The Conference Council on Finance and Administration outlines a proposed new apportionment formula for churches, based on income tiers to promote fairness and simplicity. The formula recommends that churches contribute 8%, 10%, or 12% of their income depending on their income level. Designed to ensure greater equity and reflect churches’ financial capacity, this new approach aims to replace past limitations that led to disparities.
Read MoreThe 2024 apportionment contributions reflect a positive trend in giving across the Northern Illinois Conference. Churches contributed $4,110,820 toward conference apportionments (79% of the total) and $814,994 toward the General Church apportionment (46% of the total), both showing steady improvement from previous years. More churches increased their giving, demonstrating a commitment to our connectional ministry, but continued growth is needed to fully support the mission of the church.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference and the Conference Global Board of Ministries celebrate the churches that went the extra mile as 100% Mission Links supporters. In 2024, NIC churches contributed over $440,000 in second-mile giving and more than $70,000 in Special Sunday offerings, supporting mission projects worldwide. Through Mission Links, churches empower communities by funding missionaries, disaster relief, education, health services, and more, demonstrating the United Methodist commitment to transformative ministry.
Read MoreBeing United Methodist means being connectional, with local churches working together through apportionments to support the Northern Illinois Conference and the global UMC. Apportionments fund critical ministries, including leadership development, church revitalization, and global mission efforts, strengthening local and global ministries. Churches paying 100% of their apportionments help ensure vibrant congregations, new disciples, and opportunities to transform the world through shared mission and generosity.
Read MoreCate Whitcomb reflects on 30 years of membership at First United Methodist Church of Evanston, where themes of faith, community, and mission have guided her family’s giving. She views their pledge as a joyful commitment to support church staff, worship, music, and global mission work, fostering God’s love in the world.
Read MoreThere are many reasons and motivations for “why” people give to churches and charities. Humans are made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26), so we should do more than wonder about this identity we have, being made in God’s image as a giver. We should exercise our souls by actually giving, so that we build up our spiritual health by practicing God’s creative purposes as givers.
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