Choosing Connection Over Division
United Methodists and Muslim neighbors gathered Oct. 13 at Barrington United Methodist Church for the annual Methodist-Muslim Dinner, themed “Hope in Action: Standing Together Against Hate and…
Posted: October 16 2026 at 05:44 PM
The Northern Illinois Conference Committee on Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships is offering financial assistance to NIC members attending the 2026 National Workshop on Christian Unity. Clergy, laity and seminary students are eligible for registration reimbursement, with $2,300 available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants are encouraged to register early to take advantage of this limited funding.
This year’s workshop will be held at the Lutheran Center in Chicago from Tuesday evening, Nov. 17, through Thursday evening, Nov. 19. The program continues a series focused on networking and practical ecumenism, with an intentional emphasis on dialogue. Bishop Dan Schwerin will deliver the keynote address Tuesday evening.
Individual networks will hold their meetings on Tuesday, Nov. 17, with the United Methodist Ecumenical and Interreligious Training Network meeting from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those unable to attend the full three-day workshop are welcome to participate on Tuesday, offering an opportunity to connect with United Methodists from across the connection and take part in network discussions.
Registration and Financial Assistance
Registration fees vary by participant. Full workshop registration is $350 before Oct. 26, increasing to $375 after that date. First-time attendees pay $325, while student and seminarian registration is $150. The online registration form registers participants for both the National Workshop and the UMEIT Network portions of the workshop.
CCUIR will reimburse eligible NIC participants for the remaining registration cost after any UMEIT scholarship has been applied. Reimbursement can range from $100 to $350, depending on the participant’s registration category and applicable scholarship. To request assistance, email Rev. Sophia Carno and submit a copy of the registration receipt.
Lodging and Additional Information
Group hotel rates are available through Oct. 26. Participants should make reservations directly with SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago O’Hare.
For the complete schedule, event details and additional information, visit nwcu2026.org.