Conference Co-Lay Leader Eugene Williams encourages the Northern Illinois Conference to continue to embrace 2025 as a Year of Grace, staying focused on Christ’s call despite distractions. He reminds laity that joy in the Lord cannot be taken away unless we allow it and urges steadfast faith, love, and hope in the face of challenges.
Read MoreAll Northern Illinois United Methodists are welcome to attend the Legislative Lobby Day trip to Springfield on May 7. The Advocacy Partners of the Northern Illinois Conference Commission on Religion and Race is planning the event.
Read MoreThe Northern Illinois casualty and liability insurance program (NICUM) offers conference churches a stable and economical coverage option. However, NICUM does not cover damages caused by lack of maintenance. This requires churches to proactively address structural issues and ongoing upkeep. To sustain their ministries, churches should plan for future maintenance needs through savings, fundraising, and strategic partnerships while working with their district superintendent when necessary.
Read MoreThe Walk to Emmaus is a spiritual retreat designed to deepen faith, strengthen one’s relationship with Christ, and build a supportive Christian community. Many participants describe it as a life-changing experience, offering renewal, growth, and a deeper understanding of God’s grace. The Northern Illinois Emmaus community invites individuals to consider attending a retreat in 2025, with both spring and fall weekends available for men and women.
Read MoreAre you in a small-town or rural church? Have you been dreaming of a creative ministry opportunity in your community, but need a little financial help? The Northern Illinois Conference awards two grants for rural ministry each year—the PACK (Planned Act of Christian Kindness) Grant and the Keagy Grant—to empower small-town and rural churches in their community outreach.
Read MoreOur Saviour’s UMC in Schaumburg expanded its gift card program from a small pilot to a church-wide effort, raising $9,730 in 2024 to support individuals and families in need. Gift cards were distributed across multiple communities, food programs, and crisis centers, bringing joy and relief to recipients. Alongside this initiative, the church continues its long-standing support for local and global hunger relief through food drives and volunteer efforts.
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