Christ United Methodist Church in Rockford suffered a fire on Monday night, Feb. 23, that started in its organ. Thanks to the fast response of the few in the building at the time, damage was limited. The church sees much reason to hope as it recovers.
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 MoreOver the past year, the Northern Illinois Conference has supported local churches through a range of grants designed to nurture innovation, sustain vital rural ministries, and advance justice and compassion. Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer shares how these investments, totaling more than $55,000, are strengthening communities and encouraging faithful experimentation across the conference. Together, our shared giving is helping churches live boldly into God’s mission.
Read MorePastors and lay members from small-town and rural churches gathered at Grace UMC in Dixon for the annual Town and Rural Church Festival, themed “Glimpses of God’s Grace.” The event celebrated 29 churches that received PACK and Keagy Grants to support projects like children’s programs, food pantries, senior activities, and community outreach.
Read MoreLay Academies provide valuable opportunities for laity to grow as leaders in their churches and communities. Academies are held in each district, a few times a year, offering convenient access for participants across the conference. Participants are welcome to take classes in any district, not just their own, giving them flexibility in scheduling and opportunities to connect with others across the conference.
Read MoreThis summer, churches across Northern Illinois embraced Bishop Schwerin’s call to experiment with new ways of being the church—reshaping Vacation Bible Schools, hosting local mission camps, and creating fresh approaches to faith formation. From flexible schedules and intergenerational prayer partnerships to neighborhood service projects and creative tools for teaching children, congregations are discovering that innovation opens new doors for connection and spiritual growth. These efforts show how creativity and collaboration can deepen community and share God’s love in meaningful ways.
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