Greetings Siblings in Christ,
The Illinois Conference is made up of all our member churches, clergy, and covenant partners connected to the United Church of Christ in the northern half of Illinois. The work of the Conference—our shared work—is to strengthen our local churches by helping them grow and thrive together. While the Conference employs staff, to lead and coordinate this mission, the ministry belongs to all of us.
We strengthen our churches by supporting our Pastor’s vision and innovative ideas through a Lily funded program called Thriving Pastors in Revitalizing Congregations. This program provides Pastors the opportunity to collaborate in a creative incubator of innovation, vision and creativity to renew and revitalize our churches as our Pastors thrive.
Another way we strengthen our churches is by supporting congregations during pastoral transitions. Whenever a pastor retires or resigns—whether the moment is joyful or painful—both the congregation and the pastor need care. The Conference provides pastoral support, training (through resources curated within our Lily funded program called Metamorphosis), an interim ministry network, and a process for connecting congregations with UCC-authorized pastors. Our congregations can thrive because of these systems and the care we offer during times of transition.
Our dedicated Committees on Ministry also help build stronger churches by walking with members in discernment and those exploring a call to ministry. These committees oversee the authorization and accountability of clergy, ensuring that ministers embody the Ordained Ministers Code and the Marks of Faithful and Effective Ministry. Our commitment to high standards deepens the integrity and vitality of all our congregations.
Through our camps and outdoor ministries, we nurture faith across generations. At Tower Hill and Pilgrim Park, people of all ages find renewal through camps, retreats, mission trips, and more. These experiences inspire spiritual leadership, particularly among youth—the very reason we continue to invest in these sacred spaces.
The Ministry Leadership Team (MLT) provides pastoral care and leadership across the Conference. When challenges arise, your Associate Conference Minister is available to provide compassionate and God inspired leadership. The MLT facilitates weekly gatherings for prayer, support, and learning; connects Associations, Clusters, and Committees; and provides wisdom and guidance throughout our shared life.
This list could go on—so many ministries, all made possible through the generosity of people like you. The vast majority of our funding comes from local churches through Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM), but we also depend on individual donors who contribute through Friends of the Conference (formerly Mission Friends). Some give monthly, some annually, and some through one-time gifts—with every dollar staying here in Illinois to support our shared ministry.
Today, I invite you to become a Friend of the Conference. Whether this is your first gift or part of your regular giving, your support helps all 194 congregations of the Illinois Conference.
You can donate online by clicking here, or donate by check using this remittance form.
With gratitude for our shared ministry,
The Rev. Dr. Terrill N. Murff
Interim Conference Minister
Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ