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For nearly a century, housing has been part of Humboldt Park United Methodist Church’s ministry. Now, through a partnership with LUCHA, the church’s 98-year-old building is being transformed into affordable housing known as La Herencia, ensuring residents can remain in their neighborhood amid growing gentrification. The congregation continues to worship and live out its commitment to inclusive, liberative ministry as it searches for a new space. Read more.
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First Korean United Methodist Church in Wheeling held a Feb. 7 prayer vigil as a sign of solidarity with immigrant communities and those facing detention and displacement. Structured around remembrance, lament, and hope, the gathering honored lives lost, heard testimony from ministry partners in Minnesota, and lifted prayers for peace and justice. Through candlelight and communal prayer, the church embodied its commitment to stand courageously with those living as “gers,” bearing witness to hope amid fear and uncertainty.Read more.
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In this issue of The Reporter, read how Northern Illinois United Methodists are living out faith through hope, generosity, and courageous ministry. This issue highlights stories of service, advocacy, and connection across the conference. Read Bishop Schwerin’s Lent reflection, and Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer's focus on youth voices. Rev. Danita R. Anderson reflects on historic women, while Co-Lay Leader Eugene Williams reminds us that we need to be full of hope. Rev. Christian Coon asks us to share our "why" stories.
Read the full issue online and read the individual news stories here.
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“When Fear Knocks, the Church Shows Up: A Chicago Story” tells the stories of how immigrant communities in Northern Illinois struggle to continue working, attending worship, obtaining groceries and other needs, and sending their children to school, and how conference churches have reached out to help. The production of this video demonstrates how the United Methodist connection supports our active sharing of Christ’s love and mercy with our neighbors. Read more and watch the video.
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2026 Laity Convocation
Sat., March 21
9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
With the theme Moving Forward with Hope, the Board of Laity invites you to a meaningful morning of learning, connection, and encouragement. Gather in person at First UMC in Glen Ellyn or watch the live-stream at one of our satellite locations at Princeton: First UMC, Freeport: Faith UMC, or Orland Park: Faith as we reflect, grow, and look ahead together. Registration is now open. Learn more.
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Discover a range of opportunities available through United Methodist organizations to support students in their educational and ministry journeys. Explore the options below for eligibility details, award amounts, and application deadlines, and share them with students who may benefit.
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Midwest Mission Continues Strong
Encouraging news from Midwest Mission, they remain strong, active, and committed to serving communities in need. While UMCOR announced it will close its Sager Brown facility at the end of 2026, Midwest Mission’s independent operations continue unaffected. As a key partner in the UMCOR relief supply network, Midwest Mission is poised to expand its impact, ensuring that disaster relief kits and humanitarian supplies continue to reach those who need them most. Read more.
| | HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE | |
For full details about the 2026 Annual Conference Session, including special observances, registration, awards, document deadlines, and more, visit the AC26 webpage for updates. | |
Looking for Sister Churches
The CCORR Immigration Subcommittee is encouraging the creation of sister churches as a way for communities with that are culturally different to learn and grow together through mutual support and encouragement. A group of people with experience in a sister church program will help interested congregations navigate the process of beginning a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship with another church. We currently have two churches in Chicago with primarily immigrant congregations interested in partnering with another church. Please contact Lisa Rogers if you would like more information.
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NIC UMM Annual Meeting
Sat., March 7
8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Crystal Lake: First UMC
236 W. Crystal Lake Ave., Crystal Lake
All men are invited to attend the NIC United Methodist Men Annual Meeting, beginning with breakfast at 8:30 a.m., followed by the meeting, message, and communion. Please RSVP by March 4 via email or call (312) 933-3239 to let them know how many men from your church will be there for breakfast.
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To better support churches, this year’s grant applications have been simplified. Applications are now open for the following grants:
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Town and Rural Grants
Small-town and rural congregations with a vision for new or expanded ministry are encouraged to apply for NIC PACK (Planned Act of Christian Kindness) Grant and Keagy Grants. Awards range from $500 to $5000. Applications are available online, with a deadline of March 31. For additional information, please contact Rev. Libby Rutherford.
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Creative Ministry Grants
Coordinated by the ACST, these grants support creative, collaborative projects that help fulfill the church’s mission of transforming the world. Awards range from $500 to $1,000. Applications are available online, with a deadline of May 15. For additional information, please contact Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer.
Learn more about NIC Grants.
Other Grant Opportunities:
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General Commission on Religion and Race CORR Action Fund Grants support bold, creative, and justice-rooted ministries that advance equity, reconciliation, and intercultural competency within The United Methodist Church. Deadline: May 15
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UMCOR’s Mustard Seed Migration Grant program encourages U.S.-based United Methodist churches to engage in community-based ministries with migrants and refugees in their midst. Applications will be reviewed and approved on a rolling basis within 30 days of submission.
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New Digital Edition of the UMC Handbook is Now Available
United Methodist Communications has just published the 2025 - 2028 edition of The United Methodist Church handbook. The handbook is a digital, print-ready resource designed to help you understand who we are, how we are connected, and how we live out our shared mission together. It, along with the new member companion guide, is available in a digital-first format. Read more.
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Suicide Hotline available
For those contemplating suicide or who just desperately need someone with whom to talk. It is confidential and free. Just call 988. The service has also been expanded for Spanish-speaking persons and deaf or hard-of-hearing persons, including those who use American Sign Language.
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Other Resources
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ResourceUMC - your online destination for United Methodist Church leaders. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical information, this site is your go-to resource. Check back often for fresh ideas and insights to empower your leadership across our connection.
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UMC Giving Resources - Mission Moments, Special Sunday Info, Leader Kits, Pew Cards, and more.
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United Media Resource Center - Lending library of Christian materials for local churches, small groups, pastors, children, and individuals.
| | | | Copyright © 2026 Northern Illinois Conference | |
Do you have news to share?
We are always looking for stories of what is happening in your church. We welcome articles from churches highlighting ministries, outreach, and missions that tell the story of being vital Christians. Events considered should be of conference-wide appeal and United Methodist-related.
District eNews are sent out the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. Please submit stories and events by end of business on the 2nd and 4th Mondays. Space is limited. Stories of fewer than 250 words are preferred. Submissions will be edited at the discretion of Communications staff. Information can be emailed to communications@umcnic.org.
Check out our Submit News page for more details.
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