DYK: Different
Searching for some information on our conference website recently, I was struck by how many times the word “different” popped up on the screen. It made me laugh out loud. We are in a season defined by the “different”.
Read MoreThanks for the memories and ministries
As of January 1, 2021, I will be retired after 43 ½ years of active ministry in The United Methodist Church. My ministry in Northern Illinois began on September 1, 2012 and due to the postponement of General and Jurisdictional Conferences, I extended my time in Northern Illinois until the end of 2020. I have already begun my post-retirement ministry as the Ecumenical Officer for the Council of Bishops/The United Methodist Church. Retired Bishop John Hopkins will be the interim bishop as of January 1, 2021. I know that you will welcome him into your midst!
Read MoreAdvent and Christmas resources
The first Sunday of Advent is right around the corner on Nov. 29. Many churches have had to shift plans as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Illinois. We are compiling some great ideas and resources for Advent and Christmas at a time when in-person gatherings are limited or not possible.
Read MoreNew Mitigation Guidelines
Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced new Tier 3 mitigation guidelines that are to go into effect on Friday, November 20, 2020. The state of Illinois like most other states is experiencing an alarming spike in COVID-19 cases and in order to prevent further infection and death as well as to avoid overwhelming hospitals, we must all do our part.
Read MoreJumpstart Youth Ministry - November Resources
Last month, the discipleship task force introduced the first pair of videos for a six month series about growing and strengthening discipleship ministries with a particular focus on youth. Our theme for October was “Just Show Up!” as the first step in working, leading, and learning from young people. This month, our theme is “THE CHURCH OF TODAY."
Read MoreRedistricting Announcement
Our virtual annual conference is over and now we begin the work to address the many changes that are before us. One of those changes is the redistricting of the Northern Illinois Annual Conference.
Read More