Lunch-and-Learn Sessions

Back by popular demand, the Lunch-and-Learn sessions offer a chance to enjoy a meal while connecting with others around meaningful topics in mission and ministry.

On Monday, June 15 from noon to 1:30 p.m., all registered participants will receive a box lunch and choose a sessions highlighting a particular ministry area or emerging topic within the conference. (Box lunches are available for guests as well, but they will need to register.)

Lunch-and-Learn options:

• Practicing Hope, Living Mission: Sponsored by the NIC Board of Global Ministries
  Experience what it means to live out our faith through global mission. This session will celebrate the ways individuals and congregations across the conference are embodying hope through their commitment to mission and connectional giving. Participants will hear from two inspiring speakers. Rev. Jennifer Huff, Mission Engagement Liaison for the North Central Jurisdiction, will share insights into the broader work of Global Ministries and how our conference connects to mission efforts around the world. Rev. Jane Eesley will offer a compelling perspective from her ministry in the Holy Land, reflecting on her work at the Methodist Liaison Office in Jerusalem. The Mission Links award winners will be recognized for their outstanding generosity and engagement including the John Wesley Award, honoring the church with the highest Mission Links giving per member, and the Otterbein Award, recognizing the top individual Mission Links giver.
• Practicing Hope as an Anti-Racist Christian: Sponsored by the NIC Commission on Religion and Race
  Encounter faithful anti-racism as a lived expression of Christian hope. Grounded in our call to love our neighbors and pursue justice, the conversation will connect theological reflection with practical action. Participants will hear from conference project leaders who will share current initiatives, real-life experiences, and opportunities for engagement. Through table conversations and guided discussion, attendees will be invited to reflect, share insights, and offer input on how this work can continue to grow across the conference. Together, we will consider how anti-racism is not only a commitment but an ongoing practice of faith, equipping participants with both inspiration and tangible next steps for living out this call in their local contexts.
• Practicing Hope with Discipleship: Sponsored by the NIC Committee on Discipleship and Formation 
  Explore how discipleship and spiritual formation are essential practices for living into hope in today’s world. The conversation will highlight how intentional faith development can nurture resilient, Christ-centered communities. Attendees will learn about the ongoing work of the Committee on Discipleship and Spiritual Formation, including key initiatives, partnerships, and opportunities for engagement across the conference. The session will introduce a variety of practical resources designed to support disciple-making in local churches, from small group models and spiritual practices to leadership development and faith formation tools for all ages. Through shared learning and reflection, participants will be encouraged to consider how these resources can be adapted and applied in their own ministry contexts.
• Roots, Resilience, and the Road Ahead: Sponsored by Chicago Black Methodist for Church Renewal
  Reflect on the legacy and future of Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR), an organization rooted in a longstanding commitment to justice, inclusion, and spiritual leadership since the formation of The United Methodist Church in 1968. Grounded in its mission to raise up prophetic leaders, advocate for the unique needs of Black communities, and strengthen congregations, BMCR continues to call the church toward repentance, renewal, and faithful witness. Celebrate this rich history while engaging in a forward-looking conversation about BMCR’s next chapter. Centered on the theme “Roots, Resilience, and the Road Ahead,” the session will connect the organization’s storied past with present-day experiences and the evolving needs of the church. Participants will be invited to reflect on issues of racial equity, leadership development, and ministry relevance in today’s context, while exploring new possibilities for impact and engagement. This session offers space for learning, connection, and inspiration as we consider how BMCR’s legacy continues to shape a hopeful and faithful future.
• Fresh Expressions, Sharing the Gift of Community in a Lonely World: Sponsored by the NIC Office of Congregational Development

  In a time when many experience deep loneliness and disconnection, God is at work through the Fresh Expressions movement to create meaningful, Christ-centered community in new and accessible ways. We are delighted to have Michael Beck, the Director of Fresh Expressions for The United Methodist Church, as our guest presenter. Michael will explore how congregations can cultivate Fresh Expressions, forming inclusive communities that meet people where they are—in everyday spaces and shared interests. Rooted in relationship and hospitality, Fresh Expressions offer opportunities to connect with those who may not find their way into traditional church settings. Participants will learn how clergy and laity can partner together to bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern culture, bringing communal healing to a changing world.

• Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

For any questions, please contact Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer, Director of Connectional Ministry.

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General food options at the hotel

• Food Cart (outside of our conference center area): Coffee, Drinks, Sandwiches and Snacks
  Sunday: 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  Monday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• RENdezvous Cafe (Starbucks): Breakfast, Lunch
  (6:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
• Gather Lounge: Dinner
  (4 p.m. - Midnight)
• Schaumburg Public House: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  (6:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. (10 p.m. on Sunday)

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Organized Meals

Conference-related organizations and groups are encouraged to hold group meals at the hotel. Plated meals, buffet, and reception style food station options are available. Registration for meals will be included in regular registration. Conference-related organizations and groups are encouraged to hold their group meals at the hotel. Plated meals, buffet, and reception style food station options are available. For more information, please contact Ariel Alonso, conference events planner.

Some organizations will be hosting on-site group meals; others will be hosting off-site meals.
Please check with your organization regarding meals.

Please note: Meals marked with an *  are INVITE ONLY. Meals marked with an ^  needed prior registration.

Sunday, June 14

• 8:30 p.m.: Post Celebration of Ministry Reception - hosted on-site in Schaumburg E-H
  All are welcome to celebrate those honored at the Celebration of Ministry.

Monday, June 15

• 8 a.m.: ^ Multi-cultural/Cross-Cultural/Cross-Racial Clergy Breakfast - hosted on-site.
• Noon: ^ Lunch-and-Learns (see above)

Tuesday, June 16

• Noon: * Extension Ministries Lunch  - hosted on-site.
• Noon: * Midwest Methodist Foundation Lunch - hosted on-site.
• Noon: * Retirement Lunch  - hosted on-site.

If groups wish to share information about their meal on this page, they can contact Lisa Smith for coordination.

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