The Northern Illinois Conference welcomes Sheryl Hatcher as its new Conference Benefits Officer, beginning Sept. 28. Sheryl brings experience with United Methodist health benefits and Compass savings programs and will support clergy, retirees, churches and lay employees as annual benefits open enrollment approaches.
Read MoreThe NIC has welcomed three new part-time district administrative assistants who will serve as key points of connection for churches, clergy and District Superintendents. Meet the new administrators serving Prairie South, Lake South and Prairie Central, and learn more about the continued administrative support provided across the Conference.
Read MoreMore than 18 United Methodist churches across the Northern Illinois Conference turned faith into action on Sept. 13, gathering for prayer, vigils, rallies, marches and other public witnesses in support of immigrants. Though each community’s witness looked different, together they demonstrated the connectional church’s commitment to the dignity, worth and rights of immigrants.
Read MoreIn this brief word of encouragement, Bishop Dan Schwerin acknowledges the division, fear, and difficult realities surrounding us while reminding us that God is with us for good. Inviting us to “tune your eyes to awe,” he encourages us to notice the simple signs of God’s wonder and providence, share those moments with one another, and continue practicing hope together.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois Conference is hosting a nine-month Cross-Racial/Cross-Cultural Clergy Cohort in partnership with the General Commission on Religion and Race. Fifteen clergy are participating in the cohort, which provides a supportive space for theological reflection, cultural awareness, healing and adaptive leadership development.
Read MoreIn his latest column, NIC Co-Lay Leader Eugene Williams reflects on the many challenges and uncertainties of this summer and the temptation to lose hope. He celebrates the “peculiar people” who continue to live out Christ’s mission through love, compassion, service, justice, and care for neighbors near and far. He encourages us to remain faithful, plant seeds for those who will come after us, and complete the mission.
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