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Stronger Together: Holy Conferencing as a Practice of Hope

Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer highlights holy conferencing as a means of grace, rooted in John Wesley’s teaching, calling us to speak truth in love, listen deeply, and honor one another’s dignity. As the Annual Conference approaches, she emphasizes how this practice shapes faithful conversation, decision-making, and community. Embracing holy conferencing as a practice of hope helps build deeper connection and unity across differences.

CCFA Chairperson Celebrates Conference’s Strengths

Kim Emery, CCFA Chairperson, reflects with gratitude on her time in leadership, describing it as a meaningful learning experience shaped by collaboration, change, and faithful service. She encourages laity to step into leadership roles, emphasizing that both lay and clergy are essential to the church’s vitality and growth. Emery also thanks churches for their continued support through apportionments, highlighting their importance in strengthening connectional ministry across the conference.

Leading the Laity: Keep Hope Alive

As Easter people, we are called to keep hope alive, grounded in the promise of Christ, who leads us forward in faith. The recent Laity Convocation embodied this call, bringing together laity and clergy to reflect on “Moving Forward with Hope” through shared learning, worship, and witness from young adults. Eugene Williams encourages continued participation and support as the conference builds on this spirit of hope at the upcoming Annual Conference.

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Reimagining Church: Attending to the Faithful Few

Rev. Christian Coon reflects on the importance of valuing the “faithful few” who show up consistently, even when attendance is small. While churches often focus energy on reaching new people, he reminds us to pause in gratitude for those who remain steady in their commitment, noting, “I give thanks for the faithful few in our congregations.” Their quiet presence and devotion continue to sustain and witness to the life of the church.

Illinois Pilgrimage Unites Faith and History

United Methodists from across Illinois will gather for a four-day Illinois Pilgrimage focused on faith, history, and justice, offering opportunities for learning, reflection, and community-building. The journey will include visits to significant historical and cultural sites across the state, concluding with worship and a visit to Cahokia Mounds. Open to participants of all ages, the pilgrimage invites deeper understanding and connection through shared experience.

Honor Older Adults in May and through the Golden Cross Offering

In May, churches take the Golden Cross Offering. Donations support Northern Illinois Conference ministries with older adults and help provide scholarships for individuals serving in partner caregiving agencies and support training and educational opportunities for caregivers and those involved in older adult ministry.

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