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Being Peacemakers While Calling for Peace and Unity

On August 15, Korean-American United Methodists in Northern Illinois gathered at First Korean UMC in Wheeling to mark Korea’s 1945 liberation from Japanese occupation with both gratitude and sorrow. Rev. Hwa-Young Chong reflected that while Korea is not at war, its division represents an “oppressive peace,” contrasting it with the true peace of Christ, which brings justice and wholeness. She encouraged worshipers to practice daily acts of peacemaking as a faithful response to ongoing division.

Hispanic/Latinx Caucus Strategizes to Strengthen Leaders

At the beginning of August, Hispanic/Latinx United Methodists from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico gathered in Arlington Heights for the Annual MARCHA meeting, hosted this year by the Northern Illinois Conference. Centered on the theme “Now, Yes! With Faith and Courage, We Respond to Our Call to Act,” the event blended worship, learning, advocacy, and community building. Highlights included Bishop Dan Schwerin’s call to live without fear and the presentation of a leadership award to Estefany Sanabria of Humboldt Park UMC, honoring her work in immigration justice and her commitment to the church.

'A Binding Truth' Screenings

Collective Action to Build Community, a partnership of NIC with other organizations, has planned free screenings of the film "A Binding Truth," Sept. 10-16. It follows the intertwined stories of two high-school classmates and the hidden connections that bind them with each other and reflect the nation’s history.

From our Bishop: Love Each Other Like Members of Your Family

Bishop Schwerin calls on United Methodists to reclaim the deep Christian call to love our neighbors—especially those who are suffering. He urges faithful action—through prayer, protest, advocacy, and mercy—as a witness to Christ.

Quilt Presentation Celebrates Diversity and Creativity

At the 2025 Northern Illinois Annual Conference, the NIC Anti-Racism Task Force unveiled the Arts & Culture Quilt—a powerful symbol of unity, justice, and cultural pride. Created from quilt squares submitted by individuals and churches across the conference, the piece honors diverse stories and the shared call to racial equity. The quilt stands as a lasting tribute to the ongoing work of anti-racism and the beauty of our collective witness.

United Methodists and Allies Gather to Speak Up in Springfield

More than 65 United Methodists and allies gathered in Springfield on May 7 for the second annual Advocacy Day, meeting with legislators to promote justice, compassion, and equity across Illinois. Rooted in faith and inspired by past civil rights leaders, the group addressed key issues including environmental justice, immigration support, and youth mental health and education. Their presence at the Capitol reflected a deep commitment to living out United Methodist values through action and public witness.

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