Now is a time for unity in the faith community. It is not a time separate into denominational divisions and sectarian separatism. It is essential for members of the faith community to work together with the outcome being more than a “photo-op or sound bite.” We are urging faith community leaders to respond to this historic moment pastorally, prophetically and politically.
Read MoreAs fall settles in, Sunday School and youth ministries ramp up. At the same time, news stories of child abuse in the church remind us that we all need to provide safe space for our children, youth and vulnerable adults. This fall is a good time to refresh Safe Sanctuaries policies and practices in every local church.
Read MoreMore than a hundred people gathered at Epworth United Methodist Church in Elgin on Sept. 8, 2018, to celebrate the many Hispanic/Latinx ministries in the Northern Illinois Conference. The day included testimonies from five different pastors, one from each district, serving Hispanic congregations, workshops, and worship with communion.
Read MoreDelegation members are studying the report from the Commission on The Way Forward and beginning strategy discussions.
Read MoreKids strapped on aprons and put their chefs hats on for a weeklong camp to learn how to cook inside the kitchen at First United Methodist Church in Freeport this summer. This was the first of its kind Kids Culinary Camp at the church which was all hands-on.
Read MoreFor years the Northern Illinois Conference has had a tradition of encouraging local churches to dream beyond their current ministries by offering small grants for new and creative experiments. With the transition to the Annual Conference Shepherding Team in 2017, we have been realigning the Program Ministries of the conference to address today’s realities. This fall we are excited to launch a newly organized granting structure to help our congregations experiment with ministries that are risk-taking and adventurous.
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