Is your church in a small town or rural area (that is, not in an urban or suburban location)? Have you been dreaming of a creative ministry opportunity in your community, but need a little financial help? The Northern Illinois Conference offers two grants that are funded by a bequest from Martin Keagy, who had a big heart for small-town and rural churches.
Read MoreNow is the time to embrace all the blessings of the past year and look forward to what lies ahead for the remainder of 2023 and all of 2024. Opportunities, prospects, and challenges abound. But siblings, there is always a special excitement in the air at this time of the year as we embark upon the Advent season. There is anticipation and remembrance, and it never grows old as each year we celebrate anew the greatest gift ever given—for unto us a savior was born.
Read MoreI recently had an opportunity to do some sincere reflection and soul searching. I looked at the past and present of who we are in the Northern Illinois Conference and The United Methodist Church as a whole. Then I pondered where we might be a year from now.
Read MoreHerb John of Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora has won the Jean Bush Award from the Northern Illinois Conference's United Methodist Men for inspiring leadership and growth in NIC men's ministries.
Read MoreThe world is ever-changing and the church is ever-evolving. Change is like the storms of life: You are either in one, about to enter one, or coming out of one. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, “Change is the only constant in life.” The world is always changing and so are its people. As a result, we find ourselves constantly adapting to it. It has been said, “If you are not changing, then you are dying.”
Read MoreWe hear the phrase “self-care” a lot these days. The concept dates back millennia. Maybe now is a good time to revisit wise words from the Holy book. Open up to Psalm 23 and offer a reviving drink to your thirsting heart and soul.
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