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Gathering in Hope Together

Clergy and lay members will gather June 14–16 in Schaumburg for the Northern Illinois Conference’s 187th Annual Conference, centered on the theme “Practicing Hope.” With inspiring worship, engaging Lunch-and-Learns, a returning mass choir, and supportive childcare, the conference invites participants to deepen connections and explore how hope shapes ministry and mission. Grounded in Romans 5:3–5, the gathering encourages endurance, renewal, and faithful leadership for the future.

Churches Are Faithfully Supporting the Shared Budget

As fall activities begin, churches are entering their busiest financial season with stewardship campaigns, charge conferences, and budget planning. The Northern Illinois Conference celebrates an encouraging increase in apportionment giving compared to last year and hopes to reach 85% by year’s end. To support local finance committees, NIC is providing updated 2026 figures, stewardship resources, and a series of helpful webinars and recorded trainings.

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 needed for our leadership in this moment?

This Life-Changing Journey: God Extends Grace; Let Us Do the Same

In her reflection, Rev. Danita R. Anderson celebrates Annual Conference 2025 and recalls her own ordination journey, now over four decades in ministry. She lifts up the power of God’s grace—not just as something we receive, but as a gift we’re called to extend to others, even in a world that often resists it. Her message is a heartfelt call to live with compassion, humility, and grace every day.

Stronger Together: It Takes a Village!

In her column, Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the spirit of unity and collaboration that made the 2025 Annual Conference a meaningful and inspiring gathering. From worship to legislation to countless acts of service, nearly 800 participants came together to live out what it means to be the body of Christ. She reminds us that it truly takes a village—and we are blessed to be part of this one.

Laity Address: Grace and Connection Strengthen Us

In his laity address at the 2025 Annual Conference, Eugene Williams reminded members that while change—both hopeful and difficult—is inevitable, our connection to God and one another will sustain us. He celebrated growth in attendance and fresh energy in the Conference, while also acknowledging the storms of life and the pain some have long carried. His message was clear: by leaning into grace and trusting in Christ, we can move forward with courage, joy, and hope.

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