Welcome to the Prairie Association of the Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ!

 

The Prairie Association, comprised of 39 churches, exists to support local churches and pastors for vital ministry and mission. Our covenant commitments include authorizing persons for ministry and proving support and mentoring for those who perceive God calling them to licensed or ordained ministry; resourcing local churches in the search and call process for ministerial leadership; assisting local congregations in times of transition, conflict, and challenge; providing resources for stewardship education, Christian education, long-range planning, leadership development, and clergy support. The Association gathers for the installation of pastors, for the celebrations of church anniversaries, and twice yearly (spring and fall) for annual business meetings and programs. A majority of our licensed and ordained pastors participate regularly in twice-monthly Clergy Covenant Groups, and our 14 licensed pastors gather annually for a retreat focused on education, fellowship and worship.

 

Our churches reflect their unique rural, suburban and urban settings, and the experience of worship in each congregation is equally unique. Mission and outreach are also conducted by our churches, and in many settings, ministry and mission is shared between local UCC congregations or in ecumenical partnerships. Local church leaders are active in the leadership of the Illinois Conference, serving on a variety of committees and ministries, and extending the Good News of Jesus Christ to our brothers and sisters throughout the northern two-thirds of the state.

 

The Prairie Association is blessed indeed that one of the two Illinois Conference camps is located in our borders – Pilgrim Park is located east of Princeton – and churches and pastors are encouraged to utilize this beautiful setting for worship, retreats, and even work camp opportunities. 

 

We invite you to worship God, to participate in one of the many ministry opportunities available in our churches, and to deepen your faith in one of our Prairie churches. You'll be welcomed with warm hospitality and invited to share the faith we claim in the still-speaking God.

 

Kathy Lawes

Associate Conference Minister serving Prairie and Western Associations