THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 1

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.

President’s Message

Rediscovering God's Calling for United Methodist Women

Merciful Father, we ask for your continued blessings for our National Directors Gail Douglas Boykin and Daisy Tavares, and for the work of The United Methodist Women around the world. You are using the hands of so many women to help other women, as well as children and youth. We see your face in the beauty of your world and the faces of the people you have created. We ask for your special blessings on the women of our Conference as we come together this summer at Mission u. We will be joining with women throughout the world learning about Human Sexuality, Climate Justice and about our brothers and sisters in Latin America. Bless the facilitators and the students as we work through these studies together. Lord we thank you for the gatherings we had learning about the effects of poverty on maternal and child health. We pray for all mothers and children that they are able to get the nutrition they need to be healthy and productive citizens. In the name of the Son and through the Holy Spirit we pray. Amen. What does the sound of happy children, the smell of fresh cut grass and a tall glass of lemonade on a hot day have in common? SUMMER TIME! It is the time we realize half of the year has passed, we look back at all the things that have been accomplished, and we prepare for what’s left to come. Summer is a busy time for all of us, but we have an

IN THIS ISSUE PAGE

President’s Message 1-2

Education and Interpretation 2

Treasurer’s Report 3

Membership Nurture and Outreach 4-

Program Resources 5

Committee on Nominations 6

Communications 7

Mission u 8-16

Mission Today Unit Form 17-18

Prospective Leadership Form 19-20

Event Flyers 29-31

News from the Districts 32-33

2016 UMW Calendar of Events 34-35

Quarterly Newsletter—Summer 2016 [June 2016]

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

Editor: Cynthia M. Plater - email: nycumwcommunications@gmail.com

PAGE 2 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

“Awesome God” and by His strength we can do all things. So as we continue with our personal and spiritual activities through the summer months and beyond let’s be mindful of the upcoming events for our theme “Rediscovering God’s Calling for United Methodist Women.” Let us travel together to this year’s Mission u; July 22nd - 24th at Stamford Hilton Hotel, as we learn more about mission through song, scripture, and studies. The 2016 Annual Meeting will be held on October 22nd at Golden Hill UMC in Bridgeport, CT. Please encourage all of your members to be with us on this day. The Conference UMW team looks forward to seeing you there. As we experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, let us continue to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.

Judith McRae President

************

From the NY Conference Education & Interpretation Coordinator [E&I]

Our UMW past is full of stories of individuals who loved God and who wanted women to be involved in God’s plan for the world. We are not staying in the past but are becoming initiators of the future. In addition to using the Mission Today criteria to become Mission Today Units, we are asking you to incorporate information about the Legacy Fund in your program planning throughout the year

The Legacy Fund was established so that a firm foundation will be provided for generations of United Methodist to come as they engage in mission with women, children and youth. The Legacy fund will provide a regular source of support for the core expenses of being in mission.

MISSION u

In addition to your studies, there will be a Mission Fair, crafts, assembling of UMCOR kits, and much more. We trust you will be in attendance.

MISSION TODAY FORMS

All Local Units should submit completed forms to your District Education and Interpretation Coordinator by August 31st. It will then be forwarded to the conference E & I Coordinator by October 2nd. . [Copy of Mission Today Unit form included in this newsletter, page 17-18.]

Bernice Semple Education & Interpretation Coordinator

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 3

From the NY Conference Treasurer - Prayer, Mission and Stewardship ……they voluntarily gave according to their means, and even beyond their means,

II Corinthians 8:3 Grace and Peace be unto you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. We are almost at the half way mark in 2016. I would like to thank each member of our Conference for her giving in 2015 and encourage them to keep up the good work in 2016. As United Methodist Women we know that our Mission dollars help to put smiles on the faces, brings a bit of joy and improves the lives of women, children and youth all over the world. Thank you …….thank you ………thank you. Please remember the District second quarter remittances are due to the Conference on June 30, 2016. I wish you all a great Summer. However, please remember that in September a number of submissions are due - 2017 Pledge to Mission, 2017 Budget and 2016 Five-Star status as we prepare for Annual Meetings in October. To qualify for Five Star Districts must submit at least two remittances to the Conference Treasurer. Thank you all for your hard work and cooperation. Most Treasurers are using the Online-Line System to order Special Mission Recognition Pins. I hope that by the end of 2016 all New York Conference District Treasurers will be On-line with their SMR orders and Quarterly Remittances. Please remember if you use the On-Line System do not input your Josephine Gibson donations. These funds are held at the conference to be used for Scholarships to Mission u. Congratulations to Catskill-Hudson, Long Island East and Metropolitan Districts who are currently using the On-Line System for both SMR orders and Remittance submissions. Thank You. Just a reminder that District 2015 Audit Reports are due to the Conference Treasurer no later than July 31, 2016. I hope that by now all District Treasurers have made arrangements to have your financial records audited. Peace and Love.

Hazel McIntosh Conference Treasurer hemlock 59@aol.com

District Treasurers

Catskill Hudson Rita Ford

Connecticut Janet Keyes

Long Island East Mary Munkenbeck

Long Island West Angella Depass

Metropolitan Laureen Goodridge-Smith

New York/Connecticut Beverly Anderson

PAGE 4 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

From The NY Conference Membership Nurture & Outreach Coordinator (MNO)

As we go for a little rest and relaxation this summer, let us

pray for the ones who cannot receive a gift that comes from

God -WATER!

I am wishing everyone a great time at our Quadrennial

Meeting in Syracuse, NY. Let us pray for our directors return.

We will be wearing our black and white New York

Conference United Methodist Women Stoles. If you need one

please hurry and place your order because there are very few

left. They are $25 each, cash & carry only!

Many thanks to the New York Conference United Methodist Women for the nurturing of our

Limitless Young Women. It is right and good when we can come together in solidarity -

bridging the gap. This group is precious to all our hearts. Keep them close and invite them

wherever we go.

Please keep all sick and shut-ins in our prayers. The bereaved families and persons in our

prayer calendar await our cards, calls, visits and prayers. Please reach out to them.

I would like to share with you an encouraging word from Helen Steiner Rice: “Have you ever

been caught in a web you didn’t weave or involved in conditions that are hard to believe? Have

you ever felt you must speak, explain and deny a story that is groundless or a small, whispered

lie? Have you ever heard rumors you would like to refute or some telltale gossip you would like

to dispute? Well don’t be upset, for God knows the score and with God as your judge, you need

worry no more, for men may misjudge you, but God knows the score and with God as your

judge, you need not worry anymore. Men may misjudge you but God is fair. He looks deep

inside and is deeply aware of every small detail in our pattern of living. God is not only fair; He

is also lenient and forgiving. Just knowing that God is your judge and your jury frees you

completely from man’s falseness and fury. Secure in this knowledge; let your thoughts rise

above man’s small, shallow judgments that are empty of God’s goodness and greatness in

judging us. Forget ugly rumors and be happy again.”

Joann McClam,

Membership Nurture & Outreach Coordinator

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 5

FROM THE NY CONFERENCE PROGRAM RESOURCES COORDINATOR

Read, Learn, Pray, Act FOR ALL WHO READ ELECTRONICALLY – The UMW National Office is currently updating our Amazon store to include the 2016 Reading Program books that are no longer in stock at Mission Resources, as well as some older titles that are also sold out. Some of the 2017 Reading Program selections will be available in Kindle only. Start thinking about how you can share electronic versions with the ladies in your unit. For those who need large print, just think, electronic downloads can always be read in large print. This could greatly expand the books available for those of us who need larger print to read. You can find the UMW Amazon store at: http://astore.amazon.com/wwwunitedmeth-20 and here: http://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/astore . If you don’t see what you are looking for, check back. UMW does receive some compensation for purchases (any) through our store, so if you have Amazon prime or shop on Amazon, do it through the UMW Amazon store! Every penny counts. And response and New World Outlook are also available electronically. Digital subscriptions to response are free with a print subscription, or get digital-only subscriptions for 15% off the print price. Go to www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/resonse to subscribe. BOOK CHALLENGE IN NORTH CAROLINA – Did you see the great BRIGHTLIGHTS article in the June response about the United Methodist Women in Mebane, North Carolina’s reading challenge? They are getting everyone in their church reading, learning, and having fun. What a lot of great ideas that we could all try too. Their theme is “read, learn, pray, act”. SALE BOOKS AVAILABLE -- Some books from 2011 through 2015 reading lists are still available from Mission Resources at sale prices. See what you can find before they are all gone. For mission studies, reading program books, and many other United Methodist Women resources, go to: www.umwmissionresources.org or call: 800 305 9857.

All the new Mission study books are currently available from the mission resource center. The adult studies are available in English, Korean or Spanish. In addition, children’s and youth studies are available for the Latin America and Climate Justice studies. Great resources for your youth group or church school

Pat Knebel Program Resources Coordinator

PAGE 6 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

From The NY Conference Committee on Nominations

The 2017 slate of officers is pretty well set. There will be two vacancies: Communications Coordinator [Cynthia Plater is now completing her four year term]

Spiritual Growth Coordinator Next year a number of team members will be completing their four year terms. So for 2018 vacancies will include:

Social Action Coordinator

Secretary

MNO

E&I

Think about your talents. New leadership is always welcome – at the district and conference level.

Complete the enclosed Potential Leaders Form [pages 19-20] and either email or mail it to Daryl Norman by the end of June. Audrey Wilson Chair, Committee on Nominations

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 7

From the Communications Coordinator

Back In May Empowering Women World Wide , an ad hoc interfaith coalition of Northern Westchester women from the Sisterhood of Temple Israel of Northern Westchester, Asbury United Methodist Church Women, St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Hudson Valley in Croton, and the Upper Westchester Muslim Society in Thornwood sponsored a Program on: Syrian Refugee Women and Families: Widespread Crisis, Local Response.

The speakers included Linda Unger, Senior Writer at UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief [pictured here with Asbury UMC Pastor Melissa Hinnen] told of UMCOR’s current shipping of relief-supply kits to Lebanon and Syria and described the Syrian refugee families she interviewed in Germany and Austria, seeking to learn about them and how they were being received.

Following the program, attendees stayed to assemble 200 UMCOR

school kits, consisting of items donated and collected by the

Empowering Women members. The kits, being taken to UMC NY Annual Conference will be distributed by

UMCOR to refugee children in need.

This summer at Mission u you will have the opportunity

to assemble UMCOR school kits. Your unit’s $15

donation will be used to purchase the supplies. During

the Mission Fair evening program we will assemble the

kits.

Cynthia McNeal Plater Communications Coordinator

Currently The Spectrum is emailed to over 550 email addresses. If you know of anyone who would like to

receive the newsletter via email, please have them send me an email

at nycumwcommunications@gmail.com

Please forward this onto the members of your local unit who have email accounts and print

copies for those who do not use email. Thanks.

PAGE 8 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

All Are Welcome ! Who Should Attend? Anyone desiring and wanting to worship God and wanting to learn new things,and enjoy the fellowship of other Christians. This year's studies have a single thread connecting all the studies which is found in the first book of the bible. Genesis

1:26-27 narrates the creation of humankind in God's image with the express purpose of being stewards or caretakers of planet earth and its inhabitants. As caretakers and stewards we are to live a life of balance where our Methodist foundation of faith assists us in seeing human sexuality as something God created and grace-filled; a life where we recognize that all of God's people are connected, regardless of political, social or geographic borders or our connection with the earth. The following studies are available. Spiritual Growth Study: - The Bible and Human Sexuality: Claiming God's Good Gift-This study will explore the complexity of the biblical text and our varied understandings of it in light of human sexuality. Study Leaders - Rev. Timothy Riss, Rev. Yuri Ando, Rev. Luonne Rouse, Donna Akuamoah, Rev. Jeffrey Hooker, Rev. Sonia Jermin [ Spanish], Terrance Smith [Saturday @Mission u] Geographical Study: Latin America : People and Faith - We will be given the chance to learn about this region. This study is an invitation to enter this land called Latin America, knowing it is sacred land. We will come in with respect to face the dignity of a people and with the love of God for them., Study Leader -Khadijah McRae Social Issue Study: Climate Justice: Call to Hope and Action - Learn about climate change and justice concerns raised by the drivers of the problem and the communities affected by it. Learn what we can do to positively impact the environment. Study Leaders: Joonki Kim and Karen Prudente [adult plenary], Gail D. Boykin (Grades 9-12), Bk Lee (Grades 5-8), Elise Boykin(Grades k-4)

Register by 6/20 to avoid the late fee. Registration deadline is 7/1/16! This year, Mission u will be

held at the Stamford Hilton Hotel in Stamford, CT. We have simplified the registration process. You pay a single fee that is less than $30 more than you paid last year if you stayed at Ethan Allen – and this year everything is in one location, and fully accessible; near to I95 and easy travel to NYC via Stamford Railroad station; Hotel accommodations and hotel quality buffet style dining [no more college cafeteria food]. As in past years there are 3-day programs [adults and children] and a 1-day Saturday Sampler [adults].

Hope to see there! Sincerely, Deborah Jenkins, Dean, Mission u

Note : Mission u 2016 registration forms, schedules and online registration links are available at http://www.nyac.com/eventdetail/2016-mission-u-3167094 . Applications are also included in this Spectrum [pages 11-16]

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 9

Registration Forms Now Available [see following pages]

Adult 3-day

Youth 3-day

Saturday Sampler

PAGE 10 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 11

PAGE 12 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 13

PAGE 14 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 PAGE 15

PAGE 16 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 17

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.______________________________________________.

PAGE 18 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 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: Your District Mission Coordinator for

Education and Interpretation

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 19

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

PAGE 20 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016 __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 mail completed form to the Committee on Nominations, Daryl Norman , 46 Pine Street,

Freeport, NY 11520 or email her at ddnorman_nyac@yahoo.com.

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 21

THE LEGACY FUND

The Legacy Fund United Methodist Women is celebrating its 150th anniversary by strengthening and

passing on its mission inheritance with the Legacy Fund. The forward-looking permanent endowment

will provide a firm foundation for generations of United Methodist Women to come as they engage in

mission with the women, children, and youth of their day.

The Legacy Fund’s income will ensure a regular source of support for the core expenses of being in

mission. It will provide for administration of United Methodist Women's grants, scholarships, mission

personnel, membership nurture, and leadership development, as well as enable the organization to

make much-needed technological updates to its data and communications operating systems.

The total program of United Methodist Women is mission. United Methodist Women service, advocacy,

and transformative learning opportunities equip members to be agents of change and to promote the

empowerment of women that is essential when addressing the root causes of so many harmful

conditions affecting women, children, and youth. The Legacy Fund will provide a stable source of

support for core expenses of mission, and in doing so, it will free future generations of United Methodist

Women to raise and budget their Mission Giving dollars in different ways that enable them to connect

even more directly with women, children, and youth.

Every member of United Methodist Women is invited to contribute to the Legacy Fund. Any amount is

welcome. Consider commemorating the year United Methodist Women foremothers first organized for

mission with gifts in increments of 1869: $18.69, $186.90, $1,869, etc. Or you may want to honor United

Methodist Women’s years of service with gifts in increments of 150: $15, $150, $1,500, etc. Members

are also invited to name the Legacy Fund in their will or as a beneficiary of an insurance policy or

pension.

Gifts to the Legacy Fund can be made in several ways:

• Online: unitedmethodistwomen.org/legacyfund

• By Phone: 800-278-7771 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. [EST])

• By Mobile Phone: Text LEGACY150 to 41444

• By Mail: Make checks payable to United Methodist Women 475 Riverside Drive, Treasurer’s Office

New York, NY 10115 Write “The Legacy Fund” in memo section.

On March 23, 1869, eight women gathered at Tremont Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Boston,

Massachusetts, to organize for mission focused on the needs of women and children. They started the

Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society, a predecessor organization of United Methodist Women. The

women raised money to send Clara Swain, a doctor, and Isabella Thoburn, a teacher, to India as

missionaries to serve the nation’s women and girls.

Those visionary women left a legacy that has moved generations of women for almost 150 years to

engage in mission focused on the needs of women and children. In the twenty-first century, women still

need to organize for mission. Please make it happen with a gift to the Legacy Fund.

[article submitted by Bernice Semple, E&I Coordinator]

PAGE 22 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

Stop the Killings-Save Our Schools-Protect Indigenous Life

This is the plea of Philippine Lumad (indigenous) leaders who have been traveling across the U.S. to raise awareness about the politically-motivated violence and forcible displacement they are experiencing, and how this repression is linked to U.S. foreign policy and multi-national corporate interests in the region. Lakbay Lumad USA was organized by the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines. Lakbay loosely translates “to journey or journeying” and Lumad, literally means “born of the earth”. Their visit was sponsored by United Methodist Women-National, The United Methodist Church -General Board of Church and Society and numerous other non-profit organizations. They traveled to bring about awareness of their plight to Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, Minneapolis/St.Paul, Portland (for General Conference) and then to the New York/New Jersey area.

While in our area they had a “Land is Life” Forum at LaGuardia Community College in Queens, attended the United Nations and then led an “Interactive Human Rights Forum” hosted by Christ Church on Saturday, May 21. The emcee for the event was Jessica Tulloch, a member of UMW at St. Paul & St. Andrew UMC and the Northeast Regional Coordinator for Lakbay Lumad USA. The forum included stories from the delegates, sample wares from the Philippines, music, chants, videos, Q & A, snacks, breakaway groups and their reports, and even dance. Crafts were available for sale to support their work. Sunday they visited St. Paul and St. Andrew UMC for “Faith Sharing with the Lumads of Mindanao” and then off to Jersey City for a “Caucus for a Clean Energy Revolution”. On Tuesday, May 24th they held a “National Day of Action for Lakbay Lumad USA” at Times Square outside the Military Recruitment Station. On May 25th Amy Goodman of Democracy Now interviewed the Lumads.

Want to help? Sign and send postcards to support the ceasing of U.S. involvement in the Philippines until these killings and atrocities stop will be available to sign at Mission Fair during Mission u. For more information, go to www.humanrightsphilippines.net.

Submitted by Elaine MacKay, Vice President NYC/UMW

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 23

The UMW of Christ Church Welcomed Brother John Martin Sahajanada

By Elaine MacKay

United Methodist Women of Christ Church United Methodist Park

Avenue, were honored with a special guest at our May meeting and

extended an invitation to all NYC/UMW officers . Our speaker was

Brother John Martin Sahajananda, a Benedictine monk of the Camaldolese

order, and the Prior of the Shantivanam Ashram in India. The ashram was

founded by 2 French monks in 1950, to open Hindu-Christian dialogue,

believing that until the religions of the world made peace, there would be

no peace. Shantivanam has been a leading exponent of, and a leading

voice in, Hindu-Christian dialogue since. Br. Martin left seminary in India

to go to the Ashram in 1984, and after the death of Bede Griffiths in 1993, became the Prior. He travels

regularly to Europe where he teaches a unique spirituality that goes beyond categorical religion and brings

together the wisdom of the Indian Vedic sages and the revolutionary message of Christ. This is Brother

Martin’s first extended visit to the United States and his first visit to New York. Rev. John Cole and his wife, Dr.

Polly Wheat, members of Christ Church, met Brother Martin when they stayed at the Ashram for a month in

2015.

His talk to us was entitled “Fully Human, Fully Devine”. We were so engrossed with what we were

learning and feeling that our photographer forgot to take pictures. He has so much to share that I recommend

that you try one of his books. He has published a number of books including You Are The Light; Fully

Human, Fully Devine; Hindu Christ; The Jordan and The Gangees Meet and The 4 O’Clock Talks

“Brother Martin’s essays are not for the faint-hearted or the ungenerous. Their power and

essential generosity spring from a deep spiritual and psychological insight that seeks to reveal

the central Truth. They escape the narrow confines of some Christian thought into an all-

embracing vision of mankind’s shared spiritual development…”Brother Martin’s intention is to

shake us from complacency towards a comprehension of what the life of Christ actually means…

towards having the courage to journey on…” – Sir Nicholas Pearson.”

Following the meeting we all shared fellowship around the table with a light lunch. No one really wanted to

leave, the feeling was so calming and yet powering at the same time. We pray Brother Martin will again

return to the United States and that his message can be shared .

PAGE 24 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

ECUMENICAL ADVOCACY DAYS

LIFT EVERY VOICE--RACISM, CLASS AND POWER

Washington, DC--April 15-18, 2016Approximately sixty five faith communities gathered in Washington, DC for the annual Ecumenical Advocacy Days (EAD) to learn about the issues that places restraints on individuals to keep them from attaining their ultimate goals and then on the last day of the training a lobbying day was set to visit the individual senators and congressperson. A prayer vigil was held on the lawn before the persons dispersed to the various politicians.

Corporate Responsibility, Economical Justice, Climate Justice, Racial Justice, Human Rights, Voting Rights, Immigration Reform, Jobs, and End Poverty, these are some of the many ways we can advocate on the behalf of individuals as part of a healing world. The Ask: We call on Congress to restore the voice of all Americans in our democratic process and to help create a global economy of inclusion, ensuring livelihoods for all God’s children and a sustainable planet by:

Supporting the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 (S. 1659/H.R. 2867) as a substantial legislative step to restoring and strengthening the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and

Defeating the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement that deepens inequality and prioritizes corporate interests over both God’s creation and the welfare of vulnerable communities in the U.S. and abroad.

As people of faith, we hold the conviction that every voice matters and every voice must be heard. If we are to

lift every voice, we must do all we can to ensure that no person is stripped of their right to vote.

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Remove root causes to improve structures Expand access to affordable housing Work to improve the Educational System Extend legal protection to unborn children Support environment protection Participate in living wage campaign Promote peace Advocate for international system assistance.

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 25

I, along with others from the New York State who also attended the EAD, was able to visit with Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Staffers. They have the same concern but unfortunately the Supporting the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2015 (S. 1659/H.R. 2867) is not on their agenda for now. When asked what area they need the community to work with them replied continued to bring awareness on the issues that are directly our communities so that there can be restoration and hope.

As United Methodist Women one focus will be on VRA FOR TODAY: Restore the Voting Rights Act Now. For more information check website: http://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/ http://www.civilrights.org/action.

On the 23rd of every month, the National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) invites you to join people throughout the U.S. who are holding monthly actions to call for an end to the torture of solitary, at the recommendation of people incarcerated in Pelican Bay prison who led the momentous hunger strikes in California prisons. Together we can end the torture of solitary confinement and make human rights a reality for all. The National Religious Campaign Against

Torture (NRCAT) was launched during the conference with the mission of mobilizing people of faith to end torture in U.S. policy, practice and culture NRCAT works for an end to torture in four areas:

To ensure that U.S.-sponsored torture of detainees never happens again. To end the use of torture in U.S. prisons and detention facilities, in particular the use of prolonged

solitary confinement. To end U.S. support (direct or indirect) of any country that engages in torture and to work for U.S.

policies that help other nations stop their torture practices. To end the bigotry and hatred that promotes the practice and acceptance of torture against religiously,

ethnically and other targeted groups.

The NYAC General Board of Church and Society is vigilant in making this happen therefore at the 217th Session of the New York Annual Conference many will experience some form of Solitary Confinement. Make it possible to be one of them. Solitary Confinement is Torture.

PAGE 26 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

The United Methodist Women, one of the sponsors of EAD dealt with issue of Mass Incarceration through a panel of a Lawyer, Pastor and Entrepreneur. After the confinement re-evaluated his lifestyle and realized that what he wanted to be standing at street corners so opened a landscaping business.

Here is a bunch of enthusiastic US2 .

She was addressed and called every name other than her given name, yet this did not discourage her from moving forward. Samantha Master is a Black, queer, feminist activist, advocate and educator. (Ecumenical Advocacy Days For Global Peace With Justice, April 2016)

My prayer is that, as United Methodist Women, we will be become more involved with the ecumenical faith groups and advocate on behalf of the communities by addressing the everyday issues we face and that we would hold the Political Officers, Congressperson, Senators accountable by visiting their local and district offices. We also must thank them for the positive work they are doing or will do on behalf of all. Submitted by: Deaconess Claris Skerritt NYC UMW Social Action Coordinator 5/27/16

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 27

United Methodist Men of the NYAC , Seventeenth Annual Men's Luncheon-- Theme: BODY, MIND, and SOUL--Building Spiritually Fulfilled Men, May 2016 held at New Rochelle United Methodist Church, NY.

The General Conference of 1996 approved the creation of the General Commission on United Methodist Men (GCUMM), effective January 1, 1997. Their Mission: To Help Men Grow In Christ, So Others May Know Christ.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS Domestic violence is not just a women's issue only. It is an issue of all faith. The United Methodist Women and United Methodist Men have partnered to launch a domestic violence initiative to raise awareness and provide training in United Methodist congregations Dr. Kenrick Waithe, Wakefield Grace UMC, Featured Speaker presented on Colon Cancer. Royston Bailey, New York Conference, United Methodist Men, President, and Deaconess Claris Skerritt, New York Conference United Methodist Women, Social Action Coordinator, presented on Domestic Violence/ Intimate Partner Violence.

After the presentation of the film Domestic Violence: What Churches Can Do, and the powerpoint, there was a time for interactions and participation with a positive response. The conversions must be started to bring awareness. No longer can it be kept silent. The Dirty Laundry must be aired. Make it known that you are listening and give affirmation by saying " I Believe You." The National Association of Conference Presidents: is to

strengthen the role of United Methodist Men (UMM) at all levels and develop strategies and resources in order that all United Methodist Men may realize their primary purpose of bringing men to Jesus Christ and enable them to grow in their knowledge of His grace.

Various presentations and recognitions of Award where made to the district UMM. Pictured on the left is the presentation to the Asbury Croton-on-Hudson who tied for fifth best local UM church ministry to men in the nation.

Submitted by Deaconess Claris Skerritt, NYC Social Action Coordinator

PAGE 28 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

On 4/25/16 The NYAC Immigration Task Force hosted a service to raise

awareness and support immigration reform. Voices were heard from those

struggling with their current status as immigrants and from the faith

community, including Bishop Middleton and Rev. Denise Smartt-Sears,

Metropolitan District Superintendent.

Currently the constitutionality of DAPA [Deferred Action for Parents of

Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents - a planned American immigration

policy which would grant deferred action status to certain illegal immigrants

who have lived in the United States since 2010 and have children who are

American citizens or lawful permanent residents. Deferred action is not full

legal status, but in this case would come with a three-year, renewable work

permit and exemption from deportation] is before the U.S. Supreme Court. 26

States have sued to prevent it from being implemented.

I urge you to prayerfully think about the people who will be affected by this policy if it is not able to be

implemented. Where would you be if your family had been denied access to America when they came to this

country? Remember that Jesus and his family were refugees in Egypt.

Picture above include several of the presenters as the closing prayer was read together by all the attendees. .

Here is the Litany from Vigil - for your prayer time.

God of all people, We pray with those who leave their lands in hope of escaping poverty and violence.

God of love, lead us to justice and peace. God of the immigrant, we pray with the migrant who leaves everything behind –families, friends,…

God of love, lead us to justice and peace. God of all people, we pray with those who will never be able to return to their land and their people…

God of love, lead us to justice and peace. God of the immigrant, we pray with the laborers gathered on the street corner, with the domestic workers,

with the street vendors, with the farm workers,… God of love, lead us to justice and peace.

God of all people, we pray with all of us, with those that welcome the stranger and with those who do not; Transform us, renew us to Your image of Love.

God of love, lead us to justice and peace.

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 29

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

Of

Springfield Gardens United Methodist Church

PRESENT

GOSPEL COMEDYSHOW

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20, 2016

TICKETS: $25.00

Children under twelve: $15.00

SHOWTIME: 4 PM * REFRESHMENTS SERVED BETWEEN 3PM AND 4PM

SPRINGFIELD GARDENS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

131-29 FARMERS BOULEVARD

SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11434

Rev. Cecil B. Stone, Pastor

L. Doreen Raymond, President

718 528-7267

www.sgumcny.org

For tickets contact:

Linda Hardy, Chairperson (718) 526-4293

Neater Stuart, Co-Chairperson (718) 658-5339

Diana Collier (917) 647-7019

Laura Shelton-Carr

Or any United Methodist Woman of Springfield Gardens UMC

PAGE 30 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 31

PAGE 32 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

NEWS FROM THE DISTRICTS

Catskill-Hudson District

Greetings to our sisters in Christ, wherever you may be this summer!

We celebrated our successful Day

Apart program in May. Through dramatic

vignettes and small group discussions, we

explored the “Named and Unnamed”

women who anointed Jesus. The

afternoons discussion focused on how

United Methodist Women move from our

comfort zones to be Bold and Courageous

as we work for Social Justice for women,

children and youth. Women from different

churches had great discussions, as this Day

Apart helped to build the connection and

continued developing our creative supportive fellowship that is the United Methodist women.

Grace & Peace to all,

Barbara Sanborn

President, Catskill-Hudson District United Methodist Women.

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 33

NEWS FROM THE DISTRICTS

Long Island East District

Freeport United Methodist

Women

The Freeport United Methodist Women

hosted a Prayer Breakfast. This was their

first official event as a newly reorganized

unit. In attendance were UMW

Conference President, Judith McRae,

Mission u Dean, Deborah Jenkins, most of

the Long Island East District Team as well

as many guests from churches of other

denominations in the area. The speaker

was Mable Jo Robinson, LIE’s Education

and Interpretation Coordinator making

her first speaking engagement as a United

Methodist Woman.

Pictured are Grace Bryant, LIE President, Daryl Norman, wife of the pastor of Freeport UMC and

also on the UMW Conference Committee on Nominations, and Mable Jo Robinson, guest

speaker.

God’s grace with you all,

Grace Bryant

President, Long Island East District United Methodist Women

Check out Facebook—our UMW New York Conference Site

https://www.facebook.com/umwnyc

Pictures ….. Event Flyers … Information …

PAGE 34 THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SUMMER 2016

Calendar of Events 2016 (updated 6/1/2016)

June 15 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

June 16-18 Northeast Jurisdiction Quadrennial Meeting at Oncenter,

Syracuse, NY

June 22 LIE District Team Meeting

June 25 LIW District Team Meeting

July 22-24 Mission u – Stamford Hilton Hotel (Mission u team meeting with

Study leaders July 23)

August 6 LIW District Annual Membership Picnic Cunningham Park, Queens NY,

August 17 LIE District Team Meeting

August 18-20 KUMU network Mission School (Honors Heaven Resort and Spa)

August 27 NY/CT District Team Meeting

September 8 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

September 10 CT District Annual Meeting

LIW District Team Meeting

Mission u Team Meeting

September 17 Conference Team Meeting with District Treasurers & Spiritual

Growth Coordinators

September 24 Conference-wide Social Action Event (venue TBD)

September 25 KUMW network Praise Night (New Dream Church, LIE District)

October 1 Metropolitan District Annual Meeting

LIE District Annual Meeting

LIW District Annual Meeting

NY/CT District Fall Gathering

October 8 CT District Fall Gathering/Luncheon (Mary Taylor UMC, Milford, CT)

October 20 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

PLACE: Golden Hill UMC 210 Elm Street Bridgeport, Connecticut

Annual Meeting is one date when we can all unite together from our various Districts. Our theme is “Rediscovering God’s Calling For United Methodist Women” The day will be filled with

practical, hands-on experiences, worship services, reports on what we accomplished this year as a conference, workshops, networking, renewing old friendships and making new ones and more; including a closing worship service with Holy Communion..

A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Registration forms will be available shortly and will include registration fee and a place for you to select your luncheon preference. Forms will also be available at Mission u at the UMW table.

THE SPECTRUM QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER – SPRING 2016 PAGE 35

October 29 LIW District Limitless, Too 2017 planning meeting

November 5 LIW District Team Meeting

CH District Fall Meeting (St. James UMC- Kingston)

Saturday, November 12, 2016 Conference Leadership

Development Day

PLACE: Westport UMC, 39 Weston Road, Westport, Connecticut

Come and join New York Conference UMW for

Leadership Development Day (LLD)

LDD is for YOU If you are a UMW member OR if you are

newly elected to a leadership position of the

organization OR if you just want to know more about

what certain officers do OR if you just want to spend the

day in fellowship, come to join in. Anyone who wants to

participate is welcome. Continental Breakfast included.

Bring your own lunch. Beverages and dessert will be provided.

November 17 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

December 3 CT District Team Meeting

KUMW network Officers’ Retreat

December 8 Metropolitan District Team Meeting

December 10 Metropolitan District Holiday Gathering

LIW District Team Meeting/Retreat

Calendar of Events 2017 [tentative dates]

January 21 Conference Team Meeting with Vice Presidents March 18 Conference Team Meeting March 25 Conference-wide Spiritual Retreat April 29 Conference Team Meeting June 17 Conference Team Meeting Sept 16 Conference Team Meeting October 28 Conference Annual Meeting Nov 18 Conference Leadership Development Day