In 2019, the congregation at Irving Park United Methodist Church in Chicago made one of their most difficult decisions in the church’s more than 130-year history. Facing mounting repairs, costly renovations, and dwindling membership, the congregation sold their building on Keeler Avenue and held their final worship in the space last November.
Read MoreAfter 34 years as ChildServ, the Chicago-based child welfare agency officially announced that it has changed its name and visual identity to Kids Above All. The transition, which took effect on June 15, 2020, marked the fifth time in history that the agency has rebranded and marked the culmination of a two-year process to examine how best the organization can expand its impact in and around Chicago. With this transition, the agency retains its 126-year mission to protect, heal and educate children and families so they can build better lives.
Read MoreDon’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 More