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Location: Multiple locations across Illinois
Save the date for the NIC CORR Illinois Pilgrimage
Save the date for the NIC CORR Illinois Pilgrimage
June 25-28, 2026
His face and name are on our license plates, but what does it mean to be United Methodists living in the "Land of Lincoln"?
Join the NIC CORR Pilgrimage Committee for a three-day, two-night tour through Illinois, where we will embark on a spiritual pilgrimage that confronts the deep-seated ironies of Illinois history. It is a journey that moves beyond simply venerating the state's most famous son to acknowledging how the state's celebrated image stands in contrast to its racial history. United Methodists are invited to intentionally engage in Illinois’ complex past, both revered and reviled, recognizing that genuine reconciliation and healing require an honest reckoning.
With such reckoning, the church, as the body of Christ in the world can love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in advancing justice, equity, and compassion within our local community and beyond.
The journey begins on June 25 with an optional pre-tour of Chicago. Attendees will see various historical landmarks within the city, setting the stage for the days to follow.
The main expedition officially kicks off the following day. Starting in at North Central College in Naperville, the tour will head west toward Ottawa and stop at a Lincoln-Douglas debate site there. Then it will turn south to the El Paso Voting Rights Museum, eventually arriving in Springfield for dinner and an overnight stay.
On June 27, the pilgrimage will focus on the state capital’s deep ties to Abraham Lincoln. Unlike standard tours, this visit will specifically examine Lincoln’s policies and their impact on Black and Indigenous people. The tour will continue to the Collinsville area for the evening.
The final day, June 28, will be a time for both reflection and discovery.
- Morning: The group will participate in a worship service in East St. Louis, followed by a community lunch.
- Afternoon: Pilgrims will visit to the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site to explore the indigenous history of the region.
- Evening: The journey will conclude with a return trip to the Naperville area.
Additional details will be forthcoming.