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Lindsey Joyce named Cooperative Parish Strategist
We welcome Rev. Lindsey Joyce as the new cooperative parish strategist in the Office of Congregational Development, beginning July 1. A founding leader of the Northside Co-op, Lindsey brings deep experience in collaborative ministry and a passion for helping churches share resources while maintaining their unique identities. In this new part-time role, she will support congregations exploring innovative, team-based approaches to sustainable ministry. Read more.
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Tuesday, July 15, 7 to 8 p.m. via Zoom
Please attend if your church is allowing others to use space in your building, whether it is free or paid. Learn more.
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In response to the recent Supreme Court decision related to Birthright Citizenship, an alliance of United Methodist general agencies, the United Methodist Council of Bishops, and partner organizations is hosting a live webinar. All United Methodists of concern and conscience are invited to this webinar on July 17 at 8 p.m. on Zoom. Registration is required. Learn more.
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Listening Group Opportunity
The theme of this year’s Annual Conference was “Grace is Sufficient.” In his Episcopal Address, Bishop Schwerin stressed the urgency of being the body of Christ in the storm of uncertain times and declining church attendance in this post-Christendom world. According to Barna, people still ask questions like “How can I find hope?” and “Where do you experience God?” Bishop encouraged creative thinking similar to the use of civilian boats that saved Allied forces at Dunkirk. Our goal is equipping local churches to carry out ¶601 of The Book of Discipline of the UMC: Making disciples/apprentices of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. One small Dunkirk-like boat is “Whispers of Grace.”
You are invited to this district-wide listening group experience at DeKalb First UMC on Thursday nights September 4 through November 20 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.. Contact Karen Bonnell at LKBonnell@gmail.com with questions and to register by August 15. Learn more.
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International Students Need Our Help
There are International students at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary who are unable to travel back home this summer as they fear they will not be able to return to the country after the summer break is over. The Immigration Team of CCORR has started an initiative to help meet the students' needs with gift cards and monetary donations. Learn more.
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Campaign Shares the Impact of Apportionments
United in Impact tells the story of how United Methodists come together to support ministries that share God’s love around the world. Through real-life examples, videos and giving stories, this campaign shows how connectional giving fuels disaster response, global mission, education and more—making a lasting difference in lives and communities everywhere. Share your stories and videos that share the impact your church is making in the connection. Share them at unitedinimpact@umc.org. Find resources and learn more.
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NIC Represented in Antiracism Discipleship Group
Amania Drane and Estefany Sanabria have been named to Discipleship Resources' Antiracism Discipleship Connective (Task Force). The group is a collaborative initiative of Discipleship Ministries of The United Methodist Church formed to equip congregations and leaders to confront racism as part of a core expression of Christian disciples. Amania is a member of Friendship UMC in Bolingbrook and a program manager for NIC. Estefany is a member of Humboldt Park UMC and a Midwest Methodist Foundation Board Member. They are forging paths of transformation through prayer, study, advocacy, and community to help congregations move beyond good intentions toward sustained justice and systemic change rooted in Wesleyan theology. Learn more.
| | HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE | |
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Upcoming 2025 NIC Trainings
Cost $15, includes class instruction and background check
- Online Via Zoom
- Sat., Aug. 23, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Sun., Aug. 24, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Spanish Offering
- Sat., Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Franklin Park: First UMC
Learn more.
| Click here for Kids Above All's Back to School Backpack Drive's most needed items, and more information. Visit the KAA Drive Amazon wishlist here. | |
2025 NIC Youth Fall Retreat
for Middle School and High School students (6th to 12th grade)
Sept. 26-28
Lutherdale Camp and Conference Center, Elkhorn, WI
Learn more.
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Church Marketing and Communications Webinars
Throughout July, MyCom will host a special series of webinars open to anyone looking to strengthen their communication ministry. (Previous sessions are available as recordings.) These sessions will explore essential topics like branding, marketing, social media and public relations, offering practical tools and insights for building connection and community. Learn more.
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"Called to Journey, Called to Welcome" Bible Study
There is a new teaching tool from Church and Society entitled “Called to Journey, Called to Welcome: A Biblical Perspective on Immigration” for local churches and groups. The purpose of the study is for participants to engage, connect, and discuss immigration from a Biblical perspective. Learn more.
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“All God’s Children" Course
The General Commission on Religion and Race has created a 6-module course on recognizing the gift of cultural differences called "All God's Children." The course explores how to recognize the gift of cultural differences in ministry settings and how colorblindness is not a benign framework. Learn 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 © 2025 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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