The Illinois State Historical Society has recognized Barrington United Methodist Church (BUMC) as an Illinois Sesquicentennial House of Worship. Churches across the state that have served their congregations continuously for at least 150 years are eligible. The recognition leads to the church’s history being recorded at the Society as well as at the Illinois State Library for use by future researchers.
Read MoreAs of January 1, 2021, I will be retired after 43 ½ years of active ministry in The United Methodist Church. My ministry in Northern Illinois began on September 1, 2012 and due to the postponement of General and Jurisdictional Conferences, I extended my time in Northern Illinois until the end of 2020. I have already begun my post-retirement ministry as the Ecumenical Officer for the Council of Bishops/The United Methodist Church. Retired Bishop John Hopkins will be the interim bishop as of January 1, 2021. I know that you will welcome him into your midst!
Read MoreI’m one of those (few) people who actually likes to cook Thanksgiving dinner. A big turkey with dressing with lots of leftovers to make into soup. But this year, the food will be Cornish hen instead of turkey! What about you? Will your Thanksgiving be different? Will it still be filled with joy? It all depends on us. On how we place our priorities. How we live out our deepest values and, I daresay, faith.
Read MoreThe 181st Northern Illinois Annual Conference with the theme “Y Church” was marked by some firsts and lasts. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to keep members safe and healthy, the first-ever virtual conference was held as a one-day webinar on Nov. 14.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference Board of Global Ministries congratulates the Midwest Mission Distribution Center on its 20th Anniversary celebration and thanks them for their invitation to celebrate its 20 years of ministry by sharing financial donations and in-kind supplies like those we usually bring during our Annual Conference Fill the Truck Drive.
Read MoreThe first Sunday of Advent is right around the corner on Nov. 29. Many churches have had to shift plans as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Illinois. We are compiling some great ideas and resources for Advent and Christmas at a time when in-person gatherings are limited or not possible.
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