Conference Co-Lay Leader Eugene reflects on the Laity Sunday theme "Together by Grace," grounded in Ephesians 3:14-21. He calls on laypeople to embrace their role as “exhorters” who encourage, uplift, and lead with grace in a world marked by division.
Read MoreRev. Lindsey Joyce shares that the NIC Office of Congregational Development will explore expanding cooperative parish ministry across the conference. Drawing from her experience co-founding the Northside Co-op, she highlights the transformative power of collaborative ministry to stabilize churches, spark innovation, and trust the Holy Spirit’s movement. She invites others to join in this work of connection, revival, and courageous reimagining.
Read MoreElizabeth "Beth" Stahl, the new NIC Risk Manager, brings over 20 years of insurance and financial experience along with a lifelong connection to the United Methodist Church. She is eager to partner with local churches to strengthen risk management practices through collaboration, education, and proactive planning. With a focus on safety, property maintenance, and Safe Sanctuaries, Beth invites congregations to reach out as she works to build a strong foundation that supports and protects their ministries.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference recognized five churches with One Matters Awards. The United Methodist Church’s Discipleship Ministries created this award in 2015 to encourage congregations that in the previous year increased baptisms and professions of faith from zero to at least one. Wanting to recognize more churches, NIC makes four additional awards.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference’s HEAL Well initiative addresses food insecurity and environmental sustainability by uniting faith communities and local partners in urban gardening and tree planting. With a mission to foster trust and care for God’s creation, HEAL Well engages volunteers, including high school students, to maintain community gardens and expand green spaces in northern Illinois. The initiative collaborates with various organizations to build relationships, educate communities, and create lasting environmental and social impact.
Read MoreRev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the Northern Illinois Conference’s commitment to diversity and unity, emphasizing that differences are gifts that enrich and strengthen the church. In a time of societal division and challenges for immigrant communities, she calls on United Methodists to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and voices for love and justice. By embracing diversity and striving for unity, the church can create a more inclusive and compassionate community that reflects God’s image.
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