Ministry In Action…
Leading & Serving Illinois, Block By Block, Church by Church
Northern Illinois Jurisdiction (NIJ) C.O.G.I.C. is not only the the historic Mother Jurisdiction of the Church of God In Christ in Illinois, we are taking back our inner cities, educating and mentoring communities, restoring hope, and driving economic empowerment and revitalization!
Supporting & Uplifting Communities
NIJ C.O.G.I.C. is leading the charge to educate and empower our communities through training and development, job and business support, partnerships, and economic growth. By revitalizing communities we provide our parishioners and community members with a better quality of life, improved access to health care, and better opportunities. Together, we can help to reduce social and economic disparities in inner city and underserved communities. Join us as we help to create more equitable and inclusive communities, where everyone has access to the same opportunities and resources.
Ministry Initiative:
NIJ Pastor’s Grant
The NIJ grant is a way that NIJ funds our Pastor’s ideas and projects to provide Christian services and stimulate church community partnerships. Grants support critical recovery initiatives, innovative research, and many other programs.
Our goal is to support and enhance the NIJ churches and its organizations that are doing critical work in the field of ministry, community partnerships, and youth development through recreation.
Support your church and your community:
Educational Programs
Mentorship Programs
Outreach ministries for the needy in their community
Program Maintenance & Church Repair
Elect Bishop
For General Board
Bishop Walker has not only led our community through times of challenge and change, but has also envisioned and implemented programs that have significantly enhanced our spiritual and communal life.
His initiatives in areas such as community revitalization, youth development, community service, and violence prevention have not only grown our community but deepened our faith and outreach.
How We Empower…
Youth & Community Development
Churches provide youth with positive mentors and role models who can guide them through life's challenges. We even provided programs that focus on building relationships, fostering personal growth, tutoring, job training, and even violence prevention.
Church Community Partnerships
By partnering with community organizations and businesses, churches can increase their resources and better address the needs of inner city communities. This can include things like financial support, volunteer assistance, and access to expertise or specialized services.
Supporting Recovery Initiatives
As a pillar of the community, churches can offer their buildings and facilities as a space for recovery initiatives and support services to operate. From counseling sessions to prevention efforts aimed at reducing addiction to promoting healthy lifestyles, we deliver!
Grant Recipient
Friendly Temple
Friendly Temple is proud to announce in 2022 and 2023, we were the proud recipient of the Reimagine Public Safety Act Violence Prevention Services Grant through Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS); Cook County Justice Advisory Council Gun Violence Prevention and Reduction Grant; and three FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) awards. There’s even more in store!
Bishop Edwin M. Walker
Prelate of Northern IL. Jurisdiction COGIC
“Many underserved communities face unique challenges and opportunities the church can and should address. By investing in our local communities, we can promote peace, opportunity, and a better future for the next generation.”
Apply Online Today!
If you meet criteria and are eligibility to apply for the NIJ Pastor’s Grant, please complete our form. Remember, grants must be consistent with the Northern Illinois Jurisdiction mission.
Programs that are supported should be innovative within the context of which the recipient organization operates and should have the potential to contribute to life transformation, if applicable. Together, we can and will spur growth and opportunities within our communities. Should you need support or a copy of the Grant Criteria, contact us at: bishop@nijgrants.org.
A one-stop hub for community-based support & resources…
Churches often serve as a central hub for the community, providing a space for social events, fellowship, and networking opportunities. More than ever, we are offering educational and vocational training programs to help members of the community acquire new skills and advance their careers. We are also leading the charge on community health and wellness by providing resources and education on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention. We are your one-stop community resource for support!
