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Leading the Laity: Let Us Hope Fully

In 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.

Uncover Our History Through Illinois Pilgrimage in June

The Commissions on Religion and Race of the Northern Illinois and Illinois Great Rivers Conferences are partnering to host a Pilgrimage Journey Through the Heart of Illinois, June 25–28, exploring sites that reveal the state’s complex history of racism and resilience. Beginning with an optional Chicago tour, the pilgrimage will visit key locations including a Lincoln-Douglas debate site, the El Paso Voting Rights Museum, Springfield, East St. Louis, and Cahokia Mounds. Designed as both an educational and spiritual experience, the journey invites participants to reflect honestly on the past in order to shape a more just future together.

Announcing the #BeUMC Awards

The Northern Illinois Annual Conference, with United Methodist Communications, is excited to launch the #BeUMC Awards! Celebrate laypeople, clergy, and congregations who love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. Nominations are open for individuals and congregations who inspire through faithfulness, leadership, and service.

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This Life Changing Journey: Hope for What Comes Next

In her column, Rev. Danita R. Anderson calls the church to embrace practicing hope as a way of navigating loss, change, and uncertainty. Rather than remaining stuck in despair, she invites readers to recognize God’s ongoing work of renewal and new beginnings. Through hope, we are challenged to see our lives, churches, and communities with new eyes and renewed trust in God’s faithfulness.

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Leading the Laity: Moving Forward With Hope

Eugene Williams calls on believers to embrace hope as the foundation for facing the uncertainties of 2026. Rooted in Christ’s victory, this hope equips Christians with courage, strength, and authority to live faithfully and persevere in ministry. Laity Convocation 2026, “Moving Forward With Hope,” offers an opportunity to gather and strengthen this resolve together.

Leading the Laity: Hope Reigns Eternal

The sun will always shine again and bring us joy, because hope reigns eternal, says Eugene Williams, NIC lay leader.

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