Sympathy Notice: Rev. Don Niswonger
Rev. Donald Niswonger, the spouse of retired Rev. Carol Findon, a member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023.
Read MoreFirst Korean reimagines Christmas celebrations
In a heartwarming departure from tradition, the members of the First Korean UMC (FKUMC) in Wheeling, celebrated Christmas morning with a unique twist that embodied the spirit of love and giving. Naming the day "Love Your Neighbor Day," FKUMC took the celebration beyond the church walls, infusing the Christmas spirit with acts of kindness and generosity.
Read MoreShelter at First UMC in Elgin warms bodies and hearts
Elgin’s unhoused people are being well taken care of by the community, including First United Methodist Church in Elgin. This winter, the fellowship hall of FUMCE is set up nightly for their guests. One Collective Elgin, a nonprofit that identifies community needs and organizes collaborative responses, oversees and facilitates the shelter.
Read MoreFrom Your Bishop:Yielding all things for what is to come
Wesley’s Covenant Service has been recommended for Methodists who gather on New Year’s Eve to worship, leave behind a year, and cross the threshold of a new one. More deeply, Methodists were to receive new life afresh. The core petition of the prayer at the heart of the service is, “I freely and heartily yield all things to thy pleasure and disposal.”
Read MoreNorthern Illinois Conference prepares for its 185th session
Under the theme “Yield,” clergy and elected lay members will gather for Northern Illinois Conference’s 185th session, June 16-18, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Dr., Schaumburg, IL.
Read MoreStronger Together: Connection creates transformation
I was born and raised in Methodism and constantly heard the words “connection” and “connectionalism.” I didn’t understand what it meant at first, but when I started to get involved in the life and mission of the church, I realized that we are a connectional church, a church that works together to support one another, share resources and carry out our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. This is a historic core value of our denomination, yet one of the hardest to define.
Read More