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Reimagining Church: Introducing the Turtle Awards

Rev. Christian Coon introduces the first-ever Turtle Award to celebrate churches that have taken bold risks in ministry—even when those efforts didn’t succeed. Inspired by the idea that progress requires “sticking your neck out,” the award encourages learning from failure and supports innovation through a $500 grant. Churches are invited to share their stories of experimentation, reinforcing the value of trying new approaches to share the Good News.

Leading the Laity: Celebrating Our Connectionalism

Eugene Williams, Conference Co-Lay Leader, offers an encouraging message to the laity of the Northern Illinois Conference, reminding them that God’s grace is sufficient in all circumstances. He emphasizes the power of United Methodist connectionalism and our shared identity in Christ, urging unity and compassion in a divided world. As we look forward to Annual Conference, he invites all to celebrate our connection and continue living out our faith in love and service.

This Life-Changing Journey: We’d love to visit your church

Rev. Danita R. Anderson reflects on her first nine months as Assistant to the Bishop, highlighting the joy and learning that have come with visiting churches across the Northern Illinois Conference. She emphasizes the Cabinet’s commitment to worshiping with congregations of all sizes and invites churches to reach out for preaching or resourcing opportunities. Whether scheduled or spontaneous, these visits aim to strengthen connection—and yes, they love taking pictures too!

HEAL Well Plans Earth Day Event and More

Northern Illinois Conference’s HEAL (Helping Everyone Access Life) Well ministry has planned an Earth Day event for all ages on April 26, 10:30 a.m., at Olivet UMC in Chicago.

Glenview UMC and Nearby Fire Departments Donate Vehicles for Guatemala

Glenview UMC partnered with nearby fire departments to donate fire trucks and ambulances to Midwest Mission, which sent them to towns in Guatemala.

Exhibit on Native American Boarding Schools Recounts a Painful History

Nearly 30 United Methodists attended Schingoethe Center Museum at Aurora University on March 13 for a private viewing of the “Away from Home” exhibit, which examined boarding schools that attempted to eradicate Native American culture from indigenous children.