The Value of Pastoral Renewal Leave
Rev. Matthew Smith recently returned from a renewal leave. He explains that it is more than a vacation; it is a time to deepen one's relationship with God.
Posted: November 13 2025 at 08:00 AM
Author: Lisa Smith, NIC Communications Specialist
Rev. Jane Eesley listens to Meryem Ray
Over a shared meal and meaningful conversation, United Methodists and Muslims came together in a spirit of unity to explore what it means to live as peacemakers in today’s world. The gathering took place on Nov. 11 at Journey of Hope UMC in Elgin under the theme “United in Solidarity and Peace.”
The evening highlighted the struggles and resilience of immigrants in local communities while reaffirming a shared call to seek peace and justice in both the U.S. and Gaza. Coordinated by the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church and the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, this series of twice-yearly gatherings is in its third year since resuming after COVID-19.
“This dinner serves as an important platform to raise a shared voice for peace in response to the challenges our society and world face,” said Rev. Hyewon Sophia Hyon, chair of NIC's Committee on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns.
The event builds on a longstanding commitment made on April 6, 2006, by Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, then NIC's resident bishop, and Abdul Malik Mujahid, CIOGC chairman.
“Justice is not bound by creed,” said Dr. Abdulghani Hamadeh in his welcome. “Mercy is not limited by faith.”
A catered halal Middle Eastern meal from Shawarma Stop in Elgin further enriched the fellowship, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for dialogue and connection.
In a heartbreaking keynote speech, Claudia Marchan, executive director of Immigration Law and Justice of Northern Illinois, shared updates on their ongoing work supporting the immigrant community.
“The world is waiting for us to act more than ever,” said Imam Hassan Mostafa Aly, director of Humanitarian Faith Initiative at MedGlobal, in his keynote speech. “Peace must begin with the faithful.”
After the keynote addresses, participants engaged in table discussions. Many emphasized the need for action to accompany prayers and dialogue.
The evening concluded with inspiring remarks and shared calls to action. “Our coming together is not symbolic; it is strategic,” said Zulfie Khan, CIOGC's Interfaith Committee chairman.
“In these terrible times, we are called to live by the best of our faiths: justice and love,” added Rev. Jane Eesley.
“Gatherings like this remind us that building relationships deepens our understanding and shared commitment to peace and justice,” commented Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer, NIC's director of Connectional Ministries.
