The Value of Pastoral Renewal Leave
Rev. Matthew Smith recently returned from a renewal leave. He explains that it is more than a vacation; it is a time to deepen one's relationship with God.
Read MoreNIC Youth Learn Who Are Their Neighbors of Other Faiths
About 40 youth and adults from across Northern Illinois took part in the “Who Is My Neighbor?” interfaith bus tour on April 18, visiting several places of worship in the western suburbs of Chicago. Throughout the day, participants engaged in meaningful learning experiences and conversations that broadened their perspectives. Many youth shared that the experience was eye-opening and ultimately strengthened their own faith.
Read MoreIllinois Pilgrimage Unites Faith and History
United Methodists from across Illinois will gather for a four-day Illinois Pilgrimage focused on faith, history, and justice, offering opportunities for learning, reflection, and community-building. The journey will include visits to significant historical and cultural sites across the state, concluding with worship and a visit to Cahokia Mounds. Open to participants of all ages, the pilgrimage invites deeper understanding and connection through shared experience.
Read MoreThis Year's Theme Devotional, Practicing Hope, is Available Now
"A Year of Practicing Hope" is a new devotional created for 2026 in the Northern Illinois–Wisconsin Area. Featuring Scripture, reflections, and prayer, the booklet invites individuals and communities to live hope as an active, daily practice of grace. Copies will be shared at conference and district gatherings, with additional options available for downloading or ordering.
Read MoreRead the Bible in a Year With Us
The NIC Committee on Discipleship and Spiritual Formation is inviting individuals and congregations to read the entire Bible using a daily guide organized in what is believed to be chronological order. Monthly online support groups will offer encouragement and space for reflection.
Read MoreBeing 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.
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