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United Voices for Children Celebrates Advocates

United Voices for Children brought advocates, church leaders and community partners together for its annual Raising Our Voices event on Sept. 24 at Grace UMC in Rockford, focusing on youth mental health, bullying and creating supportive communities for children. The gathering also recognized three United Methodist advocates for their outstanding service to children and youth, while inviting congregations to continue supporting the work through prayer, financial gifts and advocacy.

History & Archives Convocation: Circuit Preachers, Slavery, and Cherished Sanctuaries

More than two dozen United Methodists from six conferences explored the region’s Methodist history during an Oct. 7 tour through Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin as part of the North Central Jurisdiction’s Annual History & Archives Convocation. Participants visited historic churches and learned about early Methodist worship, the complex history of slavery and abolition, and the congregations that have preserved their heritage for generations.

Showing Appreciation for Pastors Throughout October

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, an opportunity to recognize the pastors and clergy who serve congregations and communities throughout the year. From writing a personal note and praying for your pastor to sharing ministry responsibilities and encouraging rest, discover meaningful ways to show appreciation throughout the month.

Reimagining Church: Making Room for Belief

In this column, Rev. Christian Coon reflects on the importance of making space in the church for both doubt and belief. Drawing on the idea that the Holy Spirit is actively at work among us, he encourages churches to trust that God is doing something new and to live with the expectation that we can be part of it.

Standing Together: Churches Across NIC Turn Faith into Action

More than 18 United Methodist churches across the Northern Illinois Conference turned faith into action on Sept. 13, gathering for prayer, vigils, rallies, marches and other public witnesses in support of immigrants. Though each community’s witness looked different, together they demonstrated the connectional church’s commitment to the dignity, worth and rights of immigrants.

Putting Faith Into Action: Serving Near and Far

Northern Illinois Conference churches put faith into action through summer mission experiences, from local service projects to weeklong trips across the country. While the projects varied, a common thread was the focus on serving others, building relationships, and helping people of all ages discover that faith is something we live out every day.

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