Don’t worry about anything? That’s pretty hard to do these days! In addition to the effects of the pandemic, the economy, and whether the rising momentum against racism will produce change, we all have experienced personal concerns with family, friends, transitions and lost celebrations.
Read MoreThe ReTurn Team’s Plan for returning to our ministries in a safe and healthy way is now available. As the situation surrounding the pandemic has been somewhat fluid, we expect to adjust the Plan periodically as new information surfaces and new developments occur.
Read MoreI hope you’ve learned one thing about me after these almost eight years: I love to study the Scriptures. I’m always amazed at how different historic events, as well as personal experiences, bring new eyes, if you will, to understanding them. During the pandemic, and now as we begin to imagine what life will be like when we are no longer sheltering in place as individuals, families, and congregations, my attention turned to a particular book that has not been my favorite: Leviticus!
Read MoreAs the first cases of COVID-19 were becoming widespread in Illinois, the need for protective masks became more urgent. With the new order requiring Illinoisans over age two to wear a face mask in public starting May 1, the need is even greater. Volunteers at many NIC churches are busy working to cover the need by firing up their sewing machines and making handmade masks.
Read MoreThe bars and restaurants have been closed for weeks now. I’ve noticed the last couple of weeks, however, that some of them are doing renovation: pulling out all the glassware, removing the tables and chairs, working on light fixtures, upgrading décor, and often pulling up old flooring in order to put down new flooring. These are things they can’t do easily when they have customers coming and going all day and night long. This renovation also gives me hope that they expect to re-open after people can go back to bars and restaurants!
Read MoreThe United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is expanding its efforts in the fight against the novel coronavirus and the disease it causes, COVID-19. UMCOR has launched a giving campaign, “Sheltering in Love,” to assist vulnerable communities in the United States and around the world.
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