CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS

Canton held its annual trivia event on Feb. 16, bringing together a variety of teams to compete for the coveted championship, along with pizza and snacks. The congregation called it “a moment of joviality in the midst of the mid-winter blahs and the pressures and stresses of everyday life.”

Chicago First held a congregational meeting on Feb. 10 to explore a vision for its future ministry, facilitated by member Krista Dutt, who is involved in urban education and community outreach. The congregation also held a shared Martin Luther King Jr. Day service with its building partners to celebrate King’s service and legacy. A photo gallery and video are at https://firstcob.org/king-worship-2025.

Freeport is tentatively planning a 105^th anniversary celebration for Sept. 7. Watch for more details in the coming months!

The Highland Avenue (Elgin) Saturday Soup Kettle and Pantry ministry in 2024 distributed 60 tons of food and served 4,635 meals to guests at no charge, with the doors open to anyone. The congregation will also be holding an all-church games night on March 14. And church administrator Araceli Soriano has announced her resignation effective Feb. 26.

Peoria First will hold a Lenten study series on Wednesdays March 5-April 9, with a light dinner at 6 p.m. followed by a study of The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey each week.

Polo in the past year has begun “His Kids,” a monthly program that allows children ages 3 years to 5^th grade to meet at the church, enjoy a meal with their families, sing songs, hear God’s word, take part in activities and games, and spend time with caring adults. It has been averaging about seven kids participating. Courtney Stauffer is coordinating the initiative.

Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send those to the district office: iwdde@outlook.com.