About 700 clergy and lay members of the Northern Illinois Annual Conference met in session from June 9 to 11, 2025, in Schaumburg, Ill., to explore the theme “Grace is Sufficient” as they worshiped, heard inspiring sermons and Bible study, and passed legislation to further the conference mission and ministry.
Read MoreRead the final actions that Annual Conference members took on legislation during their June 9-11, 2025, gathering.
Read MoreBishop Schwerin noted that in these days, churches should experiment with new ministry ideas--even if they end in failure. Resourcing, connectionalism, and upholding the call to love our neighbors are foundational to these efforts.
Read More"When you are willing to take Jesus's hand, all heaven breaks loose," Bishop Karen Oliveto said in her sermon during the Celebration of Ministry Service on June 9.
Read MoreAnnual Conference session members and family and friends joyfully supported clergy and lay ministries recognized at the Celebration of Ministry on June 9.
Read MoreThis June, Annual Conference voting members will consider four constitutional amendments approved by General Conference. These amendments seek to promote equity and inclusion across the denomination by establishing equal regional governance worldwide, explicitly affirming membership eligibility regardless of gender or ability, reinforcing a strong stance against racism and white supremacy, and clarifying clergy voting rights based on education. Together, these changes aim to shape a more just and globally connected United Methodist Church.
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