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UMC Bishops Condemn Proposed Plan for Livestreamed Execution

In a pastoral letter to United Methodists around the world, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., writing on behalf of the Council of Bishops, opposes plans to livestream the execution of the man responsible for the 2009 Fort Hood shootings. The letter calls on Christians to reject vengeance and the public spectacle of death, uphold the dignity of every human life, and stand against the scapegoating of religious minorities and migrants. It urges U.S. leaders to end plans for the livestreamed execution and invites congregations worldwide to pray for victims, survivors, and all those affected by violence.

School of Leadership Focuses on Innovation and Connection

More than 250 clergy from Wisconsin and Northern Illinois gathered at Green Lake for three days of leadership development, connection and innovation, exploring new ways to lead The United Methodist Church into the future.

From our Bishop: Celebrating Hispanic/Latine Heritage and Praying for National Unity on Race

In his reflection for Hispanic Heritage Month, Bishop Daniel Schwerin calls United Methodists to celebrate the faith, resilience and leadership of Hispanic/Latinx congregations while confronting the realities of racism and the challenges facing immigrant communities. He encourages churches to pray, build relationships across differences, support immigrant neighbors and respond with genuine love.

Staff Changes in the Northern Illinois Conference

A handful of staff members are voluntarily leaving their roles. As the conference bids them farewell, it is seeking applicants for the positions now available.

From The Bishop Leads Us Not Into Temptation

From the Bishop: Lead Us Not Into Temptation

As the nation's president talks about sending the National Guard and Immigration and Customs Enforcement troops to Chicago, Bishop Dan Schwerin urges United Methodists to return often to the Lord's Prayer and its plea to bring in God's kingdom.

2026 Will Be a Year of Hope

Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is needed for our leadership in this moment?

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