2026 Will Be a Year of Hope
Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is nee…
The Older Adult Ministries Council works to ensure the quality of life for older adults by equipping local church ministries with training; providing information, support and motivation, and leadership; and present opportunities for life enrichment and spiritual growth.
What we can do for you
The fact is that older adults are the fastest growing population in the church. OAM Council is finding ways and means to share with pastors and members and caregiving institutions to serve the needs of older adults, those that continue to enjoy church fellowship and those that are no longer physically able. The council has tapped the resources of General Board of Discipleship and church-related elder care institutions to assist in this endeavor. With the blessing of NIC, we have the OAM Initiative to make things happen, to unleash the power of older adults, in the next several months. Provide assistance to help your church celebrate and honor older adults in your congregation during May, which is Older Adult Ministries Month. Provide resources for Golden Cross Sunday.
What we are doing now
Equipping local ministries and potential leaders. Identifying district representatives and other individuals for the equipping process: training opportunities by the general church and denomination experts on the ministry, provide necessary materials, follow-up. The council is intentional in securing regional representation. We are working to strengthen relationships with NIC-related institutions (retirement homes, etc.) that serve older adults.
Co-Chairs: Pong Javier abjavierjr@aol.com and Jim Barry texbarry1@yahoo.com
Resources
Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is nee…
Rev. Lora Zink, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.
Mrs. Freda Whittle, surviving spouse of Rev. Paul Whittle Jr., a deceased member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on April 16, 2025.
This summer, churches across the conference brought vacation Bible school to life, each one putting its own unique spin on the beloved tradition. From creative scheduling and special…