"When Fear Knocks, the Church Shows Up: A Chicago Story” tells the stories of how immigrant communities in Northern Illinois struggle to continue working, attending worship, obtaining groceries and other needs, and sending their children to school, and how conference churches have reached out to help.
Read MoreUnited Voices for Children (UVC), the Northern Illinois Conference’s advocacy network for children and youth, continues its work alongside partner agencies MYSI, Kids Above All, and Rosecrance to address poverty, violence, injustice, and mental health challenges. Through education, partnerships, and policy advocacy, UVC invites churches to stand up for children as part of God’s work in the world. Congregations are encouraged to support this mission through the Fifth Sunday Appeal, upcoming events, and ongoing engagement as advocates for kids in every community.
Read MoreUnited Methodist Volunteers in Mission from Northern Illinois and Iowa traveled to Camp Symonette on Eleuthera in the Bahamas to help revitalize the hurricane shelter and retreat center after years of neglect. The team completed much-needed cleaning and repairs and led community activities including Vacation Bible School and educational classes, bringing renewed energy and encouragement to local Methodist partners.
Read MoreThis year, Northern Illinois United Methodists will be donating to one Bishop’s Appeal for two worthy recipients. The appeal for Education for the Central Conferences will benefit the construction of a high school in Tanzania and the Endowment Fund for Theological Education in the Central Conferences (which comprise Africa, Europe, and the Philippines). Gifts will be distributed equally to these projects.
Read MoreErie UMC volunteers recently sewed 165 cheerful pillowcases for children in foster care, partnering with Raising Hope and My GEAR Outreach. The effort blended creativity, compassion, and community as people stitched together messages of comfort and hope. With more than 1,000 pillowcases made since 2019, the church continues to offer a tangible reminder that every child is loved and valued.
Read MoreMethodist and Muslim leaders gathered at Journey of Hope UMC in Elgin for an evening of shared faith, dialogue, and fellowship under the theme “United in Solidarity and Peace.” The event highlighted immigrant experiences and reaffirmed the groups’ shared commitment to pursuing peace and justice through prayer, action, and partnership.
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