The Service of Commissioning and Ordination The Upper New York Annual Conference

Oncenter Syracuse, New York

Saturday, June 8, 2019 2:00 PM

Bishop Mark J. Webb

Resident Bishop

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Upper New York Area Full Cabinet The Rev. Nancy Adams Mountain View District Superintendent The Rev. Nola Anderson Crossroads District Superintendent The Rev. Everett Bassett Oneonta District Superintendent The Rev. Aaron Bouwens Director of Vital Congregations The Rev. Carlos Rosa-Laguer Niagara Frontier District Superintendent The Rev. Vonda Fossitt Genesee Valley District Superintendent The Rev. William Gottschalk-Fielding Executive Assistant to the Bishop and Director of Connectional Ministries Mrs. Susan G. Hardy Conference Lay Leader The Rev. David Kofahl Binghamton District Superintendent The Rev. Jeffrey McDowell Finger Lakes District Superintendent The Rev. David D. Masland Director of New Faith Communities The Rev. Debbie Earthrowl Adirondack District Superintendent Mrs. Susan Latessa Director of HR/Benefits The Rev. Sherri Rood Cornerstone District Superintendent The Rev. Abel Roy Mohawk District Superintendent The Rev. Michael Weeden Northern Flow District Superintendent The Rev. Richard Weihing Albany District Superintendent

****** Worship Participants

Bishop Mark J. Webb Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball, West Virginia Area, Preacher

Upper New York Area Full Cabinet Rev. Bruce Webster, Accompanist

Korean Clergy choir: Eunice S. Kim, Hyun Joon Kim, Insouk Kim, Jee Hae Song, Jong Deok Park, Joseph Kim, Moon Ho Kim, Sung Ah Choi, Sungjun Park, Yohan Moon,

Yohang Chun, & Youngjae Jee

Crucifer: Ethan Stierheim, CCYM Chair of YSF Scripture reader: Larissa Wiltse, CCYM Worship Chair

Mrs. Susan G. Hardy, Conference Lay Leader The Rev. Brian Fellows and The Rev. Susan Russell, Co-Chairs, Upper New York Board of

Ordained Ministry The Rev. Robert Kolvik-Campbell and The Rev. Heather Williams, Co-Chairs Order of Elders

The Rev. Deanna Finch, The Rev. Sheila Price, co-chairs, Order of Deacons

Special thanks to all who have helped with this service in any way. ******

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To Be Commissioned for the Work of an Elder

Natalie Ora Bowerman Casey Edward Bradley

Bryant Christopher Clark Brett William Johnson

Jongdeok Park Cindy L. Schulte

Grace Elisabeth Warren

To be Ordained to the Order of Deacon

Rebecca Guthrie Kristin Lee Helms

Susan Marie Ranous

To Be Ordained to the Order of Elder

Anna Kathryn Blinn Cole Patricia M. Hubman

Marilyn Jane Kasperek Eunice Sun Ae Kim

David Bradley McKinney

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The Service for Commissioning and Ordination Oncenter, Syracuse New York Saturday, June 8, 2019 2 P.M.

* Indicates an invitation to rise in body or spirit

To honor the difference and diversity in each experience and expression of God, we seek to embody an expansive understanding of God in our language and music.

May you find yourself in the presence of God in this place today.

ENTRANCE PRELUDE Rev. Bruce Webster “Be Not Afraid”

By Bob Dufford “Here I am Lord”

By Dan Schutte “You are Mine”

By David Haas PROCESSION OF CLERGY

* O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing UMH #57

O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer’s praise, The glories of my God and King, the triumphs of his grace! My gracious Master and my God, assist me to proclaim, To spread through all the earth abroad the honors of thy name. Jesus! The name that charms our fears, that bids our sorrows cease; ‘tis music in the sinner’s ears, ‘tis life, and health, and peace. He breaks the power of canceled sin, he sets the prisoner free; His blood can make the foulest clean, his blood availed for me. He speaks, and listening to his voice, new life the dead receive; The mournful, broken hearts rejoice, the humble poor believe.

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In Christ, your head, you then shall know, shall feel your sins forgiven; Anticipate your heaven below, and own that love is heaven. * All Glory Laud & Honor UMH #280 Refrain: All glory, laud, and honor, to thee, Redeemer, King, To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring. Thou art the King of Israel, thou David’s royal Son, who in the Lord’s name comest, the King and Blessed One. (Refrain) The company of angels are praising thee on high, and we with all creation in chorus make reply. (Refrain) The people of the Hebrews with psalms before thee went; our prayer and praise and anthems before thee we present. (Refrain) To thee, before thy passion, they sand their hymns of praise; to thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. (Refrain) Thou didst accept their praises; accept the prayers we bring, who in all good delightest, thou good and gracious King. (Refrain)

* Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty UMH #064 Holy, holy. Holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee. Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty, God in three persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee, casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee, which wert and art, and ever more shall be.

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Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! All thy works shall praise thy name, in earth and sky and sea. Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty, God in three persons, blessed Trinity.

* Lift High the Cross UMH # 159 REFRAIN: Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim

till all the world adore his sacred name. Come Christians, follow this triumphant sign. The hosts of God in unity combine. (REFRAIN) Each newborn servant of the Crucified bears on the brow the seal of him who died. (REFRAIN) O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree, as thou hast promised, draw the

world to thee. (REFRAIN) So shall our song of triumph ever be: Praise to the Crucified for victory! (REFRAIN)

* GREETING AND PRAYER Bishop Mark J. Webb

Bishop: The grace of Jesus Christ be with you all. People: And also with you. Bishop: We come together to praise God, to hear the Holy Word, and to

seek for ourselves and others the power, presence, and direction of the Holy Spirit.

Let us pray. People: Eternal God, by Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit you gave to

your apostles many excellent gifts.

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Give your grace to all servants of your church, that we may

with diligence and faithfulness fulfill our various ministries. Grant that we your people may follow where you lead,

perfect our ministries, and live in joyful obedience to your will, through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

RECOGNITION OF OUR COMMON MINISTRY

AND REAFFIRMATION OF BAPTISM Bishop: Ministry is the work of God, done by the people of God. Through baptism all Christians are made part of the priesthood of all believers, the church, Christ’s body, made visible in the world. We all share in Christ’s ministry of love and service for the redemption of the human family and the whole of creation. Come now, God, and send your Spirit among us, Trouble for us this water of memory and imagination. Send your Spirit among us To enliven our praise, To strengthen our hands, To guide us in work and place, in service and love, To assure us once more and again of your love. Sisters and brothers, Know once again that through your baptism You are claimed and called by God forever. In celebration of our common ministry, I call upon all God’s people gathered here:

Bishop pours water from the pitcher to the basin. Remember your baptism and be thankful!

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People: We remember our baptism and affirm our common ministry.

Thanks be to God!

The congregation may be seated. Bishop remains in front facing the people.

PRESENTATION OF PERSONS TO BE COMMISSIONED, ORDAINED

OR RECOGNIZED

Each candidate stands when his or her name is read and remains standing. Bishop: Who presents these candidates to be ordained, commissioned, or recognized? Susan G. Hardy (Conference Lay Leader): On behalf of all the laity, we have recommended them in our local congregations. We present them with our prayers and support. The Rev. Brian Fellows and The Rev. Sue Russell (Co-Chairs Board of Ordained Ministry): On behalf of the Upper New York Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, we have examined these candidates according to the standards of our Discipline and this Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. We present them with our prayers and support. The Rev. Robert Kolvik-Campbell (Co-Chair Order of Elders): On behalf of all elders of the Upper New York Conference, we present with our prayers and support these persons who have been elected provisional members to be commissioned for the work of an elder.

Natalie Ora Bowerman Casey Edward Bradley Bryant Christopher Clark

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Brett William Johnson Jongdeok Park Cindy L. Schulte Grace Elisabeth Warren

The Rev. Sheila Price (Co-Chair Order of Deacons): On behalf of all deacons of the Upper New York Conference, we present these persons who have been with our prayers and support these persons to be ordained for the work of a deacon who have been elected full members.

Rebecca Guthrie Kristin Lee Helms Susan Marie Ranous

The Rev. Heather Williams (Co-Chair Order of Elders): On behalf of all elders of the Upper New York Conference, we present with our prayers and support these persons to be ordained for the work of an elder who have been elected full members. Anna Kathryn Blinn Cole

Patricia M. Hubman Marilyn Jane Kasperek Eunice Sun Ae Kim David Bradley McKinney

Bishop: These persons are by God’s grace to be ordained, commissioned,

or recognized for set apart ministry in Christ’s holy church. Those authorized by the Church to inquire about them have discerned that they are persons of sound learning and of Christian character, and possess the necessary signs of God’s grace, and have demonstrated a profound commitment to serve Jesus Christ. Therefore, we believe them to be duly called to serve God.

We ask you, people of God, to declare your assent to their call. Do

you trust that they are worthy, by God’s grace, to be commissioned, ordained or received?

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People: We do! Thanks be to God! Bishop: Will you uphold them in their ministry? People: With God’s help, we will!

THE GENERAL EXAMINATION All remain seated except the candidates and the bishop, who stand facing one another. The bishop examines the candidates for commissioning and ordination: Bishop: My sisters and brothers in Christ, you have been called to an ordained, commissioned or recognized status in set apart ministry. The church now confirms your calling. As commissioned or ordained ministers, you are to be coworkers with all the people of God: With laity, bishops, elders, deacons, local pastors, provisional members, diaconal ministers, deaconesses, home missioners, supply pastors, with all who serve God in the Church. Remember you are called to serve rather than to be served, to proclaim the faith of the church and no other, to look after the concerns of God above all. So we may know you believe yourselves to be called by God and that you profess the Christian faith, we ask you: Do you believe that God has called you to the life and work of ordained or licensed ministry? Candidates: I do so believe. Bishop: Do you believe in the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Candidates: I do so believe and confess. Bishop: Are you persuaded that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments contain all things necessary for salvation through faith in Jesus

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Christ and are the unique and authoritative standard for the church’s faith and life? Candidates: I am so persuaded, by God’s grace. Bishop: Will you be faithful in prayer, in the study of the Holy Scriptures, and with the help of the Holy Spirit continually rekindle the gift of God that is in you? Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: Will you do your best to pattern your life in accordance with the teachings of Christ? Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: Will you, in the exercise of your ministry, lead the people of God to faith in Jesus Christ, to participate in the life and work of the community, and to seek peace, justice, and freedom for all people? Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: Will you give yourself fully to the work of God in the world and to servant leadership in the life and work of Christ’s church? Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: Will you be loyal to The United Methodist Church, accepting its order, liturgy, doctrine, and discipline, defending it against all doctrines contrary to God’s Holy Word, and committing yourself to be accountable with those serving with you, and to the bishop and those who are appointed to supervise your ministry? Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: Will you, for the sake of the church’s life and mission, covenant to participate in the life of the order into which you are ordained, commissioned, received or recognized? Will you give yourself to God through the order in order to sustain and build each other up in prayer, study, worship and service under the rule of life set forth in the vows you take this day?

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Candidates: I will, with the help of God. Bishop: May God, who has given you the will to do these things, give you grace to perform them that the work begun in you may be brought to perfection. All: Amen.

PROCLAMATION AND RESPONSE

Proverbs 2: 1-5 Mrs. Susan G Hardy

Conference Lay Leader

* Psalm 107: 1-9; 33-43 UMH#830 Larissa Wiltse, CCYM O Give thanks to the LORD, who is good; whose steadfast love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom the Lord has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from east and from the west, from the north and from the south. Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city in which to dwell. 5 hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. 6 Then in their trouble, they cried out to the LORD, who delivered them from their distress. 7 and led them by a straight way till they reached a city in which to dwell. 8 Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love for his wonderful works to humankind, 9 for the Lord satisfies those who are thirsty, and fills the hungry with good things. The Lord turns rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground, 34 a fruitful land into a salty waste,

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because of the wickedness of its inhabitants. 35 The Lord turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water. 36 The Lord lets the hungry dwell there, and they establish a city in which to live; 37 They sowed fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield. 38 They multiply greatly by the blessing of the Lord who does not let their cattle decrease. 39 When they are diminished and brought low through oppression, trouble and sorrow; 40 the Lord pours contempt upon princes and makes them wander in a trackless wastes; 41 But the Lord raises up the needy out of their affliction, and makes their families like flocks. 42 The upright see it and are glad; and all wickedness stops its mouth. 43 Whoever is wise, give heed to these things consider the steadfast love of the LORD.

Mark 4: 35-41 Rev. Sheila Price ANTHEM “Without Love, We Have Nothing”

Korean Clergy Choir If we speak with the tongues of angels and have not love, we have nothing.

If we gain all the world and its knowledge and have not love, we have nothing.

If our faith is strong to move the mountains, and if we give all we have to the poor, and if we offer ourselves, yet our heart never loves, we have nothing. without love, without love, without, love we have nothing.

Love is patient and kind; love isn't selfish or boastful. Love doesn't seek out its own way, but rejoices in the truth, in the truth.

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If we speak with the tongues of angels and have not love, we have nothing.

If we gain all the world and its knowledge and have not love, we have nothing.

If our faith is strong to move the mountains, and if we give all we have to the poor, and if we offer ourselves, yet our heart never loves, we have nothing., Without love, we have nothing, nothing, nothing, without love.

SERMON “An Extraordinary, Challenging Journey”

Bishop Sandra Steiner-Ball West Virginia Area

The United Methodist Church THE OFFERING New Faith Community Fund The Prayer of Dedication The Rev. William Gottschalk-Fielding

Executive Assistant to the Bishop and Director of Connectional Ministries

Offertory “To My Precious Lord”

Korean Clergy Choir Refrain: To my precious Lord, I bring my flask of fragrant oil; Kneeling down, I kiss his feet, anoint them with the oil. Jesus, who for my sake walked the road to Calvary, With each step has marked the imprint of his love for me.

Jesus, who for my sake had his feet nailed to the cross, With his blood has washed and healed me, paid the heavy cost.

When in clouds of glory you come back to earth again, Jesus with your love embrace and claim me as your friend.

INTRODUCTION TO COMMISSIONING

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The candidates for commissioning as an elder and a deacon

come forward and face the bishop.

Bishop: By affirming the covenant of baptism, all members of Christ’s holy church pledge to serve as Christ’s representatives in the world. Christ gave all of us this command: “Ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest.” We have asked, and the Lord has answered. These sisters and brothers know our Savior’s concern for God’s people, see the plentiful harvest, and are ready to respond generously to the Lord in the words of the prophet: “Here I am; send me.” Urged on by the love of Christ and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, they now come to declare in public their desire to live out the covenant made at their baptism by binding themselves to the service of God under the supervision of the Bishop and the guidance of ordained colleagues and by being appointed to share as servant leaders in the body of Christ. Today we commission them to service as they continue to prepare for ordained ministry among us.

THE PRAYER OF COMMISSIONING

The candidates kneel. The bishop, facing the congregation and extending arms over all of the candidates, prays:

Bishop: God of the apostles and prophets, of the martyrs and teachers, you raise up men and women to be apostolic leaders in your Church. By your Holy Spirit, help these, your servants, to understand and live the mystery of your love with boldness and joy. Deepen their sense of purpose as they exercise commissioned ministry. Empower them, and those who will walk with them to guide their ministry, together with all of your people, to heal the sick, love the outcast, resist evil, preach the Word, and give themselves freely for your name’s sake.

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All: Amen.

Family members and friends are invited to stand where they are for silent prayer during the laying on of hands for each candidate.

Kindly refrain from applauding until all have been commissioned.

The Bishop, laying both hands upon the shoulders of each candidate, prays: Pour out your Holy Spirit upon Name. Send him/her now to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ, to announce the reign of God, and to equip the church for ministry, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. All: Amen.

When all have been commissioned, the Bishop will invite the class to be greeted.

EXAMINATION OF DEACONS

Deacon candidates stand and face the Bishop. The Bishop examines the deacon candidates:

A deacon is called to share in Christ’s ministry of servanthood, to relate the life of the community to its service in the world, to lead others into Christian discipleship, to nurture disciples for witness and service,

The Asbury Bible is lifted to lead in worship, to teach and proclaim God’s Word, to assist elders and appointed local pastors at Holy Baptism and Holy Communion,

A towel and basin with pitcher is lifted

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to interpret to the church the world’s hurts and hopes, to serve all people, particularly the poor, the sick, and the oppressed, and to lead Christ’s people in ministries of compassion and justice, liberation and reconciliation, especially in the face of hardship and personal sacrifice. This is the rule of life and work of a deacon. Do you believe that God has called you to the life and work of a deacon? Candidates: I do so believe.

LAYING ON OF HANDS AND PRAYER FOR DEACONS

The Bishop calls the people to prayer. As these persons are ordained by God and the church for the ministry of deacons to which we believe they have been called by the Holy Spirit, let us pray for them.

The Bishop, with hands extended over those being ordained, prays: We thank you, Living God, that in your great love you sent Jesus Christ to take the form of a servant, becoming obedient even to death on the cross, and now resurrected and exalted in the heavens. You have taught us, by his word and example, that whoever would be great among us must be servant of all. Give these servants grace to be faithful to their promises, constant in their discipleship, and always ready for works of loving service. Make them modest and humble, gentle and strong, rooted and grounded in love. Give them a share in the ministry of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.

Family members and friends are invited to stand where they are for silent prayer

during the laying on of hands for each candidate. Kindly refrain from applauding until all have been ordained.

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The Bishop lays both hands on the head of each ordinand, praying:

Almighty God, pour upon Name the Holy Spirit

for the office and work of a deacon in Christ’s holy Church. ALL: Amen.

The candidate places hands on a Bible as the Bishop lays hands on the hands of the candidate and says:

Name, take authority as a deacon

to proclaim the Word of God and to lead God's people

in ministries of compassion and justice; in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

ALL: Amen.

EXAMINATION OF ELDERS

Elders to be ordained stand at their seats. Bishop: Ordination is a gift from God to the Church and is exercised in covenant with the whole church and within the covenant of the order. An elder is called to share in the ministry of Christ and of the whole Church: to preach and teach the Word of God;

The Asbury Bible is lifted to faithfully administer the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion;

Chalice and paten are lifted

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to lead the people of God in worship and prayer; to lead persons to faith in Jesus Christ; to exercise pastoral supervision, order the life of the congregation, counsel the troubled, and declare the forgiveness of sin; to lead the people of God in obedience to Christ’s mission in the world; to seek justice, peace, and freedom for all people; and to take a responsible place in the government of the Church and in service in and to the community. These are the duties of an elder. Do you believe that God has called you to the life and work of an elder? Candidates: I do so believe. Bishop: Will you, for the sake of the church’s life and mission, covenant to participate in the order of elders? Will you give yourself to God through the order of elders in order to sustain and build each other up in prayer, study, worship, and service? Candidates: I will, with the help of God, and the help of my sisters and brothers in the order of elders.

LAYING ON OF HANDS AND PRAYER FOR ELDERS

Bishop: As these persons are ordained by God and the Church for the ministry of elders to which we believe they have been called by the Holy Spirit, let us pray for them. We praise you, eternal God, because you have called us to be a priestly people, offering to you acceptable worship through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Apostle and High Priest, Shepherd and Bishop of our souls. We thank you that, by dying, Christ has overcome death, and having ascended into heaven, has poured forth gifts abundantly on your people, making some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up Christ’s body, and to fulfill your gracious purpose in the world. Give to these your servants the grace and power they need to serve you in this ministry. Make them faithful pastors, patient teachers, and wise

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counselors. Enable them to serve without reproach, to proclaim the gospel of salvation, to administer the sacraments of the new covenant, and to offer with all your people spiritual sacrifices acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Family members and friends are invited to stand where they are for silent prayer during the laying on of hands for each ordinand. Kindly refrain from applauding

until all have been ordained. The bishop lays both hands on the head of each ordinand, praying:

Almighty God, pour upon Name the Holy Spirit, for the office and work

of an elder in Christ’s holy Church. Amen.

The candidate places hands on the Asbury Bible as the bishop says:

Name, take authority as an elder to preach the Word of God, to administer the Holy Sacraments and to order the life of the Church, in the name

of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

When all have been ordained, the Bishop will invite the class to be greeted. THE PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Bishop: Let us pray together: All: We thank you, gracious God, for raising up among us faithful

servants. Clothe them with your righteousness, and grant that we, with them, may glorify you by giving ourselves to others. Amen.

THE CALL Bishop Mark Webb The Bishop offers a call to ministry and invites persons to come forward. Members of the Board of Ordained Ministry will be present to greet those who come forward.

While persons respond to the call, the congregation sings.

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* Here I Am, Lord UMH#593

I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry, All who dwell in dark and sin my hand will save. I, who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? (REFRAIN) Refrain: Here I am, Lord. Is it I Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.* I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne by people’s pain. I have wept for love of them. They turn away. I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love a-lone. I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? (REFRAIN) I, the Lord of wind and flame, I will tend the poor and lame, I will set a feast for them. My hand will save. Finest bread I will provide till their hearts be satisfied. I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? (REFRAIN)

*DISMISSAL WITH BLESSING

Bishop: The grace of Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all always.

Deacon Dee Finch: Go in peace to serve God and your neighbor in all that you do. People: We are sent in Christ’s name. Thanks be to God!

* We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations UMH #569

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We’ve a story to tell to the nations, that shall turn their hearts to the right, a story of truth and mercy, a story of peace and light, a story of peace and light. (Refrain)

Refrain: For the darkness shall turn to the dawning, the dawning to

noon-day bright; and Christ’s great kingdom shall come on earth, the kingdom of love and light

We’ve a song to be sung to the nations, that shall lift their hearts to

the Lord, a song that shall conquer evil and shatter the spear and sword, and shatter the spear and sword. (Refrain)

We’ve a message to give to the nations, that the Lord who reign-eth

above hath sent us his Son to save us, and show us that God is love, and show us that God is love. (Refrain)

We’ve a Savior to show to the nations, who the path of sorrow hath

trod, that all of the world’s great peoples might come to the truth of God, might come to the truth of God. (Refrain)

POSTLUDE Rev. Bruce Webster

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To Be Commissioned for the Work of an Elder

Natalie Ora Bowerman Residence: Rochester, NY Family: Sean Bowerman (spouse), Daniel Bowerman (son), Lillian Bowerman (daughter), Alexander Bowerman (son) Current Appointment: Avon UMC MDiv: 2012, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Statement: All my life I’ve belonged to the United Methodist Church. It’s my home. And it’s where I discovered not only what God wants me to do, but who God wants me to be. I rejoice in being the Natalie that God created. I

rejoice that, in commissioning, I am stepping into the fullness of that calling and identity. I rejoice in the adventure I will go on with God. As I voyage into the great unknown with my Creator, I pray that the world will see God’s love through me.

Casey Edward Bradley Residence: Luzerne, NY Family: Heather Bradley (spouse) Current Appointment: First UMC of Lake Luzerne UMC and South Corinth UMC MDiv: 2012, Boston University Statement: In this journey of ministry I continue to see the blessings of God that have surrounded me, encouraged me, supported me, and loved me throughout the years. For the past six years I have had the

privilege to serve as a local pastor while continuing to explore my call to ordained ministry. I have been blessed to witness God at work in my own life and in the lives of those dearest to me; and to see the God-imparted gifts for ministry expressed through my service to the church. As I continue to move towards ordination as an elder in the United Methodist Church I await, with eager anticipation, the wondrous things God has in store for my life, for the ministry I offer to the church, and for the movements of the Holy Spirit that I am invited to be a part of in the world today.

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Bryant Christopher Clark Residence: Waterville, NY Current Appointment: Hamilton Park UMC and Waterville UMC MDiv: 2017, Boston University School of Theology Statement: My commissioning feels like validation from my family – the Methodist church family that raised me. It has required a lot of hard work, but it is also a privilege to be sure, a privilege that too many go without – that of being validated by their family of faith in

their call to ministry. It is indeed the privilege of my life to be called a pastor and to be afforded the humbling opportunity to live out my life of faith in this way. Thanks be to God. Thanks be to my parents. Thanks be to the Upper New York Annual Conference and my many mentors and peers found therein. I am grateful. I am privileged. I am blessed.

Brett William Johnson Residence: Stanley, NY Family: Rachel Johnson (wife), Lily Johnson (daughter), Devin Johnson (son), Emily Johnson (daughter), Elliot Johnson (son) Current Appointment: Weedsport UMC and Seneca Castle UMC MDiv: 2015, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Statement: Answering a call to ministry has been something I have been striving toward my entire life, and I am humbled that my call to

ministry has been affirmed. From the earliest time in my life, I can remember feeling like I was at home in God’s church and seeking ways to serve God and the Church. Once I found my way to the United Methodist Church, I felt like there was nowhere else I wanted to be. Although there may be times when God must use the holy brick or 2x4 to get my attention, I look forward to growing in my capacity to love and serve God and my neighbor. I see my call as a response to Jesus’ call to ministry in Matthew 25:31-40 and the Great Commission, living faithfully to the Wesleyan tradition. As Charles Wesley wrote, “Forth in thy name, O Lord, I go, my daily labor to pursue; thee, only thee, resolved to know in all I think or speak or do.” I look forward to working in the mission field with my siblings in Christ, giving all the glory to God.

Jongdeok Park Residence: Esperance, NY Family: Sunyoung Kim (spouse) and Luha Park (daughter) Current Appointment: Esperance-Sloansville UMC, Gallupville UMC, and Cobleskill UMC MDiv: 2017, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

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Statement: I am so grateful to God for leading me to commissioning as a provisional Elder in 2019 at the Upper New York Conference. I firmly believe that I am called to ministry to enrich discipleship in local churches and embody the intergenerational body in Christ through the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion. As for me, commissioning as a provisional elder is to live in the order-covenant in The United Methodist Church, the Upper New York Conference, and my local churches. Moreover, it is God’s friendly reminder of my call to ministry as a disciple of Jesus to fulfill the mission of the Church and work for God’s glory in my commissioning vow. Thus, since I am sent and commissioned to my current places, I look forward to serving and working continuously as God’s servant to thrive God’s outreaching love and abundant grace exceedingly to my churches and local communities.

Cindy L. Schulte Residence: Newfield, NY Family: John Schulte (spouse) Current Appointment: Waverly UMC MDiv: 2017, United Theological Seminary Statement: Each level of my call to ministry has felt like my being set apart, beginning with separation from being a lost soul to a forgiven child of God, which grew into being set apart for holy living and

service to church as laity, which expanded into a call for being set apart from laity as a Certified Lay Minister to preach on occasion for recuperating pastors, and then to serve in Licensed Local Pastoral ministry, and now has become a call to be set apart for participation in the life of the Order of Elders. The more I submit to Jesus and let Him rule my life, the more blessing and mercies I witness, both inside the church walls as well as outside the church walls. For years the Lord had seen fit to use me as a witness in my secular job, facilitating intercessory prayer at jobsites and as a friendly resource for unchurched coworkers. Now, I am blessed to see how God uses me in full time ministry; the biggest blessing being the privilege and honor to watch how God works in the lives of the precious folks around me!

Grace Elisabeth Warren Residence: Mexico, NY Family: Ernest Warren (spouse) Current Appointment: Mexico First UMC MDiv: 2016, Asbury Theological Seminary Statement: God’s call in my life to enter formal ministry initially came as a surprise. Yet when I look back over my life, I see how God has been preparing the way for decades. People in my life, opportunities

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given, challenges overcome, even the closed doors all combined to make me who I am today. I am a child of God called to walk through life with others while pointing them to the redeeming love of Jesus Christ.

I feel honored as a pastor to be invited into people’s lives to both rejoice and weep with them in the good and bad times, all while living and growing with them in the in-between times. In the midst of our lives, the Holy Spirit continues to transform us as individuals and communities, calling us to be disciples of Christ who love God and our neighbors. It is both exciting and humbling to be called by the grace of God to spiritual leadership.

To Be Ordained for the Work of a Deacon

Rebecca Guthrie Residence: Waterville, NY Family: Robert Guthrie (spouse), James Guthrie (son), John Guthrie (son) Primary Appointment: St. Luke’s Hospital, Utica, NY Secondary Appointment: First UMC, New Hartford MA Counseling and Pastoral Care: 2014, Methodist Theological School in Ohio

Statement: As a Deacon, I have the privilege to walk alongside those who are struggling with life issues and bring God’s love and grace in the form of presence, prayer, and counsel in order to experience the fullness of life that God intends for all. Having this call is fortified by the acknowledgement of my clergy peers as they bless my work and my ordination.

Kristin Lee Helms Residence: Rochester, NY Family: Rev. Eric Helms (spouse), Kathryn Helms (daughter), Zachary Helms (son) Primary Appointment: Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at Roberts Wesleyan College Secondary Appointment: Brockport UMC PhD: 2013, Princeton Theological Seminary (Old Testament)

MDiv: 2004, Duke Divinity School Statement: When I finished my Ph.D., I knew that God wanted me to teach the Bible in an academic setting. I also knew that to teach the Bible is to teach something that is sacred. It seemed fitting to me that I should do this not primarily as a person chosen by the scholarly academy but rather as someone set apart by the Church. It means so much

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to me that the church has affirmed God’s calling upon my life to teach these texts as an ordained Deacon.

Susan Marie Ranous Residence: Syracuse, NY Family: Stephen Ranous (spouse) Primary Appointment: Consultant at Susan Ranous, CPA Secondary Appointment: Ira UMC Certificate in Deacon Studies: 2014, Methodist Theological School in Ohio Statement: My call to ministry motivated me to use my knowledge and

experience as an accountant in my specialized ministry as a Deacon. For some time, my ministry was centered around what I "did" in the financial and accounting worlds, although it was for the church. However, my call by God is for me to "be" a Deacon in the United Methodist Church, to serve as a bridge between church and community, and to be an interpreter of true stewardship for clergy and laity, partnering with them in ministry. Communicating an understanding of true stewardship as nothing more than evidence of discipleship, something that completely encompasses a disciple, including self, time, talents, money...everything, is one of my tasks and my honor. Being ordained entails my call being acknowledged by the United Methodist Church, and allows my ministry with churches and clergy in the areas of church finance, clergy tax, and stewardship to be empowered. My dream is that stewardship education throughout our Conference becomes more important and is embraced at all levels, by the Conference, Districts, congregations, clergy and laity, supporting our mission to "live the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to be God's love with our neighbors in all places." To Be Ordained to the Order of Elder

Anna Kathryn Blinn Cole Residence: Cobleskill, NY Family: Garrett Cole (spouse) and June Cole (daughter) Current Appointment: Richmondville UMC, Schoharie Regional Ministry, and Warnerville UMC MDiv: 2016, Candler School of Theology, Emory University Statement: In these days of cultural change, I was reluctant to follow a call to ministry in the local church. Three generations before me of

pastors, and I felt my call was to avoid itinerancy, root myself by serving Jesus in one particular place, and support the UMC from the pews. Yet anxiety grew inside me as I watched the Church that I loved and the neighborhood I loved grow further apart.

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Deep as my roots were growing, I knew God’s heart broke over this disconnect. If I wanted to see the Church come alive as an interface between God’s mission and the place where I lived, I realized I couldn’t ignore my call into pastoral leadership. God assured me that my instinct to put down roots would not be a barrier to ministry, but instead a gift. I needed this push—it got me through seminary, the first years of parish ministry, and now to ordination. I have put my entire faith in a God who calls us into relationship with Jesus, one another, and the place in which we live. In order to foster these relationships, root-growing comes in handy. And while I know this will take me and my family to many different places, people, churches, and neighborhoods across the connection—many transplantings—I serve a God who empowers me to steward relationships that go deep wherever I am planted. When those roots bear fruit, to God be the glory.

Patricia M. Hubman Residence: Verona, NY Family: David Hubman (spouse), Justin Hubman (son), Andrew Hubman (son), and Patrick Hubman (son) Current Appointment: Delta UMC and Verona UMC MDiv: 2016, United Theological Seminary Statement: For me the journey to ordination has been one of revelation. It seems like “only yesterday” when I entered what we fondly call

“the process.” During that time the depth of God’s grace and mercy for me and for all people and creation has been and continues to be revealed in my day to day life. I am awed by what God has accomplished in molding my ministry thus far. I have been blessed by congregations who have been full of grace and mercy as I learn(ed) to be a pastor. I have been guided by faithful mentors who encouraged me to stretch and to grow as I learn to be God’s servant. Ordination to me is the beginning of the work God has been doing in me to shape me into a servant leader. I am thankful for the support of my husband, David and our sons. I look forward to continuing to serve with God’s people in this Conference.

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Marilyn Jane Kasperek Residence: Akron, NY Family: Kenneth Kasperek (spouse), Karlyn Backus (daughter), Alison Allaman (daughter), Sarah Roth (daughter) MDiv: 2014, United Theological Seminary Statement: Coming to this moment of ordination in The United Methodist Church is part of a journey which includes more than a small amount of wrestling with God. Wrestling with how to live out

a Call to serve, how to claim the gifts I have received but not become arrogant, how to love, but not necessarily listen to those who have trouble visioning beyond what they can see and touch. Wrestling with how to be patient. The wilderness times, and there are a few along the way, have never made me question God’s Call on my life, just how to live into it.

The Rev. Dr. Leonard Sweet states that “Preachers have an awesome calling: to be a vein for the blood that washes away the sins of the world, for the water that renews and redeems, for the fire that purifies and ignites. We have the amazing opportunity to be ventricles for the voice and vision of Jesus in the world, and to bleed his life to all people. He bled for me. He bled for us. Can we bleed his love for others?”[1] His words resonate with my experience. It is in the authentic sharing of my experiences following Christ, of articulating how I feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in all circumstances of my life, of acknowledging I am a flawed human saved by grace, of being a presence when there is rejoicing and when there is sorrow, of leading and teaching, that I bleed Christ’s life to his people.

It is a gift to be called by God to this vocation. A gift to get to know, love, minister to and with God’s people within the church and within the broader community. There is not a day I can respond to this calling without spending time in prayer, in scripture, connecting with others who seek to witness and share the Christian faith, and looking for God where God is already at work in my life and the lives of others. There is not a day I am not filled with joy and anticipation for the work God calls me to. I am grateful to have my Call affirmed as I am ordained into the ministry of Elder and continue this amazing, sometimes wrestling match style, journey which is ever revealing of God’s Call on my life.

[1] Leonard Sweet Giving Blood: A Fresh Paradigm For Preaching location 6298, 6299 Kindle edition

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Eunice Sun Ae Kim Residence: Cortland, NY Family: Hyun Joon Kim (spouse) and Jenny Hyun Ae Kim (daughter) Current Appointment: Cortland First UMC MDiv: 2017, Colgate Divinity Statement: For the last 29 years, God has allowed me to serve the churches as a pastor’s wife. God led my husband and I to establish a KUMC church in the NY Conference as well as serve seven different

churches in the Upper NY Conference. But God didn’t stop there—God gave me a calling to be a pastor. My response to the calling of God was like a miracle in my life. It felt like He created in me a new person by melting, molding and filling me up with the Holy Spirit. During my preparation for ordination, God equipped and prepared me to be a United Methodist Church Elder. Through this, I was able to completely experience God’s presence and touch. God called me with a heart to love the church. Through the church, God transformed me, giving me faith and courage in times of trouble, and gave me hope and vision to see the world and the future. I give thanks to God for giving me a calling to serve His church. I also want to thank my family, friends, church members, and my colleagues for their prayers and support. I am so proud to be a part of The United Methodist Church, which has allowed me to stand here as a Korean-American, female pastor. This generation desperately needs the life and power of the Gospel, more than any other generation before. I want to stand as a witness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray that I will do my best in knowing Christ, enjoying Christ, and witnessing Christ throughout my ministry and life.

David Bradley McKinney Residence: Endicott, NY Family: Janice McKinney (spouse), Kari Hall (daughter), Kelly McKinney (daughter) Current Appointment: Union Center UMC and Endicott: Wesley UMC MDiv: 2015, Asbury Theological Seminary Statement: My call to ministry started long before I was ready and willing to answer it. It was while I was at Purdue University in 1982 in

an interest survey that ministry might be an option. I quickly dismissed it until I felt a gentle nudging to respond to a request for Lay Speakers training in 2003. I later went on to be a certified lay speaker and lay leader at church. Before long I found myself exploring this nudge which took me back to that initial survey. God is faithful and patient, slowing working within my life to bring me to where I would respond. Through that patience and perseverance of God along with hours of discernment. I am

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excited and honored to be completing the 15-year process. My response to that process, including my ordination, has been a blessing. I believe God has called me to work within the local church as well as beyond the local church. I have been active within the Emmaus community since I went on my walk. I feel I am being called to continue within that environment as well. I also believe that I am being called to serve within the surrounding community. This is a life-long journey. I feel strongly there is much more ahead to experience and discern.

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• O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, The United Methodist Hymnal #694; Words: Charles Wesley, 1739; Music: Carl G. Glaser; arr. by Lowell Mason, 1839

• All Glory, Laud, and Honor, The United Methodist Hymnal #280; Words: Theodulph of Orleans, Music: Melchior Teschner, 1615; harm. By W. H. Monk, 1861

• Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, The United Methodist Hymnal #64; Words: Reginald Heber, 1826 (Rev. 4:8-11); Music: John B Dykes, 1861

• Lift High the Cross, The United Methodist Hymnal #159; Words: George Kitchin and Michael Robert Newbolt; Music: Sydney Hugo Nicholson, 1916

• Psalm 107 Response 1 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House, The United Methodist Hymnal #830

• Here I Am, Lord, The United Methodist Hymnal #593; Words: Dan Schutte, 1981; Music: Dan Schutte, 1981

• We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations, The United Methodist Hymnal UMH #569 Words: H. Ernest Nichol, 1896, Music: H. Ernest Nichol, 1896

• Without Love (We Have Nothing) by James Michael & Stevens Joseph M. Martin • To My Precious Lord, Chung Kwan Park (Korea), 1983; Music: Chung Kwan Park,

1983; arr. Paul Junggap Huh (USA) and Alfred V. Fedak, 2012. • “Be Not Afraid” By Bob Dufford • “Here I am Lord” By Dan Schutte • “You are Mine” by David Haas

Music used with permission, CCLI #11004960 The Bible used in today’s worship service was presented by Bishop Francis Asbury to the Genesee Conference at its founding session in 1810. All those who have been ordained in the Genesee, East Genesee, Central New York, North Central New York, and Upper New York Conferences have placed their hands upon the Asbury Bible. The kneelers used during the Service of Commissioning and Ordination were gifted to the Annual Conference by the Buckton United Methodist Church and refurbished by the Rev. Chad Sayers and his wife, Jessica Sayers. The fused-glass Crucifer, made by the Rev. Meredith Vanderminden, was first presented at the 2013 session of Annual Conference.

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Guidelines for Vesting for Worship in the Upper New York Annual Conference

By virtue of our baptism, each of us is called by God to a particular form of ministry. Over the centuries, the Church has developed traditions of dress for worship that hold up and celebrate the many forms of Christian ministry. Vestments signify our calling and order, not our rank or status. In that spirit of honoring and celebrating various forms of ministry, The Upper New York Annual Conference Board of Ordained Ministry offers a guideline for the wearing of vestments. Based on information from the General Boards and the Council of Bishops of the United Methodist Church, let these recommendations be our guidelines for vesting: Laity: Because the ministry of the laity is in the society in which we live, they vest for worship in the contemporary dress of society. Certified Lay Ministers & Local Hires: Those who have been hired to serve in the local church, but have no license are lay persons and should dress for worship as a lay person. Lay persons consecrated to a specific ministry may wear the symbols of their consecrated office such as Deaconess scarves, chaplain pins, symbols of diaconal ministry, etc. Provisional Members, Associate Members and Licensed Local Pastors may choose to vest in an alb or a preaching robe to designate their calling to lead in the ministry of a local congregation. The Stole is uniquely a symbol of ordination and should be worn only by those ordained individuals as follows: Deacon: Ordained deacons vest in the alb or robe with a stole placed diagonally across the body lying on the left shoulder and joined under the right arm to indicate their ordination to the ministry of Service and Word. Elder: Ordained Elders vest in an alb or robe with a stole yoked behind the neck to indicate their ordination to Word, Service, Sacrament, and Order. Bishop: Bishops are elders who have been consecrated to a special ministry of supervision. The Crosier, (shepherd’s staff), is added to the vestments of the elder and indicates this ministry of supervision.

Revised 2/29/12