When their annual summer mission trip had to be cancelled due to COVID-19, Youth Pastor Jeremiah Lee and the youth group at Community UMC in Naperville were left searching for a way to still make an impact. Enter Kids Above All and their new virtual mission experience.
Read MoreSearching for some information on our conference website recently, I was struck by how many times the word “different” popped up on the screen. It made me laugh out loud. We are in a season defined by the “different”.
Read MoreThe traditional themes for Advent are foundational to how we live our faith in Jesus Christ. The themes of Advent are hope, peace, joy and love. Each week we focus on one in light of the upcoming celebration of Christ’s birth into the world.
Read MoreThe Illinois State Historical Society has recognized Barrington United Methodist Church (BUMC) as an Illinois Sesquicentennial House of Worship. Churches across the state that have served their congregations continuously for at least 150 years are eligible. The recognition leads to the church’s history being recorded at the Society as well as at the Illinois State Library for use by future researchers.
Read MoreAs of January 1, 2021, I will be retired after 43 ½ years of active ministry in The United Methodist Church. My ministry in Northern Illinois began on September 1, 2012 and due to the postponement of General and Jurisdictional Conferences, I extended my time in Northern Illinois until the end of 2020. I have already begun my post-retirement ministry as the Ecumenical Officer for the Council of Bishops/The United Methodist Church. Retired Bishop John Hopkins will be the interim bishop as of January 1, 2021. I know that you will welcome him into your midst!
Read MoreI’m one of those (few) people who actually likes to cook Thanksgiving dinner. A big turkey with dressing with lots of leftovers to make into soup. But this year, the food will be Cornish hen instead of turkey! What about you? Will your Thanksgiving be different? Will it still be filled with joy? It all depends on us. On how we place our priorities. How we live out our deepest values and, I daresay, faith.
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