Rev. Christian Coon, NIC's director of congregational development, has been attending worship at churches all over our conference for two years. He's found it an eye-opening experience to be a visitor again and offers some observations on how to help newcomers feel welcome.
Read MoreAt this year’s Annual Conference (June 14-16), members passed legislation that directed a task force to conduct feasibility studies to evaluate the current outdoor and retreat ministry and explore steps toward strengthening it. Read about next steps.
Read MoreRev. Christian Coon, the NIC director of congregational development, once thought there might be some yet-to-be-discovered magic program or resource that is going to help the church turn its fortunes around. "I have to be reminded time and again, however, that we already have historical traditions that are sometimes underutilized or forgotten; practices hiding in plain sight," he says. Here are some suggestions.
Read More"Our sacraments are baptism and the Eucharist," Bishop Dan Schwerin says. "They are gifts for pilgrims, a bath and a meal. Surely walking alongside is another ancient embodiment of Jesus." Read about how to engage in honest conversation with the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Read MoreLaypeople are recovering their ministry of caring for those facing health and wellness challenges, thanks to The Caring Congregation training held at Kingswood United Methodist Church in Buffalo Grove, May 8-9.
Read MoreBroadway United Methodist Church is taking practical steps to steward God's good creation. Its creation-care team and committed pastor have been leading the church and community in raising awareness, addressing indoor as well as outdoor emissions, and raising native plants in the church garden.
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