In her latest column, Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer reflects on the Northern Illinois Conference’s Hispanic/Latinx ministries and the importance of celebrating and supporting these communities beyond Hispanic Heritage Month. She calls on United Methodists to move beyond words of appreciation through meaningful acts of solidarity, compassion and advocacy for neighbors facing fear and uncertainty.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference is accepting Equitable Compensation applications for the final 2026 disbursement and for the 2027 grant cycle. Churches and charges with a full-time pastor experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply for assistance to help ensure equitable compensation for clergy across the conference.
Read MoreUnited Voices for Children brought advocates, church leaders and community partners together for its annual Raising Our Voices event on Sept. 24 at Grace UMC in Rockford, focusing on youth mental health, bullying and creating supportive communities for children. The gathering also recognized three United Methodist advocates for their outstanding service to children and youth, while inviting congregations to continue supporting the work through prayer, financial gifts and advocacy.
Read MoreMore than two dozen United Methodists from six conferences explored the region’s Methodist history during an Oct. 7 tour through Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin as part of the North Central Jurisdiction’s Annual History & Archives Convocation. Participants visited historic churches and learned about early Methodist worship, the complex history of slavery and abolition, and the congregations that have preserved their heritage for generations.
Read MoreOctober is Pastor Appreciation Month, an opportunity to recognize the pastors and clergy who serve congregations and communities throughout the year. From writing a personal note and praying for your pastor to sharing ministry responsibilities and encouraging rest, discover meaningful ways to show appreciation throughout the month.
Read MoreIn this column, Rev. Christian Coon reflects on the importance of making space in the church for both doubt and belief. Drawing on the idea that the Holy Spirit is actively at work among us, he encourages churches to trust that God is doing something new and to live with the expectation that we can be part of it.
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