Mrs. Minerva M. Batt, surviving spouse of Rev. Samuel Batt of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2020, at the age of 101. During Rev. Batt's ministry in the Northern Illinois Conference, he served Wood Dale, Dixon: Grace, Villa Park: Calvary, Barrington: Salem, and Chicago: East Side.
Read MoreFor too long, in so many of our churches and communities, racism has been willfully ignored—and even perpetuated. The Bishop's message, building on generations of antiracism work in the church, inspired the Northern Illinois Conference (NIC) to formally adopt the goal of living out the conviction that racism is incompatible with Christian teaching.
Read MoreThe NIC Anti-Racism Task Force is now rolling out Phase I of their online presence—and they are excited about their webpage and Learning Path!
Read MoreIn mid-March, at the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, I struggled with an important decision. Illinois was conducting a primary election, it was too late to cast a mail-in ballot, we were on the verge of the state’s Stay-at-Home Order, but I wanted to vote.
Read MoreSummer is nearly over! I know autumn doesn’t really begin for a few more weeks, but when September comes, it feels like summer is over. Students are returning to school—online or in-person, both bring their stresses. The days are getting shorter—that’s what makes me sad. I’m now setting out on my morning run in the dark again. Even if we haven’t felt the cooling of the air yet, we know it’s just around the corner!
Read MoreThe new class of US-2s, all of whom will serve for two years at locations in the United States including Emily Palm from Christ UMC in Rockford, were affirmed as agents of change and partners in God's mission on Aug. 26. These young adults come from seven states and will serve in seven states other than where they currently reside. The GMF international track will not be conducted this year due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and safety concerns.
Read More