United Methodists of Upper New YorkLiving the Gospel. Being God's Love.

Welcome to Upper New York’s Compelling Preaching Initiative.

Preachers: Rest. Work. Play. is an initiative of United Methodists of Upper New York dedicated to embracing a powerful vision to revitalize preaching and nourish the spirits of pastors through helping Preachers practice a healthy rhythm of rest, work and play. Supported by a generous $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., our vision is simple yet profound: to help preachers embody a rhythm of rest, work, and play. Through immersive experiences, curated workshops, and intentional spaces for reflection, we aim to renew, restore, and inspire pastors, equipping them to continue their ministry of preaching. 

Click here to connect with the Upper New York’s Compelling Preaching Initiative’s complete information and resources. 

Preachers Cohorts Information and FAQs 

Preachers Cohort Application 

God’s People – Rest, Work, Play journal 

God's People - Rest, Work, Play journal invites you to reflect on your daily experiences, assess your well-being, notice moments of inspiration, set intentions for the future, and express gratitude. Through these daily reflections, you'll find renewal, restoration, and inspiration, equipping you to live a life of purpose and joy. 

Click here to see our Facebook page.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the Initiative’s primary goal? 

To help preachers have a healthy rhythm of rest, work, and play in their day-to-day life so that they can be more inspirational preachers. 

2. What do the cohorts consist of? 

Ten months of monthly cohort gatherings (half through Zoom, half in person), one significant opening renewal trip, one significant closing storytelling immersion trip, and curated congregational resources.

You can see a sample opening renewal trip by clicking here.

3. How many preachers can participate in cohorts? 

We anticipate hosting five cohorts of approximately 12 preachers each beginning in 2025 through 2027. This totals about 60-75 preachers in cohorts. We will also anticipate having one-day immersive regional events and curated resources that will reach more pastor-preachers. 

4. What is the criteria to apply for a cohort? 

To apply to participate in a cohort you must be a clergy or lay person who currently preaches at least twice a month at an Upper New York United Methodist church or ministry. 

5. Is there a cost to participate in a cohort? 

We anticipate asking churches to make a financial investment of the following for participating preachers.  

- Less than 25 persons Average Worship Attendance (AWA) total in appointment $400. 
- Less than 60 AWA total in appointment $500. 
- Less than 100 AWA total in appointment $550. 
- 100+ AWA total in appointment $650 
- Optional: Investments of up to $1,500 will be used to support other clergy in their participation 

This investment supports ten months of monthly cohort gatherings (half in person, half on Zoom), one significant renewal trip, one significant storytelling immersion trip, and curated congregational resources, which total a $10,000 investment from the Lilly Grant for each cohort participant. 

6. Where do I apply to participate in a cohort? 

Click here for a cohort application.

7. Where can I get the most up-to-date information about the initiative? 

Get the latest information on our Facebook page here.