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Other Opportunities to Participate
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Sign up for the weekly eNews for daily AC editions to help you stay abreast of decisions and happenings.
Clergy and Lay Members to AC: Check out the most recent email here to prepare yourself. Also, watch a recording of the Pre-Conference Briefing here.
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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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Join United Methodists across the Northern Illinois Conference as we learn, advocate, and take faithful action in support of our immigrant neighbors.
This summer offers several opportunities to engage:
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Public Demonstration at Annual Conference – Participate in this public witness for justice on Mon., June 15, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.
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DIY Faithful Action: Loving Our Neighbor Community Engagement Event The DIY (Do-it-yourself) format encourages each congregation to organize an event that works for their church while bearing witness to God’s commandment to "love your neighbor as yourself.” CCORR created a checklist to assist churches with planning an event that acknowledges the humanity and dignity of our immigrant siblings.
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Conference-Wide Day of Action – On Sept. 13, churches across the conference are invited to participate in a coordinated day of public witness to demonstrate large-scale support for our immigrant brothers and sisters.
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Immigration 101 Training – Gain a deeper understanding of immigration issues and practical ways to support immigrant communities at this training on Aug. 8 at Libertyville.
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Our Shared Story:
How Apportionments Make Ministry Possible
Rev. Michael Mann, incoming CCFA chair, reflects on the power of connectional giving and the impact apportionments have had on his own faith journey. From supporting global ministries and leadership development to funding vital ministries around the world, he shares how United Methodists accomplish together what no congregation could do alone. Read more.
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Connectional Giving Update
Every contribution makes a difference in sustaining our conference’s mission and impact in the community. Currently, as of the end of May 2026, our collection rates are as follows:
- Apportionments - 75%
- Property Insurance - 99%
- Health and Pension - 96%
- Clergy Health Responsibility - 94%
If you are not sure where your church stands on their contributions, please reach out to your pastor or church treasurer. Learn more.
| | HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE | |
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Pastor & Youth Leader Morning at JOY Camp
Tues., June 23, 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Discover the joy and impact of JOY Camp by experiencing a morning at camp designed especially for conference leaders. To help ensure enough food and to include all dietary restrictions, please RSVP to JOY Camp Director, Payton Keithley. Learn more.
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Revolutionize Your Ministry
with AI and Hybrid Worship
Join church technology leader Jason Moore on July 17-18 at Woori UMC in Naperville for a two-day training designed to help churches embrace innovation with confidence. Learn practical and ethical ways to use AI in ministry, and discover strategies for creating engaging hybrid worship experiences to strengthen your congregation’s outreach and discipleship. Attend one day or both. Learn more.
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Join Church Leaders in Columbus for SCD 2026
Leaders will gather August 2–5 in Columbus for SCD 2026: RISE UP. Through inspiring worship, practical workshops, and visionary speakers, you’ll gain fresh tools and a renewed sense of purpose for leading your congregation into the future. Bring your team and be part of a movement of innovation, disciple-making, and courageous leadership shaping the future of the church. Registration rates increase on June 17, and space is limited, so reserve your spot soon. Learn more.
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Summer Mission u
Join the United Women in Faith of the Northern Illinois Conference this summer for inspiring teaching events open to all.
Three Opportunities:
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July 10-12 – Weekend teaching
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July 25 – Korean One-Day teaching
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Aug. 8 - One-Day teaching
All are welcome to attend these opportunities for learning, fellowship, and spiritual growth.
Learn more.
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How to Promote Vacation Bible School on a Small Budget
In this new article from ResourceUMC, learn how churches can effectively promote VBS on a small budget, including through word-of-mouth, using exciting curriculum that interests children and families, and making sign-up simple. Learn more.
Don't forget to share your VBS Stories with us for an end-of-the-summer recap! Share your photos and stories with us, email Lisa Smith.
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Faithfully Celebrating Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a powerful reminder that God calls the church to pursue justice, liberation, and dignity for all people. As we remember the delayed freedom of enslaved Black Americans, we are invited to recommit ourselves to confronting racism, standing with the oppressed, and living out God’s call to “let justice roll down like waters”. The General Commission on Religion and Race provides worship resources and videos as well as suggestions on how white people can observe Juneteenth. Read more.
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Faith leaders are invited to participate in a virtual suicide prevention course available online anytime. It provides practical tools for recognizing warning signs, responding to crises, and supporting individuals and families impacted by suicide. Offered by the General Commission on United Methodist Men and developed in partnership with several United Methodist agencies, the training combines theological reflection with life-saving guidance and is narrated by Bishop Gregory V. Palmer. Read More
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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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