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July 24, 2025

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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.

Sponsored by the Prairie North District

Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. to noon

Rockford: Christ UMC, 4509 Highcrest Rd.

All are welcome to this great opportunity to learn more about merger options. Hear from those who have had successful experiences of merger and share your questions! Also, there will be an opportunity to learn more about the cooperative parish model. Pastors are encouraged to bring their church leaders. Learn more.

Tues., Aug. 26, 7 - 8 p.m.

Online Via Zoom

This webinar is intended to help churches understand the NIC Church Property Insurance. Learn more.

This training is offered by the NIC Finance Team to support local churches. Recordings of past sessions from the Finance and Administration Team are available here.

 HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE

LOCAL CHURCH RESOURCES

Church and Society Statement on IRS Church Endorsement Ruling

In a July 7 federal court filing, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service said houses of worship can endorse political candidates without risking their tax-exempt status. In response, the United Methodist Board of Church and Society clarified that the Social Principles encourage churches to speak out boldly on social issues but not affiliate with any political party. Read more.

Mission Links Highlight

Volunteers in Mission Sunday

NIC Churches traditionally observe Volunteers in Mission Sunday on any Sunday in July or August to connect with when churches may be hosting Mission Trips. The basic purpose of UMVIM Awareness Sunday is for every local church to honor their volunteers who engage in mission. 

United Methodist Volunteers in Mission is the official short-term volunteer sending agency of the United Methodist Church. UMVIM equips volunteers to put Christian love into action through hands-on service around the world. Since 1976, UMVIM has engaged people in mission work ranging from building churches and improving housing to teaching, supporting medical clinics, and ensuring access to clean water. Their diverse work brings hope and help to communities in need, sharing our mission and commitment to serving others.

HOW TO GIVE: Write a check or donate online to your local church and note, “Volunteers in Mission Sunday”. Churches can give through the regular NIC Apportionment process.

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.

Rev. Brian Gilbert

Prairie South District Superintendent

bgilbert@umcnic.org

872-810-0864

Leola Tucker

Administrative Assistant

ltucker@umcnic.org

872-810-0913

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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