United Methodists begin work on Urban Strategy for Chicago

On Change the World weekend, more than 400 United Methodists gathered at a high school on Chicago’s south side to start a movement.

Outpouring of support after Epworth parsonage fire

Around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, a fire broke out on the second floor of Epworth UMC’s parsonage at 5249 N. Kenmore Ave., Chicago. The Rev. Amos Oladipo was elsewhere leading devotion with leaders of African Community UMC, but his wife, his daughter and 20-month-old grandchild were inside the home. Thankfully, they managed to escape unharmed.

Amended Special Session Resolution Passes

Thanks to the new Red Door Refinance Program, overwhelmingly approved by members of Annual Conference at a special session on Mar. 16, up to 30 NIC churches will be able to refinance existing loan agreements at 4.5% for 20 years under a collective (up to) $25 million dollar mortgage through Wintrust Bank. A reserve fund will also be established to assist with cash flow, to offset any interest rate jumps and for any unforeseen circumstances.

Church outreach ministry reaches Hispanic/Latino neighbors

Omar Torres came to the United States seven years ago from Mexico and didn’t speak English. The husband and father of three daughters wanted to learn the language to improve his job skills and do the best to provide for his family. Torres and his family found help at Our Saviour’s United Methodist Church in Schaumburg, Illinois through its English Language Learners (ELL) and Outreach Ministry.

New JFON clinic in Chicago

On March 9, 2013, Justice For Our Neighbors (JFON) opened its Chicago Clinic site for the first time. Six clients made appointments ahead of time to come to the clinic. As those guests arrived, they found over 20 volunteers from Humboldt Park United Methodist Church and other communities of faith surrounding them with hospitality, childcare, and assisting in providing high quality immigration legal services. 

Remembering 5th Anniversary of NIU Shooting