On behalf of the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference, I greet you in the name of our Risen Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ!  

Children enjoying VBS at Scales Mound UMC.

The school year has begun and we are extending prayers for a productive learning year where God’s precious little ones will not experience violence, hunger, or trauma. Let us imagine and pray for a school year that does not include a single shooting and where our youth can concentrate on being children and learning—about the history of all people, despite the many books that continue to be banned. Never was the time greater than now for us to understand that we are all in this together. How very helpful it would be to learn to appreciate (and try to understand) our cultural differences. We absolutely have more in common than that which tends to separate us.

The greatest thing we have in common is the love and grace that Christ continues showers upon us. Our children and young adults are our future, so let us keep them in continuous prayer. Matt. 19:13-14 (NIV) says, “when the people brought the little children to Jesus to lay hands on and pray for them; the disciples rebuked them.” But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Yes, Jesus loves the little children; all God’s children of the world; red and yellow, black and white; they are all precious in his sight (song by Frick-Root and Woolston). Sending up prayers and spreading love on behalf of our precious little ones. May they go with Christ and be well, as we embrace our unique cultural differences.   

Amen!