The Reflector - September 2026
Tuesday, September 01, 2026
The Village ILWIDIot
Walt Wiltschek
“You may be sure that wherever the good news is told all over the world, people will remember what she has done. And they will tell others.” —Mark 14:9, CEV
An article in Peoria First’s recent newsletter shared about a local elementary school class that created a “Gratitude Tree.” The students developed it with their families, working on it at home and bringing the fruits of those efforts to class.
The teachers then took the various pieces and assembled them into a colorful tree, providing a vivid display of all the things for which their students were thankful.
The school, Hines Primary School, is one with which Peoria First connects regularly—particularly through its “Snack Pack Ministry” that delivers packages of snacks for each student once a month. And one of the items that a student created for the Gratitude Tree was the Snack Pack.
“It may seem that (your ministry) goes unnoticed,” Hines principal Julie Hancock wrote, “but it is definitely appreciated.” The donations, she said, are “like gold.”
I wonder how many of the ministries of our congregations or individuals, large or small, end up on someone’s Gratitude Tree. Whether it’s rebuilding a house or donating food, visiting a homebound person or volunteering to do some clean-up, teaching a child or doing some random act of kindness, our actions matter. We might feel that our work goes unnoticed when it’s actually planting seeds of gratitude in our wake.
Peoria First shared that its ministry is “intended to help provide nutritious food to children who may not have access to adequate food when they are not and school AND to let the children know that we care of them, and more importantly, so does God.” Where God is made real, gratitude naturally follows.
Happy planting!
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE
In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be worshiping at Yellow Creek (Pearl City) Sept. 20, officiating a wedding in Peoria Sept. 26, attending the district Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social in Franklin Grove Sept. 27, worshiping at La Place and meeting with Cerro Gordo on Oct. 4, attending a Council of District Executives executive committee meeting in Lombard Oct. 5, worshiping and attending anniversary events at York Center on Oct. 18, and worshiping at Hurricane Creek on Oct. 25.
Walt is available to visit your church, do pulpit supply, lead sessions, have conversation times, or otherwise connect with your congregation. Please contact IWDDE@outlook.com to schedule a time. He is half-time and is usually on district duty late afternoons/evenings on weekdays plus weekends.
NEW PHONE NUMBER: Due to issues with our previous phone provider, the district has switched to a new plan with a new phone number. The NEW district office phone number is 630-576-0276, ext. 800. Also, please remember to use the correct district office address for all mail correspondence: Church of the Brethren IL/WI District, 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148. As noted previously, please do not send district mail to Canton. Thank you!q
AT THE GROWING EDGE
by Jocelyn Watkins, 2026 Illinois/Wisconsin District moderator
“I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you” (2 Timothy 1:6)
“Your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing” (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
Beloved in Christ,
If you look closely at a tree near the end of summer, the newest growth is usually visible at the outermost edges. The younger leaves may be a slightly different shade. A branch extends a few inches beyond the older wood. Beneath the bark, another layer has joined all the rings that came before it. Years of wind, drought, rain, injury, and abundance remain within the trunk, while life continues to press outward into space the tree has never occupied before.
As our year of “Kindled Anew” moves toward its closing months, I return to what first drew me to Paul’s words in 2 Timothy: the gift of God was already within Timothy. Paul calls him to rekindle what has been placed there: to stir it, tend it, give it air, and allow it to burn with renewed strength. For much of this year, we have looked toward those embers and asked what might still be alive within our congregations, our district, and ourselves. Now another question comes into view. Once the warmth returns, where does that renewed life begin to reach?
A tree can only grow from the life already moving through it. Water rises through roots anchored in old soil. Nutrients travel through wood formed in earlier seasons. The newest leaf at the end of a branch depends upon a whole history it cannot see. The church carries a history in much the same way: Scripture, memory, worship, relationships, convictions, and practices shaped long before any of us arrived. What has formed us continues to feed what is forming now.
Eventually, growth reaches an edge. The branch arrives where there is no older wood ahead of it. A root presses into soil it has never entered. Congregations know these edges. A neighborhood changes around a church whose doors have opened onto the same street for generations. Familiar ways of carrying ministry become harder to sustain. New questions enter old rooms. Gifts emerge for which no committee or program was designed. The rooted life of the congregation meets circumstances it has never encountered before.
The newest growth has no thick bark around it yet. It is tender and exposed, and reaching farther changes the shape of the branch. This is the growing edge: the place where deeply rooted life encounters open space.
Paul sees a similar movement when he writes to the Thessalonians: “Your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.” Whatever God is doing within this community is becoming visible in the distance their love can travel. Increasing love changes the boundaries of concern. People who once seemed distant become part of the circle. Another congregation’s joys and struggles become more than information in a newsletter. Questions about what we need begin to share space with questions about what we can offer, receive, share, and learn.
Our life together as a district gives those growing edges places to meet. We enter rooms with people whose congregations have taken different paths, whose circumstances may reveal possibilities we cannot see from within our own walls. A conversation over lunch, shared worship, or a visit to another church can alter the field of vision. A branch extending into unfamiliar space begins to discover how much life surrounds it.
Dennis Beckner’s 2027 Annual Conference theme, “Growing Faith,” arrives at an especially fitting point in this journey. Drawing from Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, Dennis invites the wider church to consider faith that grows abundantly alongside love that increases. When he joins us at district conference in November and leads our equipping session, we will have an opportunity to hear more about that invitation. His theme also follows naturally from the work we have been doing under “Kindled Anew.” Rekindling has drawn our attention to the gift God has already placed within us; growing faith turns our eyes toward where that renewed life may now be reaching.
By November, I hope we will bring more than reports and business to Polo. I hope we will bring evidence that our edges have moved: relationships strengthened, gifts newly recognized, boundaries crossed, help offered and received, and connections that did not exist a year ago.
A tree’s newest growth may be only a few inches of tender wood beside a trunk shaped across decades. Yet that small extension bears witness to life still moving through the whole tree. The rings within the trunk hold the story of where it has been, while the growing edge reveals where that life is reaching now.
As “Kindled Anew” moves into its final months, may we honor what has carried us this far while keeping our eyes on the places where renewed life is pressing outward. The Spirit who rekindles the gift within us is still at work wherever faith reaches farther and love makes more room.
Look toward the growing edge. It may already be showing us what comes next.
ADDENDUM: NOTES FOR THE WEEKS AHEAD
--October is Clergy Appreciation Month (or Pastor Appreciation Month). The denomination's Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee has prepared some thoughts on the occasion and ideas for expressing your gratitude in the weeks ahead. You can find those below. Be sure to take time to say thank you to your pastor and other clergy in your midst!
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Since the early 1990s, October has been recognized globally as Pastor Appreciation Month, with the second Sunday set aside as Pastor Appreciation Day.
Our pastors care for us through life’s most significant moments. Their work goes far beyond Sunday sermons — involving hospital visits, counseling, administrative leadership, and late-night emergency calls. Because much of this labor happens behind the scenes and requires strict confidentiality, ministry can often be isolating, impacting both pastors and their families.
Honor and rest are directly tied to long-term sustainability. Scripture calls us to actively value those who shepherd us:
"The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching." — 1 Timothy 5:17
"We ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you... Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work." — 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
October gives us a dedicated opportunity to pour back into those who pour into us. Here are a few practical ways you and your family can show gratitude:
• Personal Notes: Write a heartfelt card or letter sharing how their ministry has impacted your life.
• Tangible Blessings: Offer gift cards, a financial love offering, or dinner for their family.
• Acts of Service & Rest: Help lift operational burdens or encourage them to take dedicated rest and sabbath time.
How will you and your family celebrate our pastors this month? Let’s make this a joyful, church-wide expression of love.
Peacefully, simply, and together,
Harry Biddle, Chair
PCBAC
--The district office in Lombard has a new phone number! Going forward, please use 630-576-0276, ext. 800, to reach the district office directly. You can still email or contact Walt on his cell phone as before.
--Community Peacemaker Teams--which has a Chicago office--is marking its 40th anniversary! To celebrate this milestone, CPT is hosting a special online gathering on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m. Central that brings together stories spanning four decades of peacemaking, solidarity, and transforming violence and oppression. Sign up at cpt.org/forty.
--And note that we will hold a hearing on the proposed congregational withdrawal policy coming to district conference, sharing information from the team that drafted the policy and providing time to answer any questions. Contact the District Office for Zoom details for that opportunity on Oct. 17 (at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom)
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Potluck Experience planning team, Sept. 16, 7 p.m.
Ministry Leadership Development Team, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m.
District Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social, Emmert Meeting House, Franklin Grove, Ill., Sept. 27, 2:30 p.m.
Program & Arrangements Committee, Sept. 30, 6:30 p.m.
Leadership Team, Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Church Revitalization and Development Team, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.
Hearing on proposed congregational withdrawal policy, Oct. 17, 10:30 a.m.
2026 Illinois/Wisconsin District conference, Nov. 6-7, Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren
2027 District Potluck event, April 17, 2027, Cerro Gordo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren
[all meetings via Zoom unless otherwise noted]
IN OUR PRAYERS
A district prayer calendar has been created for your use in praying for our district and related programs through the year. We invite you to include the following in your prayers in coming weeks:
Week of Sept. 13: Pray this week for current and former members of our district now living in other places, and for the Church of the Brethren in Haiti (Eglise des Freres) as it carries on despite the violence and unrest in that nation and immigration concerns at home.
Week of Sept. 20: Pray for the Mount Morris congregation this week, for those who work at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., and for the ministry of Church World Service.
Week of Sept. 27: Pray for the Canton congregation, and for the work and ministry of Brethren Press and all those who write curriculum, books, and other materials. Pray for Brethren Press staff members Wendy McFadden, Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, Sarah Radcliff (all Highland Avenue) and Heidi Gross (Chicago First).
Week of Oct. 4: Pray for the Allison Prairie congregation near Lawrenceville, and for all the assistance being provided through the Church of the Brethren Global Food Initiative.
Week of Oct. 11: Pray for the Church of the Brethren Mission & Ministry Board as it meets this week, for general secretary David Steele, and for all the members of our district who work in denominational staff positions.
MINISTRY NEWS
The district celebrated TWO installation services in August! Gay Bouwmeester was officially installed as part-time settled pastor at York Center on Aug. 16, and Krista Dutt was installed as full-time settled pastor for Highland Avenue the following Sunday, Aug. 23. Each had previously been serving as interim pastor for their congregation. The installations were followed with receptions filled with food and (in the case of Highland Avenue) board games. We rejoice with them and the congregations in this new chapter of ministry.
Lynda Willmann extended her part-time interim ministry with Mount Morris through Oct. 4.
The pastoral compensation materials for 2027 are available from the denominational Ministry Office. An email went out last month, and you can find the materials online at Pastoral Compensation Tools – Ministry Office. A compensation calculator is also available there for those who might find it helpful. The recommended salary table for pastors, based on the denominational scale, includes a 4.2 percent increase over 2026 based on the national cost-ofliving adjustment.
Pastors and staff members of Brethren congregations, districts, and camps still will be able to purchase short- and long-term disability, life, vision, dental, critical illness, and accident ancillary insurance products from Eder Financial for 2027 through a group plan. Benefits of the group plan include one open enrollment period, ability to obtain insurance without medical screening or knowledge of pre-existing conditions, and a uniform rate. Rates are not available yet, but enrollment information will be sent to the church, district, and camp administrators in October with open enrollment running from Nov. 9-20. For questions, please email insurance@eder.org.
Congregational vacancies/updates:
Cerro Gordo: David Biggs began as part-time interim pastor for a one-year period in May. The search committee remains active, and a congregational profile is available.
Highland Avenue (Elgin): Krista Dutt was installed as the full-time settled pastor on Aug. 23.
Mount Morris: Lynda Willmann is currently serving as quarter-time interim pastor through early October. Jonathan Shively is also doing a consultation process with Mount Morris this year as they discern direction. Conversations about next steps for pastoral ministry are ongoing, and the congregation recently posted their profile for a half-time position.
Naperville: Tony Asta began as part-time interim pastor June 1. The search committee is continuing its work, and a profile for their full-time pastoral position is now available.
Oakley Brick: Pastor David Roe retired in March. Initial conversations have begun with the congregation about next steps. They are currently using pulpit supply.
York Center (Lombard): Gay Bouwmeester was installed as the part-time settled pastor on Aug. 16.
CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS
Freeport will hold its annual pork chop drive-through meal on Sunday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Just enter and exit the church driveway at 777 W. Pleasant St. (corner of S. West Avenue). Get a boneless grilled pork chop, cheesy hashbrowns, green beans, roll, choice of apple pie bar or pumpkin bar with cream cheese icing, and plastic cutlery for $10. Then you can take your meals home or to the local park. It's a home-cooked meal at fast food speed!
Freeport was also among congregations to receive funds from the latest Brethren Faith in Action Fund distributions. A total of $2,416.67 will support creation of a permanent memorial honoring victims of all forms of violence. On the International Day of Peace in 2024 and 2025, the church planted peace doves on its lawn with pictures and names of victims of gun violence in the community since 2015. The permanent memorial for victims of violence will include a wall with aluminum plates printed with the names, pictures, and dates for each victim, protected with plexiglass, along with a bench, landscaping, and brochure boxes to hold materials giving information about assistance for domestic abuse victims and other resources to avoid further violence.
Canton member and professional storm chaser Colin Davis will present “Storm Chasing: Or Why I Am the Way I Am” Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at the Farmington Area Public Library. He will look at the history of storm chasing, what it’s actually like to spend days on the road following storms, and share about some of the best (and craziest) storms he’s had the chance to witness and document over the years, “from Tornado Alley to right here at home.”
Highland Avenue (Elgin) held an all-church picnic at a local park on Sept. 13 and will have a joint outdoor worship service with First Presbyterian Church on Sept. 27. A congregational campfire is also scheduled for Sept. 18. Some members took part in a Rally Against Global Poverty in Elgin Aug. 30, with speakers from Church World Service and local organizations.
The Madtown Brethren group (Madison, Wis.) gathered for worship/fellowship and a planning time on Sunday, Aug. 30, at the Goodman Community Center in Madison. About 20 people attended. The house church group, which meets periodically, will next meet Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. at the Goodman Community Center with Alton Hipps leading the sharing time.
Peoria First will do its fall Mountain Mission trip to the Henderson Settlement in Kentucky Nov. 12-15. A fundraiser for the effort will take place Sept. 27. … The congregation also recently marked more than a decade of its Snack Pack Ministry for the local Hines Primary School. The next group of donations will be assembled Sept. 28.
York Center (Lombard) will hold a 75th anniversary celebration on Oct. 18 during and after worship. Pictures and mementos from past years are being collected, and the congregation has been sharing photos and memories from past directories as far back as 1970 in anticipation of the event.
Ecumenism Metro Chicago will hold a “Blessed Are the Peacemakers” ecumenical prayer service on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. at Fourth Presbyterian Church’s Buchanan Chapel in Chicago (115 E. Delaware Place). The event will mark the International Day of Prayer for Peace. The event will conclude with a peace walk on Michigan Avenue, with closing prayer in the church courtyard. Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford (Highland Avenue) will represent the district, one of 14 participating faith communions. All are welcome.
Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send them to iwdde@outlook.com.
DISTRICT HYMN SING & ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Join with others from around the district on Sunday, Sept. 27, for an afternoon of ice cream, fellowship, worship, and singing at the old Emmert Meeting House and Cemetery of the former Franklin Grove congregation! The ice cream social will begin at 2:30 p.m., with worship and an oldfashioned hymn sing following, around 3:15. The event is being hosted by the Dixon congregation and is free. Bring a lawn chair, an appetite, a smile, and your best singing voice! The Emmert Meeting House is located on the north side of Route 38, 3 miles west of Franklin Grove or 1 mile east of Nachusa.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2026
Online registration is now open with links for delegates (DELEGATE District Conference Registration) and non-delegates (NON-DELEGATE District Conference Registration). Delegate registration fees are covered through the congregational assessments, which must be paid before delegates can be registered. Information on delegate allotments and fees were sent to all congregations in August, with a follow-up mailing this month. Non-delegate fee is $15 per person. A Saturday lunch is available for $20 per person, with Tuscan chicken and vegetarian options. Credit card payment is available, or mail a check to the district office. Please register by Oct. 31. Meals will not be available after that date.
The conference will begin with a hymn sing and worship starting at 7:10 p.m. Friday evening, followed by an ice cream social. (Registration will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m., and exhibits open at 6 p.m.) It continues with business, an equipping session, and lunch on Saturday. Jocelyn Watkins (Peoria First) will serve as moderator and Sharon Rice (York Center) as moderator-elect. They will also serve as the speaker and worship leader, respectively, for Friday evening’s worship.
Annual Conference moderator Dennis Beckner (whose wife, Beth, is originally from the Franklin Grove area and grew up attending Camp Emmaus!) will be joining us for the event and leading an equipping session focusing on congregational renewal as well as a worship time on Saturday.
Business this year will include the 2027 district budget, the slate of those nominated to district positions, and polity related to congregations that decide they no longer wish to be part of the Church of the Brethren, as well as reports from various agencies, organizations, and district teams.
A HEARING on the proposed congregational withdrawal policy will be offered on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom. A link will be sent in the coming weeks. This will be an opportunity to hear from the team that developed the policy, background information, and to ask questions or share any concerns in advance of district conference. This is a type of policy that many other districts have but that had never formally been developed here. While we hope to use it infrequently, it felt important to have a process on paper. The hearing is open to both delegates and non-delegates and is expected to last up to an hour.
An exhibit area featuring various denominational and district organizations will be available. Based on the feedback received, activities for children and youth will not be offered this year at the conference, although National Youth Conference will be highlighted during the sharing time.
A service project will assist the local Lifeline Food Pantry, which has been an important outreach ministry for Polo Church of the Brethren. Started in the early 1970’s out of a resident’s garage, it has grown over the years to continue to support the growing population of food insecure families and individuals. Currently the pantry serves about 100 to 115 families a month feeding around 400 individuals. Changes in SNAP benefits and the increase in inflation continue to add new people to its client list. Most clients are employed unless retired or disabled; the majority are seniors or families with children. The food banks which were previously relied upon as the main source of supplies have less and less food to offer, forcing the pantry to buy a lot of its food. This year it added five raised garden beds along with beds at the Polo church to grow as much produce as possible.
The following items are needed: Toilet paper; any canned meat; juice; shampoo; body wash; deodorant; laundry soap; canned fruit; sugar; canned soups; spaghetti sauce; canned vegetables; ketchup; mayonnaise; cheese of any kind. Those attending conference are encouraged to bring some of these items to be collected as donations to the pantry.
There is no official conference hotel this year. Instead, those attending who need lodging are encouraged to make direct reservations with one of the area hotels; the nearest are in Dixon, Rock Falls, or Oregon, along with some possible options near White Pines State Park. A list of area options can be found on the district conference web page. The Polo church is at 401 S. Congress Ave. in Polo.
PRE-CONFERENCE CONTINUING EDUCATION WORKSHOP
Josh’s title is "School for the Lord’s Service: Ministry in a PostInstitutional World." Here is his description of the ground he plans to cover:
For over two decades the Church in the United States has undergone dramatic changes. As we look at our buildings and organizational structures, we wonder what it means to be faithful disciples today. This session will start with a descriptive overview of the state of the Church in the United States. From there we will explore how the Church has reinvented itself at key moments in history, especially in the movements that birthed the Brethren tradition. The final section will start with practices as the framework for discipleship formation through the Rule of Saint Benedict and the traditional ordinances of the Brethren.
The event will begin at 10 a.m. and end by 4 p.m., with a lunch break. While clergy are especially encouraged to attend, anyone is welcome. Cost is $20, including lunch. To register, contact the district office or email iwdde@outlook.com.
DISTRICT POTLUCK EXPERIENCE 2027
The Illinois/Wisconsin District Potluck Experience, a sort of district conference without business, is held in the district every other year. Cerro Gordo has agreed to host the 2027 event on Saturday, April 17. It will run from approximately 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Further planning is under way. Mark your calendars, and plan for a day of worship, workshops, good food, and good fellowship! Watch for more details in the coming months.
CAMP NEWS
Both of our district camps had a successful summer season, drawing more than 200 campers between them over the past few months. We rejoice in their important ministry and community connections!
Camp Emmaus will hold its Camp Celebration Day and Lunch this Saturday, October 3, starting at 1 p.m. The day will also include an auction, a look back at summer highlights, and opportunities to hike and enjoy the camp.
Brethren Volunteer Service is holding its fall orientation unit at Camp Emmaus. Unit 340 is staying at the camp Sept. 15-24 as nine volunteers train, build community, and prepare for a year of service at projects all around the US and the world. They will be worshiping at Dixon on Sept. 20. Please keep them in prayer as they head out to serve!
Look for information on future events at www.campemmaus.org.
Note that Camp Emmaus no longer has a PO box. All mail should be sent to the camp at 3011 W. Camp Rd., Oregon, IL 61061.
Camp Emmanuel is now closed for the season. Find more at www.campem.com.
The 2026 Church of the Brethren Outdoor Ministries Association retreat will take place Nov.15-19 at Camp Harmony near Hooversville, Pa. The retreat brings together Brethren camping leaders of all levels to gather for professional growth, faith formation, and outdoor ministry community development. The theme this year is “Torchbearers” (Matt. 5:14-16). Keynote speaker will be Jolene Regetta, a licensed professional counselor, former public school teacher, and life-long camp servant. The retreat will also include workshops, Bible study, meditations, games, meals, and more. Cost is $215 for OMA camp members, $240 for nonmembers. Learn more and register at Annual Retreat – Outdoor Ministries Association.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
JUNIOR HIGH SUNDAY is Nov. 1. Resources will be available on www.brethren.org this fall.
The 2027 Powerhouse Midwest regional youth conference will take place Feb. 19-21 at Columbia City (Ind.) Church of the Brethren. The keynote speaker will be Beth Jarrett on the theme “Everyday Hallelujah.” More details will be available in the months ahead.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2027
Registration opens March 10. Costs are $350 for delegates and $175 for adult non-delegates in advance and $425 and $120, respectively, on-site. The conference hotel will be $190/night with tax, not including parking. Individual virtual registration will tentatively be $220 for the full conference. Find more information at www.brethren.org/ac
DISASTER RESPONSE
Brethren Disaster Ministries opened a new rebuilding site Aug. 30 in Buncombe County, N.C., expected to remain in operation through May 15, 2027. Working in partnership with Fuller Center Disaster ReBuilders, Brethren Disaster Ministries will serve qualified families identified through the organization by making home repairs and constructing new homes in the ROOTS Community Land Trust, a 50-home affordable housing initiative in Black Mountain, N.C., for families displaced by Hurricane Helene. Many lost not only their homes but also the land beneath them or rental housing they can no longer return to.
BDM has also returned to Ashe County, N.C., for a short-term rebuilding project from Sept. 6 through Oct. 31. Working in partnership with the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, volunteers will make home repairs and build new homes. BDM previously served at this location during a two-week project in April 2026. Volunteer housing will be provided at the Ashe Baptist Campground. Learn more about volunteering at www.brethren.org/bdm/rebuild/volunteer.
Rick Koch, our district disaster coordinator, has said he plans to step down from that role at the end of this year. If you would have interest in serving, or know someone who might, please contact the district office.
Prayers were requested in August for those affected by severe flooding in communities across Indiana, including areas where several Church of the Brethren congregations and Bethany Theological Seminary are located. Brethren Disaster Ministries was in communication with district disaster coordinators in both South/Central Indiana District and Northern Indiana District and is ready to support both districts and affected congregations as needs emerge.
Recent grants from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) have gone out to support disaster relief efforts and aid in North Carolina, Western Maryland, Ukraine, Gaza and the West Bank, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Venezuela, and Cuba.
Children’s Disaster Services, a program of BDM, will offer two volunteer training events in October: Oct. 9-10 at Chalice Christian Church in Virginia Beach, Va., and Oct. 16-17 at Manassas (Va.) Church of the Brethren. Register for one of the following scheduled trainings, and encourage others to continue serving. If your congregation or group is interested in hosting a training, get in touch with Carolyn Neher at cneher@brethren.org or cds@brethren.org or 410-635-8734.
DEPORTATION DEFENSE RESPONSE
A Deportation Defense Response (DDR) webpage is now online at www.onearthpeace.org/deportation_defense_response_team. This denominational effort has been organized by five districts with large numbers of undocumented members in partnership with On Earth Peace and Intercultural Ministries to provide support, advocacy, and legal assistance as needed. A toolkit of resources is at https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/168SYb-D3cMBO8ORb4sDXMqMbA2yvSGCN. To be added to the DDR newsletter list, to share other helpful resources for the toolkit, to share how a resource from the toolkit benefited your congregation or community, to find out how to get involved with the work, or for other questions, email migrantjustice@onearthpeace.org. In addition, a page on the denominational website shares information on the "Walking Together" resolution recently affirmed by Annual Conference, with resources, Bible studies, and other tools
The group is inviting local partnerships and offering a process for online donations for the Legal and Mutual Aid Fund at www.onearthpeace.org/legal_mutual_aid_fund_donations. Congregations needing financial help to aid their immigrant church members may apply for grants from the Legal and Mutual Aid Fund by contacting ddrcobcoordinator@gmail.com or 561-647-8981 to receive the application form. The team will distribute funds received to members of the church facing immigration challenges who need legal support. More than $327,000 has been raised to date.
The Church of the Brethren Office of Peacebuilding and Policy recently provided a brief update on court cases related to immigration enforcement that involve the Church of the Brethren and other peace churches. Reported Marcia Sowles: “We still do not have any decision from the DC Circuit on our appeal in Mennonite USA v. DHS,” in which the Church of the Brethren is a plaintiff. “But we do have good news from the 4th Circuit in the Philadelphia Friends Yearly Meetinghouse v. DHS case. The 4th Circuit upheld the preliminary injunction issued by the district court. The court held that the plaintiffs had standing to bring the case—the primary issue in our appeal. The Institute of Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP) will be filing a notice of supplemental authority in our case attaching a copy of the 4th Cir. decision.” Sowles also recommended a Know Your Rights webinar on rights for congregations in which Kelsi Corkran, the lead ICAP attorney in Mennonite USA v. DHS, was one of the speakers. “Know Your Rights: ICE & Faith Communities with the ACLU, Democracy 2025, and ICAP” was recorded and is available on YouTube.
Another recent update addressed the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the US. “Haitian Church of the Brethren members in Florida have lost the ability to work, are facing significant hardships and uncertainty, and are living in fear,” the report said. “Aggressive immigration enforcement has hit the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio, and two pastors in the area have been unjustly incarcerated by ICE. Unjust arrests continue across the country, and our neighbors needlessly suffer in ICE detention. Deportations to unstable countries continue, and families are separated.” In all, it identified seven Church of the Brethren members from four districts currently detained and 14 others who have already beendeported.
Biweekly Prayer Gatherings for Immigrant Justice are now held every other Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Central over Zoom. The next is Sept. 24. Find more information and RSVP at Prayer Gathering for Immigrant Justice - On Earth Peace.
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
• Upcoming courses from the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership include “Introduction to the New Testament,” led by Matt Boersma, online, Oct. 21-Dec. 15 (registration deadline Sept. 16); Travel Course to Miami, led by Josh Brockway and Dan Poole, Jan. 4-15 (registration deadline TBD); and “Biblical Deep Dive: Psalms,” led by Steve Schweitzer, Jan. 20-March 16, online (registration deadline TBD). Register and pay online at Brethren Academy Course Registration/Biannual TRIM Payment | Bethany Theological Seminary (bethanyseminary.edu).
• Tim Grove, retired social services worker and national expert in Trauma-Informed Care, will join the Ventures in Christian Discipleship program at McPherson (Kan.) College to present a special 2026-2027 season-opening online series titled “Creating a Better World: A deep dive into stress, trauma and resilience as a pathway to healthier people, families and communities.” This series is open to everyone. Unlike Ventures’ typical standalone courses, each of these six sessions builds sequentially on the last, so registering for the full series is highly recommended. If you miss a live session, course recordings will be provided so you can catch up in chronological order before the next class. We will explore five key concepts related to stress, trauma and resilience in the first five sessions and then spend a sixth “bonus” session talking about how these concepts influence the navigation of a complex, media dominant and politically charged world. Each virtual session will be two hours long, and recordings will be available after each session ends. The first session (Stress, Trauma, and Resilience: What’s In a Name?” will be Sept. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., and others will follow Oct. 6, Oct. 20, Oct. 27, Nov. 10, and Nov. 17. Find full series and session details at the Ventures website: http://www.mcpherson.edu/ventures. Ventures sessions in 2027 will include “Speed Dating the Bible,” led by Debbie Eisenbise, Jan. 19 and 26; “Leading through the Storm: Leadership Wisdom for a World That Got Different,” led by Stan Dueck, Feb. 23 and March 2; and “Holy Play: Entering Divine Conversation with Nature and Expressive Arts,” led by Shana Leck, Apr. 10.
• Lombard Mennonite Peace Center will offer an online discussion of the movie “Joy” for the International Day of Prayer for Peace on Sept. 21, 6-7:30 p.m. LMPC also offers a variety of training sessions. Upcoming options include “Restorative Conversations,” Oct. 9 and Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. via Zoom; a “Friendly Style Profile facilitator training,” Oct. 20, 1-4 p.m. via Zoom, “Behavioral Covenants” Nov. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Schaumburg, Ill.; “Peaceful, Productive PastorParish Partnerships,” Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom; “Conflict Transformation Skills,” Dec. 7 and Feb. 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. via Zoom; and “Strengthening the Body of Christ,” Jan. 21 via Zoom. For details and registration information, go to https://www.lmpeacecenter.org/trainings. LMPC has also begun offering free clergy roundtable events. The next one will be Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Watch their website for details on future roundtable opportunities.
• Anabaptist Disabilities Network will offer two free webinars in October: “Children as Docents in a World of Wonder,” led by Dr. Benjamin Conner, Oct. 14, 1 p.m. Central; and “Thy Tender Care: What Caregiving and Disability Can Teach Us About the Kingdom of God,” led by John Van Sloten, Oct. 28, 10 a.m. Central, both via Zoom. Learn more and register at Meeting Registration - Zoom and Meeting Registration - Zoom, respectively.
• New Community Project continues to offer learning tours to “Go. Meet. Learn. Grow. Change – yourself and your world.” Upcoming trips include: Nepal, January 12-27, 2027; South Sudan/Rwanda, May 11-21, 2027; Ecuadorian Amazon, May 28-June 3; Borneo June 9-17; Lybrook, N.M., July 8-14; Denali/Kenai Fjords, July 26-Aug. 3; and Arctic Village, Alaska, Aug. 3- 10. NCP also offers guest speakers, worship resources, Vacation Bible School materials, climate change materials, and more. Find more information at www.newcommunityproject.info or contact dradcliffncp@yahoo.com.
• Designed particularly for ministers new to the Church of the Brethren denomination, Bethany Theological Seminary’s new certificate of achievement in ministry studies (CAMS) includes six courses that focus on Brethren history and theology, practical experience with the ordinances and preaching of the church, biblical interpretation, and peace studies. The certificate can be completed in two years or even one year, depending on course offerings. Five of the six courses can be completed at a distance. For more information go to https://bethanyseminary.edu.
PERSONNEL NOTES
Jon Lucas Keller concluded his service as Mission Advancement Advocate for the Church of the Brethren on Sept. 11. Lucas joined the Church of the Brethren staff in July 2025 and spent the past year connecting with individuals and congregations in support of denominational ministries.He has accepted a position with another nonprofit organization that will enable him to serve more directly in his local and regional community.
In action taken at a July 25 meeting, the board of the Church of the Brethren’s Southern Ohio and Kentucky District unanimously voted to offer Nick Beam a three-year contract renewal to serve as district executive minister. The announcement from the district noted that each of those three years will include a review and re-evaluation process. Also, as a part of the contract renewal, it was decided to drop “interim” from his title.
JOB OPENINGS
Camp Alexander Mack seeks an accomplished relational leader, grounded in Christian faith to serve as their next executive director. This is a full-time, year-round position. This leader will serve as the chief executive of Camp Mack, providing vision, direction, and stewardship for all aspects of the organization. They will be equally comfortable engaging with campers and congregations, collaborating with board members, developing staff, managing budgets, overseeing facilities, and representing the ministry at large. For more information or to apply check out Camp Mack's website: https://campmack.org/serve/employment/.
Camp Swatara invites applications for its next executive director. The camp is located near Bethel, Pa. The camp is prayerfully searching for the next executive director—a mission-driven leader called to the intersection of ministry, community, and outdoor camp life on 700-plus acres at the foot of Blue Mountain. Learn more, share input, and apply at www.campswatara.org/leadcamp.
Camp Harmony is seeking candidates for its next executive director. The Church of the Brethren-related camp and outdoor ministry center is located near Hooversville, Pa. Austin Masser, the present executive director, is leaving the position in July. Find out more about the camp at www.campharmony.org. Contact phil@campharmony.org for more information about the open position.
DENOMINATIONAL NEWS/NEWSLINE
In summer 2026, the FaithX service program brought together 51 participants from across the Church of the Brethren for trips full of service, faith exploration, and fellowship. The summer began with 13 adult participants traveling to Northern Ireland to work alongside nonprofit partners within the Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) year-long program. A total of 33 junior high youth and advisors served those in need throughout the United States, including at a therapeutic horse-riding farm near Hershey, Pa., and at community organizations in WinstonSalem, N.C. The summer concluded with the We Are Able trip in which 5 young adults with intellectual disabilities served in southern Michigan and enjoyed time together at Amigo Camp.
Registration for summer 2027 FaithX opens on Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. Registration is open now for the next Older Adult FaithX experience. Adults ages 50-plus are invited to join FaithX at Camp Ithiel in Florida Feb. 21-26 for a week of volunteering, relaxing in the southern sunshine, and growing in faith together. There will be options that are suitable for all abilities. Registration will close on Feb. 1. Click here to sign up.
On Earth Peace is offering “I Object! Now What? (Opposing War and the Things that Make for War),” a virtual event for adults who are discerning how to broach with youth topics such as peace, conscientious objection, Selective Service registration, and the draft. The event takes place online on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 7 p.m. RSVP here.
The Church of the Brethren’s webpage on conscientious objection to war is at www.brethren.org/peacebuilding/co. Links on this page direct young people who want to learn more about what conscientious objection means and its biblical and Brethren roots to a free downloadable curriculum titled “Call of Conscience.” The direct link to the curriculum is www.brethren.org/peacebuilding/co/introduction.
The Shine curriculum from Brethren Press has announced several new features for the 2026- 2027 year, including more unit choices, reproducible pages for classroom use, and at-home student materials bundled with each teaching kit. These features begin with the fall 2026 quarter for pre-K and kindergarten, elementary ages, and junior youth. Shine also offers several additional curriculum options. All are available through Brethren Press. The Shine curriculum for Sunday school and Christian education classes is published jointly by Brethren Press and MennoMedia. Brethren Press also recently published its latest Covenant Bible Study, “Language of Lament,” by Calvin and Mandy Park.
Bethany Theological Seminary has completed Flourish: A Campaign for Bethany Theological Seminary, raising $13.7 million in cash gifts and estate commitments to advance the institution’s educational mission. Launched in 2023, the campaign received the support of more than 1,200 donors and represents one of the most successful fundraising initiatives in the history of the seminary. The campaign far surpassed the $12M goal that the Board of Trustees approved at the beginning of the effort.
Samuel Hupp has begun work at the Church of the Brethren Office of Peacebuilding and Policy, serving through Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS). He is a member of Manchester Church of the Brethren in North Manchester, Ind. He graduated from Manchester University in the class of 2026 with a bachelor of arts degree in Philosophy and Peace Studies. His work in Washington, D.C., will involve foreign policy research, analysis, and advocacy opposed to the perpetuation of warfare, war profiteering, and state violence.
Intercultural Ministries Café: Faith & Culture Conversations—rooted in relationship, discipleship, and practical intercultural engagement—will be held once a month through Oct. 20. The registration link is available at www.brethren.org/intercultural/#cafe.
GRANTS AND GIVING
Grants available through the district include the following:
1. Mission and Mortar: Sustaining and developing ministry (mission) within congregations, as well as maintaining property (mortar), is sometimes hindered because of inadequate financial resources. The Illinois/Wisconsin District, whose mission is to support the growth and development of member congregations, desires to financially support congregations that are in good standing with the district and have specific needs. More information can be found here.
2. Being Jesus in the Neighborhood: Congregations can apply for $100 in seed money to start a new outreach project or initiative in their local communities, or to expand an existing one. These should be projects that intentionally engage with the neighborhood immediately around the congregation or, for those in rural locations, with the town or area around the church. Each congregation receiving a grant will be asked to share a little about their project at district conference. More information can be found here.
3. Emerging Missions Fund: To facilitate the growth and establishment of new faith communities, this grant is available for church and ministry planting initiatives. New church and ministry plants are encouraged to apply by contacting the district office and/or the CRDT.
Supporting Your District
The Illinois/Wisconsin District is active in a variety of ministry and mission efforts, both directly and indirectly. Continuing these efforts requires resources in the form of time, tools, knowledge, and especially finances. Consider making a contribution to the district’s general fund or one of its special funds (disaster relief, youth, emerging ministries, etc.). Look for the donate button at iwdcob.org, or send your checks to the district office: 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148.
Saturday, August 01, 2026
The Village ILWIDIot
Walt Wiltschek
“Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” —John 13:34b, NRSVue
Among the various congregational newsletters I receive, I recently noticed a story shared by a member who had drifted away from that congregation at one point and later returned.
What drew him back? It wasn’t a detailed congregational outreach strategy or membership campaign or even a concerted deacon visit. The draw was much simpler: caring and love.
He shared that his parents had attended the congregation for decades, and then his mother was diagnosed with advanced cancer. As she entered the nursing home, members of the congregation made a schedule to sit with his mother each evening when family couldn’t be present.
He wrote, “I saw so much love and care being shown to my mother by these women, and could see how much she appreciated their company.”
Over the previous decade, he had been attending the church only sporadically, but “These women’s expressions of love in action drew me back.” He’s been attending regularly ever since.2
In this time in our nation and world when it often feels that love is in short supply, can it really be that simple? Just show more love and caring to those around us? Jesus often seemed to think so, even naming it in the “greatest commandment.” At the very least, it’s a place to start.
In the words of the 16th-century Carmelite mystic and writer St. John of the Cross: “Where there is no love, put love—and you will find love.”
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE
In addition to regular meetings, Walt will be conducting the installation service for Gay Bouwmeester at York Center (Lombard) on Aug. 16 and for Krista Dutt at Highland Avenue (Elgin) on Aug. 23; helping to lead worship and planning with the Madtown Brethren group in Madison Aug. 30; preaching for an outdoor service in Pennsylvania on Sept. 13; worshiping at Yellow Creek (Pearl City) Sept. 20; officiating a wedding in Peoria Sept. 26; and attending the district Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social in Franklin Grove Sept. 27.
Walt is available to visit your church, do pulpit supply, lead sessions, have conversation times, or otherwise connect with your congregation. Please contact IWDDE@outlook.com to schedule a time. He is half-time and is usually on district duty late afternoons/evenings on weekdays plus weekends.
REMINDER: Please use the correct district office address for all mail correspondence: Church of the Brethren IL/WI District, 1S071 Luther Ave., Lombard, IL 60148. As noted previously, please do not send district mail to Canton, as there is no longer a district office there. Thank you!
SECOND NATURE
by Jocelyn Watkins, 2026 Illinois/Wisconsin District moderator
“I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you” (2 Timothy 1:6)
“Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds . . . encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Beloved in Christ,
I spent many hours practicing the piano when I was growing up. At first, nearly everything required conscious attention. I had to count the rhythm, remember the fingering, watch the notes, and persuade my hands to move together. When I reached a difficult passage, I slowed down and repeated it, sometimes one measure at a time.
Gradually, the music changed in my hands. My fingers began to recognize familiar patterns. Chords that once required careful thought settled into place, and passages that had felt awkward became more natural. Practice had shaped my instincts. The music was becoming second nature.
Congregations develop instincts, too. Their character takes shape through repeated choices: how people welcome others, respond to need, share responsibility, make decisions, and offer their gifts. When someone unfamiliar enters the room or an unexpected need arises, a congregation’s response often reveals what it has learned to do together.
I see this in my own congregation, where hospitality and mission have been cultivated across many years. People notice when someone is standing alone and make room. When a need arises within the church or the wider community, the conversation turns quickly toward how we might help. These instincts have grown through years of opening doors, preparing meals, sharing resources, volunteering time, and learning to see our neighbors more clearly. No single act created them. Each one strengthened what was already taking root.
The writer of Hebrews understood that faith develops through shared action. “Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds,” the passage urges, while also calling believers to gather and offer encouragement.
Consider. Provoke. Gather. Encourage.
These verbs draw our attention outward: toward another person’s gifts, toward someone needing support or an invitation, and toward the courage we can strengthen within the community. Faith gains visible shape through what we choose to do together.
Perhaps this is part of what we mean when we describe someone as a “practicing Christian.” Prayer, worship, forgiveness, generosity, and service gradually teach our hearts the way of Jesus. For Brethren, the basin, the shared table, the work of peacemaking, and the patient circle of communal discernment have long carried conviction into embodied life.
What we repeat deserves careful attention. Some practices create communities in which people are seen, gifts are shared, and needs are met. A congregation may become quick to extend an invitation, respond when a neighbor needs help, or make room for someone new to participate.
Other habits can settle in just as quietly. The same voices may guide each conversation. New ideas may regularly meet hesitation. Invitations may remain unspoken because everyone assumes someone else will offer them. Repetition can wear grooves that eventually feel natural, even when they no longer lead us where we hope to go.
At the piano, a difficult passage called for slowing down. I had to listen carefully, notice where the movement faltered, and work through it one measure at a time. Congregations may sometimes need the same patience. We can attend to one relationship, one familiar habit, or one place where the rhythm of our shared life has become strained. Then we can begin rehearsing a different response: extending the invitation, sharing responsibility, listening more carefully, or making room for another person’s gifts.
What has become instinctive among us? Where might the Spirit be asking us to slow down and learn a new response, one measure at a time?
These questions also belong to our life as a district. We learn one another’s names by gathering, come to understand neighboring congregations through their stories, and become invested in shared ministries by contributing our time, ideas, prayers, and presence. A committee meeting, congregational visit, district event, or conversation over a meal can form relationships that reach beyond a single church.
As district conference approaches, each act of participation helps us arrive already knowing something of one another’s lives, recognizing one another’s gifts, and sharing hope for the future. The more often we practice being a district together, the more readily we look beyond our own walls and understand ourselves as part of a wider community of faith.
As this year of “Kindled Anew” moves toward its final months, let’s pay attention to what is becoming part of us. What difficult passage is asking your congregation to slow down, listen, and begin rehearsing a new response?
One measure at a time, the church we hope to become is already taking shape in what we choose to practice together.
UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Property & Assets Management Team, Aug. 26, 7 p.m.
Leadership Team, Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m.
Ministry Leadership Development Team, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m.
District Hymn Sing & Ice Cream Social, Emmert Meeting House, Franklin Grove, Ill., Sept. 27, 2:30 p.m.
Program & Arrangements Committee, Sept. 30, 6:30 p.m.
Church Revitalization and Development Team, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.
2026 Illinois/Wisconsin District conference, Nov. 6-7, Polo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren
2027 District Potluck event, April 17, 2027, Cerro Gordo (Ill.) Church of the Brethren
[all meetings via Zoom unless otherwise noted]
IN OUR PRAYERS
A district prayer calendar has been created for your use in praying for our district and related programs through the year. We invite you to include the following in your prayers in coming weeks:
Week of Aug. 16: Pray for the Champaign congregation and its wide-ranging community ministries. Pray that all our congregations would be intentional about being “Jesus in the Neighborhood” and connecting with their communities.5
Week of Aug. 23: Pray for the Virden congregation, and for the Church of the Brethren in central and southern Africa: Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Uganda, and beyond.
Week of Aug. 30: Pray for the Peoria First congregation and its service ministries, including the ongoing “Mountain Mission” outreach in Kentucky.
Week of Sept. 6: Pray this week for the Girard congregation, and for the vital low-income housing ministry of Girard Area Homes.
Week of Sept. 13: Pray this week for current and former members of our district now living in other places, and for the Church of the Brethren in Haiti (Eglise des Freres) as it carries on despite the violence and unrest in that nation and immigration concerns at home.
MINISTRY NEWS
The search committee at Highland Avenue (Elgin) recommended Krista Dutt, who has been serving the congregation in a part-time interim capacity since last year, as the candidate to be Highland Avenue’s full-time settled pastor. The congregation approved that call with a vote on July 12. Krista will be formally installed as pastor during worship on Aug. 23.
York Center (Lombard) will hold an installation service for Gay Bouwmeester, who began as the congregation’s settled pastor in May, during worship on Aug. 16, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
Congratulations to Laura Lipscomb (Springfield First), who began studies in the TRIM (Training in Ministry) program at Bethany Theological Seminary in July! Laura is currently in a discernment cohort at Springfield. Several others in the district are also in the ministry discernment process.
The pastoral compensation materials for 2027 are available from the denominational Ministry Office. An email went out last month, and you can find the materials online at Pastoral Compensation Tools – Ministry Office. A compensation calculator is also available there for those who might find it helpful. The recommended salary table for pastors, based on the denominational scale, includes a 4.2 percent increase over 2026 based on the national cost-ofliving adjustment.
Bethany Theological Seminary has announced generous new financial aid for students who are members of the Church of the Brethren. Beginning fall 2026, Bethany will offer full-tuition scholarships to members of the Church of the Brethren who are enrolled in a graduate degree or graduate certificate program. The new Church of the Brethren scholarship was made possible by Flourish: A Campaign for Bethany Theological Seminary, which has raised more than $12.7 million in gifts and commitments over the last three years. Student financial aid was a key focus of the campaign, and alumni and donors have responded with remarkable generosity. For more information about the scholarship, email Maya Armstrong or call 765-983-1844.
The denomination’s Part-Time Pastor, Full-Time Church program will be offering one more online listening session this summer to give opportunity for multivocational pastors (MVP’s) to meet with other MVP's and share their thoughts, ideas, and ways that the program can be helpful and supportive of their lives and ministries. It will be Tuesday, August 26, from 6-7:30 p.m. Central (https://forms.gle/fuzTdcg5rc9KrpVj8). If you cannot make a session, a survey can also be completed at https://forms.gle/pG1BFAUY9MF22sdi9.
Part-Time Pastor, Full-Time Church also will sponsor “Practicing the Way: The Scripture Practice” this fall for multi-vocational pastors, using the book “Practicing the Way” by John Mark Comer. The Scripture Practice includes four sessions featuring video teaching, discussion, prayer, weekly exercises, readings, and additional resources designed to help participants develop life-giving rhythms as apprentices of Jesus. The four sessions are: Read; Meditate; Study; and Memorize. Each session lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Sessions will meet on Tuesday evenings—Sept. 15, 22, 29, and Oct. 6—beginning at 6 p.m. Central. Register by Wednesday, September 9, by completing the online registration form.
Congregational vacancies/updates:
Cerro Gordo: David Biggs began as part-time interim pastor for a one-year period beginning May 15. The search committee remains active, and a congregational profile is available.
Highland Avenue (Elgin): The congregation on July 12 officially called Krista Dutt, who has been serving as part-time interim pastor since early 2025, as their full-time settled pastor. An installation service will take place Aug. 23, with district executive Walt Wiltschek officiating.
Mount Morris: Lynda Willmann is currently serving as quarter-time interim pastor through at least September. Jonathan Shively is also doing a consultation process with Mount Morris this year as they discern direction. Conversations about next steps for pastoral ministry are ongoing, and the congregation is working on a profile.
Naperville: Tony Asta began as part-time interim pastor June 1. The search committee is continuing its work, and a profile for their full-time pastoral position is now available.
Oakley Brick: Pastor David Roe retired in March. Initial conversations have begun with the congregation about next steps. They are currently using pulpit supply.
York Center (Lombard): The installation service for Gay Bouwmeester as part-time settled pastor will take place this Sunday, Aug. 16, at 9:30 a.m. District executive Walt Wiltschek will officiate.
CONGREGATIONAL/LOCAL NEWS
Congratulations to Fletcher Farrar (Springfield First), who on June 4 received the James C. Craven Freedom of the Press Award from the Illinois Press Association. Fletcher is the long-time owner and editor of the Illinois Times in Springfield. The organization recently began a transition to become a community foundation as Fletcher steps out of the editor role. The newspaper prints about 20,000 copies a week for distribution. Kudos, Fletcher!
Congrats also to Harold Rose (Canton), who was named 2026 Parade Marshal of Canton’s Friendship Festival. Harold was recognized for his “decades of dedication to the students and community of Canton.”
And congratulations and best wishes to Wendy McFadden (Highland Avenue), long-time publisher of Brethren Press and Messenger magazine, who retired July 31. Wendy also received the Church of the Brethren Intercultural Ministries’ Revelation 7:9 Award at Annual Conference last month. Happy birthday to Anet Satvedi (Panther Creek), a retired ordained minister in the district, who will be celebrating his 90th on Aug. 28. A celebration with friends and family was held on Aug. 1.
Kourtney Cole (Chicago First) is among the recipients of this year’s Church of the Brethren Health Care Education Scholarships. She is attending Southern University Nursing School. In all, 10 scholarships of between $3,000 and $9,000 were awarded, totaling $75,000.
Canton carried out a significant renovation project over the summer, removing all the pews to renew and refinish the sanctuary floor. Canton answered the question of “How many Brethren does it take to move a pew?” with “As many as are willing to help!” … The congregation’s planned outdoor worship and picnic on July 19 ended up moving indoors due to weather and wildfire smoke.
Chicago First dealt with a major water break last month, when a pipe under the narthex burst on July 13. The church’s handyman/maintenance expert, Luis Casanova, was eventually able to repair the problem with some creativity, but only after a number of events (including Chicago First’s July 19 worship) had to be cancelled. Earlier, the congregation held a special Father’s Day worship (led by Rafael Boria) and picnic on June 21 in the adjacent community garden.
Dixon this summer has been giving members opportunities to share prayers for peace through “Prayer in a Bowl.” Members write their prayers for personal, community, and global peace on slips of paper that are collected in a bowl and held in prayer through the following week.
Freeport on Aug. 1 offered a back to school “Jesus in the Neighborhood” event, inviting neighbors into the fellowship hall for snacks, games, and backpacks and other school supplies.
The Madtown Brethren group (Madison, Wis.) will hold a worship/fellowship and planning time on Sunday, Aug. 30, at 10 a.m., at the Goodman Community Center in Madison. The house church group, which meets periodically, will be shaping its vision and setting dates for the coming year.
Mount Morris held an outdoor worship and breakfast at Camp Emmaus on July 19, with Jonathan Shively preaching. … Earlier in the summer, the congregation also held a “Bein’ Friendly” dessert gathering to meet those who live in their neighborhood. About 8 to 10 neighbors attended.
Peoria First is collecting school supplies for two local schools during the month of August. … The congregation also has an outdoor worship service and picnic scheduled for this Sunday at a local park.
Woodland (Astoria) supplies the community’s Blessing Box at the Shelf, providing nonperishable food for those in need in the area.
York Center (Lombard) is working on plans for a 75th anniversary celebration on Oct. 18. Details are still in the works. The congregation has recently been sharing photos and memories from past directories in anticipation of the event.
Several of our congregations have been having listening sessions and conversations recently regarding the use and future of their buildings. We hold them in prayer as they discern, envision, and explore.
Ecumenism Metro Chicago will hold a “Blessed Are the Peacemakers” ecumenical prayer service on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. at Fourth Presbyterian Church’s Buchanan Chapel in Chicago (115 E. Delaware Place). The event will mark the International Day of Prayer for Peace. The event will conclude with a peace walk on Michigan Avenue, with closing prayer in the church courtyard. All are welcome.
Do you have congregational news: celebrations, milestones, “Jesus in the Neighborhood” stories or other things to share with our district family? Please send them to iwdde@outlook.com.
