Older Adults for a door prize. Plans are in place for a training video that portrays the disclosure of abuse and the response. Work is also in progress on a resource that focus on safety considerations with LGBTQ individuals. We were able to add two new members to the team.

In 2019, the Safe Sanctuaries Team hopes to: • • • • • •

finish work on the respond/report video and the LGBTQ resource. continue to explore on-line training options as an alternative to the face-to-face training. provide resources related to social media. provide four Training of Trainers opportunities across the Conference. clarify the process for responding to abuse and providing an easy reference guide for churches. add several new members to the team so there can be a smooth transition when service of several members ends.

Current team members are: Carol Barnes (chair), Stephanie Brown, Deanna Finch, Arlene Schmidt, Glenda Schuessler, Charles Syms, and Matthew Williams. Ex-officios are The Rev. Vonda Fossitt, Cabinet Rep, and The Rev. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding, DCM. Support is provided by Cherish McGowan and Judy Campany Submitted by Carol Barnes, Chair of Safe Sanctuaries

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United Methodist Men (UMM) “Committed to making Disciples of Jesus Christ” The Upper New York United Methodist Men (UNYUMM) has undergone a “Transformation 180 degrees.”

We believe that God is calling for a dramatic change in how we do men’s ministry throughout this Upper New York Conference. We as the UNYUMM must be constantly reminded that reaching others with the saving grace of Jesus Christ is about them - not us. Then and only then will God be glorified through the United Methodist Men (UMM) and honored by all. God has blessed us with gifted men that love the Lord Jesus and have a passion to serve Him through UMM ministry. www.unyumm.org Officers are as follows: President – Mark Jones 475 Shortlots Rd, Frankfort, NY 13440 (315) 749-3700; msjwelshman@yahoo.com Vice President - Buddy Heit 2374 Bixby Rd, Savannah, NY 13146-9677 (315) 945-4388; agapefeast15@gmail.com Vice President - Steve Ranous 201 Candee Ave, Syracuse, NY 13224 (315) 427-3515; ummsteve@twcny.rr.com Secretary – George Ramseyer 18 Edgewood Dr, Baldwinsville, NY 13027 (315) 720-6184; ramseyerg@gmail.com Treasurer – Dave Greer 2432 Bigelow Lane, Baldwinsville, NY 13027 (315) 720-4840; daveranda221@gmail.com Website Manager- Mike DeZotell (315) 534-2903; mdezotell@firstumconliine.org

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Conference Media Manager – Tony Indilicato 5638 Compound Lane, Altamont, NY 12009 (518) 386-8886; AlbanyDistrict@unyumm.org Facebook Manager – Mark Hediger 9817 Pronevitch Rd, Westernville, NY 13486 (315) 571-4467; UNYUMM@yahoo.com Conference Prayer Advocate – Jim McMoil 1206 S Main St, Medina, NY 14103 (585) 233-8717; jikammc@yahoo.com Scouting Coordinator – Gary Bogner 2320 Brighton-Henrietta Townline Rd, Rochester, NY 14623 (315) 506-8110; gary.bogner@scouting.org Hunger Relief Advocate/Society of St Andrew Coordinator – Dean Burdick 1255 Cty Rte 11, Central Square, NY 13036 (315) 420-9859; hungerrelief@umcchurches.org

Additional positions to complete our executive board leadership team as outlined in our UNYUMM by-laws and constitution are filled at the discretion of the president. This leadership of the UNYUMM is committed to reaching all parts of our Conference to disciple men and (also as we work and fellowship with) women into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer and mission. The UNYUMM are “Men growing in Christ, so others will know Him.” To date, we have six district presidents, and are in immediate need of six more, to provide each UNY district with leadership to oversee UMM’s ministry, mission, prayer advocacy and (class-meeting-inspired) small men’s group formation.

UNYUMM is committed to “Answer God’s Call” throughout 2019 in the Upper NY Annual Conference and the world. We are focused on “being in Christ” and serving Him wherever He leads us.

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Our goals for 2019-2020 are: to improve communication and connect men and young men from as many churches as possible. “Through Christ ALL things are possible! Our charge continues encourage spirit-led leaders in all our districts to share the Gospel of Jesus through United Methodist Men’s ministry and handson mission work.

Nationally, the United Methodist Men have been greatly involved with hunger relief efforts within the Conferences over the past 20 years. Thanks to our Hunger Relief Advocate, Dean Burdick and to The Society of St. Andrew, we scheduled seven potato drops in 2018 (Auburn, Boonville, Campville, Liverpool, Albany, Utica, and Rochester). All of the potato drops were later unfortunately cancelled by The Society of St. Andrew, due to their funding and potato availability issues. We will have several Conference-wide potato drop, fund-raising events throughout 2019 to help ensure that future potato drop hunger relief missions are financially solvent. Our first “Stew Fest” hunger relief fund-raiser took place February 16th at the VFW in Schuyler (near Utica), and we raised $1,500 by sharing man-made stews and silent basket auctions. Dessert Fest 2019 is coming at Delta UMC in the Mohawk District this July and will offer home-made desserts, pies, cakes, cookies, picnic foods and church/business donated gift baskets to be silent auctioned. We welcome any and all fund-raising ideas to help to feed those in need of basic food! We will continue to work closely with the Society of St. Andrew as “Food Agents” to provide fresh produce for those in need of basic food in our communities and churches.

Please support our fund-raising efforts!

Potato drops scheduled for 2019 are as follows: • October 19th - Auburn UMC • October 26th - Boonville UMC • November 2nd – Binghamton area • November 16th- “Mission Hub” at the UNY Conference Center, Liverpool • To Be Announced – Albany area Our 2018 annual conference-wide UNYUMM mission was held during March again and it was to collect new and slightly used shoes, raising funds that were then donated to several veterans’ charities in our Conference. We promoted this in many ways and were marginally successful in the collection of shoes. The 2019 conference-wide UMM mission began in February and will go until December 31st. Our agenda is to raise contributions for the Society of St. Andrew/UMM potato drop hunger relief missions this Fall, and for all those to be scheduled the Fall of 2020 and beyond.

On September 7-8, 2018, the UMM hosted our annual spiritual retreat, at Sky Lake Camp, Windsor, NY. We were so blessed to have as our Keynote Speaker Bishop James Swanson, who came all the way from the Mississippi Annual Conference! Our own Resident Bishop Mark Webb was also there to attend and support us. Bishop Webb, while helping to assist Bishop Swanson with Communion Friday evening, encouraged Methodist Men to keep doing what we are doing, telling us that “Men’s ministry is vitally important to the health of our Upper New York Annual Conference.” Bishop Swanson implored all of us in attendance to “be In Christ” and not so much concentrate on the “doing In Christ.” “Transformation through Christ - TURN 180 Degrees” was an uplifting, spiritual 22-hour journey in which everyone attending was filled with the spirit of the Lord. 75 men, women and children attended this retreat. A Special thank you to: Finger Lakes District DS Rev. Jeff McDowell, Rev. Cathy Stengel, and Rev. Mark Kimpland. We are excited to announce that the 2019 UMM-hosted annual spiritual retreat will again be at beautiful Sky Lake Camp and Retreat Center in Windsor and we welcome all men, women and children. This year’s theme will be “God is Calling Us.” The retreat will feature four spirit-filled speakers to engage us all in how we seek God, know God more deeply, and serve Him in all we say and do!! Featured speakers are as follows: Keynote – Rev. Mark Marino -retired

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former DS and Council Director; Breakout – Rev. Nola Anderson - Crossroads District DS, Pastor Brad Chesebro - New Hartford UMC, and Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost - Central UMC in Endicott. Our praise and worship music will be led by Praise Leader Sara Heit from Pennsylvania Ave UMC in Pine City. Come join us and see what God has planned for us on September 13-14, 2019 at Sky Lake Camp (registration will open June 1st. Registration forms will be available at the UMM info table at Annual Conference and at www.unyumm.org) The UNYUMM partnered with the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, as we held our second Bishop’s Dinner for Scouting on March 24th, hosted by Endwell UMC and the Binghamton District UMM. We continue to work/connect with our youth through the PRAY programs.

The UNYUMM and its leaders are advocates for our need for daily commitment to prayer, to spending time with God, and putting Him FIRST in our lives and in our congregations. Currently we have district leadership in 6 of the 12 districts. We have 17 men in leadership roles throughout our Conference and districts! The UNYUMM are represented by 46 official chartered men’s units throughout the Conference. Our challenge this year as your Upper New York United Methodist Men’s ministry is to work together with all of our churches for God’s glory, bringing men and women to Christ, one heart at a time. Let us all make 2019’s focus be “Answering God’s Call” throughout our Conference, our districts, and the local churches that we attend weekly. “Peace of the Lord.”

Respectfully submitted by Mark Jones, President, UNYUMM

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United Methodist Women (UMW) I am Carmen FS Vianese, the newly elected Upper New York United Methodist Women (UMW) Conference President. I took office on January 1, 2019 and look forward to this leadership opportunity alongside the United Methodist Women of our Annual Conference.

I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Ilah Sisson Walser for her tenure of service as the previous UNY Conference UMW President. Her leadership and faithfulness were a blessing to the mission and purpose of our work.

2018 was a fruitful year for the United Methodist Women of our Annual Conference as their continued efforts in advocacy, education, immigration, maternal health, social justice, and spiritual growth have produced a positive impact locally and globally.

The 17 conference projects that were fully funded ensured that the grantees met the needs of their outreach programs for the 2018-2019 programmatic year and continue to be an outreach blessing of our work in UNY. As we look forward in 2019, we will celebrate our 150th Birthday on March 23rd, and we invite everyone to celebrate with us by giving to a local UMW unit near you! Our national issue priorities for 2019 will focus on: 1.

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Criminalization of communities of color and mass incarceration Climate justice Economic inequality Maternal health

The United Methodist Women of the UNY Annual Conference continue to be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ. We strive to develop a creative and supportive fellowship, while expanding our concepts of mission through participation in the local and global ministries of the church.

All are welcome to join us at one of our “Mission u” events at Cazenovia College, Camp Asbury, or Sky Lake, as well as any of our outreach opportunities. Please come and join us in our work as we meet the needs of women, children, and youth through faith, hope, and love in action!

Serving Because of Jesus: Carmen FS Vianese, UNY UMW President vianese4@frontiernet.net (585)-468-5935 “Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this Ministry, we shall not lose heart!!”

(2 Corinthians 4:1)

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Vital Congregation It has been another full year for Vital Congregations in the journey of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Opportunities for growing Christ following leaders have been in abundance from a Conference level as well as a District level. In the life of the Conference the Leadership Academy continues to offer an opportunity to engage with peers, and teachers from around the connection. Once again, the Leadership Academy capstone trip was to visit a learning lab and congregation focused on multiethnic church leadership. At a district level, the Pastoral Leadership Development groups have been resourced through Vital Congregations and deployed locally. It has been exciting to see the adaptations being made to the curriculum to fit the particular context, and facilitate the best learning needed at the time. Not to be lost in all of the programs is the ongoing work of developing resources for tending to the spiritual life of a leader. Nancy Dibelius, Assistant Director for Spiritual Life, has been developing program resources as well as people resources to help grow the spiritual life of our leaders and congregations.

Looking to the year ahead, continued development of programming will take place. Leadership Academy, Illuminate Preaching Academy, Pastoral Leadership Development, and other opportunities will continue.

Development has continued in gathering of those trained in Spiritual Direction to strategize how to best be a resource to the entire Conference.

The ministry of Vital Congregations will continue to come alongside leaders, clergy and laity, to increase the vitality of local congregations. For the current season this involves the primary work of growing the capacity of Christ following leaders. Further, this includes an increase of the amount of interactions that take place closer to the local congregations. The programming done on a Conference-wide level will be minimized, while the interactions at the District level will increase. Ideally, programming would happen through a cluster of 8-10 churches in geographic proximity that is resourced by Vital Congregations. Vital Congregations is committed to assisting congregations and leaders in ways that keep focus on the mission of the church, while engaging the unique context for ministry.

If you have questions or would like to have a conversation about Vital Congregations, contact Rev. Dr. Aaron M. Bouwens, Director of Vital Congregations, at 315-898-2014, or by email aaronbouwens@unyumc.org . If your congregation would like to host a training opportunity through Vital Congregations, or if you would like to have Aaron guest preach for worship, please contact Judy Campany at JudyCampany@unyumc.org Seeking to Serve Christ and the Church Rev. Dr. Aaron M. Bouwens Director of Vital Congregations

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Volunteers in Mission (VIM) Jesus said, “’You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind', ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’’’ Luke 10:27-28. He called us to a presence that is a broader, deeper knowing. We are to be fully present with our neighbor, wherever the neighbor lives, whatever the neighbor is experiencing. Volunteers in mission provide a love presence as Jesus called us to do.

Highlights The Mission HUB satellite established at the Upper New York Conference Center, took shape during 2018.

The vision to create UMCOR kits to be sent to Mission Central provides Upper New York with a center to gather volunteers of all ages to create and certify kits gathered from across the conference. Fruits of this work allowed Early Response Teams and individuals to distribute cleaning buckets and health kits for a volunteer response to floods in Lodi and surrounding towns. As the meeting place for conference teams, trainings, and events, many take the opportunity to bring materials to and work at the HUB. The HUB internal and external space is used to build ramp modules. It serves as the gathering spot for the annual Methodist Men’s shoe drive. Team Leader, Safe Sanctuaries, ERT and ERT Recertification classes take place in well-equipped meeting spaces. The summer saw a collaboration between the city of Syracuse’s youth volunteer program – hundreds of young people, guided in part by VIM, refurbished the exterior of homes in the city. The director has embraced opportunities to have scouts, junior firemen, and other groups – documenting and adding photos through social media and print – to use the facilities and partner with VIM and UMM. The mission focus at Annual Conference laity session resulted in a significant increase in mission engagement. Session presentations focused on the lives changed by volunteers showing the love of God in mission. Rev. Tom Lank, Northeastern Jurisdiction coordinator speaking at the laity session and again during the plenary expanded and strengthened the connection. Interest in VIM training and serving increased as a direct result.

VIM Teams Upper New York Conference supported 6 teams and 19 mission scholars with grants. The destinations – Bosnia Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua, Belfast Ireland, NJ, Red Bird, Puerto Rico, Mission Central, and UMVIM Academy. Academy attendees were supported and young adult missionaries. Teams responded to W. Virginia, New Jersey, Louisiana, NY flooding, and Puerto Rico. Individuals partnered with FEMA to serve in St. Croix, Virgin Islands.

Responding to local community needs, volunteers serve in mission as a church and as individual volunteers.

This includes projects such as a community farmer’s market, men’s groups doing odd jobs for community, UMM collecting gently used shoes, partnering with the Society of St Andrews to provide food, partnering with the YMCA for summer lunch program, working with Habitat for Humanity, community food banks and meal programs, scouting, Children’s Disaster Services, Red Cross, gleaning, rehab of community homes, ramp building, and Christmas boxes. Volunteers are joining in the community, faith-based project Family Promise to provide a path out of homelessness. Volunteers in Mission led UMCOR kit projects, delivering hundreds of health kits and cleaning buckets to UMCOR depots. Connecting with community organizations continues to work well. Four churches elected to sponsor teams to Red Bird Mission in Kentucky.

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Education • Early Response Training (ERT): Training sessions for 164 persons were UMCOR certified or recertified for early response. We currently have 6 UMCOR-certified trainers – 3 in Cornerstone District, 2 in Finger Lakes and 1 in Albany District.

• VIM Team Leader Training: 17 persons were trained in theology of mission and best practices for VIM team planning, organizing and leadership.

• VIM presentations: Two workshops were given at district events. VIM displayed at a district event and at the HUB Open House. One sermon was given at a worship service.

• Mission Advocate Summit – Conf. VIM coordinators attended 3-day series of workshops.

• UMCOR/UMVIM Academy - planned and presented with Rev. Lank and the Northeastern Conference VIM coordinators. Nine UNY individuals attended the April 4-day event by UMCOR and invited plenary speakers. Those wishing to expand training in disaster response and mission leadership are encouraged to attend this annual event.

Disaster Response ERT and VIM joined community groups and VOADs (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters) in responding to flooding in the Finger Lakes (central), southern tier and Buffalo area of Upper New York – providing leadership, assessments, and helping homeowners and churches clean and replace mud-filled social halls, classrooms, and kitchens. ERT and VIM teams responded throughout the US. Administration We continue to recruit and train district leaders to teach and coordinate. Online course registrations improved accuracy in records. A form redesign now provides the spreadsheet used to directly create the UMCOR ERT badge request. Registration data flows into data fields for nametags, and completion certificates including a business card size that volunteers can easily take on mission journeys. We aim for consistency across UNY. UNY Coordinators provide Jurisdiction UMVIM administration as members of the Board of Directors, Treasury operations, and Jurisdiction Academy planning and hosting.

Communications The conference web site provides current training information and team opportunities in mission and disaster response. Teams can apply for team grants and individual scholarships, obtain forms and link to more information. Additional information is provided to the Jurisdiction website where teams may register, call for members and obtain team health and accident insurance. The conference communications team forwards information to subscribed church members, pastors and superintendents via their mission “notes”. Local church mission chairpersons are encouraged to subscribe to this important source of current mission training and opportunities information.

UNYVIM Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UpperNewYorkVolunteersInMission continues as a connection to timely updates for upcoming teams and events, team reports, photos, and videos.

Submitted by Roger and Donna Cullen, UNY Volunteers in Mission Coordinators

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Young Adult Ministries In 2018 the Young Adult Ministries went through a transition in leadership, but we were still able to plan an engaging worship service to end Annual Conference. We shared pieces of the UMC puzzle--our lives and ministries--from around the world and encouraged the Annual Conference to see how our ministries fit into the larger puzzle of The United Methodist Church.

The Young Adult Ministries Team has been blessed with an energetic revitalization. In 2019 we had begun a virtual Bible Study series to connect young adults from our conference wherever they may be. We also gathered together at Dave & Busters in Syracuse to deepen our community connections. We were overjoyed with the turnout of 15 young adults--many participating for the first time! As we look forward to the rest of 2019, we are planning a mission trip, opening a mission fund for young adults, and will planning a worship service for Annual Conference in June.

Our leadership team is composed of our two co-chairs, J.J. Warren and Elyse Muder, as well as our secretary, Maya Smith. Several members attend our virtual Bible Studies and in-person events regularly: Ian Urriola, Bethany Printup-Davis, Emily Parisi, Krystal Cole, Marthalyn Sweet, and John Andalora.

Submitted by J.J. Warren and Elyse Muder, Co-Chairs

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Youth Ministries, Conference Council on (CCYM) The 2018-2019 CCYM is pleased to report a successful year full of enlightenment. This year, we made a somewhat big change to Inward. Instead of having two Inward events, one in the east and one on the west, we opted to having several regional events which were hosted by districts and sponsored by the CCYM. Some of the smaller districts teamed up to make sure they could make the Inward in their area the best it could be. The success of these events has encouraged us to plan for more district events this fall.

However, Outward will remain the same with the goal of offering youth the opportunity to turn their faith into action through missional work. We hope to show youth that there are numerous ways to accomplish God’s work and express their faith. It has become evidently clear that the one part of worship that always seems to be a favorite and the most impactful is music. This year, we are excited to announce that we will be having a worship concert at Outward starring the Casowasco band, Inside Out. Each year, our events are connected through the same theme. This year our theme is “Love: Digging Deep and Branching Out”, with our corresponding verse being Corinthians 13:13, 14:1a. Working with this theme has opened our eyes to what God’s love looks like and how we as disciples should be following God’s way of love.

Lastly, this year the CCYM has decided to initiate a new leadership position of Spiritual Coordinator. This position entails responsibilities of creating devotions for the spiritual growth of all members of the CCYM supporting youth in need of prayer while maintaining confidentiality. We have great faith in this new position in that it will be a safe new resource for youth who simply need a prayer partner or someone to talk to.

We pray that our work through CCYM will lead to the lives of our conference youth being touched by the presence of God. We have been blessed with our positive results so far this year and are excited to see what the rest of the year has in store.

Participants: Amelia Elmen, Avary Halliday, Charley Miller, Joseph Sumner, Emily Clark, Payton McGeoughGamache, Hannah Schermerhorn, Emily Holcomb, Nicholas Hernandez, Kristian Snyder, William Allen, Brennan Dailey, Xander Garner, Jennalyn Cooley, Colin Weichenthal, Kyle Holeck, Hannah Williams, Alex Markarchuck, Hope Lowry, Ian Crowell, Gavin Hill, Cesar Emmanuel Galarza-Arzola, Ethan Stierheim, Amanda Zwetsch,Lily Whitting, Larissa Wilste, Samantha Hefti, Cassie McGregor, Samuel Lasher, Grace Dunham Respectfully, Rachel John and George Taylor

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Africa University Africa University thrives in ministry because of the steadfast support of the local congregations of The United Methodist Church. Thank you to the members of the Upper New York Conference for prioritizing Africa University and its ministry with an investment of 100 percent of your asking to the Africa University Fund (AUF) apportionment in 2018.

In sowing so generously into the Africa University Fund, the Upper New York Conference continues to affirm the university’s core mission of nurturing leaders who help communities to know Christ and to experience peace, sustainable livelihoods, food security, and abundant health.

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In 2018, Africa University enrolled more than 700 new students and maintained an overall enrollment of around 2,000 students. There were 25 African countries represented in the student body. Women made up 53 percent of the student population, which is almost twice the average for African higher education institutions.

Throughout 2018, Africa University weathered the challenges of Zimbabwe’s depressed and uncertain socio-economic environment with creativity and prudence. The university delivered teaching, learning and community service activities of high-quality without interruption, while also renewing and expanding its infrastructure. Key enhancements in 2018 included the refurbishment of three residence halls for women students and the full implementation of an ERP software system to integrate and manage all facets of the university’s operations.

With conflict, poverty, and the impact of climate change persisting as the key drivers of food insecurity and the rise in internal displacement, migration, and refugeehood in Africa, the university consolidated its position as a trailblazer by offering new graduate training and research opportunities. Africa University has also continued to provide scholarships for refugee women so that their experiences, talents, and ideas are integrated into the search for solutions.

Africa University delivered critical data for reducing malaria deaths in Southern Africa and controlling the spread of insect-borne diseases world-wide. AU’s insectary—a laboratory for rearing and studying live insects, such as mosquitos—shares its findings through the Southern Africa Centers of Excellence for Malaria Research. This data informs regional policies, practices and malaria control efforts.

The students, faculty, administrators, trustees, and graduates of Africa University thank the members of the Upper New York Conference for their prayers and support, which continue to grow and sustain its ministry.

Thank you, Upper New York United Methodists, for all that you have invested in mission and ministry through Africa University over the past 27 years. Our shared story is one of transformation, hope and realized dreams. As Africa University and the Upper New York Conference move forward together in missional engagement, we trust in God’s unending grace for the increase.

Submitted by: James H. Salley Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement Africa University Development Office jsalley@gbhem.org 615.340.7438

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Boston University School of Theology Dear Colleagues in Ministry: Greetings from Boston University School of Theology (BUSTH) as we live together as disciples in uncertain times!

BREAKING NEWS: • Students: We continue to increase and celebrate diversity in our student body, creating remarkable opportunities for in-depth exchanges and fruitful collaboration.

• Faculty: We welcomed two amazing faculty this year: Shively Smith as Assistant Professor of New Testament, and Nicolette Manglos-Weber as Assistant Professor of Religion and Society.

• Online Lifelong Learning: We are launching a new Online Lifelong Learning Program at the School, offering webinars, workshops, and reading groups for professional enrichment.

• Scholarships: We continue our offer of free tuition to UMC registered candidates for ordained ministry, and we continue to build student scholarships and housing as a central campaign priority.

New scholarships include the Korean Student and African Student Scholarships, and leadership fellowships for promising leaders: Raíces Latinas for Latinx leaders, Sacred Worth for leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community, Howard Thurman for African-American leadership, and Indigenous Studies Fellowships.

• Faith and Ecological Justice Program: This new student program undertakes initiatives to increase ecological awareness, education, and activism in ecological justice.

• Theology and the Arts Initiatives: Recent exhibits and events include “Moments in Time” and “Transcending Conflict.”

• Grants: Henry Luce Foundation has awarded a 3-year grant to support the Educating Effective Chaplains Project. The grant supports work with other seminaries to develop models that can better prepare chaplains for effective ministry.

• Website: After several years of planning, a new School website will launch in Fall semester 2019.

PARTNERING FOR MINISTRY AND TRANSFORMATION: Preparing students for ministry means meaningful partnerships with the local spiritual community.

• Creative Callings: Our vocational project is an exciting partnership with local churches, seeking to create “a culture of call.” It is sponsored through a grant from the Lilly Endowment.

• Engagement with the UMC: Many of our students are delegates, project leaders and assistants, and class participants in General Conference 2019.

• Congregational courses: The Continuing Scholar program offers current BUSTH courses to alums and local clergy as continuing education credit for a small fee per course.

• Doctor of Ministry: The DMin in Transformational Leadership is soaring with lively student cohorts that are broadly ecumenical, culturally diverse, and global. The model includes intensives, online courses, and faculty mentoring.

• Religion and Conflict Transformation Clinic: The Clinic provides internships and workshops that foster justice and peace-building.

• Travel seminars: These courses engage students with immersion journeys to the Arizona-Mexican border, Israel and Palestine, Argentina, and other sites of learning and ministry. Attendees from the recent Serbia and Croatia Seminar presented to the 2018 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Toronto, Canada.

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Ecumenical partnerships: We continue to build robust Communities of Learning with the Episcopal Church and United Church of Christ, and to develop new communities with the Unitarian Universalist and Baptist Churches.

Partnership with Hebrew College: Together we are able to enrich interreligious learning through joint courses and public events, and also co-sponsor The Journal of Interreligious Studies and State of Formation cohort of emerging leaders.

TAKING ACTION GLOBALLY AND LOCALLY: • Campus action: Work to improve accessibility and sustainability. BUSTH is the first certified Green School in BU, and participates actively in the Green Seminary Initiative. It has also been named as one of the “Seminaries that Change the World” for the second consecutive year.

• Internships in global service and peacemaking: We provide internships that support students who engage in ministry with churches and service organizations across the world.

COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE: Celebrating differences while joining in action.

• Faculty and students have led and participated in UMCOR; support efforts with victims of hurricanes and fires; protests on behalf of Puerto Rico, Texas, and Florida; protests of white supremacist movements; services with immigrants and DACA young people; and ecumenical and interreligious witnesses for justice in the city of Boston.

• Through student-led Town Hall meetings, the community has had deep conversations on issues that divide (including theological differences). We seek to foster respectful listening that builds community life and communal action.

OTHER NOTABLE NEWS: • 2019 marks the 180th year of the School of Theology, originally founded as the Newbury Bible Institute in 1839.

• Our major development campaign for BUSTH will end in September 2019, and we continue working toward grand success for the future of our School and the vitality of your ministries.

As BUSTH looks to the future, we celebrate transformational leaders of the United Methodist Church, who keep the word of Jesus Christ alive. Your living legacy and faithful witness give us hope and courage for the future.

Blessings and gratitude, Mary Elizabeth Moore, Dean

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Candler School of Theology For more than 100 years, Candler School of Theology at Emory University has prepared real people to make a real difference in the real world. Since our founding in 1914, more than 10,000 students have graduated from Candler, where they have been shaped as thoughtful, principled, and courageous leaders dedicated to transforming the world in the name of Jesus Christ.

This is especially important to note amid the current uncertainty in our denomination. It is an honor and a privilege for Candler to be one of 13 official seminaries of The United Methodist Church. Yet true to the Methodist tradition of ecumenical openness, Candler has enthusiastically welcomed the entire Wesleyan family to our community for generations. Faculty, staff, and students from the AME Church, the AMEZ Church, the CME Church, Free Methodists, Nazarenes, and others have worked, worshiped, learned, and prayed alongside United Methodists, and have been a vital part of shaping Candler and our mission. This diversity has been a wonderful gift and a rich blessing. As we move forward from the Special Session of General Conference, we will continue to invite and welcome wholeheartedly those from all expressions of the Wesleyan tradition. Indeed, we will continue to welcome all those who follow Jesus Christ.

Candler is also privileged to be one of seven graduate professional schools of Emory University in Atlanta.

With the resources of a top-tier research institution and the reach of a global city, our students benefit from a rich academic and hands-on learning environment: The General Board of Global Ministries is in Atlanta, as are numerous public health, international development, and social service organizations. Candler’s intentional involvement with our surrounding community has contributed to our inclusion on a list of “Seminaries that Change the World” for six years running. In short, there is no better place to prepare for ministry that engages our major denominational priorities: developing leaders, starting and growing churches, ministry with the poor, and improving global health.

To keep pace with the needs of the church and the world, Candler offers 16 degrees: six single degrees and ten dual degrees pairing theology with bioethics, business, international development, law, public health, and social work. Our Doctor of Ministry degree is 90 percent online, so students can remain in their places of ministry and immediately apply to their context what they learn in class. Our Teaching Parish program allows eligible United Methodist students to serve as pastors in local churches while they’re enrolled—they earn a salary as they earn course credit and pastoral experience, plus they are mentored by an experienced United Methodist elder.

Candler’s student body continues to reflect the diversity and breadth of the Christian faithful, with an enrollment of 453, reflecting 51 percent women, 39 percent people of color (U.S.), and a median age of 27 among MDivs. Students represent 44 denominations, with half coming from the Methodist family.

Candler has a deep commitment to alleviating student debt and promoting financial literacy. In 2018-2019, we awarded $5.8 million in Candler scholarships, with 100 percent of MDiv students receiving aid. Plus, our comprehensive “Faith & Finance” program teaches money management skills that serve our students now and will continue to serve them—and the churches they lead—well into the future.

Candler draws considerable strength and inspiration from its relationship with The United Methodist Church. Our ability to fulfill our mission of educating faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries throughout the world depends upon your prayers, partnership, and support. Thank you for the countless ways you advance this vital ministry in the life of our denomination. Visit us in person or online at

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candler.emory.edu to see firsthand how Candler prepares real people to make a real difference in the real world.

Jan Love Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean and Professor of Christianity and World Politics Candler School of Theology

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Drew University Theological School Drew University Theological School continued its multi-year self-transformation by launching its new curriculum for the Master of Divinity in the fall of 2018. This entirely reconceived degree seeks to form graduates that are rooted in the Christian story and traditions, capable of effective and creative leadership, and spiritually and socially resourceful for cultivating the transformative gospel of Jesus Christ in, with, and for the church and the world.

A new two-year degree, the Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry also launched and offers students the opportunity to prepare for public leadership or a specialized vocation through deep theological and ethical reflection informed by biblical, historical, theological and practical sources.

New pathways in the Master of Arts, the Master of Sacred Theology, and the Doctor of Ministry were also created as part of the curriculum transformation process which seeks to more intentionally focus the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service to the church, as well as to the academy and civil society.

Drew welcomed 145 entering students this academic year, its largest entering class in over a decade, with an overall enrollment of 350 for the current academic year. In the coming year a new 5-year strategic plan will be developed, new degree delivery options that increase accessibility and affordability for prospective students, as well as new partnerships with annual conferences, other church bodies, and values-based organizations that share and strengthen Drewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission to advance peace, justice, love of God, neighbor, and the earth.

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Methodist Theological School in Ohio Thank you for this opportunity to bring you news from MTSO. Full-tuition pledge extended to those pursuing United Methodist candidacy MTSO has announced a groundbreaking full-tuition pledge to every prospective student who is pursuing United Methodist candidacy as an elder or deacon. The school’s financial-aid experts will assist the prospective student in locating and applying for scholarships from numerous sources. If scholarships from those sources don’t cover the full tuition, MTSO and its donors will make up the difference, leaving the student with no out-ofpocket tuition expense. This pledge is extended to qualified prospective students who apply by July 1 for the 2019-20 academic year. The MTSO admissions staff is happy to answer questions at 800-333-6876 or admissions@mtso.edu.

Master of Arts in Social Justice program launched In August of 2019, MTSO will welcome the first students pursuing the school’s new Master of Arts in Social Justice degree. This 39-hour, two-year professional master’s degree takes full advantage of MTSO’s unique ethos. The MASJ offers an interdisciplinary core curriculum combining ethics, theology, public leadership, sacred texts and spirituality. Students also will choose from among social justice-oriented elective courses to sharpen their focus in areas of interest such as race, immigration, human sexuality, climate, disability and labor exploitation. MASJ core classes include on-campus and online learning. All on-campus core classes will meet on Monday and Wednesday evenings.

Coursework includes a cross-cultural immersion trip and a customizable 280-hour internship.

Ohio Northern and MTSO announce 3+3 M.Div. program Ohio Northern University and MTSO have teamed up to offer incoming college students a unique 3+3 program leading to a Master of Divinity degree. The program is the only one of its kind in Ohio and one of only a few in the country. The typical path to an M.Div. requires seven years of undergrad and graduate study. Through the 3+3 program, students will save time and money by completing the degree in six years. Starting the program at ONU in Ada, they may choose one of three majors: religion, youth ministry, or religion and ecology. The next step is three years of study at MTSO. After their first year at MTSO, 3+3 students will complete a Bachelor of Arts degree from ONU. After completion of seminary coursework, they will earn an MTSO M.Div. Respectfully submitted, Danny Russell, director of communications www.mtso.edu

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For more information go to www.nyscoc.org, 1580 Central Avenue, Albany, New York, 12205 518-436-9319.

The Reverend Peter Cook is Executive Director, The Reverend Heather Kirk-Davidoff serves as Director of Community Development Initiatives and Karen Lapierre, Office Manager.

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United Theological Seminary 459 men and women are being equipped as faithful, fruitful pastors and Christian leaders for the Church:i • 292 Masters Students • 167 Doctoral Students • Third largest United Methodist seminary in the United Statesii Founded nearly 150 years ago by Bishop Milton Wright, father of famed aviators Wilbur and Orville Wright, United has continued that spirit of innovation through: Online degrees: • 98% of master’s students have taken one or more course online while studying at United.

• United students live in 39 different states.

• Week-long intensives fulfill UMC residency requirements.

Live Interactive Virtual Education (LIVE): • New grant brings the latest technology in virtual education.

• Participate in on-campus courses via webcam and enjoy live lectures and real-time discussion with faculty and peers.

Doctor of Ministry Degree: • Become a doctor for the Church, addressing a real problem or challenge in your church or community.

• Study under a mentor who is an expert in their field and learn alongside a small group of dedicated peers.

• 3-year program that allows you to complete project as you go, leading to a 78% program graduation rate in 2017 (vs. 54% average among other seminaries)iii Practical education designed to resource the Church: • The majority of United faculty have pastored churches.

• 91% of entering United students are already serving in ministry, bringing that context to the classroom.

A focus on Church Renewal: • 165 Course of Study studentsiv • 42 students in the Hispanic Christian Academy (3-year Spanish online course of ministry program for Hispanic lay pastors and leaders)iv • Certificates in Church Planting, Disability Ministry, and Supervision Academic AND Spiritual Growth: • 95% of students say the United community supports both their academic and spiritual growth.v Diverse Christian Views: • Over 30 different denominations • 19 international students from 15 different countries • 96% of students feel their views are respected in the classroom/seminary community and say they have been taught to respect the views of others.

• 47% of students who reported are African-American, 43% Caucasian and 10% represent other ethnicities We thank God for the men and women coming to United because God has called them to serve the least and the lost. We pray as the Lord Jesus instructed his disciples saying, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Luke 10:2).

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Dr. Kent Millard President United Theological Seminary Data represents Fall 2018 headcount enrollment, unless otherwise specified.

ATS 2017-2018 Annual Data Tables. Data represents Fall 2017 headcount enrollment. iii ATS 2017-2018 Strategic Information Report for United Theological Seminary. Graduation rates represent the percentage of students who were able to complete their chosen degree within a specified period of time which approximates two times the normal length of the degree. iv Data represents unduplicated headcount enrollment in the 2017-2018 academic year. v United Theological Seminary 2017-2018 Student Satisfaction Survey, in which 30% of students responded. i

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