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IL Conference Annual Celebration & TPIRC Educational Summit
November 5–7, 2026
Covenant United Church of Christ
1130 E 154th Street, South Holland, IL 60473
Our community will gather under the inspiring theme, Hope, Spring Eternal, from November 5–7, 2026, at Covenant UCC for a meaningful time together rooted in fellowship and connection. This weekend is a beautiful opportunity to reconnect and share in powerful worship featuring guest preachers General Minister and President/CEO, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, and Rev. Tyler Yost from Church of Peace, Rock Island, IL.
The event kicks off on Thursday, November 5th with pre-conference workshops including a free Grant Writing session, Boundary Training ($30), and a free Committee on Ministry training. The learning continues through Friday afternoon with dynamic, insightful workshops designed to equip and inspire leaders for your church ministries.
Registration is $100 per person, MIDs are $50, and retired clergy are free. Please note that the Friday banquet is an add on item and not included in the regular registration. The cost for the banquet is $60 per person, discounts do not apply.
Check out our website for more information about workshops, speakers, meals, lodging and more.
Register online here.
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AN URGENT APPEAL FOR YOUR HELP
The Southside Long Term Recovery Group seeks Volunteers Now!
Grace and peace to you all,
In my role as the Illinois Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, I am making this unusual appeal.
As most of you know, beginning in 2023, the southern neighborhoods and suburbs of our city have experienced an unusual series of severe storms that have caused repeated flooding of homes and businesses. The recovery from these storms begins with removal of damaged goods and furnishings.
In order to accomplish starting the return to normal, The Southside Long Term Recovery Group is seeking volunteers to assist in the cleanup of the affected properties.
This is a purely an unpaid voluntary situation. If you are able and interested in participating, please email Shirley Muhammed or call her at 312-792-8492.
Any participation by our UCC congregations will be welcome!
Rev. Roger Dart, Illinois Conference Disaster Response Coordinator
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Preparedness Month Kick-Off: Loving Our Neighbors Through Disasters
UCC Disaster MInistries
Webinar on Tuesday,
September 8, 2026 at 2 pm CT
This webinar, Loving Our Neighbors Through Disasters Preparedness and Response, will take you through an interactive mock disaster scenario, exploring practical strategies for how churches can effectively care for congregants, support clergy, safeguard facilities, and serve their communities when disasters strike.
Register here.
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Sermon Seeds - United Church of Christ | Sermon Seeds is a preparation resource designed for use with the Revised Common Lectionary. Each week, you’ll find that Sunday’s Lectionary texts and a reflection on the focus text. Sermon Seeds are also adapted as “Weekly Seeds” on ucc.org for Bible study in the local church and for personal devotion and study. Along with the text and reflection, you’ll find a prayer, additional thoughts for reflection, and focus questions for discussion. | | | | |
September is National Suicide Prevention Month
Witness for Justice UCC
Depression is like a great big pink school eraser of hope. Imagine a piece of lined paper where all of your hopes and dreams are written down in pencil. Depression comes in with its big eraser and says it’s all wrong. Depression says you are not good enough. Depression says you don’t deserve any of the good stuff. Then, depression gets to work erasing everything you hoped and dreamed about. All you have left is a messy piece of paper with smudged eraser marks and maybe a small tear in the page where the eraser went a little too hard.
Where does hope come from when it has been erased by depression? When my hope is gone, I need the support of others. I need someone else to remind me that depression erased my hope, but hope can and will return. Hope has been returned to me with the help of family, friends, therapists, spiritual directors, and mentors. I believe God works through the people in my life to help renew my hope.
September 8th is known as “988 Day,” a time to share hope through this life-saving 24/7 text and call lifeline. 988 is a free and confidential resource to help you when your hope is lost. 988 Day is also the same day my new book releases, (co-written with UCC Indiana-Kentucky Conference Minister, the Rev. Dr. Chad Abbott), Blessed Hope: 90 Daily Devotionals for Mental Health and Faith. We wrote this book together as a reminder of our need for one another, as people of faith, in our search for God and a more hopeful tomorrow.
988 Day resource: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | SAMHSA
Blessed Hope: 90 Daily Devotionals for Mental Health and Faith
Let’s seek God together and break the silence about the ways our lives are touched by depression. We are not alone. Hope will come again. It’s a text to 988 and just a conversation away.
Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund, Minister for Disabilities and Mental Health Justice for the United Church of Christ.
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Together for Tomorrow: Build a Legacy of Love with the UCC
Pension Boards-UCC and National Ministries
The Pension Boards-UCC and National Ministries launched Together for Tomorrow, a shared legacy campaign that provides our UCC community at no cost with access to FreeWill.
Through FreeWill, you can create or update your will in minutes and, if you choose, leave a planned gift to the causes and ministries that matter most to you. It takes just minutes to document the choices that will help you secure:
- Peace of mind with a long-term plan for your assets.
- Protection for children or pets by naming a guardian.
- A legacy of care for your local congregation, the UCC, or another charity you care about.
Create Your Free Will
FreeWill makes it easy to include a legacy gift to The Christmas Fund, National Ministries, your local church or Conference, or any organization close to your heart. A will allows us to protect the family, faith, and finances that have been entrusted to our care for this generation; a planned gift allows us to continue this legacy and serve our faith community in the generations to come.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to Paul at 212-729-2738 or pramsey@pbucc.org or Michelle at 216-736-2109 or carverm@ucc.org with any questions about writing your will or leaving a planned gift.
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Deep Dive into Data Center Legislation
UCC Climate Hope Affiliates
Webinar on Saturday,
September 19, 2026 at 12 pm CT
Please join Climate Hope Affiliates in taking a deep dive into two current bills in Congress that address the environmental and financial impacts of data centers.
Our guest speaker will be Karim Marshall, Director of Climate and Energy Policy for the Consumer Federation of America. Marshall was previously the Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights at the U.S. EPA.
Register here.
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Pacific Islander & Asian American Ministries (PAAM-UCC)
National Moderator's
Official Midwest Visit
September 19, 2026 - Eden UCC, Chicago
September 20, 2026 - Christ Church UCC, Des Plaines
Pacific Islander & Asian American Ministries (PAAM-UCC) welcomes National Moderator Eppie Encabo to the Chicago area for an official Midwest Region visit.
All UCC congregations are invited to a Hybrid Regional Gathering on Saturday, September 19, from 2–4 pm at Eden UCC in Chicago, with participation also available through Google Meet. Come learn more about PAAM, hear updates and new initiatives, connect with congregations across the region, and help strengthen PAAM’s Midwest ministry.
We especially hope to connect not only with congregations historically or conventionally associated with PAAM, but also with churches that support PAAM, have Pacific Islander or Asian American members and ministries, or simply want to deepen relationships across our wider church.
On Sunday, September 20, at 9:30 am, Moderator Encabo will also participate in worship and share a message at Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines, in person and online.
Download flyer here.
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AAWIM African American Women in Ministry Gathering
Franklinton Center at Bricks, hour+ north of Raleigh
September 30 - October 3, 2026
Rooted in Belonging and Rising in Spirit is a theme that invites us to ground ourselves in our identity and relationship with those we serve with in community.
To be rooted is to deepen our connection to God, to one another, and to the spaces we inhabit, while honestly reflecting on the internal and external empires that have defragmented our sense of unity and growth. From this grounding, we are called to rise and move toward a renewed vision of belonging.
A limited number of full scholarships at the shared-lodging rate will be awarded on a first-come basis to AAWIM sisters who apply before the September 1 deadline: download scholarship request form here. Email scholarship questions to AAWIMUCC@gmail.com.
Register here by August 30. Questions? Contact Patrice at pasm0730@gmail.com.
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The ABS Antoinette Brown Society Clergywomen Leadership Gathering
StateView Hotel in Raleigh, NC
September 29 - October 2, 2026
Rev. Melody Seaton, Director of the Illinois Conference TPIRC Program, will be featured at the event as one of the 2025 ABS Awardees, along with Rev. Anne Holmes and Rev. Caela Simmons Wood.
The theme is “Rooted, Restored, and Rising”; planning in collaboration with African American Women in Ministry, the Antoinette Brown Society gathers to embrace:
- Identifying Ministry Opportunities
- Prioritizing the Relationships, Rest, and Resources necessary for the journey
- Cultivating a standard of Excellence that honors our calling in every season
ABS is expanding their reach this year to include licensed and lay authorized ministers, and partner with COREM groups to engage the fullness of the UCC ministry .
Register here by August 17. Questions? Contact Tara at barbert@ucc.org
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Bridge Builder Leadership Training Retreat
Lumunos and Wisconsin Council of Churches
Saturday, October 3, 2026,
10 am - 4 pm CT
Green Lake Conference Center
Green Lake, Wisconsin
Illinois churches are invited to join with Lumunos and the Wisconsin Council of Churches at the beautiful Green Lake Conference Center to learn how to build bridges for change in your own community, workplace, or congregation.
The process of building bridges – of building understanding, trust, and cooperation with people who may look, think, or express themselves differently than you do – is not something that comes naturally to most people.
It requires us to step outside our comfort zones, to share vulnerably and authentically, to listen without judgment, and develop empathy and appreciation for those who have walked a different path. In short, building bridges, whether one on one or in group settings, is a skill that must be learned and practiced.
The all-day retreat includes engaging content, small group reflections, role-play exercises, and much more. It is our hope participants leave feeling renewed and empowered to use these skills in their own lives, and inspired to partner with us to develop Becoming Neighbors programming in their own community, workplace, or congregation.
The retreat will be led by UCC pastor and nonprofit director, Rev. David Fraccaro, who has over 25 years experience of building bridges between unlikely groups across the United States.
Visit lumunos.org or email David at david@lumunos.org to learn more and RSVP.
Download the flyer here.
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The Great Lakes Association of United Church Educators (GLAUCE)
Fall Retreat
"Neurodiversity and Ministry with People who are Neurodiverse"
Waycross Camp and Retreat Center, 4879 Richards Rd, Morgantown, IN 46160
Tuesday 3 pm CT /Wednesday/Thursday 10:30 am CT
October 6 - 8, 2026
Rev Dr Karen-Marie Yust, Professor of Christian Education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Virginia will address the theme of "Neurodiversity and Ministry with People who are Neurodiverse" as the keynote speaker and worship leader. Additional workshops and learning will be focused on Storytelling, Calendar Planning and the church year, Curriculum, and Well-Being.
The retreat will take place at Waycross Camp and Retreat Center where lodging options include double occupancy for $300 or single for $400. All rooms have a private bath. Meals from dinner on Tuesday - breakfast on Thursday are included.
Payment questions or concerns: email Ken Rose
Registration questions or concerns: email Jenn Ringgold
Register here: If you need to pay by check - please email Jenn Ringgold for an online registration code that will allow you to complete registration without an online payment.
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We also need your recommendations for the 2026 Robert Lee Johnston Award. Use this form to nominate a Christian educator in the Great Lakes Region of the Association of United Church Educators who has demonstrated vision and educational leadership in Christian Education, modeled strong and faithful teaching, and resourced and advocated for educational ministry in the United Church of Christ.
Nominate someone here:
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Emotional and Spiritual Care Team applications are now being accepted - United Church of Christ | |
In the aftermath of a disaster, rebuilding is more than just that of brick and mortar. It involves the rebuilding of spirits and souls. It involves the rebuilding of spirits and souls.
Within the United Church of Christ that work is carried out by the Emotional and Spiritual Care Team, a program of Global H.O.P.E.’s Disaster Ministries that focuses on providing support to spiritual caregivers serving at the local church, association, and conference levels, as they provide pastoral care to their impacted communities.
And now that network of volunteers who work alongside the ILUCC’s Conference Disaster and Response Coordinator, CDC Roger Dart, is widening its reach.
Interested in being a part of the UCC’s Emotional and Spiritual Care Team? Applications are now being accepted through October 16, 2026.
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Converging 2026: Sing Through It!
Convergence Music Project
October 7-10, 2026
Louisville, Kentucky
The Convergence Music Project is inviting pastors, worship leaders, singers and songwriters, and seminarians to attend this year’s annual conference, Converging 2026: Sing Through It! The conference is scheduled for Oct. 7-10 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Attendees will experience joyful and inclusive worship and compelling workshops and will have the opportunity to connect with peers from across the country.
This Conference is a great opportunity for continuing education for pastors, professional development for worship leaders, personal inspiration for singers and songwriters, and educational for seminarians. Seminarians and younger adults are both offered a discounted rate to attend. If you are or know a seminarian, under 40 or both, please email Bryan Sirchio for your discounted conference ticket.
The Convergence Music Project is an online source of new music for congregations committed to justice, compassion for the poor, inclusive language, creation care, LBGTQ+ affirmation, and expansive theology.
Learn more and register for Converging 2026
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New Our Faith Our Vote toolkit and resources launch ahead of historic November midterms - United Church of Christ | As the 2026 midterm elections approach in November, there are new resources to help faith communities get educated on the issues and mobilize to vote with love, created by the United Church of Christ Office of Public Policy and Advocacy. | | | | |
January 2027 Delegation Update
UCC Movement for Palestinian Solidarity
with Partners at the Sabeel Ecumenical
Liberation Theology Center in Palestine
January 20 - 29, 2027
This delegation is a response to the urgent cry for ‘costly solidarity’ coming from Palestinian Christians and
partners in the region. We’d hoped to travel together this August 5-14, but were unable to due to the US/Israeli assault on Iran and Lebanon.
Relying on the extensive experience of our Sabeel partners, we’re confident that we’ll be able to travel next January. And we’re ready to move in that direction.
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The Association of Interim Ministers (AIM) Retreat/Conference
September 30 - October 1, 2026
Pilgrim Park Camp and Conference Center
26449 1340 N. Ave, Princeton, IL 61356-8790
Eric Quinney-Burnard, Keynote Speaker
Are you a member of a church in transition? Are you a church leader or minister who is in need of some support to lead your congregation in growth? This retreat will explore alternatives, especially for small churches in transition.
Eric Quinney-Burnard brings his experience in serving multiple congregations going through transitions at the same time. This makes experienced and trained Intentional Ministry skills available to small churches who otherwise could not afford a full-time trained Interim Minister. Working with a select team, the Interim Minister leads group sessions and guides activities to move the congregation into a better place and more honest assessment of their strengths and needs before seeking a new pastor.
Attendees will leave with practical responses to challenges our local congregations face today.
Download flyer with details here.
More Information: Contact Rev. Tom Cici, President of AIM Steering Committee
Register here.
Registration and fees should be completed by September 13, 2026.
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Faithful Response Immigration Gathering
Colectivo
October 4 - 6 , 2026
Slumber Falls Camp, 3610 River Rd., New Braunfels, TX 78132
You’re invited to join people of faith from across Texas for training and resource building to faithfully respond to attacks on immigrants in our communities.
From October 4-6, we will gather at Slumber Falls Camp in New Braunfels, Texas to strengthen our faithful response to the current immigration crisis by providing tools for pastors and lay leaders, and the church community to:
- Develop relationships that cross denominational lines to create a broad coalition for collective work that breaks down silos so that we can take action together.
- Spiritually ground our work and care for our congregations to build resiliency and endurance to respond to this crisis.
- Make a commitment to what comes next
This opportunity will develop the relationships that we need to have a more resilient community-based response that breaks down silos and encourages collaboration.
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), United Church of Christ, United Methodist Church, Mennonite Church USA, Texas Impact, and Church World Service are coming together to plan and sponsor the Texas Faithful Response Immigration Gathering. Participants leave with an understanding of how we will work together moving forward so that the gathering lives on after it’s over.
More information here. Register here.
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Run with Purpose. Join Team CWS!
Church World Service
2026 Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
Saturday, November 7, 2026
c is proud to be an official charity partner of the 2026 Indianapolis Monumental Marathon on November 7, 2026. Through Team CWS, participants can run either the Half Marathon or Full Marathon while raising funds to support CWS programs around the world and the local work of CWS Indianapolis.
Team CWS runners receive a racing singlet or t-shirt, coaching support from Olympic Trials qualifier Evan Gaynor, access to a private race-day tent, a pre-race team meal, and fundraising support from CWS staff.
Learn more and register: Half Marathon or Full Marathon
Download flyer here.
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OWL Resources - United Church of Christ | Books & websites for parents, educators, and youth. Recommended for parents and caregivers of elementary children: The Parent Guide to Our Whole Lives Grades K-1 and Grades 4-6, 2nd Ed. | | | | |
Tower Hill Camp and Retreat Center Seeks
Fundraising Assistant (Quarter-Time Position)
Compensation
Quarter-time position (approximately 10 hours per week).
Compensation: $800-$1000/month depending on experience
Flexible schedule, remote work option with monthly meetings in person and/or via Zoom.
Position Summary
The Fundraising Assistant supports the Executive Director and Main Office personnel with Tower Hill Camp’s fundraising and donor engagement efforts. This role helps plan and carry out fundraising initiatives, maintain donor records, coordinate communications, provide general clerical and light accounting support, manage fundraising-related web content and inquiries, and assist with special events that advance the organization’s mission and financial goals.
Download position description here.
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Women's Sacred Relax & Renewal Retreat
"Discovering New Insights to Pray the Lord's Prayer"
Pilgrim Park, 26449 1340 North Ave, Princeton, IL
Friday & Saturday, October 2-3, 2026
When praying the Lord's Prayer do you often recite it automatically? Is there only one way to pray it? Have you realized the Lord's Prayer is all about relationships?
ALL women are invited to join this overnight retreat that begins in the late afternoon on Friday, October 2 with dinner at 6 pm, and concludes around 3:30 pm on Saturday, October 3, at our beautiful Pilgrim Park where there will also be time for you to relax, refresh and renew yourself. Remember even Jesus went away briefly for the same reasons and also God rested on the seventh day!
Gather with old friends, new friends, and even bring some friends with you! Our rooms will be in the Frantzen Upper Conference Center and Higgins Lodge. Ten Thousand Villages will be back and by popular demand and our service project will be Linus Blankets!
Register here by September 20.
If you have any issues, please contact Pilgrim Park office at 815-447-2390.
Financial assistance is available, please email Pilgrim Park.
Questions? Email Carol Currier-Frighetto or call 815-277-6041.
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Brush Harbor Retreat
for Clergy of Color
Tower Hill Camp and Retreat Center
October 1-3, 2026
$250/person
Retreat Leader: Eyvette Jones-Johnson.
As Clergy, you constantly pour into others; our job is to pour into you. Come to connect deeply with your peers surrounded by the healing power of nature. Learn, write, release, and laugh out loud! Give yourself the gift of renewal and remembrance.
Register here.
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Crafters Retreat
Thursday to Sunday, December 3 -6, 2026
Pilgrim Park
26449 1340 North Ave, Princeton, IL 61356
Only a few of the ten rooms are left
What a great time to complete your last minute gifts for Christmas.
Do you quilt? Scrapbook? Crochet/knit? Or do other crafts? No matter what your passion is, enoy the peaceful scenery of Pilgrim park and create your masterpieces at your own pace.
Arrive 3 - 5 pm on Thursday to settle in before dinner at 5:30 pm. Plan on heading home on Sunday at 11 am after a nourishing breakfast.
Fee: $411/Single Occupancy, $311/Double Occupancy or $297/Triple Occupancy:
Includes three nights lodging, bedding and towels, eight meals and lots of time to do work on your Christmas crafts!
Register here.
| | Local Church News & Events | | |
Purchase tickets in advance and save at Good Samaritan Home (2130 Harrison, Quincy, IL; 217 223 8717) of by scanning the QR code above.
Tickets required for all food,/drinks,/games/ activities.
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Fourth Annual United Hearts
Family Fest
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Trinity UCC
2020 S. 24th St., Quincy, IL
Games for all ages:
Trinity UCC make & take crafts, photo booth, bounce houses, obstacle course and carnival games
Entertainment:
11am - 1:30 pm - Howie Hughes from Stealin' Copper
2 - 5 pm - Layla Elaine, Holding Hearts Quarter Auction
Local food & drink trucks:
Kohl Wolesale Food Tent, Lickins' BBQ, All Puckered Up, the opal baker shop, Tri State Sno Biz, soda, beer & wine, Trinity UCC bake sale
ALL proceeds support the mission of The Good Samaritan Home Foundation.
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Eden UCC Hosts A Jazz Singer Reading
Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6 pm CT
Eden United Church of Christ
5051 W. Gunnison St., Chicago, IL 60630
Eden United Church of Christ invites you to The Jazz Singer: A Staged Reading on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6 pm. The production will be directed by Ms. Dina Walters and will be followed by a fun Neil Diamond Karaoke reception.
Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at our website or by email or by scanning the QR code in the flyer pictured here.
"Proceeds from this fundraiser enable the programming, staff and building costs for such multi-faceted outreach in our second century of caring," says Pastor Jacki Belile.
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Invitation to the125th Anniversary Celebration
St. John's UCC in Belvidere, IL
401 N. Main St., Belvidere, IL
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Coffee Hour/9:30 am CT, Worship/10:30am CT, Luncheon/12 noon CT
2026 marks the 125th anniversary of St. John’s UCC in Belvidere, Illinois. Please join us any or all the events on September 20. There will be something for all ages.
- Coffee hour at 9:30, followed by 10:30 worship. Illinois Conference Interim Minister Reverend Dr. Terrill Murff will preach.
- Photos and mementos on display all day.
- Group photo in front of the church before outdoor and indoor activities, including cotton candy, games, bubbles, and a bouncy house.
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A luncheon will be served at noon. Please RSVP for the lunch by September 14 with the number of people attending: call/text at 815-544-3773 or email your RSVP.
Any questions, please email Beth Carson or call her 815-979-0473.
| | Resources & Learning Opportunities | | |
Climate Chaplaincy Study Forum
The BTS Center
Tuesdays 1:00 – 12:15pm CT
Something new is taking root at the edges of chaplaincy and the climate crisis — the Climate Chaplaincy Study Forum is a gathering place for those engaged in the tender and necessary work of accompanying people in a world that is changing faster than we know how to process and engage.
The Climate Chaplaincy Study Forum meets throughout the year in spacious 75-minute sessions. Tuesdays 1:00 – 12:15pm CT
September 15, 2026 • October 13, 2026 • November 17, 2026
January 12, 2027 • February 9, 2027 • March 9, 2027
April 13, 2027 • May 11, 2027 • June 8, 2027
Hosted by The BTS Center‘s Climate Conscious Chaplaincy Initiative
Co-facilitated by Rabbi Ora Nitkin-Kaner & Nisha Shah
Between gatherings, participants read a single article, essay, or chapter. They then engage in the rarer practice of sitting with that selection, placing it in conversation with their existing wisdom and that of their peers.
The forum is guided by a deep commitment to whose knowledge counts and whose voices have been left out — drawing from interdisciplinary, global, and decolonized sources that make room for the full breadth of human spiritual experience. We trust this community will add depth and dimension to your vocational pursuit.
Bring your professional and personal experiences to enrich this community of academic exploration. Sign up for the Study Forum community and come when you’re able.
Join the Climate Study Forum here.
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40 Bible Passages About AI
Friendship Press
| What does Scripture teach about artificial intelligence? Artificial intelligence is here to stay. Its impact on our world is palpable and growing, raising urgent ethical and practical questions about human life that cannot be answered by technology alone. 40 Bible Passages About AI: Scripture for an Age of Intelligent Machines is a roadmap to guide you in seeking the Bible’s wisdom about artificial intelligence and other emerging technology. | | | | |
2026 Sermon Talks
Damascus Project
First Tuesday every month
Join Damascus Project Director, Rev. Stephanie Perdew, PhD for a monthly Zoom discussion of biblical texts and sermon ideas, with the focus on topics for the month ahead. Whether you use the Revised Common Lectionary or the Narrative Lectionary or choose your own texts, this discussion is for you.
Sessions take place at noon on the first Tuesday of each month. Free for any UCC member to attend. Email Stephanie for the Zoom Link.
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Rooted in the Call: The Sacred Work of the Mission Keeper
Practical Resources for Churches (PRC)
Four Thursdays at 6 pm CT
September 17, September 24, October 1, October 8
Registration deadline September 8, 2026
Chairpersons, moderators, board chairs, council leaders, pastors, and emerging governing body leaders are invited to participate in this four-week cohort as a way of strengthening the spiritual and practical work of church leadership.
Many chairpersons inherit the role without much preparation. They may know how to open a meeting, follow an agenda, or call for a vote, but they may not have been formed to understand the spiritual influence their role carries.
A chairperson helps determine whether meetings become rushed, reactive, anxious, procedural, or discerning. The way a chairperson prepares, listens, frames conversation, and invites participation can shape the spiritual health of the entire governing body.
Facilitated by Keith Clark-Hoyos, this cohort invites participants to reframe the work of chairing as a sacred leadership responsibility. The four sessions are:
- The Call of the Mission Keeper - Understanding the sacred role of the chairperson as Mission Keeper.
- Roots of Leadership - Leadership identity grounded in Calling, Energy, Resources, and Discernment.
- Leading with Discernment - Shaping agendas, listening for the Spirit, and facilitating meaningful dialogue.
- Anchoring in Mission - Translating policy to practice, honoring the rhythm of the year, and nurturing the whole body.
To register: Email charlaine@prcli.org
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Three-part Faith & Health Companion Cohort Learning Series
Advocate/Aurora Health Care
Health and Faith Partnerships
Virtual via Zoom on Wednesdays:
September 16, October 14, November 4
This 3-part series builds knowledge and skills for providing support and care to others during times of stress. Participants must be able to participate in all three classes.
- Companionship - Wed, September 16. 9 am - 12:30 pm CT
- Trauma, Faith, & Healing - Wed, October 14. 9 am - 11:30 am CT
- Rest for Sustainable Ministry & New Beginnings - Wed, November 4, 9 am - 1:30 pm CT
(Optional class) Mental Health First Aid - more details provided after enrollment
This learning cohort equips Faith & Heath Companions to:
- Build relationships in response to isolation and suffering
- Understand the connection between trauma, faith, and healing
- Build or strengthen a ministry to support positive mental health in communities
- Create support networks with like-minded faith communities working to support mental heath
This is an excellent opportunity for clergy, deacons, bikur cholim visitors, youth leaders, ushers, and anyone in the congregation who provides care and support to others.
Space is limited and a conversation with our coordinator is required before final enrollment. Email Jennifer Phillips for more information and/or Download flyer here.
Register here.
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Rest, Rhythm, & Renewal
Advocate/Aurora Health Care
Health and Faith Partnerships
Thursday, September 17, 2026
12 -1pm CT Virtual via Zoom
Join us for a lunch and learn. Explore practical ways to support our wellness. Through guided reflection, interactive conversation, and shared wisdom, you can choose one meaningful practice to begin and sustain over the next 30 days.
As you get ready for the busy season ahead, remember to take care of yourself too. Simple, healthy routines can help you feel more balanced, manage stress, and have the energy to support yourself and others. Most importantly, it allows your daily habits to reflect the well-being you encourage in your community.
Register here. Download flyer here.
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Grant Writing for Mission and Ministry
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Building a Digital Bridge
Thursday, September 17, 2026
What Matters: Unlock your Church’s Hidden Potential
Thursday, September 24, 2026
More than a Moment: Children in Worship
Thursday, October 1, 2026
What Kind of Changemaker are You?
Thursday, October 22, 2026
What to Do About Stewardship When a Well-Loved Pastor Leaves
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Gen Gap Lab: Understanding Today’s Young Adults
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Simple, Inexpensive Ideas for Community Outreach: Less Can Be More
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
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Lunchtime Film Screening:
Caring for the Earth: Stories from Faith Communities
National Council of Churches
Wednesdays through October 7, 2026
1:00 pm- 1:45 pm CT
Created for pastors and faith leaders of all ages. We will watch each film over the six weeks and then hear directly from the powerful faith leaders featured in the films.
The series highlights over 30 powerful voices of Christian, Muslim, Indigenous, Baha’i, and Jewish faith leaders from 14 states including clergy, youth leaders, and interfaith organizers, who are leading with hope, compassion, and courage. They share inspiring stories and hope for our shared future.
Watch the introductory film on youtube:
To Tend and To Keep: People of Faith Caring For The Earth
September 9, 2026 Seeds of Fire: Building Resilient Communities
September 16, 2026 Holy Water: Protecting What Connects and Sustains Us
September 23, 2026 Climate Justice: Sacred Voice Rising
September 3h, 2026: Healing Creation: Honoring Nature and Each Other
October 7, 2026: Young Leaders: Creating Hope for the Future
Register here.
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2026 Boundary and Racial Justice Trainings
Enkei Resolutions
All trainings are spread out over two days from 7 to 11 am CT each day
Here are the remaining 2026 training dates and registration links. Registration closes when limits are reached.
Boundary Training
Dates: September 8 & 9; November 5 & 12; November 17 & 18
Register here.
Racial Justice Training
Level 1
Date: October 27 & 28
Register here.
Level 2
Dates: August 11 & 18; September 29 and October 13
Register here.
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Healthy Conflict Workshop
October 20, 6 to 10 am CT via Zoom
The Healthy Conflict for Strong Churches workshop looks at the anxiety our systems are facing, invites curiosity as to what that anxiety might be stirring for us, and offers healthy conflict practices that can further our mission and ministry.
This workshop will focus on embodied practices, tools and resources that church leaders may use to create strong teams that can not only address conflict in their leadership body in a healthy way but then use that conflict to engage the change and transformation.
Cost is $65/person and a reduced rate of $30/person is offered for churches sending three or more people. Register here. If you plan to register three or more from the same church, email me for a special registration link.
Please note: You must fill out BOTH the registration form and complete payment to register. After filling out the form, the link to pay will pop up. Many of the trainings fill up long before the deadline to register and if I have not received both a registration form and a payment, I will offer your space to someone on the waitlist. If you register and do not attend, I can move your registration to another training but cannot offer a full refund. Up until 1 week before the training, I can refund your fee (minus processing fees).
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Stewardship Webinars
Wisconsin Conference UCC
6:30pm to 7:30pm -(not recorded)
Sept. 23 – Gen Z and Generosity
Most churches can have up to five generations of people present in them. Studies show that there is a diversity in the way generations approach generosity. A “one size fits all” approach to engaging givers will fall short if it does not account for those differences. Join Rev. Bonnie Bates in a conversation about generational variety in giving patterns with a particular focus on reaching members of Gen Z. Register here.
Oct. 28 – Thanking People
Gratitude is one of the most powerful stewardship practices. Thoughtful and sincere thank-yous deepen donor relationships and express appreciation that builds trust, loyalty, and long-term support. Join Rev. Ruth Edens in a discussion about strategies to show every donor that they are valued and inspired to give again. Register here.
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2026 Stewardship & Generosity Materials - UCC Stewardship Theme Materials | |
2026 Stewardship / Generosity Materials - Coordinated stewardship materials for your congregation's annual stewardship efforts with the same robust content you’ve come to expect in an easier-to-navigate format. Rooted in Jesus’ teaching from Matthew 6, this theme reframes stewardship not as performance or obligation, but as the quiet, courageous work of placing everything we have in God’s care.
The materials include:
· Campaign guidance for every step of a year-round or seasonal effort.
· Eight scripture-based sermon reflections and worship liturgies
· Eight corresponding Bible studies for small group use.
· Branding kit including logos, pledge cards, posters, bulletin inserts, and letters
- (including Canva templates for many of these materials).
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The Black Madonna
Sacred Wisdom for a World in Crisis
Convergence
Tuesday, September 8, 2026, 6 – 8 pm CT
Online via Zoom (recording will be available)
A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Matthew Fox, Christena Cleveland, PhD., Alessandra Belloni, and Cameron Trimble. This will be more than a lecture. It will be a contemplative and experiential evening inviting participants into deeper reflection, imagination, embodiment, and spiritual renewal. Together, we will explore:
- A (brief) history and mystery of the Black Madonna traditions
- The return of the Divine Feminine in a time of global crisis
- The connections between mysticism, justice, embodiment, and liberation
- Ritual, chant, pilgrimage, and sacred practice as pathways of transformation
- What the Black Madonna may offer us in this moment of cultural and spiritual unraveling
Register here.
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Cultivating Generous Congregations
The Damascus Project
Alternating Wednesdays: August 26,
September 9, 23, October 7 & 21, November 4
6:30-8 pm CT
These Zoom seminar courses are designed to help change the way you and your congregation approach giving and generosity! Cultivating Generous Congregations will provide you with significant and necessary steps to create lasting cultural change within a congregation. With Rev. Dr. Elena Larssen, Rev. Melissa St. Clair, and Rev. Andrew Warner.
Six Zoom seminars on every other Wednesday from August 26 to November 4 from 6:30-8:00 PM CST. Additional self-paced learning between sessions.
Please Note: At least two leaders per congregation must register. Additionally, Assessment Learners/Members in Discernment are encouraged to take this course with another lay person from their congregation. If you are registering and have a Member in Discernment on your team, please mark “Member in Discernment” on the registration form.
Register here.
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Writing from the Insight Out | The Commons
Monday, September 7, 2026
11 am - 12 pm CDT - Repeats every Monday
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A Weekly Writing Group with Meryl Marshall-Daniels This is a simple and spacious writing circle for people who want time to listen inwardly and put words on the page-without overthinking, performing, or polishing.
Each week we will gather in community, receive a gentle prompt, write together in sprints, and then close our time. Participants are welcome to share what they’ve written, but sharing is always optional.
This is not a workshop or critique group. Nothing needs to be finished. Nothing needs to be explained. We are a community of practice.
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2026 Annual Environment and Spirituality Summit on Zoom
September 28-29, 2026
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Attend the 2026 Annual Environment & Spirituality Summit hosted by Faith in Place, where thought leaders and participants delve into the critical intersection of environmental sustainability, spiritual practices, and social justice.
Featuring keynote speaker, Bill McKibben: author, educator, and environmentalist who helped found 350.org, the first global grassroots climate campaign, and who has recently helped found Third Act, to build a progressive organizing movement for people over the age of 60.
All sessions will be available online. We will send out details on how to join via Zoom the day before the Summit starts.
View Agenda here. Register here.
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Faith & Politics Summit | The Commons
October 5–9, 2026, online, free
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Election years put every pulpit and every pew in a bind. Stay silent, and you risk leaving your community without guidance when it needs it most. Speak up, and you risk the backlash that comes with naming hard truths.
This five-day online summit is built for the leaders and believers who refuse to choose between faith and courage. Each day tackles a different dimension of faith in public life — from who gets left out, to who gets to belong, to what it costs to speak anyway. You'll leave with language, frameworks, and community to carry your convictions into your congregation, your community, and your vote.
Program details and registration form here.
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Meetings
Sep 10: FVA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Sep 10: CMA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 12:00 pm via Zoom.
Sep 12: Conference Board of Directors Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Sep 14: Conference Nominating Meeting. 7:00 pm via Zoom.
Sep 15: Finance Committee Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Sep 15: WA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Sep 15: CMA Council Meeting. 6:30 pm via Zoom.
Sep 19: Conference HR Meeting. 9:30 am via Zoom.
Sep 20: WA Council Meeting. 3:30 pm via Zoom.
Sep 28: EA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 11:00 am via Zoom.
Sep 28: FVA Council Meeting. 6:30 pm via Zoom.
Oct 1: PA Committee on Ministry Meeting. 9:00 am via Zoom.
Oct 1: Annual Celebration Planning Committee. 4:00 pm via Zoom.
Fall Association Meetings
Oct 3: Western Association Fall Meeting. 9:00 to 11:00 am via Zoom.
Registration will open soon.
Oct 11: Eastern Association Fall Meeting. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at First Congregational UCC in Decatur. Registration will open soon.
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Contact Us
Mon-Fri 8:30 - 4:30
708-344-4470
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