In mid-March, at the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, I struggled with an important decision. Illinois was conducting a primary election, it was too late to cast a mail-in ballot, we were on the verge of the state’s Stay-at-Home Order, but I wanted to vote.
Read MoreSummer is nearly over! I know autumn doesn’t really begin for a few more weeks, but when September comes, it feels like summer is over. Students are returning to school—online or in-person, both bring their stresses. The days are getting shorter—that’s what makes me sad. I’m now setting out on my morning run in the dark again. Even if we haven’t felt the cooling of the air yet, we know it’s just around the corner!
Read MoreThe new class of US-2s, all of whom will serve for two years at locations in the United States including Emily Palm from Christ UMC in Rockford, were affirmed as agents of change and partners in God's mission on Aug. 26. These young adults come from seven states and will serve in seven states other than where they currently reside. The GMF international track will not be conducted this year due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and safety concerns.
Read MoreRev. Frederick C. Eisenhut, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2020, at the age of 84. During his ministry in Northern Illinois Conference, he served Maple Park: Courtland, Savanna, Dundee: First, Villa Park: Calvary, and Oswego: Good Shepherd.
Read MoreThe COVID-19 pandemic took no vacation this summer and continued to bring more uncertainties and changes for United Methodist congregations and pastors across the Northern Illinois Conference. As the state of Illinois entered the Revitalization Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan in June, church leaders took a closer look at their own plans to safely return to their buildings and in-person services.
Read MoreIn 2019, the congregation at Irving Park United Methodist Church in Chicago made one of their most difficult decisions in the church’s more than 130-year history. Facing mounting repairs, costly renovations, and dwindling membership, the congregation sold their building on Keeler Avenue and held their final worship in the space last November.
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