In his latest column, NIC Co-Lay Leader Eugene Williams reflects on the many challenges and uncertainties of this summer and the temptation to lose hope. He celebrates the “peculiar people” who continue to live out Christ’s mission through love, compassion, service, justice, and care for neighbors near and far. He encourages us to remain faithful, plant seeds for those who will come after us, and complete the mission.
Read MoreLay Servant Ministries is entering a new season of leadership as Kim Emery begins serving as director of the Conference Committee, following 10 years of leadership by Peggy Hansen. Lay Servant Ministries includes three levels including Certified Lay Servant, Certified Lay Speaker, and Certified Lay Minister. There are upcoming Fall Lay Academy training opportunities and a Lay Minister class, planned for spring 2027.
Read MoreEugene 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.
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