news article
2024 Annual Conference survey results
June 17, 2024 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The results are in. More than 700 people attended the 2024 Upper New York Annual Conference session from May 30-June 1 in Syracuse and more than half of those in attendance provided valuable feedback on their experience. All results and remarks provided are anonymous to allow for full transparency of the person completing the survey.
“It was a blessing to get together and see sisters and brothers that we haven’t seen for a year,” remarked one attendee.
“I was greatly encouraged by conference this year,” wrote another participant.
The first question of the survey asked participants to rate each of the worship services and the learning session led by Dr. Ashley Boggan, General Secretary of the General Commission of Archives and History. The majority indicated they were inspired and found these times to be meaningful.
“Worship was absolutely wonderful! Thank you,” wrote another attendee.
The 2024 Upper New York Pre-Conference Workbook was released the first part of May and was available for purchase and as a downloadable resource. Anything not provided in 
time for publication was published to the Conference website as an addendum. Most indicated the workbook and addendums were easy to access.
“I love having using journal online. I feel like I'm doing my part to save paper waste. I am even able to get to a page faster that those with a hard copy,” shared one member.
“All easy and communicated with more than enough time to prepare for AC,” wrote another attendee.
Registration for annual conference was held April 3-24. Members could register onsite as a late registrant for an additional fee. Most of the people who submitted feedback indicated 
the process was easy.
“Bless Bishop for all his grace guiding us,” wrote one attendee.
“It was amazing to get through recommendations so easily,” wrote another United Methodist of Upper New York.
Survey results indicated the volume throughout was good and the voting process was easy to understand and the visuals aided in the process.
“I especially appreciated the captions and sign language interpreters on screen at all times,” wrote one survey taker.
Many indicated the length of the day was just right. Only nine people who completed the suvey indicated it was too short and 89 others said it was too long.
“After the General Conference I think people didn’t really know what to expect at AC so many were “slow to warm up.” It became clear that even though we differ in our approach to ministry and theological interpretations we can come together and accept our differences and worship in one accord. Thank you Bishop Héctor for encouraging the church to accept each other in our uniqueness of gifts with grace. Thank you to all who worked hard to bring us together.”
The favorite experience varied from the learning time, worshipping together, and the bishop cracking jokes.
“The music was wonderful- CJ is incredibly talented, Bishop Malone was a gift, and Ashley Boggan was great.”
“This was my first UMC Upper New York Conference as a Lay Servant and equalization member. It was a truly wonderful uplifting experience. Being in the presence of everyone, fellowshipping with many and having God and the Holy Spirit engulfing my heart was truly well worth the trip. I was interested with all the speakers and the many spiritual message from clergy. It was very interesting learning about all the different committees and knowing about the organizational aspects and makeup of the UM church. I look forward to next year and learning and growing in Christ Jesus.”
“The closing worship really brought us together. It was inspiring and I walked away believing we can move forward together in whatever it looks like for our churches and congregations that we love.”
“The composting was a great idea! Meals were delicious. (Weather was perfect. Thank you, God.) Connecting with yearly friends was heartwarming, as well as meeting new folks. I liked getting together in small groups during Laity Session. Loved the message from Destiny!”
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