Youth from five NIC churches gathered in September for the 2026 Fall Youth Retreat, themed “Love Does!” Through worship, small-group discussions, outdoor activities and time together, participants explored John Wesley’s three simple rules while building friendships and growing in faith. Save the Date to join the 2027 Fall Youth Retreat, Oct. 1-3, at East Bay Camp in Hudson.
Read MoreJudith Jean Michel will join the Northern Illinois Conference on Nov. 4 as Executive Administrative Assistant to the Bishop and the Assistant to the Bishop. With more than 10 years of executive support experience, she will help coordinate administrative operations and support leadership and ministry across the conference.
Read MoreThe NIC Committee on Accessibility welcomed approximately 30 church leaders from 13 congregations to its inaugural Disability Education Summit on Sept. 26 at Bethany of Fox Valley UMC in Aurora. Through workshops, discussions and shared experiences, participants explored practical ways to improve accessibility, address ableism and advance disability justice in their congregations. The committee hopes to build on the event’s success with another summit next year.
Read MoreRev. Martin Deppe, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026.
Read MoreBishop Dan Schwerin and four leaders from the Northern Illinois-Wisconsin Episcopal Area joined United Methodists from around the world to imagine the future of the church at the Council of Bishops’ Leadership Gathering in Calgary, Alberta. Explore key themes and recommendations from the gathering, watch a video featuring reflections from the participants, and read personal reflections from 2 NIC leaders.
Read MoreIn her latest column, Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the Northern Illinois Conference’s Hispanic/Latinx ministries and the importance of celebrating and supporting these communities beyond Hispanic Heritage Month. She calls on United Methodists to move beyond words of appreciation through meaningful acts of solidarity, compassion and advocacy for neighbors facing fear and uncertainty.
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