In her latest column, Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the Northern Illinois Conference’s Hispanic/Latinx ministries and the importance of celebrating and supporting these communities beyond Hispanic Heritage Month. She calls on United Methodists to move beyond words of appreciation through meaningful acts of solidarity, compassion and advocacy for neighbors facing fear and uncertainty.
Read MoreFor nearly a century, housing has been part of Humboldt Park United Methodist Church’s ministry. Now, through a partnership with LUCHA, the church’s 98-year-old building is being transformed into affordable housing known as La Herencia, ensuring residents can remain in their neighborhood amid growing gentrification. The congregation continues to worship and live out its commitment to inclusive, liberative ministry as it searches for a new space.
Read MoreWith strong conference support of the Emergency Solidarity Fund, $60,000 was distributed in three rounds of assistance to 20 Hispanic/Latinx churches and ministries, helping meet urgent needs such as rent, food, transportation, and legal expenses. This generous response reflects the Northern Illinois Conference’s commitment to stand with immigrant siblings in Christ, embodying hope through compassionate action.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference Hispanic/Latinx community celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 18 with a virtual gathering centered on the theme “Pilgrim People Under God’s Grace.” Though separated by distance, participants experienced deep connection through worship, prayer, and reflection. Bishop Dan Schwerin spoke on Psalm 133, calling the community to live in unity and shared well-being. The event also featured a presentation from Justice for Our Neighbors’ Claudia Marchan and a heartfelt tribute to the late Rev. Fernando Siaba, honoring his legacy of faith and advocacy.
Read MoreConnection between churches is not optional; it is the witness the world desperately needs. Now is the time to reject individualism and choose community.
Read MoreAbout 120 people gathered at First United Methodist Church in Franklin Park/Movement in the City on Sept. 19 to mourn the death of Silverio Villegas Gonzalez, who was killed by an ICE agent on Sept. 12.
Read More