Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

They Were All in One Place Together

This Pentecost, CRS humbly shares the prophetic message of a bold and unafraid Palestinian people resisting genocide with resilient hope. Please join us in reflecting and read ‘They Were All in One Place Together’ from theologian, peace activist, and humanitarian Omar Haramy of Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center.

Read More

Our Footsteps Are the Future

Following busy weeks of mission-driven action, CRS reflects on what justice and liberation mean to us and those across the globe. We remember that we are our ancestors’ wildest dreams and that even in the present, we are the future.

Read More
From the Executive Director Tyla Gross From the Executive Director Tyla Gross

“Killing the Flowers Will Not Delay Spring”

CRS hosted a peace sojourn to Jerusalem in solidarity with Palestinians who are suffering under Israel’s illegal occupation and dispossession of their land. It is important for us to be in the margins and be a prophetic voice in the wilderness, as our faith-based platforms can raise awareness and be a tool to dismantle oppression in our city, nation, and world.

Read More
LGBTQIA Tyla Gross LGBTQIA Tyla Gross

Centering Collective Belonging

CRS affirms our commitment to building Beloved Community. We acknowledge the unique oppression and shared struggles of our LGBTQIA+ neighbors that have persisted throughout history, and uplift their underrepresented stories, brave protests against intolerance, and movements of love over time and in the present.

Read More

Toward True Light

CRS highlights our member congregation, University Church Chicago (UChurch), and Senior Pastor Rev. Julian DeShazier for actively protesting anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts during the 2025 Lenten season. Learn about UChurch’s stewardship of material resources and access a list of companies to both boycott and support in this blog article.   

Read More
Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

Member Congregation Spotlight: University Church Chicago

CRS spotlights our member congregation, University Church Chicago (UChurch), and Senior Pastor Rev. Julian DeShazier. Located in Hyde Park, UChurch is a multi-ethnic, open and affirming Christian congregation. Their continuous mission in global solidarity affirms all persons regardless of their race, abilities, and sexual orientations.  

Read More
Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

2025 WHM Spotlights

Women’s History Month (WHM) begins with a focus on five inspiring women who are making a lasting impact in their fields and within CRS’s mission to abolish racism and poverty. Check out our WHM spotlights here!

Read More
Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

Member Congregation Spotlight: The Congregational Church of Park Manor UCC

CRS recently visited The Congregational Church of Park Manor UCC to witness its dynamic legacy firsthand. Founded in 1953 through the efforts of six organizations, including the City Missionary Society (now CRS), Park Manor has remained a pillar of faith and resilience. In a conversation with Rev. Dr. Janice E. Spraggins, we explored the church’s deep spiritual roots, music traditions, and ongoing transformation, including its growing partnership with Advocate UCC. Read the full story here.

Read More

Watch, Witness, Work

This blog article tracks executive orders issued by the current administration that limit affordable healthcare for low-income individuals, target refugees, roll back environmental protections, deepen disparities among marginalized communities, reinforce inequality, and more.

Read More
Chris Groza Chris Groza

The World As We Want It

CRS responds to President Trump’s Executive Order and attack on our transgender siblings entitled ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.’

Read More
Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. LeRoy Sanders

It is with deep sadness that CRS shares the news that Rev. Dr. LeRoy Sandersdied on December 13, 2024 and entered into life eternal. He was a beloved and esteemed pastor emeritus who served Kenwood United Church of Christ for 36 years.

Read More
Tyla Gross Tyla Gross

A Day of Remembrance Reflection and Tribute

CRS is blessed to have a poignant reflection and tribute from one of our Annual Membership Assembly Jerusalem delegates, Brother Laurence Steven Minter, as we pause in solidarity on this Day of Remembrance. Please read it in this blog article and join us in recognizing and affirming the truth.

Read More