CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS

Christine Knotts (Peoria First) has graciously agreed to serve as district financial secretary for the remainder of 2026. We are grateful for the unique gifts and knowledge she can bring to this role in a time of transition, and we are grateful for Leonard Matheny’s service in this role the past few years.

Why simply celebrate a centennial when you can lift up a more unique 101 years of ministry? That’s what Chicago First did May 9-10, marking a century-plus at its current East Garfield Park location on the corner of Central Park Ave. & Congress Parkway. The congregation’s history dates to the 1880’s, but it moved to its current location in January 1925. As celebration coordinator Mary Scott Boria joked, “the congregation has always been a little weird, so why not do something a little weird and celebrate 101?” The weekend included an open house with food, displays, and program on the congregation’s history and its beautiful stained glass windows on Saturday and a worship service featuring pastor emeritus Orlando Redekopp on Sunday, followed by lunch. Redekopp spoke on the theme “Jesus on the Horizon.” The church once served as an office for Martin Luther King Jr., and today three other churches/organizations also share the facility as Chicago First continues to "cultivate love, peace, and justice” in its community and beyond. Happy 101, Chicago First!

Girard is making good use of its renovated basement space, including a fellowship hall, kitchen, and children’s play room. The congregation has invested significant time on the project in the past two years, countering the effects of water damage and an aging building. It also is working on repairing the stained glass windows in its sanctuary after damage from vandalism last year. … Nearby, the Girard Area Homes project has received new signage and other improvements as it remains a vital ministry in the community.

Did you know? Highland Avenue (Elgin) is one of the only congregations in our district that still has a church choir sharing regularly in worship? Part of a vibrant music program at the church, the active choir is directed by Jonathan Shively.