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Facing The Future Participants Selfie Cmyk

‘Facing the Future’ Revives Clergy in Cross-Cultural/Cross-Racial Appointments

More than 180 clergy and ministry leaders gathered in Los Angeles on Oct. 7–9 for Facing the Future 2025: Rejoice, Recenter, Revive, a national event hosted by the UMC General Commission on Religion and Race for clergy serving in cross-racial and cross-cultural appointments. Eleven Northern Illinois Conference members attended, with four serving in leadership roles. Through worship, workshops, and testimony, participants found renewal, connection, and encouragement to lead courageously in building a more inclusive and equitable church.

New Retirement Plan Coming Jan. 1

Compass, launching Jan. 1, is a new defined contribution retirement plan for eligible UMC clergy, designed to provide flexibility and optimize retirement income. Funded through both church and personal contributions, it includes a flat monthly amount, a percentage of compensation, and matching funds up to 4%. Clergy are encouraged to contribute early to maximize investment growth, matching benefits, and long-term financial security.

Lay and Clergy Honored at Celebration of Ministry

Annual Conference session members and family and friends joyfully supported clergy and lay ministries recognized at the Celebration of Ministry on June 9.

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!

Order of Elders Share Experiences and Encouragement

About 100 elders gathered at Barrington United Methodist Church on March 25 for their annual order meeting.

March 2025 Benefits Insights

Key Benefits Insights for March: HealthFlex Blueprint for Wellness Event at Annual Conference, upcoming Compass Retirement Plan training, Well-Being Incentives, and a fun Italian Stuffed Cabbage roll recipe.

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