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Bishop's Appeal Update: Advancing Educational Opportunities Around the World
The 2026 Bishop’s Appeal: Education for the Central Conferences raised $32,247.40 to expand educational opportunities in Tanzania and support theological education in Africa, Europe and the Philippines. With construction underway at Global Mission Secondary School and additional gifts through Miracle Sunday, Northern Illinois United Methodists are helping prepare future students and church leaders for service in their communities and around the world. Read more.
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UVC Celebrates Children Advocates
United Voices for Children gathered with church leaders, advocates and community partners for its annual Raising Our Voices event, highlighting youth mental health, bullying prevention and the importance of safe, supportive communities for children. Three were honored for their commitment to children and youth, and congregations are invited to join the ongoing work through prayer, giving and advocacy. Read more.
Start preparing for UVC's next 5th Sunday Appeal, Nov. 29.
| | HAPPENING AROUND THE CONFERENCE | |
Be prepared and confident for 2026 statistical reporting with two upcoming webinars from the NIC Finance team. On Dec. 15 at 7 p.m., learn about the reporting process and how clergy and church administrative and finance teams can prepare accurate, timely reports. Then, on Jan. 12 at 7 p.m., bring your questions to a Q&A session for guidance on completing the process. Learn more. | | | | |
Changes with Meta One and Facebook may limit church business pages to sharing just two external links per month without a paid subscription. This could affect how churches share event registrations, ministry resources, and website links. Learn practical strategies for adapting, including using memorable vanity links, updating your Facebook bio and website, and sharing information across multiple communication channels. The MyCom Podcast also offers tips for navigating these changes in Episode 124. Learn more
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Sacred Voting:
2026 Midterm Election Resources
The General Board of Church and Society offers resources to help United Methodists participate faithfully in the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, with resources focused on voter education, engagement, and protection. Explore the collection to learn more about voting and ways to participate in civic life. Learn more.
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The NIC Board on Church and Society’s Social Reform Grant provides $500–$1,000 to churches proposing projects that address the root causes of social justice concerns while extending God’s grace and mercy. Priority is given to projects that build partnerships among different ministries and may support both domestic and international work. Applications are due Oct. 30. Learn more.
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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an opportunity for churches to recognize the reality of domestic violence and consider how we can help create communities of safety, dignity and healing. Talking openly about domestic violence in our churches is an important place to start. Read 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 education and formation materials for local churches, small groups, pastors, children, and individuals.
| | | | Copyright © 2026 Northern Illinois Conference | |
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Check out our Submit News page for more details.
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