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Mission Stories Inspire at Annual Conference
The Northern Illinois Conference Board of Global Ministries inspired Annual Conference attendees through stories of mission, hope, and faithful generosity during its Lunch and Learn gathering. Rev. Jane Eesley shared reflections from her ministry with Palestinian Christians in Jerusalem, while Rev. Jen Huff highlighted how mission experiences shape lives and introduced resources for individuals and churches seeking to serve globally. The board also recognized two congregations for their outstanding commitment to mission giving. Read more.
If you attended the 2026 Annual Conference, please take a few minutes to complete the conference evaluation by July 15. Your feedback will help shape planning for the 2027 Annual Conference.
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Equip Your Church for the Future of Ministry
Discover practical tools to strengthen your ministry at this two-day training with church technology leader Jason Moore, July 17–18 at Woori UMC in Naperville. Learn how to use AI responsibly to save time and enhance ministry, then explore proven strategies for creating engaging hybrid worship experiences that connect with people both in person and online. Attend one day or both—but don’t wait. Learn more.
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Camp & Retreat Ministry:
AC Decisions & Next Steps
Following a thoughtful and heartfelt conversation at the 2026 Annual Conference, members approved legislation authorizing the task force to conduct feasibility studies to evaluate the NIC’s outdoor & retreat ministry and discern how it can best serve future generations. The legislation did not determine the future of any particular camp property. Instead, it calls for a comprehensive evaluation of ministry programs, site viability, financial sustainability, staffing, governance, and long-term strategy. The task force will begin the study this fall and provide updates as the work progresses, with any future recommendations requiring AC action returning to the conference for prayerful discernment. Read more.
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Prairie Central District Zoom Gatherings
Paused for June and July
Our next zoom gathering will be on Sept. 10, and after that we will meet quarterly.
Questions? Message DS Rev. Wendy Hardin Hermann
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Becoming the Beloved Community is a workshop that conveys not only facts and essential knowledge about race and racism but also seeks to help us experience some of the harm and hurt racial prejudice has caused. Learn more.
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Shop, Support Missions, and Enjoy a Classic Car Show
July 23-25 at Cary UMC
Find great bargains while supporting mission work at the UWFaith Annual Rummage Sale. Browse a wide variety of items throughout the sale, including popular brown bag sale specials, with all proceeds benefiting mission giving.
On Sat, July 25, bring the whole family for the UMM Car Show featuring free vehicle registration, a local DJ, kids’ prizes, and lunch available for purchase from the local Boy Scout troop.
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Whether your church has already wrapped up Vacation Bible School or is getting ready to welcome children this summer, the ministry doesn’t have to end when the last song is sung. A new ResourceUMC article shares practical ideas for building on the relationships formed during VBS, including ways to follow up with families, celebrate volunteers, share your story, and invite participants to future church events. Discover simple steps to help your VBS have a lasting impact long after the week is over. Learn more.
Don't forget to share your VBS (and Mission Trip) Stories with us for an end-of-the-summer recap! Share your photos and stories with NIC Communications Specialist, Lisa Smith.
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Fraudulent emails and text messages continue to circulate, falsely claiming to be from Bishop Schwerin or other conference staff. Please remember that neither the bishop nor conference staff will ever ask you to purchase gift cards, send money, or provide financial assistance through email or text message. Official conference emails will come from @umcnic.org, @niwumc.org, @brtapp.com, or @shared1.ccsend.com. If you receive a message that seems suspicious or comes from another address, do not respond or click any links. Delete the message and notify the conference office so we can help alert others.
| | HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE | |
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Help children, youth, and young adults start the school year ready to learn by supporting Kids Above All’s annual Back-to-School Backpack Drive. Donate new backpacks, school supplies, gift cards, or purchase items through the Amazon Wish List to make a meaningful difference for the children and families they serve. Contact Catherine Inserra, with questions. View the list and learn more.
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Join the NIC Advocacy Partners Immigration Committee and people of faith for Immigration 101 on Sat., Aug. 8, from 9 a.m. to noon at UMC of Libertyville (429 Brainerd Ave.). This informative program will explore the realities of immigration, provide a biblical and theological foundation for welcoming the stranger, and highlight ways churches and individuals can respond with compassion. A panel of speakers will address immigration facts versus misconceptions, introduce organizations serving immigrant communities, and share practical ways you can make a difference. Learn more.
Participants and congregations are encouraged to take the next step by joining the Conference-Wide Faithful Action Day on Sun., Sept. 13, putting faith into action through local outreach and advocacy in support of our immigrant neighbors.
| Calling all students in grades 6-12! Join youth from across the Northern Illinois Conference for a fun-filled weekend of worship, friendship, and adventure, Sept. 25-27 at Camp Timber-lee in East Troy, Wis. Enjoy inspiring worship, small groups, campfires, and exciting activities like zip-lining, fishing, axe-throwing, and more. Registration is now open. Learn more. | | | | |
Scholarships for Emerging Church and Community Leaders
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NIC UWFaith Scholarship offers a scholarship for women pursuing a church-related vocation, whether in ordained or lay ministry. Applicants must be accepted by an accredited graduate school, reside in the NIC, demonstrate financial need, and supply a copy of their school transcript. Deadline: Sept. 11 Learn more.
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Global Ministries Leadership Development and Scholarships equips emerging church and community leaders through World Communion and Leadership Development Scholarships that support graduate study in theology, health, community development, and human rights. These awards cover tuition, books, and required fees for one year of study at accredited institutions for a master’s or doctoral program. Deadline: July 20 Learn more.
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Help Track ICE Enforcement at Sensitive Locations
To help monitor immigration enforcement actions at churches and other locations that have traditionally been considered sensitive sites, Church World Service has created a living database documenting ICE and Border Patrol enforcement actions at or near these locations. The database draws on news reports, court filings, government data, and reports from advocacy organizations and faith leaders. Churches and individuals are encouraged to review the database and report any known incidents to help keep this resource current and comprehensive. Learn more.
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Connectional Giving Update
Every contribution makes a difference in sustaining our conference’s mission and impact in the community. If you are not sure where your church stands on their contributions, please reach out to your pastor or church treasurer.
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 © 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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