After two years of gathering virtually, the Annual Conference Committee is preparing to bring us back together in person for the 183rd session of the Northern Illinois Annual Conference from June 8-10, 2022. The Conference will return to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center at 1551 N. Thoreau Dr., Schaumburg, Ill. 

While many of us long to be together in fellowship again, the Committee will continue to monitor all state and local health and safety guidelines on large gatherings, including mask-wearing, social distancing and Cook County vaccination requirements.

"The Annual Conference Committee looks forward to being together this year in person, but we will continue to make necessary adjustments and arrangements to make sure that all participants feel safe and protected," said Deborah Dangerfield, Chair of the Annual Conference Committee.

Bishop John L. Hopkins has chosen a two-year theme focusing on the core elements of our Christian faith – the sacraments. This year's theme is "Connected in Christ: Come to the Water" and 2023's is “Connected in Christ: Come to the Table."

"For 2022, the core of our connection to one another is through our baptism. Baptism is our primary entry point as individuals into the Christian community universal. Water symbolizes this action and becomes a powerful visual for the work of living in Christ," said Hopkins. “Choosing the sacraments as our focal point draws us into community, connects us to our roots and calls us into our mission.”

The Conference will open with the Memorial Service on June 8 and close with the Ordination Service on June 10. The AC worship committee is also planning a retirement service and Bible study. The conference will be longer this year to include mandated legislative sections which were passed by a resolution in 2021. The Clergy Session will be held May 24.

The Committee has also determined due to limitations brought on by the pandemic and concern for everyone’s health, no on-site childcare will be offered this year. Clergy and lay members are encouraged to begin thinking of alternative plans for their children. If lay members feel they can no longer participate, they should notify their pastor so they can either send the alternate lay member or elect someone new. 

Online registration will open in April 4. Look for updates and details in the coming months through the Conference eNews and website at umcnic.org/AC2022.