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Churches Are Faithfully Supporting the Shared Budget

As fall activities begin, churches are entering their busiest financial season with stewardship campaigns, charge conferences, and budget planning. The Northern Illinois Conference celebrates an encouraging increase in apportionment giving compared to last year and hopes to reach 85% by year’s end. To support local finance committees, NIC is providing updated 2026 figures, stewardship resources, and a series of helpful webinars and recorded trainings.

HealthFlex 2026 Rates Now Available

Churches and clergy may start preparing now for the 2026 health insurance plan for clergy. Next year’s premium rates are now available.

Risk Management & Ministry Protection

Elizabeth "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.

New Retirement Plan Coming Jan. 1

Compass, launching Jan. 1, is a new defined contribution retirement plan for eligible UMC clergy, designed to provide flexibility and optimize retirement income. Funded through both church and personal contributions, it includes a flat monthly amount, a percentage of compensation, and matching funds up to 4%. Clergy are encouraged to contribute early to maximize investment growth, matching benefits, and long-term financial security.

Conference Council on Finance and Administration – Updates from Annual Conference

Members of the Northern Illinois Annual Conference approved the 2026 conference budget and a simplified apportionment formula during their June session. The balanced budget reflects no increase from 2025, in recognition of financial challenges facing local churches, and expresses deep appreciation for congregations that faithfully support shared ministry. The new apportionment formula is tiered by church income to ensure fairness and clarity, with additional training to come this fall.

Elizabeth Stahl Named NIC Risk Manager

The Northern Illinois Conference is pleased to welcome Elizabeth Stahl as the conference's new risk manager. She begins her new role on June 2.

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