Series helps women have spiritual makeover

Deborah Willhite is offering women a makeover, but it doesn't involve mascara, lipstick or oatmeal facial scrubs.

Willhite will facilitate "Extreme Makeover!" a women's ministry event from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Rejoice Lutheran Church at 0N377 N. Mill Creek Drive in Mill Creek in Geneva.

The event is part of a workshop series designed to help women learn more about how to contribute their God-given gifts, rather than changing their outside appearance.

"It's not the kind of makeover you might think it is," Willhite said. "It's a four-part series I developed for the church that concerns personal transformation.

"We will be focusing on integrating into wholeness, and learning how to rebalance.

"Too many women are caught up in doing things for others. They are very busy, and they may feel that taking time for themselves is selfish. But we believe you have to learn to nurture yourself with the understanding that this will help in nurturing others."

Sunday's event will focus on the body. There will be a lecture, practical tips on exercising, and information on how to set goals.

The series will continue with a workshop on the mind April 27, a workshop on the spirit Sept. 14, and a celebration and integration event Dec. 7.

Willhite is a life coach, a spiritual director and a personal trainer. She would like to use her expertise to help others learn more about spirituality and what it means, and bring her message to other churches.

"I'm fortunate to have the tools to help," she said.

"Extreme Makeover!" costs $10. For reservations and information, e-mail Willhite at Deborah.willhite@sbcglobal.net. Walk-ins are welcome.

For information on the church, call (630) 262-0596.

Christmas in January: Do you feel that you lost a little of the lovely Christmas music during the rush to shop, bake and get ready for guests?

The adult and children's choirs of St. Patrick Catholic Church will present a concert of Christmas carols and songs at 4 p.m. Jan. 13 at the church at 6N491 Crane Road in St. Charles.

For information, call (630) 584-0092.

The church is also presenting its "Catholics Come Home" series in January.

The St. Patrick adult formation team is offering a special invitation to non-practicing Catholics.

Sessions will be from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, 22 and 29 at the St. Patrick downtown church at 408 Cedar in St. Charles.

The informal gatherings will give participants a chance to explore faith issues, ask questions, meet others returning to the church and rediscover the church.

For information, call Sister Laura Filipas at (630) 513-3314 or Eric Schoonover at (847) 608-9547.

ngier@dailyherald.com