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May Benefits Insights

This month’s Benefit Insights is packed with important updates for HealthFlex participants and clergy. Blueprint for Wellness registration, Lunch and Learn opportunities, and more information on the Compass retirement program. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, with valuable resources available from Wespath to support emotional well-being. Plus, be sure to review the latest information on the new Compass clergy retirement plan launching in 2026—training opportunities and planning tools are available now!

Have you made your contribution?

In an effort to be more transparent, the Finance and Administration office is going to be consistently sharing where we are as a conference are in regards to the giving versus what is needed for us to continue our impact. This giving supports our ministries, outreach programs, employees and daily operations.

Girl Scouts adopt the FBI (Faith-Based Initative)

The Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.'s Faith-Based Initiative develops partnerships between local GSUSA councils and congregations. It helps churches reach out to their neighbors and connects Girl Scouting with faith communities, promoting spiritual growth and intergenerational ministry.

Scouts Read Sacred Texts the Week of May 1

The Northern Illinois Conference Scouting ministry invites Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and youth in other organizations and from all religions to join them in Scouts/Youth Read Sacred Texts, the week of May 1.

We Share for the Good of the Whole Mission

Bishop Dan Schwerin underscores the importance of shared mission and mutual sacrifice within the United Methodist connection, especially during challenging appointment seasons. He addresses clergy concerns over recent pastoral appointments, emphasizing the realities of declining compensation and shifting ministry models in a post-Christendom era. Schwerin calls for understanding, collaboration, and innovation as the conference navigates reduced resources, encouraging experimentation and new expressions of ministry. He concludes with a heartfelt appeal for prayer, faithfulness, partnership, and continued commitment to the shared mission of making disciples.

From Your Bishop: Facts and Contradictions and Worthy is the Lamb

In his column, Bishop Dan Schwerin reflects on a difficult conversation highlighting how deeply divided society has become, especially when people can’t agree on basic facts. He calls for a “third way” rooted in love, humility, and a deep awareness of our own contradictions, encouraging Christians to face both inner and communal challenges with compassion. Amid the noise of conflicting narratives, he reminds us that true transformation happens through relationship, humility, and the healing love of God.

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