"I believe hope is a practice of God’s creative freedom at play in human creativity and freedom," says Bishop Dan Schwerin. "God’s word is always breaking in for good. We as the church may be smaller than we once were, but I believe we are not too small to steward the moral imagination of Jesus."
Read MoreErie UMC volunteers recently sewed 165 cheerful pillowcases for children in foster care, partnering with Raising Hope and My GEAR Outreach. The effort blended creativity, compassion, and community as people stitched together messages of comfort and hope. With more than 1,000 pillowcases made since 2019, the church continues to offer a tangible reminder that every child is loved and valued.
Read MoreMr. Vi Tran, spouse of Rev. Brian Gilbert of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the age of 37.
Read MoreThe NIC delegates to the 2020/2024 General Conference celebrate the ratification of the four constitutional amendments that affirm the UMC as a fully inclusive church.
Read MoreMethodist and Muslim leaders gathered at Journey of Hope UMC in Elgin for an evening of shared faith, dialogue, and fellowship under the theme “United in Solidarity and Peace.” The event highlighted immigrant experiences and reaffirmed the groups’ shared commitment to pursuing peace and justice through prayer, action, and partnership.
Read MorePastors and lay members from small-town and rural churches gathered at Grace UMC in Dixon for the annual Town and Rural Church Festival, themed “Glimpses of God’s Grace.” The event celebrated 29 churches that received PACK and Keagy Grants to support projects like children’s programs, food pantries, senior activities, and community outreach.
Read More