Rev. Christian Coon shares a childhood “come-to-Jesus” moment and reflects on how that early experience continues to shape his faith. He urges clergy and laity to move beyond the “how” of evangelism and first reclaim the “why” by naming their own Jesus stories and the hope that anchors them. He invites clergy and lay leaders across the conference to share their own “Jesus stories,” asking why they first said yes to Christ.
Read MoreRev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer highlights the intentional expansion of young people’s participation at the 2026 Annual Conference, with each district designating two young lay members to ensure their voices are present in discernment and decision-making. Young people are not merely the future of the church but essential leaders today, bringing insight, courage, and hope to the conference.
Read MoreIn her Women’s History Month column, Rev. Danita R. Anderson reflects on the countless women—past and present—who have shaped the church, society, and her own ministry through courage, perseverance, and faithful leadership. Marking the 70th anniversary of women’s ordination in The United Methodist Church, she honors pioneers who opened doors and broke barriers, especially Black women leaders in Northern Illinois. She invites readers to give thanks for the women who have influenced their lives and to recognize their lasting impact on history and faith.
Read MoreIn his column, Eugene Williams greets the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference with a call to make 2026 a “year of hope,” urging United Methodists to live not just hopefully, but hope-fully—full-time and grounded in Christ’s promises. Rooted in Lent and the assurance of Hebrews 13:5, he encourages faithful resilience amid hardship. Williams invites laity to gather for the upcoming Laity Convocation for a morning of learning, connection, and encouragement.
Read More"When Fear Knocks, the Church Shows Up: A Chicago Story” tells the stories of how immigrant communities in Northern Illinois struggle to continue working, attending worship, obtaining groceries and other needs, and sending their children to school, and how conference churches have reached out to help.
Read MoreUnited Voices for Children (UVC), the Northern Illinois Conference’s advocacy network for children and youth, continues its work alongside partner agencies MYSI, Kids Above All, and Rosecrance to address poverty, violence, injustice, and mental health challenges. Through education, partnerships, and policy advocacy, UVC invites churches to stand up for children as part of God’s work in the world. Congregations are encouraged to support this mission through the Fifth Sunday Appeal, upcoming events, and ongoing engagement as advocates for kids in every community.
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