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Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Remembering Our Heritage
Dr. Milton Loyer, Conference Archivist
May – 100 years ago
The new social room at the Mont Alto United Brethren United Brethren Church was dedicated May 31, 1925. The congregation had grown out of prayer meetings held in private homes 1843-44. They erected their first building in 1847 on “Back Street” – a one-room brick structure that was enlarged and improved in 1881. In 1874 a number of members withdrew to organize a Methodist Episcopal congregation. The existing sanctuary at the present site, to which the social hall was added, was erected in 1905.
In 1971 the Otterbein UMC (formerly United Brethren) and Wesley UMC (formerly Methodist Episcopal) congregations became a two-point charge and in 2009 they united to form the present Mont Alto United Methodist Church, worshiping in the former Methodist building.
June – 50 years ago
The trustees of the Central Pennsylvania Conference met June 4, 1925, at the Lewisburg United Methodist Home in a meeting dominated by discussions of closed churches. “Because of lack of value to the Conference” insurance was dropped for two buildings: Colley (Sullivan County) and Egg Hill (Centre County). The former was sold to the Cemetery Association in 1982 and has since been razed. The latter was transferred to a Conservancy Association in 1980 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
Approval was given to sell two buildings: Needmore (Fulton County) and Fairview (Perry County). The former was sold to the Needmore Bible Church, which subsequently relocated and sold the building to the Southern Fulton School District. The latter was sold to the Historical Society of Perry County.
Report was made that two previously approved sales had now been completed: St. John’s [Sheeps] (Montour County) and Akersville (Fulton County). The former was sold to St. John’s Bible Church. The latter was sale involved only a schoolhouse on the property, and the remainder of the property was sold to the Cemetery Association in 1992.
Everstand: FORE the Kids!
Save the date of Monday, September 8th, 2025, for the annual Jim Young Memorial Golf Tournament. We hope you will join us for a day of fellowship and fun on the beautifully manicured greens of the Carlisle Country Club.
The tournament is held in loving memory of Jim Young, who grew up at the United Methodist Home for Children (now Everstand) with his brothers, Don and Randy. Jim remains a true inspiration to us all, and he is dearly missed by those who knew him. Proceeds from the Jim Young Memorial Golf Tournament will benefit Everstand’s youth and programs in Mechanicsburg, PA.
The tournament is a Better Ball Scramble with a shotgun start and challenging on-course contests. The outing is open to individual golfers and men’s/women’s/mixed foursomes. Participants may assemble their own foursome or request placement. Registration is limited. Sponsorships and foursomes are encouraged.
Sponsorships opportunities are available! Please click HERE to become a sponsor or e-mail Caitlin Christ, Senior Director of Marketing and Development, at cchrist@everstand.org.
Registration is now open! You can register by clicking HERE. Alternatively, you will receive an invitation in the coming months to register and return payment by mail. Please contact golf@everstand.org if you have any questions at all!
A Bold Step Forward: The Journey Church and The Neighborhood Center Forge Historic Partnership
Matthew Shineman, Director of Communications
In the heart of Harrisburg, a bold new chapter is unfolding. Two long-standing institutions in the city, The Journey Church and The Neighborhood Center, are embarking on an unprecedented strategic partnership that promises to revitalize the 1801 N. 3rd Street property, reinvigorate community life, and build a future of hope and belonging for all.
Read the FULL ARTICLE HERE.
A Ministry of Growth: Honoring the Legacy of Seedling Financial Ministry
For more than a century, a quiet but powerful ministry has been at work in our Conference – helping churches grow, expand, and live out their callings with courage and faith. Seedling Financial Ministry, formerly known as the Loan Fund, has officially concluded its ministry, but its impact lives on in worship spaces, classrooms, pavilions, kitchens, and Family Life Centers across our region.
Read the FULL ARTICLE HERE.
Communications: Making Our Values Visible: The Susquehanna Conference Branding Initiative
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As Director of Communications, I’ve been leading a rebranding initiative designed to reflect our theological identity, shared values, and collective mission more clearly and consistently. This process has not been about reimagining ourselves from scratch, but rather about faithfully expressing what already exists - our identity rooted in Christ, discerned in community, and shaped by our Wesleyan heritage. At its heart, this initiative is about witness.
Wrestling with Words: Faithful Language for a Faithful Purpose
Throughout this journey, I’ve heard some honest concerns about the term “branding.” One colleague put it plainly:
“I hate the words ‘branding’ and ‘brand identity.’ Jesus didn’t care about marketing—he cared about truth, relationships, and transformation.”
I understand the concern - “branding” can sound corporate or manipulative, clashing with the gospel’s call to humility and authenticity. Here’s my “yes, and”: When done with theological integrity, branding can be a form of faithful witness - Spirit-led communication that expresses who we are in Christ and invites others into that journey.
Jesus didn’t use the word “brand,” but he was intentional in how he communicated - through parables, symbols, and relationships. The early Church developed a recognizable identity that helped spread across cultures.
So whether we call it “Expression of Mission” or “Branding,” what we’re really doing is making our values visible - clearly, consistently, and in ways rooted in faith and discipleship.
A Theologically Grounded Identity
Our identity is, first and foremost, rooted in Christ. But it is also shaped in community - discerned through our theology, our context, and our collective call. The rebranding initiative has sought to express that identity with clarity and coherence - not to reinvent our values, but to live into them more fully.
Part of this expression includes naming what makes us distinctly United Methodist. It’s not about being better than other denominations - it’s about being clear. How do we understand grace, community, discipleship, and justice in ways that are uniquely shaped by Wesleyan theology? How do those values guide our ministries and mission?
When used thoughtfully, tools like branding can help us answer those questions. Not in opposition to our witness, but in service of it. Thoughtful communication isn’t a threat to discipleship - it’s part of how we embody it.
An Inclusive and Discernment-Led Process
This rebranding initiative has been deeply collaborative. Rather than a top-down directive, it’s been a journey of listening and dialogue. We’ve gathered insights from:
- Key Staff and Ministry Leaders – to understand how different parts of the Conference perceive our current identity.
- The Missional Cabinet – to ensure alignment with our strategic vision and the needs of our congregations.
- Clergy Focus Groups – to capture on-the-ground perspectives from those leading local churches.
- The Board of Laity – to center the voices of lay leaders who embody our mission in everyday discipleship.
All of this has shaped the development of brand guidelines that are not about control but about coherence. When our communications - from email newsletters to social media posts - share a common tone, style, and look, we build trust and clarity across our connection.
Why Brand Guidelines Matter
While it is mostly an internal tool, our brand guidelines will help us:
- Enhance recognition – so people can easily identify and trust communications from the Conference.
- Support engagement – by creating a consistent and welcoming presence across platforms.
- Reflect our mission – so our materials speak authentically to who we are and what we stand for.
- Evaluate programs – by offering a framework to test whether new initiatives align with our values and identity.
Moving Forward with Integrity
This isn’t about adopting a corporate mindset. It’s about committing to clear, consistent, and faithful communication - so that the mission of the Susquehanna Conference is not just heard, but understood. When we make our values visible, we open the door to deeper connection, more effective ministry, and a more compelling witness to the world.
Together, we’re not just branding—we’re bearing witness. And that makes all the difference.
Read the FULL ARTICLE HERE.
Monday, March 17, 2025
Remembering Our Heritage
Dr. Milton Loyer, Conference Archivist
March – 100 years ago
The 1925 annual session of the Central Pennsylvania Conference of the Evangelical Church was held March 5-9 at First Church in Milton, Northumberland County. Among the resolutions passed was the following: “Whereas, Governor Pinchot has taken such a fearless stand in favor of law enforcement and proposed legislation to make the 18th Amendment effective; Resolved, That we instruct the Secretary of Conference to write to Governor Pinchot commending him for his fearless attitude.” The 18th Amendment prohibited the production, sale or transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States. It was passed in 1919 and repealed in 1933.
The 1897 building in which the 1925 annual session was held was sold in 1929 when the congregation erected its present sanctuary on Lower Market Street and Garfield Avenue. The gymnasium and social hall were added in 1991.
April – 50 years ago
Friday evening April 4, 1975, was a special day for the men and boys of the Central Pennsylvania Conference. In Lewistown, at First UMC, at the annual rally of the Conference United Methodist Men, guest speaker Jimmy Carter – the young, reform-minded Governor of Georgia who pledged that no Georgian should “ever again be deprived of the opportunity for a job, an education, or simple justice because he is poor, rural, black, or not influential” – challenged those in attendance to Christian statesmanship.
On that same evening in Altoona, at Otterbein UMC, the Sixth Annual Pennsylvania United Methodist Church Basketball Tournament began its 22-team, two-weekend event. These highly competitive games, hosted this year by the Central Pennsylvania Conference, began as the State EUB Tournament and continued as such for 17 years before becoming an annual UMC event following the denominational merger.
Friday, March 14, 2025
Staff Update
Michelle has been a trained Volunteer in Mission for 8 years. As SUSUMC VIM Coordinator for the past 6 years, Michelle has passionately promoted and coordinated VIM efforts, including training leaders and participants, throughout SUSUMC and beyond and participated in more than 10 Mission Journeys (in addition to the many before she was trained.)
“I’m grateful for my time here, as I’ve received a lot of support and encouragement,” said Schwartzman. “With the experience here I’ve grown personally and professionally. I will miss my time working within the Susquehanna Conference.”
Thank you Michelle! We wish you all the best and pray for God’s continued work in and through you as you serve through mission engagement.
Summer Camps Previously Held at Greene Hills Now Held at Camp Penn
Previously held at Greene Hills, these camps provide a perfect opportunity for kids to connect with God, enjoy nature, and build lifelong friendships. This year, to make the transition easier for families, transportation will be available from the Huntingdon and Woodbury areas to Camp Penn.
Campers will enjoy all the best parts of summer camp, including delicious meals, fun-filled activities, inspiring worship, and plenty of adventure.
Register at suscrm.org
Camp Connect Mini
June 15-17, Grades 1-3 | Deans: Josh & Angie Tobias
A great introduction to camp, this shorter session allows younger campers to experience the joy of summer camp in a safe and exciting environment.
Cost: $247 (Early Bird: $222)
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Camp Connect
June 15-20, Grades 3-7 | Deans: Josh & Angie Tobias
A full-week adventure packed with outdoor activities, worship, and fun challenges. Third graders can choose between mini-camp or this full-week option.
Cost: $480 (Early Bird: $455)
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Elementary Music & Arts Camp
June 15-21, Grades 2-6 | Dean: Michelle Whitlock
Campers will explore faith through music, theater, and visual arts, concluding with a special performance.
Cost: $515 (Early Bird: $490)
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Youth Musical Theater Camp
June 15-21, Grades 7-12 | Deans: Sara Billman & Jenn Myers
Campers will design sets, create props, and perform Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR! while engaging in games and faith-building activities.
Cost: $525 (Early Bird: $500)
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Register at suscrm.org
Adventure Camps Offered by Camp & Retreat Ministry
This summer, take your love for the outdoors to the next level with Susquehanna Conference Camp & Retreat Ministry adventure camps! Whether you’re paddling through scenic waterways, trying to catch the big one, or conquering your fears while white-water rafting, these camps are designed to challenge, inspire, and create lasting memories. Check out the details below and secure your spot today! Register at suscrm.org
CP Adventures: Potomac River Canoe Trip
May 23-26 | Dean: Sam Richardson
Spend Memorial Day weekend canoeing along the stunning Potomac Water Trail,
enjoying scenic landscapes, peaceful waters, and nights under the stars.
Ages: Adult
Cost: $439 (Early Bird: $414)
Starts: Friday 7:00 pm | Ends: Monday 3:00 pm
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CP Adventures: Canadian Canoe Trip – NEW ADVENTURE CAMP!
May 16-19 & June 27-July 5 | Deans: Josh & Susie Yorks
Explore the untouched beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park on this immersive
canoeing adventure, deepening your connection with nature and faith.
Ages: 16+ without parent, 13+ with parent
Cost: $1000
Starts: Friday 6:00 pm | Ends: Saturday 3:00 pm
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Wesley Forest - Fishing Camp
June 22-27 | Deans: Frank & Mel Bolles
Join this week-long fishing adventure, where campers will explore top fishing spots, improve their angling skills, and enjoy classic camp activities.
Grades: 9-12
Cost: $480
Starts: Sunday 3:00 pm | Ends: Friday 4:00 pm
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Camp Penn - Adrenaline H12 Elementary
July 13-18 | Deans: Becca Swartz & Amber Heberlig
Young adventurers will experience an action-packed week of canoeing, high ropes, hiking, and sleeping under the stars while learning to live out Hebrews 12.
Grades: 3-6
Cost: $575 (Early Bird: $550)
Starts: Sunday 3:00 pm | Ends: Tuesday 3:00 pm
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Camp Penn - Adrenaline H12 – HIGH ADVENTURE CAMP
July 27-August 1 | Deans: Melissa Galla & Susan Yorks
Thrill-seekers will take on white-water rafting, high ropes courses, and outdoor challenges, building confidence and faith through adventure.
Grades: 7-12
Cost: $575 (Early Bird: $550)
Starts: Sunday 3:00 pm | Ends: Friday 3:00 pm
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Register at suscrm.org
New Social Principles and Advocacy Training
By Rev. Ryan Gephart, SUSUMC Peace with Justice Coordinator, Preaching Faith & Justice Fellow
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, fifty-seven people of the Susquehanna Conference came together to learn about our new Social Principles and receive advocacy training at Calvary UMC, Harrisburg, PA. Rev. Dr. Lillian Smith, Freedom Trail (Altoona) District Superintendent, started our day with a sermon reminding us of the call from Micah 6 along with our United Methodist history to justice work. Dr. Smith stated that we need “to remember who we are” as followers of Jesus Christ.
Colleen Moore, director of Peace With Justice at the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS), then led four sessions on various topics throughout the day. The topics included the new Social Principles of The United Methodist Church, Christian Nationalism, Israel/Palestine, Gun Violence Prevention, Advocacy Training, and other issues like Immigration. We participated in various exercises helping us explore the new Social Principles and how we could teach & relate them to our churches. The new Social Principles can be found at www.umcjustice.org and contain an index of topics from “The Community of All Creation” to “The Economic Community” to “The Social Community” to “The Political Community.“
One of the features of the day was building community for justice work. We are looking to build a peace with justice network for the conference using new resources from the General Board of Church & Society. GBCS has just created a new electronic resource for coordinators to be able to equip people faster for justice & advocacy work. Our new network will leverage this resource for justice & advocacy work.
We need to remember from the call of the prophets:
“What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).
If you are interested in joining justice work in our conference, please contact Rev. Ryan Gephart at rgephart@susumc.org or call 814-224-2815.
New Places - New People: Mosaic Community Church, Halifax
Mosaic Community Church, Halifax
River Valley District
Rev. Gary Weaver, Superintendent
The New Places New People award is given to those people who are self-starters, who are visionaries, and who are team builders. Coming out of both COVID and a season of disaffiliation was a confusing time for many of us in the life of the church. Many faith-filled people wandered aimlessly and yet others found their way.
A handful of people in the Halifax area wandered and then found their way, seeking creative connections to their community, to God, and to the individuals around them. Wanting to be connected in a significant way, with inspiration and energy in their heart, they came together.
We have always been, since the beginning, a nomadic people. These people were indeed nomadic and coming together, they found and created a home. Under the connection and support of Calvary United Methodist Church in Harrisburg these nomads made the journey each week to nearby Camp Hebron, that was both home but ultimately temporary. Then, these risk-takers sensed that a time had come to put down roots, so now they meet in an elementary school, where all people are invited to be part of the journey.
As they responded to their changing context, they have been faithful to the opportunities for sharing their faith and those moments of growth with people around them. One of their greatest desires is to continue to be a faith community where people can become who they were created to be, can continue to be followers of Jesus Christ, and know that they are truly welcome no matter who they are.
The simple definition of a mosaic is a decoration made by inlaying small pieces of varied colored material to form a picture or a pattern and indeed that’s what this new place is; an inlaying of individuals who collectively paint a picture of God’s Kingdom here in the Susquehanna Conference.
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
One Matters Award: Fishing Creek Salem UMC, Etters
One Matters Award
Every year, Discipleship Ministries partners with annual conferences by offering the One Matters Award (OMA) to one eligible congregation at each annual conference. At the 2024 Susquehanna Annual Conference, the One Matters Award was given to one church in each of our districts.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, the individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2024:
- Freedom Trail District: Claysburg UMC Charge
- Mountain Valley District: Greater Buffalo Run Valley UMC
- North Central Rivers District: Mehoopany UMC
- Northern Wilds District: Holy Trinity UMC
- River Valley District: Fishing Creek Salem UMC
Fishing Creek Salem UMC, River Valley District
Rev. Gary Weaver, Superintendent
The One Matters Award places a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating a person into the church body, an individual may experience personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world.
With the One Matters Award, we lift up the importance of discipleship and help interpret across the United Methodist connection that each and every soul matters. Every life matters to God, and every life should matter to us.
Of the many worthy recipients, the 2024 [River Valley District] One Matters Award was presented to Fishing Creek Salem United Methodist Church in Etters:
- Whose staff and laity are dedicated to ministry and community connections.
- Whose Profession of Faith numbers increased by 5.
- Whose baptized 11 people since July of 2023 – a far cry from where things were.
- And who celebrated a Confirmation Class of 11 people.
We also celebrate that this York County congregation was one of the first congregations to be designated as a Lighthouse Congregation in the Susquehanna Conference, a faith community geared specifically to welcome and support loyal United Methodists whose churches closed or disaffiliated. They live out a deep commitment to hospitality to help displaced United Methodists heal from the pain of losing their church.
Susquehanna and Upper New York Cabinets Come Together for Missional Collaboration
By Matthew Shineman, Director of Communications
The Susquehanna and Upper New York Conferences of The United Methodist Church have entered an exciting new chapter of shared leadership and mission. Following the decision made by the 2024 General Conference to reduce the allocation of bishops available for assignment for the Northeastern Jurisdiction (NEJ), the two conferences are now under the leadership of one Bishop. This restructuring marks a significant opportunity for deeper collaboration and alignment in ministry.
To begin this new journey, the Missional Cabinets from both conferences came together for a joint retreat held in Williamsport, PA, from January 13th to the 15th. The retreat allowed the joint team to build a strong foundation for the new missional partnership while maintaining the distinct identities of the two conferences.
The retreat focused on several key priorities to enhance the partnership:
- Building relationships and fostering unity;
- Learning about each Conference’s missional context;
- Discovering collaboration opportunities for a more significant impact;
- Exploring new possibilities in shared mission;
- Engaging in shared spiritual formation.
“This retreat was a great opportunity to get to know one another through conversation, worship, and activities,” explained Rev. Dr. Sherri Rood, Dean of the Upper New York Missional Cabinet. “We learned we have a great deal in common and are intrigued by the possibilities before us to be collaborative in ministry.”
The gathering also served as a reminder of the transformative potential of collaboration in ministry. Rev. Dr. Gary Weaver, Dean of the Susquehanna Missional Cabinet, shared that he “sensed the reassurance that as communication continues beyond the Cabinets, shared work will create both better work and a renewed reality that Kingdom work is not designed to be restricted by lines drawn on a map.”
“As the resident Bishop for the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area, I am excited about God’s new work among us,” said Bishop Héctor A. Burgos-Núñez. “I am committed to collaborating effectively and maintaining clear, transparent communication. Our focus will be on how this partnership can enhance our ability to serve with excellence in both conferences for the glory of God.”
As the two conferences continue to walk this path together, Bishop Burgos-Núñez invites the prayers and support of clergy, lay leaders, and congregants alike. “I call on all United Methodists in the Susquehanna-Upper New York Episcopal Area to surround this journey in our individual and communal prayers, asking the Holy Spirit to open our hearts to the God-sized possibilities ahead of us as we collaborate in equipping and resourcing our leaders and congregations to fulfill our shared mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” concluded Bishop Burgos-Núñez.
Grace and blessings as we continue this journey together.
Communications Team Launches New Monthly Series Titled “Living Hope: Faith in Action”
Matthew Shineman, Director of Communications
We are excited to introduce a new monthly series on our website, “Living Hope: Faith in Action.” This inspiring series will showcase the countless ways our congregations and communities are living out their faith and bringing the Good News of Christ to the world.
Each month, we will feature stories from each District of groups who are making a difference - whether through acts of service, innovative ministries, or everyday moments of kindness and compassion. “Living Hope: Faith in Action” will provide a platform to celebrate these powerful expressions of faith and to inspire others to take part in their own unique ways.
Our goal is to foster a sense of connection and shared mission, reminding us all that every effort, big or small, contributes to the greater purpose of sharing God’s love. We invite you to engage with these stories, reflect on how you see faith in action in your own life, and even share your own experiences to encourage others.
Stay tuned each month for new stories that will warm your heart, spark ideas, and deepen your faith journey. Together, let us continue to live out the hope that is found in Christ and make a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Everstand Highlights Human Trafficking Crisis in Annual Report
One of the most compelling features of this year’s report is a special profile on our Regional Navigator and Lotus Programs, which serve survivors and suspected survivors of human trafficking. These programs provide critical support, including safe housing, trauma-informed care, pathways to healing and independence, as well as crucial education to raise awareness within the community.
Human trafficking is a harrowing crisis that disproportionately affects vulnerable youth, especially those in the foster care system who have experienced childhood trauma. Studies reveal that youth with a history of abuse, neglect, or unstable living environments are at a significantly higher risk of being exploited by traffickers. For Everstand, this reality underscores the urgency of our work and deepens our commitment to standing against exploitation in all its forms.
Through the Regional Navigator and Lotus Programs, Everstand offers survivors not only safety but also hope. The programs provide wraparound services that prioritize each individual’s unique needs, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and empowered to reclaim their futures. In the last year alone, these programs have provided life-changing support to dozens of survivors, connecting them to resources, legal advocacy, and opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity.
As we observe Human Trafficking Awareness Month this month, Everstand invites you to join us in standing against the exploitation of children and youth. Together, we can amplify awareness and inspire action to combat human trafficking and support survivors.
On #WearBlueDay, observed annually on January 11th, we encourage our community to wear blue as a symbol of solidarity. By participating and sharing your support on social media, you can help spread the word and stand with us against this devastating issue. Tag us on Facebook (@everstand.social) or Instagram (@everstand_social) and use the hashtag #WearBlueDay to demonstrate your commitment to protecting children and youth from exploitation.
The FY24 Annual Impact Report also includes powerful testimonials from our donors and volunteers, insights into our innovative therapeutic programs, and a look at Everstand’s ongoing efforts to address systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations. We invite you to explore the stories and successes that have defined our year and inspired our vision for the future.
To support our mission and learn more about the impactful work you make possible, visit www.everstand.org. If you’d like to request a hard copy of the FY24 Annual Impact Report—or additional materials such as informational brochures—you can do so easily through our online form at www.everstand.org/supplies.
By working together, we can break the cycle of trauma and exploitation and create a brighter future for all children and youth. Thank you for standing with Everstand as we continue to champion hope, healing, and resilience in the face of profound challenges.
*New name, same great programs! In 2018, The United Methodist Home for Children (UMHC) in Mechanicsburg, PA merged with Board of Child Care. In May of 2024, we began operating under the unifying name of Everstand, which reflects our commitment to standing beside, standing up for, and standing strong with those we serve.
Mission Central Thanks the Churches of The Susquehanna Conference!
Alexis Pigott, Mission Central Director of Development & Communications
From all of us at Mission Central, thank you to the churches of the Susquehanna Conference for being part of our mission! When we called, you answered! Throughout 2024, your generosity enabled us to provide relief and hope to those who needed it most.
Mission Central has been a cornerstone of disaster relief in 2024, coordinating recovery efforts with our partners and churches to provide immediate aid and help communities rebuild. Our disaster response efforts remain one of our most impactful, as we were able to support over 100,205 individuals affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. During a year when weather-related disasters were particularly devastating, we distributed all of the Flood Buckets in our warehouse (over 6,000). Supporters far and wide are helping us replenish our inventory so that we can meet the needs of upcoming disaster victims and continue to send resources to those already affected.
This year, we also hosted our first Gala fundraiser since 2019, our largest event of the year. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of all those who contributed. The evening was filled with inspiring speeches and powerful stories that highlighted Mission Central’s impact. Our live auction energized the room, with attendees bidding generously to support our programs and disaster relief efforts. The silent auction was equally successful, with all items being bid on, thanks to the enthusiasm of our donors and guests. Held at Central Penn College, the event was attended by over 130 supporters dedicated to “Connecting God’s Resources with Human Need.” Thank you for believing in our mission!
As we reflect on the success of our Gala and the support we’ve received throughout 2024, we are filled with gratitude and anticipation for the future. We remain committed to being a source of support for those in need, and with your help, we will continue to make a meaningful impact.
Our Medical Program continues to be one of our most vital services, providing urgent medical equipment to those in need. As demand for this program grows, we are adjusting our medical program operational hours to ensure efficiency. Beginning in January 2025, Medical Program supplies will only be available for pickup on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and must be scheduled in advance.
As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to serving those in greatest need and sharing God’s love to inspire action and support communities around the world. Learn more and discover ways to give at www.missioncentral.org. We look forward to partnering with you in 2025 and beyond.
Thank you!
Emergency Response Team Helps in Augusta, Georgia
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Steve Runyan, ERT
Hurricane Helene impacted the southeast United States from September 24-27, 2024. On Thursday, September 26, Augusta, Georgia received approximately 8-10 inches of rain. In the very early morning hours of Friday, September 27, at approximately 2:30 am, severe winds hit the area. Estimates indicated winds of 100+ miles per hour. The combination of heavy rain soaking the ground and the strong winds resulted in devastation of the community as numerous trees were ripped from the ground, roots and all. Homes were destroyed, as were cars, fences, sheds and everything else to be found in yards and homes.
On December 1, I departed for Augusta with plans to meet up with ERT’s from the Upper New York Conference on December 2. We had housing arranged and provided by Advent Lutheran Church in Augusta. They also provided all our meals. They were a true blessing to our mission.
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On Tuesday, December 3, we started our work. Our arrival was about 10 weeks after the storm, and the devastation observed and the number of people still waiting for any type of assistance was beyond what I can put into words.
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I operated a chainsaw, along with one of the Upper New York ERT’s. We cut any small trees and brush as well as limbing the very large trees that were downed. All material was then transported out to the curb, which was not always a simple feat.
We worked a typical ERT schedule…3 days. We took a day off to rest and recuperate a little, and then worked a second rotation.
We worked at the homes of 10 residents. They were among those most in need and awaiting help. A single mother with 7 foster children, a 73-year-old man with lung cancer, a woman with a disabled daughter in a wheelchair, a man confined to a wheelchair, a widow...the list goes on.
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The work was hard, but the looks of hope and thanks from the homeowners when we finished made it worth the sore muscles. Most of the properties we worked at, we did not finish the job…the trees were simply too big for us to deal with. We cleaned up all the small stuff and prepped the big trees for follow-on teams that were coming with heavy equipment.
It’s not what you do, it’s who you serve!
Rev. Jason Schwartzman
For the past 17 years, I have been proud to lead a team to McCurdy Ministries Community Center in New Mexico. What started out as a one-off trip for a youth group in York has become one of my favorite weeks of the year.
Last year, in collaboration with the Young People’s Ministry Council (YPMC) we brought 22 people (11 adults and 11 youth/young adults) from all over the Susquehanna Conference. The week quickly became one of their favorite weeks too.
But what is it? What is so magical about McCurdy? Of course, we can talk about the breathtaking scenery that exists in Northern New Mexico. We can talk about the architecture of Santa Fe and the relentless charm of Taos. But that’s not what makes it our favorite week. It’s not our favorite week because of the projects we get to do either. Can anyone really say that they love to pull weeds in the unforgiving New Mexico sun at the start of the hottest month of the year? I doubt it.
What makes it our favorite week is not what we do, it’s who we serve. McCurdy week is our favorite week because of the relentless mission that this place carries. We were fortunate enough to spend some time with Tiffany, the executive director of McCurdy Ministries. Her vision and passion for McCurdy is contagious! She sees possibilities and she articulates an irresistible vision for the valley. We couldn’t wait to be a tiny part of that incredible plan! We had a chance to spend some time with Manny on this trip. His talent is over-the-top. This man can do anything at all! But his talent is dwarfed by the size of his heart. We couldn’t wait to help Manny do everything he needed to do to make the campus look great. Why? Because we were all-in. And why were we all-in? Because of the passion that exists for this place, from those who work there.
I have no doubt that the people who work at McCurdy are talented enough to make a lot more money somewhere else. They could be construction supervisors, or they could be the CEO of a fancy company. Instead, they give their lives to the mission…they pour out their professional lives to try to give others a fair shot. The way they live out their faith is more than inspiring. It is a practical example of John Wesley’s call to “Do good…in all the ways you can.” Their passion has ignited hearts for this place. It has taught us the valuable lesson: It’s not what you do, it’s who you serve. I am so proud to lead a team to McCurdy on behalf of Young People’s Ministry Council and in cooperation with Volunteers in Mission. They have the vision, we have the hands.
I am so passionate about McCurdy that I would love to chat with anyone about leading a trip there! You can reach me by email at jschwartzman@susumc.org. I love this place! It has impacted my faith, my call, and my story. In God’s economy, we give and we give and we give and in the end we all have more. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen that truth in Espanola, New Mexico.
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