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Sat., Aug. 1, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Former St. Andrew UMC Building, 
18850 Riegel Road, Homewood

There will be an All-District Youth Choir. 

Directed by Rev. Michael Mitchell Sr.

Rehearsals will begin Sat. June 6, Noon to 2 p.m. at the Maple Park UMC, 11705 S. Elizabeth, Chicago

Learn more.

Multi-Point Creation Care Ministry at Broadway

Members of Broadway United Methodist Church are making creation care a central part of their ministry through education, advocacy, and sustainable practices. This spring, the church hosted a Green Sunday worship service, partnered with the One Earth Film Festival, and worked with Faith in Place to support healthier indoor air quality in local homes. Broadway UMC has also taken significant steps toward sustainability by transitioning to solar energy, upgrading to LED lighting, eliminating foam products, and planting native species on church grounds. Read more.

Garden Provides For Food Pantries

As food pantries across northern Illinois continue to report growing need, members of Barrington United Methodist Church are preparing for another season of ministry through the BUMC Congregational Garden. Since its beginning, the garden has produced more than 290,000 pounds of fresh vegetables for local food pantries, with volunteers once again planting and tending thousands of crops this spring and summer to help feed neighbors facing food insecurity. Read more.

Equipping Faith Leaders for Suicide Prevention

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

 HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE

LOCAL CHURCH RESOURCES

Navigating New Appointments

This summer, many clergy and congregations will prepare for transitions in pastoral leadership. Thoughtful and intentional steps during this season can help create positive outcomes for both individuals and communities. The Lewis Center’s Jonathan Page shares guidance on finishing well, creating space for new leadership, and “keeping the main thing the main thing,” as well as what these practices mean for everyone involved in the transition process. Read more

Equipping Effective Church Treasurers

Every United Methodist charge is required to have a church treasurer, a role that supports far more than bookkeeping and bill paying. Treasurers help steward the financial gifts of the congregation so the church can carry out its mission through worship, outreach, evangelism, and spiritual formation. By faithfully managing church finances, treasurers play an important part in turning generosity into ministry. ResourceUMC offers guidance, tools, and practical resources to help leaders serve effectively in this vital role. Read more.

Get Ready for Vacation Bible School

Whether you are still planning your Vacation Bible School or looking for fresh ideas to strengthen it, ResourceUMC offers helpful tools and inspiration, including promotion tips, creative puppet ministry suggestions, Cokesbury curriculum resources, and flexible summer ministry ideas. Read more.

Don't forget to share your VBS Stories with us for an end-of-the-summer recap! Share your photos and stories with NIC Communications Specialist, Lisa Smith.

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. Audrea Nanabray

Lake South District Superintendent

ananabray@umcnic.org

872-810-0894

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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