June 2022
Building relations for Kingdom work was the purpose of the Chicagoland Urban Ministry Forum that the LCMS Northern Illinois District held June 9, 2022 at Concordia University Chicago, River Forest. Pastors involved in urban ministry in Chicago were invited to attend the form which sought perspectives on the different backgrounds for sharing the Gospel in their respective ministries.
Chicago is a very diverse city and our congregations are diverse in how they share the Gospel in their respective neighborhoods. By brining these pastors together, they not only got to know each other and build relationships with each other, but they were able to share what was happening in their ministries. Rev. Kris Whitby lead the discussion which was focuted on four questions:
- What has not worked recently in your ministry efforts?
- What are you hopeful/energized by in your ministry today?
- What ministry initiatives should we be taking in Chicago now?
- What ministry initiative is the Lord leading you to which is too big for your ministry to accomplish alone?
The discussion also looked at congregational partnership models to learn more about the possibilities on how congregations to work together.
Gatherings like this are a part of our mission and work together in the NID: Filled with living hope in Christ, Confessing, Praising, and Advancing His Kingdom through Word, Wellness, and Witness. And, it affirms and aligns with resolutions approved at The 60th Convention of The Northern Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, in particular Resolution 3-01: “Congregations can have a greater impact for the Gospel by working closely together.”
Additional forums are planned for the future and may include additional urban areas such as Rockford, Aurora, and Joliet areas.
Filled with living hope in Christ, Confessing, Praising, and Advancing His Kingdom through Word, Wellness, and Witness.