2026 Will Be a Year of Hope
Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is nee…
Rev. Gessel Berry Jr., retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away Friday, November 24, 2023. During his ministry he served Vincent; Chicago: Gorham; Highland Park: Bethany; General Board of Pension and Health Benefits; Zion: Memorial; Chicago: Hartzell Memorial; and Evanston: Sherman.
Rev. Berry was 79 years old.
His service is scheduled for December 9, 2023, at St. Mark United Methodist Church, 8441 S. St. Lawrence, Chicago, IL. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the funeral services at 11 a.m.
Clergy are asked to participate in the processional. Please gather to line up at 10:30 a.m. Please wear a white robe (or black if you do not have white) and a red stole.
Messages of condolence can be sent to his wife, Mrs. Sandra Berry:
Mrs. Sandra Berry
611 Martin Lane
Deerfield, IL 60015
Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is nee…
Rev. Lora Zink, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.
Mrs. Freda Whittle, surviving spouse of Rev. Paul Whittle Jr., a deceased member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on April 16, 2025.
This summer, churches across the conference brought vacation Bible school to life, each one putting its own unique spin on the beloved tradition. From creative scheduling and special…