Skip to Main Content

News

Empathy Hands Image

From our Bishop: Love Each Other Like Members of Your Family

Bishop Schwerin calls on United Methodists to reclaim the deep Christian call to love our neighbors—especially those who are suffering. Reflecting on lessons of empathy from parenting, he urges compassion for immigrants detained in inhumane conditions and challenges the Church to respond with mercy, not fear. He urges faithful action—through prayer, protest, advocacy, and mercy—as a witness to Christ.

Read More
Uvc Awards Group 1

Nominations open for 2025 UVC Annual Child Advocate Awards

United Voices for Children (UVC) is inviting nominations for its three annual awards. These UVC Awards honor extraordinary volunteer service or advocacy efforts on behalf of children, youth and/or families throughout the Northern Illinois Conference. All United Methodists are encouraged to recognize who is doing this good work in your church or community, then nominate a deserving individual or a group.

Read More
Riotexasfloodcleanupdetail

How to Support Texas Flooding Relief

To support efforts to relieve damage caused by catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country over the Independence Day weekend, individuals may donate through their church to UMCOR U.S. Disaster Response, Advance #901670.

Read More
Flowers Sympathy625x400 2a417 Copy

In Sympathy: Erma Bryan

Mrs. Erma Bryan, the surviving spouse of deceased member Rev. Bill Bryan of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

Read More
Pentecost Serrvice 25 Preach Cmyk

Fourteen Churches Unite for Pentecost worship

On Pentecost Sunday, 14 United Methodist churches from the Prairie North District gathered at Freeport’s historic Oakdale Tabernacle for a powerful worship celebration filled with music, unity, and the Holy Spirit. With clergy and laity leading together, the service lifted up The United Methodist Church’s new vision—love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously—and reminded all present of the Church’s enduring mission. This vibrant gathering was both a testament to connectionalism and a living witness to the Spirit moving among us today.

Read More
Grace Over Fear Cmyk

From Your Bishop: Subvert Fear With Grace

In his latest column, Bishop Schwerin reflects on the legacy of fear-driven policies like the Japanese American internment during World War II, lifting up stories of resilience through art and faith. He challenges us to confront today’s polarization and political violence by embracing grace, supporting immigrant communities, and renewing our commitment to the means of grace. “The only thing that counts,” he reminds us from Galatians 5:6, “is faith working through love.”

Read More
Print