Illinois Baptist
It’s bigger than us How global missions changed a local church Sammy Simmons P. 9
COVID CASES rise
in focus
Sanctuary Churches make room for students displaced by COVID P. 6
IllinoisBaptist.org
IB
MISSION
Churches debate impact Springfield | As Gov. J.B. Pritzker tightened COVID-related restrictions in suburban Chicago and the southeastern corner of the state, pastors debated their meeting plans and two churches continued their fight to stop the limitations. Pritzker’s announcement Oct. 20 affects Zone 5, which includes Mt. Vernon, Marion, and the surrounding area. He also renewed limits on restaurants and public meetings in DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, and Will counties west of Chicago. The restrictions include limiting gatherings to 25 people, down from the previous cap of 50. Region 1 in northwestern Illinois returned to earlier restrictions Oct. 3. Across the country, faith leaders have noted churches provide an essential service in their communities, therefore falling into the category of establishments that can continue to operate amid restrictions. Many Illinois churches that have relaunched P. 5
Nate Adams:
Living in color
News journal of the Illinois Baptist State Association
NOVEMBER 1, 2020
P. 2
Vol. 114 No. 13
Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Peoria, Illinois Permit No. 325
Limits renewed
Missions Special Section P. 7-10 Plan now for 2021 Waiting time is good for preparation
International outreach Begins in my neighborhood
Lottie Moon season
2020 IBSA Annual Meeting November 4 • 1 p.m. Tabernacle Baptist Church, Decatur
Focuses on unreached people groups See more on page 3