COVID PROTOCOLS
Mask wearing is now optional. Please continue to wear a mask if you are not vaccinated, or if you are immunocompromised in any way. Please also continue to wear masks if that is what is most comfortable for you. If you are feeling under the weather in any way, please stay home and take advantage of watching our services on line.
WATCH LIVE OR PAST SERVICES ON YOU TUBE:
The Youtube link for the worship livestream is below. Clink on the link, and once on our page, click on the word "LIVE" and you'll be connected to our live broadcast. If you want to watch later in the day, you clink on this same link and follow the same process. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQyjvslUcE-7o-AUWFs3C8g
CHURCH HAPPENINGS
SOCIAL JUSTICE GROUP OPPORTUNITIES
There are two groups that have begun to form around social justice. One is working on anti-racism education and action for us as a congregation. The other is working on LGBTQ inclusion, and how we can best be a truly inclusive and affirming spiritual home for all people here at NUMC. Both groups are open to all who are interested. Please see me if you’d like to participate, and look for information and education opportunities coming from these groups in the near future.
NUMC YOUTH AND FAMILY MINISTRIES
Sunday, June 4th: Children's Sunday (Date change)
Come celebrate a year of learning Bible stories, growing young minds in faith and making new friends!
**Our last day of Sunday School will be on May 28th.**
LITTLE FOOD PANTRY
With the warmer weather, we are once again accepting canned goods. When trying to decide what to donate, here are some easy-to-remember suggestions: Buy duplicates of whatever you already buy. Diapers, feminine hygiene products, canned protein…these things are expensive and important. We are always seeking new volunteers. Volunteers are asked to use SignUpGenius.com (Little Food Pantry/Blessing Box) to register their availability. https(://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090849 ACAE28A2FC1-little Any questions or concerns should be sent to ppalmer55@nycap.rr.com.
OFFICE HOURS
Nick will be in the church office on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12-3pm. On Thursdays he will be holding “out of office hours” at The Works Café, in the plaza right around the corner. He will be there each week from 12-3…inside if it’s raining or hot, and outside if the weather permits. Just stop by and chat. The coffee is on him! Karin will be in the church office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons starting the same week 12pm-3pm.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 1:00pm in Room 10. All are welcome to attend!
PRAYER CONCERNS
Prayers for the family of Sara Coonley on her passing; Jonathan Walter recovering after a serious dog bite and infection; Charles Hardwick recovering from serious complications arising from COVID; Tina Sheridan as she continues her recovery; Kathy Maker recovering a fractured hip; Beth, a friend and neighbor of Diane Davison; Karen Smith as she recovers from injuries from a car accident; those dealing with health issues; Bill Smith, Bill Rainbolt, Barb Rasmussen, Piper Toby, Eleanor Loos, Pat Loz, Christopher Biggs, Stephanie Sherman, Ann Crocker Lawton, Susan C.; those dealing with addiction and those struggling to manage anxiety and fight depression. Contact the office to add or remove a prayer request.
Tina Sheridan is in Rehab at Northern Manor, 199 Middletown Road, Nanuet, NY 10954. The center is about 2 hours away making it hard for visitations. Cards are greatly appreciated. Tina will probably be there for a month.
If you would like to contribute to Tina Sheridan's Go Fund Me page please go to... http://GoFund.Me/79a52450
VISITATIONS
If you have someone that would like a visit, please contact Pastor Nick at pastornickbufano@gmail.com
DONATION / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITES
USCRI UPDATES
Here's an updated (05.22.23) list of most- needed items for refugees/immigrants, per USCRI.
Bath Towels
Large Trashcans with lids
Trash bags
Deodorant
Curtain Rods
Portable Shopping Carts (since most of our clients walk and take the bus)
Accordion File Folders (for organizing important papers necessary for American bureaucracy, especially the immigration system)
Strollers
Children's Books and Toys
School Supplies
Brian Hayes
brian.m.hayes6@gmail.com
FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB
Come practice speaking english
Sunday afternoons at 3:00pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 85 Chestnut Street, Albany
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Drop by once or be a regular
Sponsored by: Journey United Church of Christ, Westminster Presbyterian Church and Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)
For more information contact: pastor@wpcalbany.org or Patrice Delehanty: patricedelehanty27@gmail.com
CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION
Newtonville United Methodist Church is presently doing an outreach program for the Capital City Rescue Mission.
We have volunteered to serve dinner on the 2nd Monday of each month from 5:00 – 7:30pm. There are 5 volunteers needed each month to serve the guests. Young volunteers must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by an adult.
Parking is available across from the Mission in a closed DMV parking lot; the group that served in November met at NUMC to car pool. Mandatory: face masks, hair net, gloves and apron, which are all part of what the Mission supplies to the volunteers.
Please contact me if you are interested in this program or have any questions: Gail Cotler, 518-441-4853 phone/text or gailcotler@gmail.com.
RISSE UPDATES
Training for any volunteers who would like to become English language tutors is online, free and available. Intake to Outcomes training for our purposes involves completing 2 online modules in about 3 weeks time. If you are interested in trying it, let me know and I can register you with Literacy New York. We have many requests for individual tutors from refugees and immigrants who are unable to attend any of our in-person or online classes.
The most recent request for tutoring is from a Spanish speaker in Troy who would like to meet once a week at the Troy library. She speaks English conversationally but would like to improve her skills to help her obtain a better job.
Volunteers are also welcome for the school year in the Afterschool program. Some of our regular staff and volunteers are finishing up their college semesters and leaving so we have several opportunities in the program which runs from around 2:45 pm to 6 pm each weekday.
RISSE is piloting a new conversation group for community members interested in practicing their English language skills in an informal setting. The drop-in group will meet in the church on Fridays in June from 11 am to 1 pm. "Conversation starters" will be provided. Please let me know if you would like to participate. We plan to provide tea and cookies or some such refreshment and that can also be a no-contact volunteer opportunity if you would like to provide them.
If you would like to mentor a refugee family in the area, there are opportunities to provide transportation, to help with navigating schools, medical care, mail, banking and other intricacies of American culture. If you are interested we can discuss the finer details.
Again, thank you for your support. RISSE could not provide the services it does without help from our dedicated volunteers. Your donation of time is invaluable.
Ann Krischer
Interim Volunteer Coordinator
Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus
240 West Lawrence Street
Albany, NY 12208
call/text 518-424-6663
SUPPORT THE HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE IN UKRAINE
United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
MUSLIM DONATION CENTER
For those wishing to donate clothing to refugees, please consider the Muslim Donation Center, 350 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham. Clothing must washed and not be stained or ripped. All underwear, socks , pajamas must be new and never worn. Bedding must be clean and no stains or rips.
They accept donations on Tues & Sat, 10-12. Tues: 5:30-7:30 PM.
REQUEST FOR COMMUNICATION WITH UNITED METHODIST SENIORS
“I am writing in hopes of getting some virtual volunteers to write letters or send cards to our wonderful residents who are of the Methodist faith. Also if there are any links the church has where services are posted online or have different prayers etc. listed I would love to share that with our residents. We have been doing non-denominational services throughout COVID but our residents have asked for a connection with members of their Methodist faith. I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have and look forward to hearing from you by phone or email.” Cynthia Ellison Activity Director Hudson Park Rehab & Nursing Center 325 Northern Blvd. Albany, NY 12204 (518) 449-1100 ext. 3519 CEllison@hudsonparkrehab.com
OTHER NEWS
THE RESPONSE (UMW Magazine)
The Response magazine is an award-winning publication, is the official magazine of United Methodist Women and is published by the national office. Each issue will touch your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your mind. Topics and issues cover spiritual growth, mission outreach and reports on our local, national and international work. Here is the link: https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/response Password Newtonvilleumc@gmail.com; zip code 12110
UPPER ROOM
Daily Devotionals are available at https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals. There is an app available for both Upper Room and Alive Now, so you can get them right on your phone or tablet. Printed copies are available in the elevator alcove.
Are you or is someone you know in need of financial assistance? The church has received gifts from individual's stimulus checks to use the funds to help those who may be in financial need during this difficult time. If you know of someone who may be struggling to feed their family, pay utilities, or otherwise meet basic expenses, please Karin in the office. If you are interested in adding to this fund please send your gift to the church, attention: Kathy Franklin. All donations and distributions will remain fully anonymous.
Food assistance is available through food pantries throughout the Capital Region. If you or someone you know is in need of food, you can locate a food pantry serving your community here: www.thefoodpantries.org
The NUMC Little Food Pantry is available 24 hour per day/7 days per week for anyone in need of emergency food or personal care items. If you would like to donate simply leave your items in the food pantry cabinet, located in the rear parking lot.
Financial offerings can be mailed to the office, either in your regular offering envelopes or marked "Attn: Kathy Franklin" to P.O. Box 7, Newtonville, NY 12128. The GivePlus app is another option that can be downloaded to either iPhone or Android. Simply search by zip code 12128. For electronic giving on a regular basis, please contact the church office and we will put Kathy in touch with you to set that up through Vanco. We sincerely appreciate your continued financial support.
Mask wearing is now optional. Please continue to wear a mask if you are not vaccinated, or if you are immunocompromised in any way. Please also continue to wear masks if that is what is most comfortable for you. If you are feeling under the weather in any way, please stay home and take advantage of watching our services on line.
WATCH LIVE OR PAST SERVICES ON YOU TUBE:
The Youtube link for the worship livestream is below. Clink on the link, and once on our page, click on the word "LIVE" and you'll be connected to our live broadcast. If you want to watch later in the day, you clink on this same link and follow the same process. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQyjvslUcE-7o-AUWFs3C8g
CHURCH HAPPENINGS
SOCIAL JUSTICE GROUP OPPORTUNITIES
There are two groups that have begun to form around social justice. One is working on anti-racism education and action for us as a congregation. The other is working on LGBTQ inclusion, and how we can best be a truly inclusive and affirming spiritual home for all people here at NUMC. Both groups are open to all who are interested. Please see me if you’d like to participate, and look for information and education opportunities coming from these groups in the near future.
NUMC YOUTH AND FAMILY MINISTRIES
Sunday, June 4th: Children's Sunday (Date change)
Come celebrate a year of learning Bible stories, growing young minds in faith and making new friends!
**Our last day of Sunday School will be on May 28th.**
LITTLE FOOD PANTRY
With the warmer weather, we are once again accepting canned goods. When trying to decide what to donate, here are some easy-to-remember suggestions: Buy duplicates of whatever you already buy. Diapers, feminine hygiene products, canned protein…these things are expensive and important. We are always seeking new volunteers. Volunteers are asked to use SignUpGenius.com (Little Food Pantry/Blessing Box) to register their availability. https(://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090849 ACAE28A2FC1-little Any questions or concerns should be sent to ppalmer55@nycap.rr.com.
OFFICE HOURS
Nick will be in the church office on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12-3pm. On Thursdays he will be holding “out of office hours” at The Works Café, in the plaza right around the corner. He will be there each week from 12-3…inside if it’s raining or hot, and outside if the weather permits. Just stop by and chat. The coffee is on him! Karin will be in the church office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons starting the same week 12pm-3pm.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 1:00pm in Room 10. All are welcome to attend!
PRAYER CONCERNS
Prayers for the family of Sara Coonley on her passing; Jonathan Walter recovering after a serious dog bite and infection; Charles Hardwick recovering from serious complications arising from COVID; Tina Sheridan as she continues her recovery; Kathy Maker recovering a fractured hip; Beth, a friend and neighbor of Diane Davison; Karen Smith as she recovers from injuries from a car accident; those dealing with health issues; Bill Smith, Bill Rainbolt, Barb Rasmussen, Piper Toby, Eleanor Loos, Pat Loz, Christopher Biggs, Stephanie Sherman, Ann Crocker Lawton, Susan C.; those dealing with addiction and those struggling to manage anxiety and fight depression. Contact the office to add or remove a prayer request.
Tina Sheridan is in Rehab at Northern Manor, 199 Middletown Road, Nanuet, NY 10954. The center is about 2 hours away making it hard for visitations. Cards are greatly appreciated. Tina will probably be there for a month.
If you would like to contribute to Tina Sheridan's Go Fund Me page please go to... http://GoFund.Me/79a52450
VISITATIONS
If you have someone that would like a visit, please contact Pastor Nick at pastornickbufano@gmail.com
DONATION / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITES
USCRI UPDATES
Here's an updated (05.22.23) list of most- needed items for refugees/immigrants, per USCRI.
Bath Towels
Large Trashcans with lids
Trash bags
Deodorant
Curtain Rods
Portable Shopping Carts (since most of our clients walk and take the bus)
Accordion File Folders (for organizing important papers necessary for American bureaucracy, especially the immigration system)
Strollers
Children's Books and Toys
School Supplies
Brian Hayes
brian.m.hayes6@gmail.com
FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB
Come practice speaking english
Sunday afternoons at 3:00pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 85 Chestnut Street, Albany
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Drop by once or be a regular
Sponsored by: Journey United Church of Christ, Westminster Presbyterian Church and Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)
For more information contact: pastor@wpcalbany.org or Patrice Delehanty: patricedelehanty27@gmail.com
CAPITAL CITY RESCUE MISSION
Newtonville United Methodist Church is presently doing an outreach program for the Capital City Rescue Mission.
We have volunteered to serve dinner on the 2nd Monday of each month from 5:00 – 7:30pm. There are 5 volunteers needed each month to serve the guests. Young volunteers must be at least 16 years old and accompanied by an adult.
Parking is available across from the Mission in a closed DMV parking lot; the group that served in November met at NUMC to car pool. Mandatory: face masks, hair net, gloves and apron, which are all part of what the Mission supplies to the volunteers.
Please contact me if you are interested in this program or have any questions: Gail Cotler, 518-441-4853 phone/text or gailcotler@gmail.com.
RISSE UPDATES
Training for any volunteers who would like to become English language tutors is online, free and available. Intake to Outcomes training for our purposes involves completing 2 online modules in about 3 weeks time. If you are interested in trying it, let me know and I can register you with Literacy New York. We have many requests for individual tutors from refugees and immigrants who are unable to attend any of our in-person or online classes.
The most recent request for tutoring is from a Spanish speaker in Troy who would like to meet once a week at the Troy library. She speaks English conversationally but would like to improve her skills to help her obtain a better job.
Volunteers are also welcome for the school year in the Afterschool program. Some of our regular staff and volunteers are finishing up their college semesters and leaving so we have several opportunities in the program which runs from around 2:45 pm to 6 pm each weekday.
RISSE is piloting a new conversation group for community members interested in practicing their English language skills in an informal setting. The drop-in group will meet in the church on Fridays in June from 11 am to 1 pm. "Conversation starters" will be provided. Please let me know if you would like to participate. We plan to provide tea and cookies or some such refreshment and that can also be a no-contact volunteer opportunity if you would like to provide them.
If you would like to mentor a refugee family in the area, there are opportunities to provide transportation, to help with navigating schools, medical care, mail, banking and other intricacies of American culture. If you are interested we can discuss the finer details.
Again, thank you for your support. RISSE could not provide the services it does without help from our dedicated volunteers. Your donation of time is invaluable.
Ann Krischer
Interim Volunteer Coordinator
Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus
240 West Lawrence Street
Albany, NY 12208
call/text 518-424-6663
SUPPORT THE HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE IN UKRAINE
United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
- Online at https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450
- By toll-free telephone: 888-252-6174
- By check made out to Global Ministries/UMCOR with “Advance #982450-Ukraine” written on the memo line, either mailed and addressed to Global Ministries/UMCOR, GPO, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY, 10087-9068 or given at or through any United Methodist church
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
MUSLIM DONATION CENTER
For those wishing to donate clothing to refugees, please consider the Muslim Donation Center, 350 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham. Clothing must washed and not be stained or ripped. All underwear, socks , pajamas must be new and never worn. Bedding must be clean and no stains or rips.
They accept donations on Tues & Sat, 10-12. Tues: 5:30-7:30 PM.
REQUEST FOR COMMUNICATION WITH UNITED METHODIST SENIORS
“I am writing in hopes of getting some virtual volunteers to write letters or send cards to our wonderful residents who are of the Methodist faith. Also if there are any links the church has where services are posted online or have different prayers etc. listed I would love to share that with our residents. We have been doing non-denominational services throughout COVID but our residents have asked for a connection with members of their Methodist faith. I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have and look forward to hearing from you by phone or email.” Cynthia Ellison Activity Director Hudson Park Rehab & Nursing Center 325 Northern Blvd. Albany, NY 12204 (518) 449-1100 ext. 3519 CEllison@hudsonparkrehab.com
OTHER NEWS
THE RESPONSE (UMW Magazine)
The Response magazine is an award-winning publication, is the official magazine of United Methodist Women and is published by the national office. Each issue will touch your heart, stir your soul, and challenge your mind. Topics and issues cover spiritual growth, mission outreach and reports on our local, national and international work. Here is the link: https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/response Password Newtonvilleumc@gmail.com; zip code 12110
UPPER ROOM
Daily Devotionals are available at https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals. There is an app available for both Upper Room and Alive Now, so you can get them right on your phone or tablet. Printed copies are available in the elevator alcove.
Are you or is someone you know in need of financial assistance? The church has received gifts from individual's stimulus checks to use the funds to help those who may be in financial need during this difficult time. If you know of someone who may be struggling to feed their family, pay utilities, or otherwise meet basic expenses, please Karin in the office. If you are interested in adding to this fund please send your gift to the church, attention: Kathy Franklin. All donations and distributions will remain fully anonymous.
Food assistance is available through food pantries throughout the Capital Region. If you or someone you know is in need of food, you can locate a food pantry serving your community here: www.thefoodpantries.org
The NUMC Little Food Pantry is available 24 hour per day/7 days per week for anyone in need of emergency food or personal care items. If you would like to donate simply leave your items in the food pantry cabinet, located in the rear parking lot.
Financial offerings can be mailed to the office, either in your regular offering envelopes or marked "Attn: Kathy Franklin" to P.O. Box 7, Newtonville, NY 12128. The GivePlus app is another option that can be downloaded to either iPhone or Android. Simply search by zip code 12128. For electronic giving on a regular basis, please contact the church office and we will put Kathy in touch with you to set that up through Vanco. We sincerely appreciate your continued financial support.