As the first cases of COVID-19 were becoming widespread in Illinois, the need for protective masks became more urgent. With the new order requiring Illinoisans over age two to wear a face mask in public starting May 1, the need is even greater. Volunteers at many NIC churches are busy working to cover the need by firing up their sewing machines and making handmade masks.
Read MoreTo pass the time during the COVID-19 pandemic and to connect with her congregation, while providing some comic relief, the Rev. Mary Bohall, senior pastor at First United Methodist Church in Mendota, has been sharing videos twice daily on Facebook and YouTube including sharing her dog Tucker’s latest tricks. While there was an influx of views, Bohall says there was little engagement from the community. So, she and her husband Andrew came up with a hair raising idea.
Read MoreThis coronavirus pandemic and social distancing restrictions may be causing increased feelings of anxiety, loneliness, isolation, and other fears for some. The NIC Committee on Accessibility Ministries asks pastors and caregivers: How are you taking care of yourself in the midst of caring for others at this time? First, pace yourself. Second, be your own best friend.
Read MoreAmid coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic concerns, Earth Day Network, the global organizer of Earth Day, will mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day much differently this year.
Read MoreWe're all doing the best we can! Happy Easter and congratulations on getting through to Easter Monday! Many of you, both clergy and laity, have been working so hard to present Holy Week and Easter services throughout these challenging and very different times.
Read MoreThis Easter may feel empty for many of us as we all are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our churches are empty. No lilies nor hyacinths wafting their strong sweet smell. No pews filled with people dressed in their best clothes. No choirs singing the alleluias or trumpets sending chills down our legs just hearing the introduction to “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today.” Our tables are emptier than we would like; we have empty chairs that friends and family would otherwise be filling.
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