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.
Posted: February 25 2026 at 08:05 AM
Author: Rev. Abby Holcombe, UVC board President
And Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” (Matt. 19:14)
At United Voices for Children, we firmly believe that advocating and caring for children is part of God’s work in the world. UVC is the main artery for action and advocacy for children and youth in the Northern Illinois Conference. We represent a coalition of three Methodist-founded child-serving agencies: MYSI, Kids Above All, and Rosecrance. All three of these agencies continue to offer a variety of programs, services, and treatments addressing poverty, violence, and injustice, including the ongoing suffering of those living with addictions.
Board Vice President Deaconess Catherine Inserra, board members (both clergy and laity) across the NIC, and I, as board president, see ourselves as a working board. Together with our organization partners, we host events that raise awareness and empower people to embrace their hearts for kids and become advocates.
The UVC Board at their February board meeting.
This year, we are welcoming new board members: Rev. Jacob Tipantasig-Wolverton, Nick Werth, and Tae Yoon Kim. Read more about our board and partner organizations here.
UVC is continuing its focus on the mental health and well-being of children and youth. We are partnering with Children’s Advocates for Change, a non-profit organization that advocates for and promotes policies which support the entire well-being of children and youth in Illinois. Policy plays a pivotal role in these concerns. May we be emboldened by the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, to also be an advocate for children in every community.
At UVC, we believe every person has a heart for kids. As the Northern Illinois Conference practices hope together this year, every action—small or big—is one for advocacy.
To be part of what God is doing through UVC, here are a few things you can do:
- Give. Encourage your church to participate in the Fifth Sunday Appeal. (Check out a new 5th Sunday Appeal video here.)
- Be empowered. Join us for our webinar on March 30 and stop by our table at Annual Conference in June.
- Stay connected. Subscribe to our email list, like our page on Instagram and Facebook, and learn more at the UVC page.