Eugene Williams, Northern Illinois Conference co-lay leader, says that to practice hope, we must take brave actions. "Giving up power and extending equity is hard to do; especially when are afraid or hesitant to lead courageously," he says. "We've settled at times just to move parts of our overall agenda forward."
Read MoreFive young adults and youth--"our hope and our future, said co-lay leader Eugene Williams--told the conference lay members what gives them hope and how God works in their lives now. The laity session on June 14 at Northern Illinois Conference featured the insights and testimonies of five youth and young adults. They described where they find hope and how they use their gifts to share hope in Christ with others.
Read MoreKim Emery, CCFA Chairperson, reflects with gratitude on her time in leadership, describing it as a meaningful learning experience shaped by collaboration, change, and faithful service. She encourages laity to step into leadership roles, emphasizing that both lay and clergy are essential to the church’s vitality and growth. Emery also thanks churches for their continued support through apportionments, highlighting their importance in strengthening connectional ministry across the conference.
Read More"Moving Forward with Hope," this year's Laity Convocation held on March 21, featured a presentation on taking risks to help immigrant neighbors, Bishop Schwerin's exhortations on hope, and inspiring testimonies from young adults.
Read MoreAbout 80 people attended Ignite, North Central Jurisdiction's March 13-15 event to help those hearing a call to ministry discover opportunities and consider where God is leading them.
Read MoreIn his column, Eugene Williams greets the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference with a call to make 2026 a “year of hope,” urging United Methodists to live not just hopefully, but hope-fully—full-time and grounded in Christ’s promises. Rooted in Lent and the assurance of Hebrews 13:5, he encourages faithful resilience amid hardship. Williams invites laity to gather for the upcoming Laity Convocation for a morning of learning, connection, and encouragement.
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