Prairie Association is made up of the 38 United Church of Christ churches located in the northwest corner of the state of Illinois. They range in size from 24 to 1,210 members and are as diverse theologically as they are in their geographical locations. From the rural communities along the Illinois River to the urban streets of Rockford (one of the largest cities in Illinois), Prairie Association churches and their members live out the mission of the United Church of Christ, “That They May All Be One.”
But Prairie Association is more than just its churches. It is a community of clergy and laity who have covenanted together to strengthen the effective and faithful ministry of the local church; to serve as the voice of the local church to the Conference and denomination, as well as serve as the voice of the denomination and Conference to the local church.
Mission Statement
As a gathered people of God, we declare our purpose is to glorify God, to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and to be open to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
To this end, we the churches of this Association covenant to strengthen the effective and faithful ministry of the local church, its laity and clergy, and, its communion with its member churches.
We covenant to be the voice of the local church to the Conference and denomination; and, the voice of the denomination and Conference to the local church.
Together, we will establish and/or support ministries within the Association, Conference, denomination and beyond.