Spring 2015 [March 2015]files.ctctcdn.com/c2d5c88b301/928894d9-d004-4f5e-98c7-6709d78d132d.pdfTHE...

THE PURPOSE

The organized unit of United Methodist

Women shall be a community of women

whose purpose is to know God and to

experience freedom as whole persons through

Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive

fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission

through participation in the global ministries

of the church.

IN THIS ISSUE PAGE

President’s Message 1

Vice President Message 2

Treasurer’s Report 3

Membership , Nuture, Outreach 4-7

Mission u 2015 8-11

Education & Interpretation 12-14

Social Action 15

Program Resources 16

Nominations 17-19

Communications Coordinator 20

News from the Districts 21-25

2015 UMW Calendar of Events 26-27

Quarterly Newsletter—Spring 2015 [March 2015]

New York Conference, United Methodist Women, 20 Soundview Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606

Editor: Cynthia M. Plater - email: [email protected]

President’s Message

“Make It Happen: Mission through Hospitality”

Greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ, our

savior!

We launched another great year of mission with the

theme, “Make It Happen: Mission through Hospitality” based

on 1 Peter 4:9-10; offer hospitality to one another without

grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have

received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in

its various forms.

As we approach our 150th anniversary celebration—

just four years away—we turn our focus to our legacy fund

drive. How six courageous women gathered at Trinity

Methodist Church in Boston in 1869 in stormy weather to

listen to stories about “the least of these; the women in

India,” is a true love of grace. Women in India at the time

were neither able to get the education nor the health care

they desperately needed solely because they were female.

These six faithful stewards of God’s grace diligently raised

enough funds to send Clara Swaine, a medical doctor, and

Isabella Thorburn, an educator, to India where they founded a

women’s hospital and a women’s college, respectively.

Lucinda Baldwin of the Ohio Conference heard the

story of “the least of these; the women in Korea,” who were in

a situation similar to the Indian women. Baldwin made a

designated giving, a gift she received to serve others. Her

hospitality made it possible for Mary Scranton from

Massachusetts to take the call in educating Korean women in

1884. As we all know, Scranton’s hospitality and commitment

to serve others led her to found Ewha Girls’ School in Seoul,

Korea, which has since become the largest and among the

most prestigious women’s colleges in the world today.

mailto:[email protected]

Page 2 The Spectrum Quarterly Newsletter—Spring 2015

President’s message - continued from page 1

This mission story touches my heart

deeply as I was born in Korea and I believe in

educating women. I am grateful to these

courageous women whose mission through

hospitality created change that improved so many

women’s lives. These faithful stewards of God’s

grace in its various forms made it happen!

This year, I ask you to contribute to our

foremothers’ legacy fund drive. Join more women

who raise funds for “the least of these; women,

children and youth all over the world,” as we

prepare to celebrate our legacy—over 150 years

in mission.

I am grateful to those who have invited

me to their churches and let me share my stories.

It has been an awesome learning experience. I

look forward to meeting many more of you at

your churches and districts this year.

May God’s blessings be with you and your

loved ones in 2015!

Love in Christ,

Susan S Kim

Vice President’s message

“Be hospitable to one another without complaining,

like good stewards of manifold grace of God, serve one

another with whatever gift each of you has received.”

1 Peter 4:9-10

It has been cold and icy in the New York

Conference recently and I pray that you have all stayed

warm and cozy. Climate change is causing severe and

unusual weather patterns across the country and

around the world. This is a major concern for United

Methodist Women during this current quadrennium.

I know that October seems like a long way off,

but it is right around the corner. I hope that you have

October 24th, 2015 already marked on your calendar

for UMW Conference Annual Meeting. It will be held at

Christ Church located at 524 Park Avenue, New York,

NY 10065. The theme for this year is “Make it Happen:

Mission Through Hospitality”

All NY Conference events will take place in the

Metropolitan District. Please save the following dates:

Obuntu Day of Service: August 15th, 2015

Leadership Development Day: November 14th, 2015

Also, I hope to see you at CCUN for our

Spiritual Retreat on March 21st, 2015 where Rev. Ronell

Howard will be our facilitator. Be prepared because I

know that she will have a powerful message for us.

Yours truly,

Judith E. McRae Save the Date!

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER—SPRING 2015 Page 3

From the Conference Treasurer – Happy New Year

The New Year - 2015 is already three months old.

2014 was another good year for the United Methodist Women of the New York Conference.

Congratulations! All six Districts met or exceeded their budgeted Pledge to Mission. Thanks to your hard

work and generous giving The Conference submitted a total of $155,221 to the United Methodist Women

National Office. $137,686, of this amount represented our Pledge to Mission, Funds contributed for Special

Mission Recognition, Gift to Mission, Gift in Memory and World Thank Offering are part of the Pledge to

Mission. The Conference 2014 Pledge to Mission Budget was $120,000. We exceeded by 15%. To God be the

Glory Great things he has done.

The 2015 New York Conference approved Pledge to Mission Budget is $125,000. I truly believe that barring

any major unforeseen circumstances, we will again exceed our pledge in 2015. In February, 2015, I received an

additional $10,000 from a District Treasurer, which represented 2014 Fourth Quarter payments. Unfortunately

the 2014 books were closed on January 15th. This amount includes $5,711 in Pledge to Mission which will be

included in our 2015 payments.

The Conference Team pledges to work closely with each District to find new and innovative ways to

strengthen local Units, increase membership and giving so that United Methodist Women can continue to focus

on the mission set for us by Jesus Christ.

District Treasurers: Your First Quarter Remittances are due to the Conference Treasurer no later than March

31, 2015. Let us try as Treasurers to send in remittances received each quarter no matter how small.

Please ensure your 2014 financial records are audited. District Treasurers can continue to use the Conference

Accountant who audited your books in 2013, but each District will be responsible for making these

arrangements as well as paying for the audit. A report of findings must be sent to the Conference Treasurer no

later than June 30, 2015.

Hazel McIntosh

Conference Treasurer

hemlock [email protected]

District Treasurers

Catskill Hudson Rita Ford

Connecticut Janet Keyes

Long Island East Mary Munkenbeck

Long Island West Angela Depass

Metropolitan Laureen Goodridge-Smith

New York/Connecticut Beverly Anderson



NEWS FROM THE FUZZY LADY

‘Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”

(Romans 15:7, NIV)

Happy New Year!

In the New Year, let us use the ABC method to get to the heart of the matter of inviting new members to join

the United Methodist Women.

A=All are invited. Every woman not just a certain types of women! Let the New York Conference UMW be

like the “Old Lady who lived in a Shoe.” (Who remembers this nursery rhyme?) Invite them all!

B=Because we need you. All kinds of expertise are needed to survive! (“I need you, you need me, we’re all are

a part of God’s body!”) I need you to Survive!

WE WILL HELP YOU THROUGH THIS!!!

C= Come as you are. Broken we will fix you up; wear your old clothes, wear your new clothes, wear your new

or old jeans, just come as you are! We welcome You! All are welcome at God’s Table!


GOD’S TABLE

We all should be inviting new members to come to UMW. It is so important to let our younger women/newly

retired women, women with disabilities, working women, unemployed women, and women of a different faith

to be members. Show them how important they are to us; invite them whereever we go. Remember, it is not

necessary to belong to the United Methodist Church to be a member.

Census forms from all districts are due to district MNO now. Local units should have sent completed forms to

the district’s MNO by “Heart Day” 2/14/2015. Remember, all Census forms must be to me by March 31, 2015

- we have a deadline at National. Please be counted as a Member of the New York Conference United

Methodist Women. We need to show our growth from 2013 to 2014. The Census Count will show this growth

at our National office only.

Josephine Gibson Memorial Scholarship Funds are limited this year. First Timers to Mission u, get your

applications in. Youth - you are welcome, please apply! Read the feedback from your peers who went to

Mission u last year in this issue. Applications are also in this issue of our newsletter.

Limitless, Too, good news! Our National Office has heard from you through a questionnaire they requested

be filled out. Many thanks to the Long Island West District’s Limitless, Too president, Ms. Shanae Als and

Metropolitan District’s Youth Advisor, Ms. Ruth Jones for their input. Special thanks to the New York

Conference Mentor, Ms. Deborah C. Jenkins for her expertise and input. Ms Jenkins is always ready and

willing to help when Limitless, Too is involved.

Catskill, Connecticut, Long Island East, and NY/Connecticut districts, we would like for you to “Make it

Happen”! in your district with a Limitless group. Try the ABC Method, it works. God has a PURPOSE and a

plan for this group of young women. Please let us catch the spark and pass it on!

Blessings, Joann McClam,

Membership Nurture & Outreach Coordinator


My experience at Mission u was interesting. I learned that differently able is not disable, but able to do things

differently. My class discussed various topics of welcoming persons with disabilities into our lives. One of

my classmates was disabled and while we were having these discussions as a class, it didn’t seem to bother

him; he simply made friends with his classmates.

During my time at Mission u, it was a n eye opening experience. I realized that we as human beings have an

ignorant way of thinking when it comes to people with special needs. Unconsciously, we judge and criticize

which is completely wrong. I plan to uplift the awareness in my church that will change things like installing

a ramp so that someone in a wheelchair can worship with us.

Mission u was certainly a great first time experience for me. Through out this conference, “The Church and

People with Disabilities.”I learned about different types of disabilities both seen and unseen. With all I have

learned, I plan to help my sponsor bring awareness to my own church people.


New York Annual Conference Mission u

Josephine Gibson Memorial Scholarship 2015 Application Form Mission u (formerly CSOCM) Dates – July 23-25, 2015 Scholarship Application Deadline: June 05, 2015

APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED AFTER DEADLINE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

Eligibility for this scholarship is limited to those persons who are members of the New York Conference, ATTENDING Mission u for the FIRST TIME, adult females, youth ages 12-17, or adult males who are chaperoning male youth.

(All youth must have a chaperone)

NAME_______________________________________ E-MAIL___________________________________ ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP CODE PHONE (HOME) (WORK) Local Church District

Female Adult Are you an officer in your local or district United Methodist Women? YES______ NO_________

If yes, what office do you hold in UMW? Female Youth Age 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 (please circle age)

Male Youth Age 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 (please circle age)

Male Adult chaperoning Male Youth; please write in their name(s)

In the space below (and on the back if needed) please tell us (1) why you want to attend Mission u, (2) why you should be considered for scholarship assistance, and (3) how you will use what you learn at Mission u in your Local Unit, District United Methodist Women and/or your Local Church. _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

SPONSOR: I am a (local) (District) (Conference) UMW officer. I support this application for a Jo Gibson Scholarship. You may contact me for additional information at: ____________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ (Telephone Number of Sponsor) (Name of Sponsor)

Submission of the application DOES NOT guarantee that you will receive a scholarship. Completed application MUST be postmarked by June 05. 2015

Mail to: Joann McClam 112-25 167th Street Apt 4D, Jamaica, NY 11433 Email: [email protected], Contact Number: 718-480-8850


A WORD ABOUT MISSION U 2015

Mission u 2014 was a mountain top experience as we journeyed ‘from hol-e-ness to whol-e-ness.’ What is different and exciting about Mission u 2015 this summer? We listened to your requests and all our activities and rooms will be under one roof at the salubrious midtown campus of Western Connecticut State University. The studies for 2015 are as follows:

Spiritual Growth: Created for Happiness Geographic: Latin America: People and Faith Issue: The Church & People with Disabilities Youth & children: Latin America: People and Faith

Everyone will participate in the new and exciting Spiritual Growth study, “Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God.” In addition the children and Youth will be learning about the people of Latin America. The theme for Mission u 2015 is: “Journeying to Wholeness, Holiness, Happiness” Applications for the Jo Gibson scholarships are out, deadline June 5th; all first timers need to apply as soon as possible. You are created for happiness so do not miss the opportunity to learn more about your life in God, our creator. See you there, July 23rd to July 25th, 2015! Submitted by, Marcia O Bent Secretary, Mission u

Editor’s note: Please note that this year at Mission u there are 2 options for housing. Registering

with campus housing means a double occupancy dorm room with traditional HIGH dorm beds

(that cannot be lowered) with a shared bathroom on each floor. You will need to bring your

own bedding, pillow and towels. If you don’t have a roommate, one will be assigned.

Registering as a commuter, you have to reserve your own hotel room, if needed. We do have a

block of rooms at the Ethan Allen Hotel. You also need to have your own transportation from

the hotel to campus. None will be provided by Mission u.


Mission u

Journeying to

Wholeness, Holiness,

Happiness

July 23-25, 2015

Join us at Western Connecticut State University, Midtown Campus, Danbury, CT

All are Welcome! Women, men, clergy, laity, youth and children.

On-line registration and forms will be available on the web site,

www.nyac.com/missionu and from your Conference and District UMW teams.

See registration form for housing options.

2015 Mission Studies

All will be enrolled in the Spiritual Growth Study. –

Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God English: Rev. T Anne Daniel

Korean: Rev. Steven Kim Youth: Rev. Jeffrey L. Hooker

All adults at the school will also select one of the following two studies.

Geographic: Latin America

English: Rosangela Oliveira, Rev. Dr. Randolph Nugent, Dorlimar Lebron Malave

Spanish: Jeniffer Rodriquez-Michel Korean: Shung Kim

Issue: The Church and People with Disabilities English: Stephanie Parsons

Children and Youth Study - Latin America [3 classes: grades K-4, 5-8, 9-12] Elise Boykin (entering grades k-4), Byung Lee (entering grades 5-8), Gail Douglass-Boykin (entering grades 9-12)

Can’t Get Away for 3 Days? Try Saturday@Mission u!

Saturday, July 25, 2015, 8:00am – 5:00pm Adult Mission Study: "Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life In God"

English: Rev. Dr. Marva Usher Kerr

NYAC Mission u: Dean: Deborah C. Jenkins Registrar: Gail Ross, 631-274-8156 (weekdays), 631-754-0312 (night/weekends), [email protected]

http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umw/disabilities/

http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umw/disabilities/



2015 Registration Form – NYAC Mission u July 23-25, 2015 Western Connecticut State University (Midtown Campus), Danbury, CT

Adult (18+): $325 with on campus housing (double occupancy with traditional HIGH dorm beds) $235 commuter (we have a block of rooms at the Ethan Allen Hotel; you must reserve if needed

and you must have your own transportation from the hotel to the campus) Youth (entering grade 9-12): $285 with on campus housing (double occupancy w/traditional HIGH beds)

$195 commuter (must have housing and transportation) Youth (entering grade 5-8): $235 with on campus housing (double occupancy w/traditional HIGH beds)

$145 commuter (must have housing and transportation) Child (entering grade K-4): $100 first child, $85 for 2nd child in same family - with on campus housing $60 first child, $50 for 2nd child in same family - commuter

Make check or money order payable to: NYC Mission u Mail Registration Form and payment to: Gail Ross, 58 Shady Lane, Huntington, NY 11743

*** JULY 1, 2015 *** DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT *** JULY 1, 2015 *** Please check if Jo Gibson Scholarship applicant, deadline June 5, 2015 (for first-time participants): __ No __ Yes

Name: ____________________________________________________________ (F) _____ (M) _____ Local Church: _____________________________________________ NYAC District: ______________ Home Address Street: _________________________________________________________ Apt # ________

City, State, Zip code: _____________________________________________________________ Phone (home or cell): ________________ E-mail address: ______________________________

Emergency Contact Name: ______________________________________________________ Phone number (home, work or cell): ________________________________________________

Special Needs (Dietary, Allergies, Physical, etc.): _____________________________________________

My roommate is:

Check if you need a roommate: Check if you are a commuter:

Mission u choir (closing worship): _____ No _____ Yes: Soprano Alto Tenor Bass (circle one) Instrument you play well and would like to bring (for worship): _____________________________

Adults-please choose one Mission Study: 1 = first choice, 2 = second choice. All will be enrolled in the Spiritual Growth Study - Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God (English or Korean). _____ Geographic: Latin America: People and Faith (check one) ____English ____ Korean ____ Spanish _____ Issue: The Church and People with Disabilities (English)

Adults are responsible for purchasing the study book at NYAC (June), Mission u, or the Mission Resource Center. _____ Youth Study (entering grades 5-12) (youth covenant form required) _____ Children’s Study (entering grades K-4)

(parental consent and sponsor covenant (if applicable) forms required for youth and children)

Sponsor’s Name (required for youth or child): _______________________________________________

Registration questions, Gail Ross 631-274-8156 (weekdays) 631-754-0312 (night/weekends) or [email protected]


2015 Registration Form – Saturday @ Mission u Saturday, July 25, 2015, 8:00am – 5:00pm

Western Connecticut State University (Midtown Campus), Danbury, CT

Spiritual Growth: Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God Adults age 16+, presented in English, no child care available

You are responsible for purchasing the study book.

Study books will be available at NYAC in June, at Mission u, and through the Mission Resource Center.

Registration: $60 until July 15, 2015 $75 after July 15, 2015 and walk-ins

Make check or money order payable to: NYC Mission u

Mail Registration Form and payment to: Gail Ross, 58 Shady Lane, Huntington, NY 11743 Name: ____________________________________________________________ (F) _____ (M) _____ Local Church: _____________________________________________ NYAC District: ______________ Home Address Street: _________________________________________________________ Apt # ________

City, State, Zip code: _____________________________________________________________ Phone number (home or cell): _____________________________________________________ E-mail address: _________________________________________________________________ Emergency Contact

Name: ______________________________________________________ Phone number (home, work or cell): ________________________________________________

Special Needs (Dietary, Allergies, Physical, etc.): _____________________________________________

For registration questions, contact Gail Ross at: 631-274-8156 (weekdays) 631-754-0312 (nights and weekends) Or email at: [email protected]


Education and Interpretation Coordinator

United Methodist Women provides educational and mission experiences that lead to personal change in order

to transform the world.

Mission u planning is in progress. It takes place July 23-25, 2015 at Western Connecticut State University, Midtown Campus, Danbury CT. This year, one of the Mission Projects is the Children’s Home. The Children's Home, located in Greater Binghamton, NY, is a not-for-profit organization offering four areas to help children and their families: Residential, Educational, Preventive and Therapeutic Care. The Children's Home believes that every child deserves a safe place, and that every child deserves a life worth living. Each child is welcomed with a box containing personal hygiene items and a small toy. We can help by providing the items listed below. NO TRAVEL SIZES. Each District is asked to provide a dozen of each item listed. Please deliver them to the Mission Fair/Discovery room no later than 12 noon on Thursday, July 23, 2015. Shampoo Conditioner Body Wash Bath Soap 3 oz and larger – (Do not remove from original packaging) No Ivory Soap Toothbrush (Do not remove from original packaging) Toothpaste Deodorant Lip Balm Hand Towel (Kitchen, cleaning and microfiber towels are not acceptable) Washcloth Comb / Brush (No pocket combs or picks) Hand Lotion Plastic Box with Lid (shoe box size)

Mission Today

The goal of Mission Today is for United Methodist Women to be refreshed in mission and that more and more

women will grow in their understanding, love and support of mission. All Local Units should submit completed

forms to your district Education and Interpretation Coordinator by August 31st, 2015 who will then forward it

to the conference E & I Coordinator by October 2nd.

Bernice Semple

Editor’s Note: Your offerings at conference gatherings also support Kairos – Outside NYC, an outreach program

that supports women who have been incarcerated in the New York area and their families. See article by

Claris Skeritt later entitled ‘Kairos Outside’.


Unit_______________________________

IS YOUR UNIT A MISSION TODAY UNIT

The purpose of Mission Today Unit is to:

Energize United Methodist Women to be more involved in mission through prayer, study and action.

Increase contacts between units and mission personnel and mission projects so that United Methodist Women

understand where their money goes.

Encourage use of mission resources through United Methodist Women.

Expand concepts of mission, including social justice as mission.

Criteria for a Mission Today Unit

Units are encouraged to complete a minimum of 10 of the following criteria, including five of those marked with an asterisk

(*). The criteria are to be fulfilled EACH YEAR, based on the timeline of each conference.

*1. Use the Prayer Calendar at each general meeting of the units to pray for people in mission and for our mission work

with women, children and youth.

Date:______________,______________,______________,_______________,_____________,______________.

*2. The unit will make and meet its pledge to mission. Date _______________________

*3. The unit will add at least two members to its roll.

1._______________________________________ 2. ____________________________________

*4. The unit will have at least two members subscribing to Response magazine. 1.

_______________________________________ 2.____________________________________

*5. The unit will use two programs from the Program Book during the year.

1.__________________________________ 2.___________________________________

*6. The unit, circle, or subgroup will conduct at least one Mission study a year. Leader:________________________

_____Topic:______________________________

*7. The unit will implement the Charter for Racial Justice Policies in at least two ways during the year. Some suggested

plans of action:

Plan a joint unit meeting with a unit of different racial/ ethnic background, using programs from the Program book.

Develop bi-racial/ cultural or multi-racial/ cultural koinonia groups.

Hold a joint Vacation Bible School.

Hold pulpit exchange

Share joint worship service on special occasions.

Encourage the church to sponsor a refugee family.

Action taken:_______________________________________ Date:_________________________.

8. At least one member of the unit (other than a conference or district officer) will attend the Conference School of

Christian Mission. Name: ________________________________________

9. At least two members (other than a conference or district officer) will attend the district or conference annual

meeting. Name: 1.________________________________, 2.________________________________.

10. The unit will have one person join the United Methodist Women’s Action Network to receive and respond

to legislative information. Name.______________________________________________.


11. Members shall write to five people listed in the Prayer Calendar at least twice a year. Person in charge of project

Name:_____________________________________________________

12. The unit will participate in the Campaign for Children in at least two ways.

Help sponsor a church or community program related to children and their needs.

Sponsor a Children’s Sabbath, promoted by the Children’s Defense Fund.

Get involved with children in mentoring, tutoring, and “big sisters” program.

Write letters, e-mail, or even call congressional representatives and / or other government regarding children’s issues.

Visit your local school.

Attend a school board meeting.

Learn how our school are funded

Explain________________________________________________________________________________

*13. The unit will be a Five Star unit, contributing to all five channels of Mission Giving. Date ____________

14. Each unit circle or subgroup will include a Response moment where an item from the magazine will be lifted up, as a

way to tell the mission story.

15. Have at least two people from the unit, circle or subgroup complete one of the Reading Program Plans, and report on

one of the books read; encourage all members to complete Plan one; have a book review

program.__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

16. The unit will invite a district or conference officer, other than that of a member of the unit, to one of the unit meetings

during the year. Name:________________________________. Office: ___________________.

17. Make a pledge to care for God’s creation and become a “Green” united Methodist Women unit (get information on

How to Become a Green Unit at www.umwonline.org/environment or contact Women’s Division Office of Community

Action.) Explain:________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________.

18. Hold a mini-Spiritual Growth Retreat, prepare for the retreat by watching the video “Resurrection Road” and get the

accompany study guide “Resurrection Women.” For additional information contact the Women’s Division Office of

Spiritual Formation and Mission Theology. Explain:_______________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________.

Submitted by:__________________________________________Date:_______________

To Become a Mission Today Unit in the New York Annual Conference:

Bronze Unit --- Complete 5 – 8 of the activities including *2 and *13

Silver Unit --- Complete 9 - 12 of the activities including *2 and *13

Gold Unit --- Complete 13 - 18 of the activities including *2 and *13

Please submit the completed form on or before August 31st to:

http://www.umwonline.org/environment

KAIROS OUTSIDE

“I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I

will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will

make you to be a covenant for the people and a

light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to

free captives from prison and to release from the

dungeon those who sit in darkness.”

Isaiah 42:6-7

Kairos Outside is a blend of the movement on the

street, Cursillo, which spawned Kairos years ago

and the Kairos Prison Ministry which is spreading

to so many of our nation's correctional institutions.

Members are all involved in both Cursillo

(Emmaus, Tres Dias, etc.) and/or the Kairos

Ministry. More importantly, they are concerned,

committed Christians who believe in these women

and want to encourage them on their life's journey.

Greek language has two words for time.

Kronos’ for linear time – hours, day, week, and year

Kairos—in the time set by God for a particular

incident or occurrence. It is a word of special

significance of the correctional institution where the

word ‘Time’ carries many special connotations.

Kairos Outside is designed to support families of

men or women who are, or have been, incarcerated

in the country’s federal correctional facilities,

county jails, and youth offender programs. Thus

Kairos Outside demonstrates God’s love and grace

through Christian support for women, their relatives

and friends initiated on a Kairos Outside weekend.

Kairos Outside Prison Ministry Weekend which

started in 1989 was the vision of the Chaplain of

San Quentin State Facility in California. His fourth

day experience along with others who participated

were convinced that the unity felt there was only the

beginning of a healing process and these are

continuing until present.

Kairos Outside Weekend Retreat

Goals are to: Provide a safe place for the guests,

offer unconditional love and acceptance in a

Christian setting , encourage sharing of life stories,

create opportunity for tranformation, build a

relationship with God to foster spiritual growth,

and participate in support groups.

The Mission of Kairos Prison Ministry is to share

the transforming love and forgiveness of Jesus

Christ to impact the hearts and lives of incarcerated

women, men and youth, as well as their families to

become loving and productive citizens of the

communities. “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,

because the LORD has anointed me to preach good

news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the

brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives

and release from darkness for the prisoners, to

proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day

of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn,

and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to

bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,

the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a

garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness, a

planting of the LORD for the display of his

splendor.” (Isaiah 61:1-3)

Deaconess Claris Skerritt

Social Action Coordinator


FROM THE DESK OF THE RESOURCE SECRETARY

We are in the season of Lent when we reflect on the 40 days Jesus spent in the

wilderness and prepare ourselves for Easter. We usually choose to give up a favorite habit or food for the 40 days but why not broaden our Lenten Discipline to include not only prayer and study of the Bible, but through volunteering, offering to assist at a

Sunday service by ushering or singing in the choir. Don’t forget friends and neighbors. Stay in touch by phone, cards and letters and emails. Contact someone

you haven’t spoken to in a long time. Visit a homebound person. Take care of yourself by eating better, exercising and getting enough rest and sleep. These seem like small actions added to our daily routine but it is intended to open us and draw us closer to

God. We are in a time of cold, ice and snow but we are moving towards the days getting longer and the coming of spring, a new beginning.

Don’t forget to continue reading. There are many new

choices in the 2015 reading program that are educational, inspirational and uplifting. Chose a book for a

book club meeting. It is always great when we can get together to

with other sisters to fellowship together.

“For we know that all things work

together for good to those who love the Lord, to those who are called,

according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Peace and Blessings

Debra DeMerritt

Do you have a subscription? If not, check it out

on the Web .

http://unitedmethodistwomen.org/response

The current issue’s lead stories are published

on the web as well as many of the features,

articles, live, and Responsively Yours columns

from prior issues.


Report of the Committee on Nominations

Greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior!

In the midst of all this SNOW, we still are looking for some conference officers for our 2016 slate. We are

presently in need of a Program Resource person and a Vice President. Please prayerfully consider taking one of

these positions. A talent bank form is included in this issue.

If you feel you might like to join us now or at another time, just fill out the form.

At this time we have not had any Talent banks returned. We always need new faces and new talents to serve on

the conference team. You would be an asset to us. Training is provided by our National Office and by the

officers who are on the team so you need not worry about whether you can do the job or not. You will just all

the assistance you need. Just ask anyone who is serving now.

The United Methodist Women of the New York Conference want YOU!!

Blessings

Dianne Adone

******

The United Methodist Women at Bethany [Brooklyn] proudly

celebrated the 100th

Birthday of

Mrs. LENA BREMBREY.

[Susan Kim, UMW NY President, and Joann McClam,

UMW NY MNO Coordinator, joined the celebration. ]


TALENT BANK INFORMATION ON PROSPECTIVE LEADERSHIP

Type or Print (attach additional sheets as necessary) Date__________________

Name ________________________________________________________________

Address ______________________________________________________________

Telephone: Home_________________________ Cell __________________________

Email _________________________________________________________________

Local Church ___________________________________ District ______________________

Age: _____ 20’s _____ 30’s _____ 40’s _____ 50’s _____ 60’s _____ 70’s _____ 80’s+

Languages Spoken ___________________________________ Racial/Ethnic Group____________

Employed: Yes________ No________ Full-Time________ Part-Time________

Professional skills, job experience ___________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Office(s) held in United Methodist Women

Local ________________________________ ___________________________________

District _______________________________ ___________________________________

Conference ___________________________ ___________________________________

Jurisdiction ___________________________ ___________________________________

Additional experience on the local, district, conference or general church level (other than United Methodist Women)

or in the community

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Special Talent or Skills: ___________________________________________________________

Areas of Special Interest or Concern: Check as many as you would like!

__ secretarial __recruiting members __ publicity

__communication __ social issues __ workshops

__computer __ creativity __ newsletters

__accounting/bookkeeping __ recording minutes __ retreats

__organization of details __ public policy __ music

__nominations __ public relations __ youth


TALENT BANK INFORMATION ON PROSPECTIVE LEADERSHIP page 2

__program planning __ community building __ children

__administration __ inclusiveness/pluralism __ other (specify)

Which office(s) on the Conference United Methodist Women’s Team would you most like to hold given the

opportunity to serve?

____President ____Membership Nurture & Outreach

____Vice President ____Social Action

____Secretary ____Spiritual Growth

____Treasurer ____Program Resources

____Chair of Nominations ____Communications

____Education & Interpretation

Why are you interested in this position and what qualifications do you feel you have for your office(s) of choice?

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Would you be able to use your gifts and talents to uphold and strengthen United Methodist Women through the

PURPOSE of the organization?

Is it possible for you to be away from your home or employment for:

Full day__________ Weekend __________ Extended Time __________

____I am sorry but I am unable to accept an office this year. Please keep my name on file and contact me in

___________ [year]

Please provide any additional information that you feel is

pertinent:_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Please send completed form by email to: [email protected] or mail to: Dianne Adone, 155 14th Avenue, Holtsville,

NY 11742. Feel free to call me if you have any questions: 631-475-7876.



FROM THE DESK OF THE COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Over the past year I have urged you to ‘toot your unit’s horn’. Let others know what you do to further the PURPOSE of UMW. When you let others know what you do, it often sparks ideas that other units may wish to implement. Here’s three ideas from our Asbury Croton-on-Hudson unit.

March is Women’s Heritage Month. At the encouragement of our Pastor, Melissa Hinnen, our UMW unit , led by Barbara Whipple, will be coordinating a Sunday Worship Service during March.

In the dreary month of February and in conjunction with Valentine’s Day, our unit sponsored a ‘Love Luncheon’ for the whole congregation following a Sunday Worship Service. It was a good way to warm everyone’s heart - a ‘potluck’ lunch featuring tomato [‘love apple’] dishes and chocolate desserts.

Again this Spring we, along with the women of the local Temple Israel, the women of the Muslim Society of Westchester, and several other Croton houses of worship, are compiling 100 layette kits for UMCOR. We will deliver them to NY Annual Conference in June. Check out http://www.umcor.org/UMCOR/Relief-Supplies for more info on creating kits for the relief organization.

So let us know what your unit is up to! Send me an email. Pictures are great too!! Cynthia McNeal Plater Communications Coordinator [email protected]

Check out Facebook—our UMW New York Conference Site

https://www.facebook.com/umwnyc

Pictures ….. Event Flyers … Information … Weekly Prayer Posting by Elaine

Mackay, our Spiritual Growth Coordinator

http://www.umcor.org/UMCOR/Relief-Supplies



NEWS FROM THE DISTRICTS

Catskill-Hudson District

By Barbara Sanborn, President

Greetings from your Sisters in Christ, as we continue to fellowship, grow and work to strengthen our

connection among ourselves and with our Conference and worldwide United Methodist Women.

Our District has focused on these opportunities for growth:

The annual winter retreat was well-received by 27 attendees and was led by Sally Vonner from the

national UMW office The retreat lived through

the Quaker movements of prayer: Be still and

know God’s presence waiting for you (akin to

prevenient grace); Creative Response to God’s

presence (writing a Psalm), Union with God,

and reflecting on how we are then Called to

Action. Recreation/relaxation time and

fellowship at meals are key to this weekend.

On Saturday nights of the retreat, all are

encouraged to bring a talent to share: a song,

a joke, a dance, a story to tell. After Sunday’s

brunch, we depart, rested and renewed.

May 2 will be our Day Apart. We will be

having Bible studies/workshops based on the

study "A Mile in Her Shoes, Lessons from the

Lives of Old Testament Women" by Sheron C. Patterson, a Methodist pastor from Texas. Each lesson

presents a topic, such as leadership, and illustrates it through the life of a woman from the Old Testament

and how she interacted with God. We hope to be hosted by Modena UMC, which is considering starting a

UMW unit.

We will have an Ice Cream Social again, open to all United Methodist women and their church families.

Minekill State Park will be the likely site.

Beth Capen will be the speaker at our Fall Meeting – Saturday, September 26.

The District Team continues to promote Conference activities, especially Missionu, to all women and

all pastors at every opportunity. Visitation to all active units to strengthen our connections and

membership is ongoing.

Grace & Peace,

Barb Sanborn

President, Catskill-Hudson UMW


Connecticut District

By Nancy Hauser, Vice President

The Connecticut District of United Methodist Women held their Winter Gathering & Luncheon on February 7, 2015 at St Andrew's UMC in New Haven, Ct. Methodist women representing their churches attended: “MAKE IT HAPPEN-CONNECTING WITH HOMELESSNESS IN CONNECTICUT"

Following Welcome & Purpose and the worship service, four panelists were presented: Rev. Barbara Schaffer, Pastor of Torrington CT UMC; Matthew Morgan, Home Missioner and Exec. Dir., Journey Home, Hartford, Ct.; Carla Miklos, Dir., Operation Hope, Fairfield, CT; Alison Cunningham, Exec. Dir., Columbus House., New Haven, Ct.

Each panelist spoke to their own area of expertise and the overlapping (connectional) work between their city, state, federal agencies and church outreach programs. Ms. Cunningham started with the number of homeless people we have within our state border. The number of men, women and children is staggering. Numbers increasing yearly. Mr. Morgan spoke of an assessment tool implemented in 2014 to identify the mentally ill and those most vulnerable. Ms. Miklos discussed food distribution and sharing of their resources. Always encouraging churches in their outreach programs for feeding the hungry. A short history from the Homestead Act in the 1980's up through 2015, showed how awareness and advocacy began. At times a rocky start, to say the least, yet state and federal agencies established " Opening Doors " throughout the state and set goals: 2015 END VETERAN HOMELESSNESS, 2016 END CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS WITHIN 10 YRS., END FAMILY HOMELESSNESS Groups focus on affordable housing both temporary and permanent, veterans, medical, youth, economic and other issues. There are steps

and protocols in place making the transition for homeless persons less stressful, thus offering them a real chance with supportive assistance where and when it is needed.

Needless to say the topic of homelessness asks more questions than there are answers, but these four panelists shoulder their work and commitment with a positive and lasting approach.

What can you and your church do? As an example of social action, Rev. Schaffer

enlisted Methodist churches in Torrington, Ct. offering much needed shelter, a hot meal and making Packs for Homelessness, handing them out on street corners to those in need.

Following a delicious lunch there was a Q&A period and a time of sharing; what UMW are doing within their own churches across the district. The day ended with Pastor Varas offering the Holy Communion Service, expressing Jesus' words with solemnity.

I wish to thank Pastor Varas, Junette Cole and staff for their welcoming and gracious hospitality on what was a very cold and snowy Winters Gathering.


Long Island East District

By Grace H. Bryant, District President

The LIE UMW District Team has had an uneasy beginning for

this New Year. We have joined with the entire LIE District in

praying for Pete O’Neill , who had serious surgery and is now

in rehabilitation. Pete is the husband of our Education and

Interpretation Coordinator Jeanne O’Neill, who also

continues to be in our prayers.

We were also saddened to hear of the passing of Anne

Seymour, the past president of the East Meadow UMW Unit.

Anne had relocated to upstate New York due to failing health.

We hope to have a more extensive article in the Nexus, as

she was a very, very long time faithful UMW member.

On a happier note, the District Team made its first visitation

of the New Year, on January 31. Four of us spent the day at a

spiritual retreat with our Bayport UMW Unit. It was a

wonderful day filled with prayer and praise, singing and

rejoicing, feeling the love of God and sharing it with each other, and of course as good Methodists with lots

of good food. We were led by Jann Sanicola, the current energetic president of the Unit and joined by the

immediate past president, Judy Fleetman who had led the Unit for many, many years. We are thankful for

the spirit and leadership of them both.

We are looking forward to our next visitation.

New York Connecticut District

By Joan Murray, District President

The NY CT District sends sincere condolences to the United Methodist Unit of Christ's Church in Beacon and to the

family on the death of their treasurer, Eleanor VerNooy. Eleanor will be greatly missed in her church and her UMW.

Eleanor was a very competent Treasurer, loved the Lord and the work that she did for missions and her church.

Get well wishes and prayers for Fran Backofen, of the Cornwall UMW for her broken foot. Fran is missed on the district

and we hope she will be up and around quickly.

DAY APART --

The NY/CT District will hold a "Day Apart" on April 18, at the Pawling UMC. from 9AM till 2 PM. Our guest speaker will

be Glory Dharmaraj. Our topic will be "Reading the Bible for Transformative Spirituality". Registrar is Linda Nicholson,

18 Valley Dr., Pawling, NY 12564, phone # 845-855-3387. For more information, you may also call Joan Murray, 845-758-

5189. Please plan to attend and be blessed.


Long Island West District

By Pat Newton, President

Grace and Peace to all as we approach the ending of 2014 and embrace the beginning of a new year.

On December 13, 2014, we, the district team, held a day of goal setting. The team came prepared with new ideas and ways of reaching out to our United Methodist community from silent protests to visiting the elderly at the Brooklyn United Methodist Home.

On January 31, 2015, I attended the Limitless, Too meeting which was held at First United Methodist Church of Jamaica in Queens. The meeting was led by Shanae Als who has been voted President of our district’s United Methodist Women’s young women’s circle. Some of the events this circle is planning for 2015 are: a Royal Tea luncheon (tickets will be available for sale), a “ Stop Hunger Now” mission project, and feeding the Homeless at The Far Rockaway Mission.

Calendar of event for Limitless, Too

January 31 Meeting at 1st Church Jamaica UMC, Queens

May 30 Royal-Tea Luncheon, Springfield Garden’s UMC, Queens

August 29, Meeting , Church TBA, Brooklyn.

October 10 “Stop Hunger Now” mission project, Brooklyn

December 10 Feeding the Homeless at Far Rockaway Mission

For further information on the above events you may contact Shanae Als at [email protected] or Benita Lynn Malloy at [email protected].

Our local officer’s training was held on Saturday February 21, at St. Marks United Methodist Church in Brooklyn. Despite the very cold and snowy weather we had a very good attendance. Adriann Fraser- Johnson and the Limitless, Too circle opened the events with song and praise. The group was on a spiritual high as Adriann brought the word for the day and many attendees came to the altar for prayer. Special thanks to Adriann for always reminding us of our purpose and why we are in mission.

Sharon Noisette Jenkins reminded us as to why we must be trained continually. She also spoke about our legacy and how training helps us to fulfill the legacy our foremothers began.

One of our revitalized units, Trinity, was in attendance. We will continue to worked with them and train those who were not in attendance. Overall, the evaluations of our training were very good.

We will continue our visitation to as many units that need us and to get more churches involved in organizing units.

Our next district team meeting will be March 14. Time Apart will be May 16th.

Be blessed until we see each other again.




Metropolitan District

By Helena Cooks, President

Greetings! My Sisters In Christ,

We first and foremost thank God for bringing us into the third month of “2015.” It seems as though time is moving rapidly, and we don’t have enough time to complete all of our tasks. As United Methodist Women our mission work is a task that is ongoing in changing the lives of women, youth, and children. To fulfill our yearly mission work, we organize ourselves with a yearly calendar. Planning our Spiritual Retreat starts us on our journey. Through prayer, studying God’s word, and meditating, all help us to grow closer to God and fulfill our “purpose”. Also, living out God’s word strengthens us on the journey during challenging days as United Methodist Women. The Metropolitan District held it’s annual Spiritual Retreat, January 10th at Calvary UMC (Bronx). Rev. Milagros Solorzano was the facilitator, and focused on our theme for 2015: “Young Women Transforming the World.” Psalm 113: 7-8 states: “He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap, That He may seat him with princes, with the princes of his people.” The United Methodist Women is in mission to transform the lives of the needy, homeless, displaced, suffering, and address social injustices. We want to embrace, encourage, and educate our younger sisters to fulfill the United Methodist Women purpose, so that our legacy of 146 years continues. To lead up to our legacy celebration of 150 years in 2019, we are asked to start now with a special “Day of Giving”, Monday March 23, 2015. Donations can be made online at: unitedmethodistwomen.org; by phone (212) 870-3743; or mailed to United Methodist Women, Treasurer’s Office 475 Riverside Drive, Room 1504 New York, NY 10115. Our local officers training was held February 21st at Madison UMC (Manhattan). Participating in the trainings offered by the District and Conference levels are a necessity. Training gives you a better understanding of the position you chose to serve in (Spiritual Growth Coordinator, Vice President, Treasurer and etc.), expectations as a leader, and increase knowledge and understanding to share with other sisters. Trainings are not the same every year and attending with an open mind helps you to see or do things in a different and beneficial way. So, go to trainings with great expectancy that something “good” is going to happen! We are in preparation for our 35th Annual Communion Brunch to be held Saturday, March 28, 2015 9am – 3pm at Salem United Methodist Church 2190 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. (129th Street). Our speaker for this event will be Minister Leslie Houseworth Fields of Christ Church United Methodist (Manhattan). We encourage each local church to sponsor a young woman or sister that has not attended. The donation is $20.00 to include Continental Breakfast and Lunch. Come join us for a day of fellowship, celebration, and the blessing God has for us all. PEACE AND THE LOVE OF GOD BE WITH US ALL


Calendar of Events 2015

March 7 Conference Team Meeting Goal Setting with District Treasurers & Membership

Nurture & Outreach Coordinators

March 11 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

March 14 LIW District Team Meeting

March 18 LIE District Team Meeting

March 21 Conference-wide Spiritual Growth Retreat at CCUN

March 28 Metropolitan District Communion Brunch, Salem UMC

April 8 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

April 10-12 National Leadership Development Day, Lake Junaluska, NC:

Childcare offered

April 11 LIW District Team Meeting

April 18 Conference Team Meeting with District Communications Coordinators & Social

Action Coordinators

CT District Spring Day Apart & Luncheon, Fairfield Grace UMC

NY/CT District Spring Day Apart, Pawling, NY

April 23-26 Mission u Study Leaders Training, Charlotte NC

April 25 LIE District Spring Meeting, Commack UMC, Commack, NY

KUMW Network Walk for Mission

May 2 CH District Day Apart, Modena UMC

CT Ubuntu Day (Prudence Crandall Residence)

May ??? Conference Legislative Day (Date TBA)

May 9 Mission u Team Meeting

May 13 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

May 15-17 Jurisdictional Charter for Racial Justice Seminar, Blackstone United

Methodist Conference Center in Blackstone, VA

May 16 LIW Time Apart Event

Metropolitan District TEEN UMW Legacy Celebration

May 30 LIW District, Limitless, Too Event “A Royal-Tea Luncheon” (Springfield

Gardens UMC

June 6 LIW District Team Meeting

CT District Team Meeting & Retreat (R. Littlejohn Home)

June 13 Metropolitan District Mission Project Day

June 17 LIE District Team Meeting

Metropolitan District Meeting

June 20 Conference Team Meeting with District Program Resources

Secretaries

June??? Conference Charter for Racial Justice Day (Date TBA)

July 23-25 Mission u – Western Connecticut State University (Midtown Campus),

Danbury, CT

July 25 LIE District Team Meeting

August 1 LIW District Annual Membership Picnic

August 15 Ubuntu Mission Day of Service/Youth in Mission Day

August 19 LIE District Team Meeting


August 28 NY/CT District Team Meeting

August CH District Ice Cream Social, Minekill State Park (Date TBD)

September 4 Metropolitan District Team Meeting (Friday)

September 5 LIW District Team Meeting

September 12 Mission u Team Meeting

CT District Annual Meeting (Location TBD)

September 19 Conference Team Meeting with District Treasurers & Spiritual Growth

Coordinators

September 20 KUMW Network Annual Praise Night

September 21 Ghana UMW Anniversary @ 6:00 p.m. (Tremont, Bronx)

September 26 CH District Fall Meeting

October 3 Metropolitan District Annual Meeting

LIW District Annual Meeting

LIE District Annual Meeting

NY/CT District Annual Meeting, Stamford, CT

October 10 LIW District, Limitless, Too Stop Hunger Now Event

October 14 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

October 17 CT District Fall Gathering/Luncheon (Location TBD)

October 24 Conference Annual Meeting/Celebration: Metropolitan District

(Christ Church UMC, New York, NY)

November 7 LIW District Team Meeting

November 14 Conference Team Leadership Development Training Day

November 14-15 Conference Team Retreat

November 18 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

December 4-5 KUMW Network Officers Leadership Development Days

December 5 LIW District Team Retreat

CT District Team Meeting

December 9 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

December 12 Metropolitan District Holiday Gathering

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