Around the District
The LCMS Northern Illinois District is almost 200 congregations of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, spanning the 24 counties in Illinois. We flourish in our life together by “keep the main thing the main thing”, faithfully serving the Gospel of Jesus Christ and sharing it in our community and the world. Click here for a map showing our congregations, or email us to learn more.
Honoring a Legacy of Faith
Their buildings may become quiet, but the Gospel they proclaimed continues to bear fruit
Saint John, Sycamore Celebrates 150th Anniversary
We celebrate with Saint John Lutheran Church in Sycamore on the occasion of their 150th anniversary!
Spotlight on Ministry: Rev. Bob Geaschel and Trinity, Burr Ridge
Learn more about Reverend Bob Geaschel and Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Burr Ridge.
May 2026 Ministry Theme: Lay Leadership Summit
Our May 2026 Ministry theme is the Lay Leadership Summit!
Severe Weather Brings Response from Congregations to Community
The people of God serving in the community when the need arises!
The Unexpected Reminds Us of the Lord’s Protection
The unexpected delivery of a tiny baby reminds us all of the Lord's protection.
Part-Time Wellness Officer Added To NID Staff
Brandy McCoid was recently named as Wellness Officer for the LCMS Northern Illinois District.
Parish Nurse News: A Collaboration for Care in Ethiopia
Learn about a Parish Nurse Network Collaboration to bring medical care to those in need in Southern Ethiopia.
Annual Gathering of Pastors’ Wives Presents Opportunity for Fellowship and Time in God’s Word
The Annual Katie Conference for pastors' wives and widows was held on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
2nd Annual Lay Leadership Summit Equips District Church Leaders
The LCMS Northern Illinois District recently hosted the 2nd annual Lay Leadership Summit!
Ministry Partnerships Build Wellness
The annual Circuit Wellness Conference reminds us that in the body of Christ, we are not called to serve alone.
Ascension Service Brings Five Area Churches Together For Worship And Fellowship
Celebrate the joy of sister congregations in worship and fellowship together!
Zion Lutheran Church in Chebanse Celebrates Opening of New Community Library
Zion, Chebanse celebrates the dedication of a new community library in their building!
District Staff Thank Students At St. Paul Lutheran School Dorchester, Chicago
Thank you to the 7th and 8th grade students at St. Paul Lutheran School Dorchester, Chicago!
St. James, Chicago Celebrates Completion of School Expansion Project
St. James Lutheran Church and School, Chicago celebrates its recent expansion project!
April 2025 Ministry Theme: Shine!
Read more about how LCMS Northern Illinois District Lutherans are "shining the light of Jesus!"
Music Program Enhances Worship and Brings Generations Together
The Worship Ensemble at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bourbonnais brings musicians together!
Joyful Together in the Journey: The Joining Together of Two Congregations
"We praise God from Whom all blessings flow."
New Bible Study Released – Fully Human: A Biblical Pursuit of Virtue
Learn more about the newest Bible study available through the LCMS Northern Illinois District!
“Our God is Faithful” – 2024 Educator Conference
Educators from throughout the LCMS Northern Illinois District were able to come together for worship, learning, and fellowship!
NID Pastors’ Wives and Widows Gather at The Katie Event for 2024
NID pastors' wives and widows enjoyed a time of fellowship and learning!
October Ministry Theme: Church Worker Families/Pastors’ Wives
In October, we are especially thankful for our District's ministry families and pastors' wives!
Sharing the Hope We Have in Jesus
Read more about the new Gospel Justice Center in Algonquin, Illinois!
New Partnership Works to Support Bilingual Ministry
Blessing from bilingual church planting incorporation into seminary training
2024 All-Worker Conference Offers Education and Fellowship Amid God’s Beautiful Creation
Circuits 8 and 3 join together for 2nd All-Worker Conference!
August Ministry Theme: District Convention
"What is the BEST THING the District convention can do for the Body of Christ?"
St. John’s, Country Club Hills Celebrates Milestone Anniversary
We pray for continued blessings on St. John's Lutheran Church in Country Club Hills! May it serve the Lord's people for generations to come!
July Ministry Theme: Rural Ministry
Learn more about rural ministry through a conversation Pastor Matthew Rosebrock! He discusses his previous ministry opportunities and his current call to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lindenwood, Illinois.
Encourage Elmhurst Connects with the Community
Learn about one of our LCMS Northern Illinois District congregations reaching out into the community with prayer and encouragement!
Stronger Together in Christ and Partnership in the Gospel
The Northern Illinois District celebrates the new partnership between Friends in Christ Lutheran Church in Morris, IL and River of Life Lutheran Church in Channahon, IL!
Introducing “Together Towards Tomorrow,” the August 2024 Lay Leadership Summit
We are stronger when we are working together!
Partnership Gatherings Strengthen Congregational Ministry
Partnership Gatherings allow lay leaders to meet with one another and key District personnel for a day of discussion and encouragement!
Don Gillingham Selected for 2024 Distinguished Retired Lutheran Educator “EncourAGING” Award
Congratulations to Don Gillingham on being selected for the 2024 Distinguished Retired Lutheran Educator "EncourAGING" Award!
St. Matthew’s Ministry Milestone and the Mission Target Grant: Nurturing Communities for Christ’s Love
St. Matthew, Barrington completes transformation and Trinity, Galewood receives Mission Target Grant!
Spreading Love and Service Through SHINE!
Our SHINE! events magnify the Lord through acts of service!
Pastors’ Thoughts on Ministry in Chicago
Read what a few Chicago pastors have to say about magnifying and exalting the Lord together in their ministries!
Blessed to Be a Blessing
Individual ministries living out unique identities, yet magnifying the Lord together!
Chicago Urban Ministry Forums
The Chicago Urban Ministry Forums is a collective effort involving congregations and ministries from various neighborhoods in Chicago to faithfully spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ within our communities and around the world.
Reverend David Seabaugh Receives NID 2023 School Shepherd Award
Congratulations, Pastor Seabaugh, on receiving the School Shepherd Award!
No Better Way to Start the School Year
There was no better way to start the new school year than by being CONNECTED in worship. This marked our 5th annual Back-to-School event.
A Testimony to God’s Love for His People
Immanuel Lutheran Church in East Dundee burned it’s 20 year mortgage on a building which added over 200% space for its Word and Sacrament ministry
We celebrate as the Body of Christ
Peace Lutheran Church will continue to flourish through and with the next generations, in and for a community of Bible believing people.
Beecher Congregations Are Stronger Together Through Partnership
Specific events have brought the Beecher congregations together but they could not have known what God had planned for them
School for Missionaries
Two new vicars serving at San Pablo Lutheran Church in Aurora are evidence of how God is blessing the School for Missionaries.
New Sunday School Network Group Inspires and Informs
The NID's new Sunday School Network Group provides church leaders with opportunities to get support and support each other in their Sunday School programs.
PALS: Helping Pastors and Their Wives Transition
The PALS program assists pastors just out of seminary and their wives in the transition to their new congregations.
We Never Lose Infinite Hope
Members and friends of the LCMS Northern Illinois District attended the “Day of Remembrance-Observance Celebration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Meeting new friends, colleagues, and partners in ministry
Working closely together - creating greater impact for the Gospel
New Connections in Hispanic Ministry for the Albany Park Neighborhood
Tabor Lutheran Church has been making new connections in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago.
New Partnerships: Excited by What Lies Ahead
The LCMS Northern Illinois District leadership is now present on the campus of Concordia University Chicago!
St. Matthew Celebrates 90 Years of Christ’s Work In and Through the Church
On September 18, 2022, St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Barrington celebrated their 90th anniversary, as well as the culmination of a richly blessed capital campaign.
Grants awarded during Phase 1 of the Million Dollar Life Match
Five NID congregations are among those receiving grants during Phase 1 of the 1 John 3 Initiative Million Dollar Life Match.
Supporting Vets Through Ministry
An LCMS NID Partnership Grant provided to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake is allowing the laity there to make a difference in their veteran community.
Stronger Together
The NID has a vibrant volunteer base of church laity to passionately share their faith.
NID Office Furniture/Items Available for Purchase
The LCMS Northern Illinois District office has office items for sale.
A Service of Praise and Thanksgiving
On the afternoon of June 13, 2022, a Service of Praise and Thanksgiving in the Closure of The Lutheran Center was held.
Installation Services Held for NID Officers
Spirit-filled gatherings included performing the Rite of Installation for the District President Rev. Dr. Allan Buss by Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison, President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.
Relocation of LCMS Northern Illinois District Office Approved
Approval of the relocation of the District’s office currently located in Hillside, Illinois
He Has Done Marvelous Things!
Good Shepherd Christian Academy, Chicago has created a welcoming entrance to their school with grant money received from the NID.
Mission Target Grant
Grant proposals for the NID's Mission Target Grant are now being accepted.
Northern Illinois District Convention Highlights
The 60th Convention of The Northern Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod took place March 11-12, 2022.
Sale of LCMS Northern Illinois District Office Building
President Allan R. Buss announced the sale of the LCMS Northern Illinois District office building.
March for Life Chicago 2022 Brings to Light Life Support Ministries
Lutherans gathered at the March for Life Chicago on January 8, 2022.
Rev. Cory Estby to Serve as Triennial Chair of NID Life Task Force
Rev. Cory Estby to serve as NID Life Task Force Chair.
Bringing It For Belize Joyful Update
An update on the District-wide wellness event, Bringing It For Belize.
Joy in God’s People Studying Together – Incarnate Community
More resources are being made available for the District-wide Bible study, "Incarnate Community."
Ethnic Ministry Gathering
On September 25, 2021, church workers and laity from around the NID gathered at Concordia University Chicago to participate in Christ’s commission.
Joy in Discovering Differences
A partnership between the NID and CLEF leads students to experience the joy of differences throughout the year.
Ethnic Ministry Webinar
Reaching our to neighbors in urban and rural contexts: Saturday, January 15, 2022
March for Life Chicago 2022
The Northern Illinois Life Task Force urges all Lutheran individuals and congregations to participate in the March and related activities.
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvidere Initiates New Prayer Path
A new Prayer Path is created on the campus of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvidere.
Our God is a God of Life
The LWML NID met in person for their Fall Gathering on September 25, 2021.
Mobile Shower Unit Visits Chicago Tent City
St. Paul Lutheran Church and ShowerUp partner to provide something extra for area homeless community.
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Beecher, Destroyed by Fire
Please pray for the congregation, pastor, and community of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Beecher Illinois.
NID Launches District-Wide Bible Study
The Northern Illinois District launches a new District-wide Bible study.
Coming Together at the School for Missionaries
The School for Missionaries (Escuela Luterana Misionera) is lighting hearts on fire and helping spread the Word of God to communities that otherwise might not have known Him.
Coming Together in Ethnic Ministry
Rev. Tom Johnson discusses Ethnic Ministry Development in the Northern Illinois District.
Coming Together Abroad
The LCMS Northern Illinois District is witnessing God’s work in action through its partnership with the Belize Mission Society.
NID Launches District-Wide Wellness Event
This event focuses on the district’s Wellness pillar – wellness of the members of our district and wellness of the underserved in Belize.
Belize Mission – Hearts for Jesus
The ‘Hearts for Jesus’ mission project for the 2021-2022 school year will be the Belize Mission Society Scholarship Program.
BOD Approves Match to Voice of Hope Donations
The Board of Directors for the LCMS Northern Illinois District at their June 21, 2021 meeting, approved a matching of donations up to $10,000 for Voice of Hope Behind the Wall.
The Power of In Person Worship
Pam Meyer, a lay person and life-long member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chicago Heights, emphasizes the importance of in person worship.
Showing Jesus to Children
A freshman in the Lutheran Teachers Education Program at Concordia University Chicago shares the love of Jesus with children.
Northern Illinois District Offers Content in Podcast Format
For over a year now, the Northern Illinois District has hosted a podcast bringing devotions to listeners on a weekly basis. The NID is pleased to offer more content in podcast format in the coming months.
Arch Books for Kids: Giving Tuesday 2020
For Giving Tuesday this year, the Northern Illinois District supported congregations helping the needy by providing God's Word through Arch Books.
Filled with Living Hope: 2020 Pastors’ Wives and Widows Gathering
In October, The LCMS Northern Illinois District hosted a gathering for wives and widows of pastors who have served or are currently serving in the District.
St. John’s Meals on Wheels Ministry
At St. John’s Lutheran Church in La Grange, members have found joy serving their neighbors in ways they might not have expected at the beginning of the year.
The LCMS Northern Illinois District Moves Forward With New Mission and Vision
Board of Directors of The Northern Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod authorized and directed the President and Secretary to sell the building and property at 2301 S. Wolf Road, Hillside, Illinois.
Ministry Update – What Can We Do? Speak, Listen, and Pray
Rev. Elstner Lewis's address is shared here that the perspective of a fellow brother in Christ might edify and enlighten all believers in the Northern Illinois District as they follow Christ, loving and serving their neighbor in their vocation.
Immanuel, Elmhurst Paper Rollers
If you can help supply the Paper Rollers with newspaper, contact Immanuel Lutheran Church, Elmhurst.
Ministry Update – What Do We Leave Behind?
How would you like to be remembered? ... Legacy focuses on what will endure, passing on ideas of lasting value to future generations.
The LCMS Northern Illinois District Launches Webinar Series
The LCMS Northern Illinois District is launching a webinar series, addressing opportunities related to ministry in our District, providing thought provoking insights that will help us strengthen our work together.
Installations: Immanuel, Crystal Lake and Christ, Sterling
With the beginning of the school year comes installations and commissionings of teachers in the LCMS Northern Illinois District.
Back to School Worship at St. John’s, La Grange
On August 10, 2020, teachers and administrators from across the NID gathered at St. John’s, La Grange for the second annual Back-to-School worship service and keynote.
South Side Clergy and Synod Officials Meet at Resurrection, Chicago
On Monday, July 27, 2020, LCMS Northern Illinois District and Synod officials met with several African American clergy at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Chicago to discuss spiritual care for African American congregations and individuals.