Northern Illinois Conference churches put faith into action through summer mission experiences, from local service projects to weeklong trips across the country. While the projects varied, a common thread was the focus on serving others, building relationships, and helping people of all ages discover that faith is something we live out every day.
Read MoreAfter more than 20 years of planning, Batavia UMC is moving forward with the removal of a neighboring building, creating new possibilities for ministry, green space and community connection. The project reflects the congregation’s commitment to faithful stewardship while preserving the historic church and creating a welcoming space for worship, gathering, reflection and service.
Read MoreWoodside UMC in Riverside is finding new ways to connect with its community through “Prayers at the Peak,” a monthly ministry that brings members outside to pray with neighbors passing by the church. What began with a desire to connect with the people surrounding the church has grown into a welcoming practice of prayer, conversation and community connection.
Read MoreRockton UMC and the Roscoe Gardening Club are growing more than vegetables in the church parking lot. Now in its second year, their partnership transforms unused space into raised garden beds, with the harvest donated to a local food pantry. What began as a simple sharing of space and gardening knowledge has grown into a broader community relationship, including joint events, shared learning and even a new church member who first connected with the congregation through the gardening club.
Read MoreJust as last year, the conference finance and administration office is offering a host of webinars to help churches with finance and administration. Topics include 2027 budget information, property insurance and safety, benefits, charge conference forms, statistical reporting, and leadership information.
Read MoreVacation Bible school has long been a summer tradition in United Methodist churches, bringing children together for Bible stories, music, crafts, games, and fellowship. But this year, several NIC congregations stretched the traditional VBS model, moving beyond a children’s program held at church toward summer faith formation that builds community, empowers young people, serves neighbors, and creates relationships beyond the church walls. They moved into community spaces, invited new partners, engaged multiple generations, and created experiences that connected faith with service and relationships.
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