Bishop Schwerin offering a benediction during one of the worship services

Sixty pastors serving the Northern Illinois Conference in cross-cultural and cross-racial appointments gathered Dec. 9-10 in Woodstock to address the pressing ministry skills of navigating trauma, building resilience, and fostering hope.  

The retreat, hosted by the episcopal office and Connectional Ministries office, gave clergy a safe place where, through open and honest dialogue, they could share their experiences, strengthen their sense of community, and equip themselves with tools to lead through challenging times. The discussion and presentations emphasized the importance of unity and understanding in a time when many leaders are dealing with racism, social tensions, and personal hardships.

“Our baptism affirms we are never alone. We have a community of faith with us,” said Bishop Dan Schwerin, resident bishop of the Northern Illinois-Wisconsin Episcopal Area, during the opening worship session.  

During his keynote speech, Rev. Dr. Ronald Bell, director of healing and resilience for Discipleship Ministries and The Upper Room, highlighted the critical role that pastors play in fostering resilience within their communities and underscored the need for self-care among ministry leaders.

About 40 percent of Northern Illinois Conference appointments are cross-cultural/cross-racial; that is, the pastor serves a congregation consisting mostly of people of a different cultural or racial group. Though the NIC is a diverse conference, not all of its churches and communities are prepared to receive a pastor of another culture or race. Several clergy serving these churches face challenging times in ministry.  

Participants engaged in small-group discussions that fostered empathy and mutual learning. These conversations revealed shared difficulties, providing valuable insights into how different communities experience and process trauma.  

“In the midst of the struggles and challenges, we shared our strategies to overcome those by finding safe spaces,” said Rev. Hyo-Sun Oh, pastor of Roselle United Methodist Church.  

The event concluded with a collective commitment to foster ongoing collaboration and support. Pastors expressed their desire to maintain the connections formed during the gathering and to continue sharing resources and encouragement.

As the pastors returned to their communities, they carried with them not only tools and strategies but also a renewed sense of purpose. In the face of trauma, they are determined to stand as beacons of hope, bringing healing and strength to those they serve.