From references of Superman, Xbox and even 80s pop singer Rick Astley, the first-ever Northern Illinois Conference social media meme contest was a hit. Nine youth and young adults submitted their original memes for the “What does Jesus Meme to Me?” contest held this spring.
Read MoreIn response to the coronavirus pandemic and official restrictions regarding in-person gatherings, many NIC congregations and pastors have wholeheartedly continued their worship services, Bible studies, devotions, and/or prayer ministries in some form of online setting. While many are weighing the pros and cons of conducting an online confirmation service, some congregations have moved forward in creative “virtual” ways to honor this important rite of passage.
Read MoreLast Friday Governor Pritzker ordered us to “stay at home,” or as it’s more commonly called, "shelter in place." Sheltering in place is for our own health and safety as well as for the health and safety of others. But remember we have another shelter: the shelter that comes from God.
Read MoreAt a time when over 36% of 18-24 year-olds describe their religion as “nothing in particular” and seem unsure about living out their faith within the bounds of mainline churches, an exciting new ministry has emerged. The Inclusive Collective (IC - formerly Agape House), our NIC campus ministry partner at the University of Illinois at Chicago (and now also at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb), has forged a new path by doing ministry in experimental and imaginative ways.
Read MoreThis autumn, Bethany Methodist began a new chapter in their 130-year mission with the move of the corporate offices to Glenview and the appointment of Rev. Dr. Sunny Lopez as the seventh President and CEO of the organization.
Read MoreFor the last three years, under the aegis of the theme Skin in The Game, United Voices for Children (UVC) has succeeded in creating courageous space and facilitating critical conversations on how race—on both a systemic and individual basis—affects the ways that children and families are served. This year’s workshop held on September 14 and entitled “Delving Deeper; Race and Well-Being,” convened a diverse group of more than 50 people including, faith leaders, educators and social workers who serve children and their families.
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