Many churches and youth are participating in Mission Trips this summer
Many churches are starting up Mission Trips after a pause or change due COVID. It is great to see everyone being the hands and feet of Christ in our word.
Read MorePilgrims to U.S./Mexico Border Observe Danger and Hope
Migrants come to Nogales--a city that spans the U.S./Mexico border--from all over Central and South America, fleeing from dangerous life situations. Seven lay people and three clergy from the Northern Illinois Conference traveled to that city from March 20 to 24 to observe up close the hardship and courage of those who cross or live near the border. The group took a pilgrimage to Nogales from March 20 to 24 to learn about the migrant experience.
Read MoreUM Bishops Receive Warm Welcome on a Chilly Afternoon
When First United Methodist members agreed to host the United Methodist Council of Bishops’ memorial service on April 30, they immediately organized for an opportunity they considered an honor. Hospitality comes naturally to this big-hearted congregation, who wanted to show the bishops "our little slice of heaven."
Read MoreMore united than ever before
The Tri-City area of Illinois, comprising the cities of St. Charles, Geneva, and Batavia, has come to be seen as a community in and of itself over the years. The cities share a history of being three of the oldest in Illinois, they share borders featuring the Fox River, and have similar population sizes. Since 2020, for area United Methodists, this joint community has taken on new connection in the form of the Tri-City Methodists: a trio of churches – Baker Memorial United Methodist Church of St. Charles, the United Methodist Church of Geneva (UMCG), and Batavia United Methodist Church.
Read MoreForming a place for welcome, expression, and support
Friendship UMC in Bolingbrook is partnering with Bolingbrook Pride to host a Youth Drop-In event once a month for young people ages 12-18 who need a place to feel welcome, be able to express themselves, and support each other as they explore their true identities. Current youth don’t feel they need church, but seeing that a church can provide safety and support to them is significant.
Read MoreConnecting and forming relationships across the conference
Bishop Dan Schwerin, newly assigned episcopal leader for the Northern Illinois Conference, spent his first month focused on meeting key leaders within the conference and the denomination. A cabinet retreat and bishop training, locally and across the country, filled his calendar. Late January and February were set aside to work on forming relationships across our conference.
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