Well this has been a busy – at times stressful – at times joyous time for both New Paltz UMC and Modena: Memorial UMC. And after much work the two congregations voted unanimously to merge and become ONE – we are better together – and I look forward to the growth and love and sharing and fellowship and discipleship sharing that can emerge from this action. Forward we move.

 

This merger will mean that – once all the required paper work is completed – approved and signed all of the finances will fall under one umbrella. The Finance Committee(s) – New Paltz and Modena will make that happen in a very smooth transition. In the meantime we continue to operate financially as we have been.

 

In this Newsletter (And by the time you get to this finance article) you have read much about this merger – the new name – and the anticipation of a bright future.

 

For New Paltz – our financial picture through first quarter is a bit below projection. You can help by giving your weekly or monthly contribution. I realize under times of stress and turmoil in a church some folks just stop giving until there is something new – whatever that new might be. In the Methodist denomination we are not subsidized by the greater church – we develop our own financial budget and work to maintain it. And as Methodists we make a membership vow to serve our congregations through our prayers, presence, service, gifts and witness. I hope that the something “new” for us might be this merger and new name. Let us see what surprises are on the horizon.

 

Some updates since the last Newsletter

  • We have a new rubbish/recycling contractor – County Waste – Our costs went from average $850 per month to $160 per month. Huge savings in our budget. So please, when you take trash out – make sure it goes into the correct can and make sure the lid is securely closed. Pastor Grace and Art will make sure the parsonage and church cans are put to the curb each week. PlaySchool will make sure their cans are put out each week.
  • Our utility bills - electric and gas – continue to be read monthly – this is a wonderful thing as it means we have actual readings and not estimated readings – better able to track usage for budget purposes. The cost of utilities continues to increase. If you read the recent articles in the local newspapers you know that Central Hudson is planning another huge increase – which impacts our accounts. What can you do – turn off lights when you are the last to leave a room – turn down (at least check) the thermostat when you are the last to leave the room.
  • NYAC continues to upgrade their billing system for the payment of Pastor’s Health Benefits and Pensions. That system is up and running – that monthly bill is paid online – no check is written. The next upgrade will be for Apportionments to be paid the same way. We currently make a monthly payment.
  • Organ Repairs Update – to keep you informed. The technician will be coming to review the scope of work from the earlier proposal. We are working with calendars to come up with a date. As Lee is not able to discuss the scope of work with the technicians we have a former organist who is willing to meet with the technician. Working out the date is in process. Will keep you informed. This will be exciting to get this back on track.

If you know your John Wesley history – you know that May 24, 1738, known as Aldersgate Day – at a prayer meeting on that day – Wesley felt his heart “strangely warmed” – he experienced as assurance of God’s love and went on to share that love with all. Want some Methodist history read more about John Wesley. Why do I share this – because we are in May – much has happened to us at New Paltz – and although my heart is still financially a bit heavy – I do feel a warm spirit of potential growth and renewal – not to the past – instead to the future – we have much work to do to embrace our sustainability as a church, a parish, a district and a conference – we have opportunities- let’s grab hold – and with enthusiasm move……..doing good, doing no harm and staying in love with God.

 

The Council of Bishops and the Connectional Table of the United Methodist Church recently unveiled a new vision statement – “love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously”. Bishop Bickerton reminded us of this statement at our recent gathering with him. May it be so!!!!

 

With love,

Margaret

 

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