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CCFA Recommends a New Apportionment Formula

The Conference Council on Finance and Administration outlines a proposed new apportionment formula for churches, based on income tiers to promote fairness and simplicity. The formula recommends that churches contribute 8%, 10%, or 12% of their income depending on their income level. Designed to ensure greater equity and reflect churches’ financial capacity, this new approach aims to replace past limitations that led to disparities.

Stronger Together: Lunch-and-Learn, A Table Set for Connection at Annual Conference

Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer introduces a new initiative called Lunch-and-Learn at the upcoming Annual Conference, designed to foster deeper connection and meaningful conversation among participants. More than just a meal, these sessions will highlight various ministries, encouraging fellowship, learning, and collaboration across the conference. In a season of experimentation, the goal is to strengthen relationships and inspire collective growth in faith and mission.

Reimagining Church: Introducing the Turtle Awards

Rev. Christian Coon introduces the first-ever Turtle Award to celebrate churches that have taken bold risks in ministry—even when those efforts didn’t succeed. Inspired by the idea that progress requires “sticking your neck out,” the award encourages learning from failure and supports innovation through a $500 grant. Churches are invited to share their stories of experimentation, reinforcing the value of trying new approaches to share the Good News.

Leading the Laity: Celebrating Our Connectionalism

Eugene Williams, Conference Co-Lay Leader, offers an encouraging message to the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference, reminding them that God’s grace is sufficient in all circumstances. He emphasizes the power of United Methodist connectionalism and our shared identity in Christ, urging unity and compassion in a divided world. As we look forward to Annual Conference, he invites all to celebrate our connection and continue living out our faith in love and service.

This Life-Changing Journey: We’d love to visit your church

Rev. Danita R. Anderson reflects on her first nine months as Assistant to the Bishop, highlighting the joy and learning that have come with visiting churches across the Northern Illinois Conference. She emphasizes the Cabinet’s commitment to worshiping with congregations of all sizes and invites churches to reach out for preaching or resourcing opportunities. Whether scheduled or spontaneous, these visits aim to strengthen connection—and yes, they love taking pictures too!

HEAL Well Plans Earth Day Event and More

Northern Illinois Conference’s HEAL (Helping Everyone Access Life) Well ministry has planned an Earth Day event for all ages on April 26, 10:30 a.m., at Olivet UMC in Chicago.