Pastors 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.
Read MoreThis summer, churches across Northern Illinois lived out their faith through mission trips near and far—serving neighbors in local communities, repairing homes in Appalachia, and supporting ministries in North Dakota. From building ramps and painting homes to packing meals and partnering with other congregations, volunteers of all ages shared God’s love through hands-on service. These experiences not only met practical needs but also built lasting relationships and unity in Christ.
Read MoreThis summer, churches across the conference brought vacation Bible school to life, each one putting its own unique spin on the beloved tradition. From creative scheduling and special projects to new formats and fresh themes, these diverse programs showed how innovation and faith can come together to engage kids and families in meaningful, fun ways.
Read MoreOn Pentecost Sunday, 14 United Methodist churches from the Prairie North District gathered at Freeport’s historic Oakdale Tabernacle for a powerful worship celebration filled with music, unity, and the Holy Spirit. With clergy and laity leading together, the service lifted up The United Methodist Church’s new vision—love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously—and reminded all present of the Church’s enduring mission. This vibrant gathering was both a testament to connectionalism and a living witness to the Spirit moving among us today.
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