The Messenger -January 2026

Albany United Methodist Church

Rev Bendi Burgin, Pastor

From Rev Bendi’s Desk:

As we enter into 2026, let us remember the Covenant Prayer given to us by John Wesley. If we all would choose to live this prayer, we could do incredible things here in Albany and in the surrounding area. 

For 2026, let us all choose God, choose Jesus above all else. 

The Covenant Prayer

“I am no longer my own, but thine.

Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt.

Put me to doing, put me to suffering.

Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee,

exalted for thee or brought low for thee.

Let me be full, let me be empty.

Let me have all things, let me have nothing.

I freely and heartily yield all things

to thy pleasure and disposal.

And now, O glorious and blessed God,

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it.

And the covenant which I have made on earth,

let it be ratified in heaven. Amen.”

I look forward to serving Christ with you all in the coming year. 

Rev Bendi

Thank you for all the Christmas cards and gifts. I appreciate each and every one of you!

Rev Bendi

Want to know how to be a stronger disciple of Jesus in 2026? 

Use these key verses:

• “Seek first his kingdom” (Matthew 6:33)

• “Commit your works to the Lord” (Proverbs 16:3_

• “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, 

but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20)

• “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 

(Mark 16:15)

• “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” 

(1 Corinthians 10:31)

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