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Winter Weather Is Coming — Is Your Church Prepared?

As temperatures drop across Northern Illinois, churches are encouraged to take steps to protect their buildings, parsonages and properties from winter weather. Frozen pipes, heating failures, ice dams and slippery walkways can lead to costly damage and injuries, but routine maintenance and advance planning can help prevent many problems. Review these six essential winter readiness steps to help keep church properties safe throughout the season.

Seven Years of Connection, Service and Ministry: Celebrating Amania Drane

Amania Drane will transition out of her role as Project Manager with the Northern Illinois Conference in January 2027 to pursue a personal calling related to missionary service. Since joining the Conference in 2019, she has helped advance discipleship and anti-racism initiatives, supported Conference committees and strengthened connections across the denomination. The NIC gives thanks for her more than seven years of faithful service and celebrates the ministry opportunities ahead.

Immigration Law and Justice Offers Hope

Immigration Law and Justice of Northern Illinois recently gathered more than 160 supporters at its annual fundraising event in Aurora, raising $40,500 toward a $60,000 goal to provide free legal services to immigrants who cannot afford an attorney. The event featured a presentation by Bishop Dan Schwerin and recognized two Champions for Justice for their contributions to the organization.

2027 NIC Youth Retreat: Love Does!

Youth from five NIC churches gathered in September for the 2026 Fall Youth Retreat, themed “Love Does!” Through worship, small-group discussions, outdoor activities and time together, participants explored John Wesley’s three simple rules while building friendships and growing in faith. Save the Date to join the 2027 Fall Youth Retreat, Oct. 1-3, at East Bay Camp in Hudson.

NIC Welcomes Judith Jean Michel to Episcopal Office

Judith Jean Michel will join the Northern Illinois Conference on Nov. 4 as Executive Administrative Assistant to the Bishop and the Assistant to the Bishop. With more than 10 years of executive support experience, she will help coordinate administrative operations and support leadership and ministry across the conference.

Disability Education Summit Encourages Inclusion and Justice

The NIC Committee on Accessibility welcomed approximately 30 church leaders from 13 congregations to its inaugural Disability Education Summit on Sept. 26 at Bethany of Fox Valley UMC in Aurora. Through workshops, discussions and shared experiences, participants explored practical ways to improve accessibility, address ableism and advance disability justice in their congregations. The committee hopes to build on the event’s success with another summit next year.

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