In Sympathy: Erma Bryan
Mrs. Erma Bryan, the surviving spouse of deceased member Rev. Bill Bryan of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
Read MoreFourteen Churches Unite for Pentecost worship
On 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.
Read MoreFrom Your Bishop: Subvert Fear With Grace
In his latest column, Bishop Schwerin reflects on the legacy of fear-driven policies like the Japanese American internment during World War II, lifting up stories of resilience through art and faith. He challenges us to confront today’s polarization and political violence by embracing grace, supporting immigrant communities, and renewing our commitment to the means of grace. “The only thing that counts,” he reminds us from Galatians 5:6, “is faith working through love.”
Read MoreThis Life-Changing Journey: God Extends Grace; Let Us Do the Same
In her reflection, Rev. Danita R. Anderson celebrates Annual Conference 2025 and recalls her own ordination journey, now over four decades in ministry. She lifts up the power of God’s grace—not just as something we receive, but as a gift we’re called to extend to others, even in a world that often resists it. Her message is a heartfelt call to live with compassion, humility, and grace every day.
Read MoreStronger Together: It Takes a Village!
In her column, Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the spirit of unity and collaboration that made the 2025 Annual Conference a meaningful and inspiring gathering. From worship to legislation to countless acts of service, nearly 800 participants came together to live out what it means to be the body of Christ. She reminds us that it truly takes a village—and we are blessed to be part of this one.
Read MoreLeading the Laity: We Are Exhorters of Grace
Conference Co-Lay Leader Eugene reflects on the Laity Sunday theme "Together by Grace," grounded in Ephesians 3:14-21. He calls on laypeople to embrace their role as “exhorters” who encourage, uplift, and lead with grace in a world marked by division.
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