December 2023
The LCMS Northern Illinois District (NID) is actively fostering partnerships to faithfully spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ within our communities and around the world. One of these impactful initiatives is the Chicago Urban Ministry Forums, a collective effort involving congregations and ministries from various neighborhoods in Chicago. These forums are instrumental in cultivating compassion and collaboration among different entities, uniting them in their shared commitment to serve their communities.
Chicago, a city comprised of 77 diverse neighborhoods, presents unique challenges to each congregation. Despite these challenges, the common objective remains: to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our communities. The forums serve as a platform where leaders from City of Chicago congregations, the Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation (CLEF), LINC Ministries International, Concordia University Chicago, and NID representatives come together. By understanding each other’s differences and working collaboratively, they seek innovative solutions to address their specific challenges. This unity allows them to magnify Christ’s presence, drawing strength from their collective faith in our gracious Savior.
During these forum gatherings, participants dedicate time to immersing themselves in God’s Word, engaging in prayer, and devotion. These moments of spiritual connection serve as a transformative experience, enabling them to perceive God’s love and His will for their lives more clearly. In this space, attendees share the joys they witness in their communities and ministries. Each ministry represents a community of believers actively making disciples for Christ, empowered by God’s guidance. Being close to God provides them with the opportunity to magnify His greatness, offering Him the honor and adoration He rightfully deserves for His character and actions.
However, these communities also encounter challenges. Through collaborative brainstorming sessions, they generate unique solutions and anticipate the positive impact these solutions will have on the lives of the people they serve. By exploring these solutions collectively, they strengthen their resolve and determination to overcome obstacles.
The NID is committed to supporting all of its networking groups, recognizing them as vital opportunities for church workers to connect, build relationships, and acquire skills for the Lord’s mission – exalting His name! These networking groups not only strengthen the bonds within the community but also equip individuals with the necessary tools to effectively serve and spread the message of God’s love.
In essence, the Chicago Urban Ministry Forums and similar initiatives are powerful manifestations of faith in
action. Through unity, prayer, and shared dedication, these communities exemplify the transformative power of the Gospel, making a significant impact on the lives they touch and the neighborhoods they serve.
These partnerships are in support of – and alignment with– our Convention Witness Resolution 3-01: Congregations can have a greater impact for the Gospel by working closely together.
WITNESS: Encouraging personal witnessing, congregational engagement with their community, support of our NID partnerships and missions and sharing in a world mission field together.