United Methodists come in all sizes, shapes, colors, dispositions, outlooks and life stories, but share a unique history and faith perspective. Our members speak many languages and live in many countries.
A major part of our faith centers around practices -- getting involved in the world around us, rather than isolating ourselves in a private, monastic journey. United Methodists have numerous opportunities to engage the world and their faith. In the Illinois Great Rivers Conference, we center on five ministry priorities:
Pages located under the Get Involved tab provide ways for you to put your faith into practice.
No matter how or where they serve Jesus Christ, United Methodists do God’s work in a unique structure—referred to as “the connection." This concept has been central to Methodism from its beginning. Connectionalism comes to life through our clergy appointment system, our mission and outreach, and through our collective giving. We live out our call to mission and ministry by engaging in ministry with the poor, combating diseases of poverty by improving health globally, creating new places for new people and renewing existing congregations, and developing principled Christian leaders. No one congregation can do all these ministries, but together—through the power of our connection—we can make a tremendous difference.