DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2024

The 2024 edition of our Illinois/Wisconsin District conference takes place Nov. 1-2 this year, hosted by the York Center congregation in Lombard, Ill. Pastor Christy Waltersdorff serves as moderator for this round, assisted by moderator-elect Bill Williams and clerk Judy Brinkmeier.

Noted musician and storyteller Ken Medema will be our featured guest this year, providing leadership for Friday’s continuing education event (more details will becoming soon), as well as for opening worship Friday evening and a special workshop on Saturday. He will also be sharing during York Center’s worship service on Sunday morning, for which anyone is welcome to stay.

Many of the usual features of conference will be back this year, including the Friday ice cream social, a delicious lunch on Saturday, a buzzing exhibit area, the annual auction, and, of course, the usual schedule of business during the day on Saturday as we hear reports, approve a budget and a slate of volunteers for various offices, and care for other business of the church.

MEAL: On Saturday, a continental breakfast will be provided at the church, and a lunch will be available on Saturday (Nov. 2) in the church fellowship hall for $13 per person . It will include a deli sandwich, chips, salad, dessert, and beverage. A lunch option will also be available for those attending the continuing education event on Friday, Nov. 1. Reservation information will be included with the district conference booklet.

HOUSING: A block of hotel rooms has been set aside at the SureStay Plus Lombard by Best Western, 222 E. 22nd St. It is located two miles from the York Center church, and many restaurants and entertainment options are nearby.

A limited number of rooms are available Thursday night, Oct. 31, and a larger block is available for Friday and/or Saturday nights. Cost is $89 for a room with one king bed, and $99 for a room with two doubles. All rates include a complimentary hot breakfast, parking, and wifi. To reserve, please call the hotel directly at 630-916-9000 and request the Church of the Brethren Illinois/Wisconsin District block for those dates. The room block will be held through Oct. 1; rooms might still be available after that date but are not guaranteed.

OTHER: Note that reports from all district teams and committees are due to Andrea Garnett in the district office by Aug. 31 so that the district conference booklet can be completed. Forms have also been sent out to exhibitors to reserve space. If you did not receive a form and have interest in having an exhibit, please contact the district office.

Watch for more details in the weeks ahead, and be in prayer for this important time of being the district together.