Your faith

To submit items, e-mail faith@dailyherald.com, or send fax to (847) 427-1301.

Adult education

Immanuel United Church of Christ will host a new weekly Parents Group Mondays in the west classroom. The group will meet during the same time as the Lifeboat High School Community Youth Group, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The church is looking for additional leadership and has selected the ProActive Parenting curriculum from the Faith Home for Parents series. The church is at 1500 Old Church Road Streamwood. For details, call (630) 837-0190 or visit www.streamwoodiucc.org.

New Beginnings will have a Valentine's Dance from 8-11 p.m. Feb. 16 in the Hughes Center at St. Matthew's Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Please bring a snack for six to eight people. Coffee, tea and soft drinks will be provided. Music by DJ Tom. Tickets cost $8 in advance or $10 at the door. For additional information, call Joan Neville at (847) 397-9643.

The following classes are being offered at Our Saviour's United Methodist Church, 701 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg:

• They Like Jesus but Not the Church: This is an 8-week book study held at the church from 10:15-11:30 a.m. on the following Sundays: Feb. 10, 17, 24; March 2, 9, 30; April 6 and 13. There is a cost of $17 for the book. Contact Eric Walker or Tim Alexander if interested at (847) 352-8181 or www.osumc.org.

• Mere Christianity: Class begins Feb. 10 and continues until March 23 on consecutive Sundays from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Contact Mike Sukow at msukow@yahoo, or contact the church at (847) 352-8181 or www.osumc.org.

• Weekly Bible Study: This four-week adult Bible study focuses on reading small amounts of Scripture and spending time thinking about and discussing how this piece of Scripture speaks to you. Class begins at 7 p.m. Feb. 13. If interested, contact Linda Abbott or Beth Collier at (847) 362-8181 or www.osumc.org.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host Community on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Feb. 20, with guest speaker Scott Haltzman, M.D. The topic is "The Secrets of Happily Married Men: Eight Ways to Win Your Wife's Heart."

In most households, women take on the role of relationship manager as they gauge and measure the quality of the relationship. It seems that men, on the other hand, just don't pay that much attention. While they are often wonderfully romantic during the dating phase, men get labeled as "dysfunctional" in relationships once they take their vows. But nothing can be further from the truth. Men care deeply about marriage and making their wives happy. When a man knows how to take a leadership role in the relationship, he can literally save the marriage. He just may not go about it the same way a woman does.

"The Secrets of Happily Married Men" is a step-by-step approach to saving your marriage. It is designed for men by men, but its message is also important for wives to hear.

Join us for this evening of prayer, learning and conversation. For information, call (847) 907-3441.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host an evening Scripture Study at 7 p.m. Thursdays Feb. 21, 28, March 13, 27 (no class on March 6 or 20).

Pauline A. Viviano, Ph.D. will explore the topic: "The Devil Made Me Do It …The Concept of Satan and the Demonic, and its Evolution Through the Scriptures."

Dr. Pauline A. Viviano is an associate professor of theology at Loyola University of Chicago.

For information and/or registration, call (847) 907-3441. Fee: $40.

The public is invited to a singles potluck social evening, sponsored by Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church's Rainbow Friends, from 7 to 10 p.m. Feb. 9. The event, to be held at the church, is designed to allow participants time to get to know a variety of different people, and to affirm Countryside's values of celebrating all people regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation.

This will be an evening of socialization and fun, along with food and drink. There is no charge for the event, but participants are asked to bring food to share, using their last names as follows: A-J salad, K-P non-alcoholic beverages and Q-Z snacks or sweets. They are also requested to make reservations by e-mailing likethosecrones@yahoo.com.

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. Directions may be obtained at www.ccuu.org or by phoning (847) 359-8440.

Treat your marriage to its own special weekend. Marriage Encounter creates an opportunity for married couples "to meet" one another again, "to renew" their relationship through communication, "to discover" new meaning and joy within their marriages.

This Marriage Encounter weekend will be Feb. 15-17 at St. Thomas of Villanova School, 1141 E. Anderson Drive, Palatine. For details, call John and Donna Breit (847) 359-2870.

Are you looking for ways to grow in your faith and deeply connect it to your life? Adult Ministries at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59) in Barrington is offering the following learning opportunities:

Sunday Morning Offerings, 9-10:15 a.m., Bible Study of Romans -- Room 108. This is a 10-week study for all, with no prior Bible study knowledge required. Also, "What's So Amazing About Grace?" will be in the Dining Room. Explore grace at "street level" through the writings of award-winning author Philip Yancey. No preparation needed, workbooks are $12.

On Wednesday evenings, a Women's Evening Study is offered from 6-8:30 p.m. in Parlor or Room 111. Delve into "Women of Worship" by Dee Brestin in this dynamic 10-week study on the Psalms. No prior Bible study knowledge required, and books are $11.

On Thursday mornings, Women of the Word is from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in the Parlor. This is a study of "A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place" by Beth Moore.

On Friday morning, "Breathing Spaces" is offered from 10-10:30 a.m. at Starbuck's inside Dominick's, Lake Zurich. Take time out to reflect and enjoy fellowship.

For more information, contact the church at (847) 836-5540. Visit the church's Web site at: www.BarringtonUMC.com.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a Co-Ed Prayer Retreat from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 16. The theme for the retreat is "Finding a Rhythm of Rest." Come and explore what it means to be "still and know God." (847) 998-1946.

Cathy Anderson will lead a discussion of the book "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen as part of Prince of Peace's Adult Education.

The book discussion session will be held at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27. Prince of Peace UMC is located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue, 1400 Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village.

For more information, call (847) 439-0668 or visit the church Web site at princeofpeaceumc.org.

Congregational Church of Christ hosts a weekly Lenten study series for adults, at 4:30 p.m. Sunday evenings through March 30. "The Last Week: What the Gospels Really Teach About Jesus's Final Days in Jerusalem" by Marcus J. Borg and John Dominic provides the framework for study during the series. A light supper precedes the discussion. Public is invited to participate. Congregational UCC is at 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for information.

Children, teens

Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, has begun registration for the 2008-2009 school year. It offers many different options for preschool and kindergarten classes and an extended day through a Parents' Day Out program. For details, call (847) 885-7036.

Registration is under way at St. Hubert Catholic School's preschool, 255 Flagstaff, Hoffman Estates.

New to the 2008-2009 school year preschool program will be a full-day combined 3- and 4-year-old preschool class, offered along with the current half-day 3- and 4-year-old preschool classes and half-day and full-day kindergarten program.

New Student Open Registration for the 2008-2009 school year for preschool through eighth grade continues and applications are being accepted.

For registration materials and additional information, call the school office between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at (847) 885-7702 or e-mail at office@sthubertschool.com. Tours can be arranged as well as appointments made to learn more about St. Hubert Catholic School. www.sainthubert.org

Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, 1600 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, at 6:33 p.m. Feb. 10 will have a unique gathering focusing on issues of world hunger.

It will be youth-led, with music and testimony to what they have accomplished. The sanctuary will be covered with 29,000 orange paper worlds symbolizing the number of people starving in one day.

Over that weekend, junior and senior high youth will be fasting for 30 hours to raise awareness and learn about world hunger issues.

For details, call (847) 882-6116 or visit www.orumc.org.

Big Barn Preschool has openings for winter registration for ages 3 to 6 at 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. (847) 895-3257.

Immanuel Lutheran Preschool, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, will host open house from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11. Registration dates are from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Feb. 11. (847) 359-1990, ext. 115. www.palatinepreschool.org

New Hope Preschool is now accepting registration for the fall for 3- and 4-year-old classes. If you'd like to schedule an appointment or need information, call (847) 359-5482. New Hope Preschool is affiliated with New Hope Community Church, 1023 E. Palatine Road, Palatine.

Christ the King Lutheran Preschool, 100 W Michigan Ave., Palatine, is accepting registrations for the 2008-2009 school year for children ages 2-5. The 3- to 5-year-old program is held M/W/F from 9:30 a.m.-noon. The 2-year-old program is Tuesday mornings.

A preschool extension (Lunch Bunch) is offered Wednesdays from noon-1:30 p.m. Contact Valerie Schultz, preschool director, at (847) 358-0230 or e-mail preschool@ByFaithAlone.org for more information, for a tour, or to register your child. Visit the web site, www.ByFaithAlone.org.

A preschool open house will be held from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and from 6-7 p.m. Feb. 24 Come for a tour, meet the staff, and view registration materials.

The Youth Department of Congregation Beth Judea will hold its annual Purim Carnival from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 16 in the synagogue's Social Hall. There will be games (basketball, moonwalk, a giant slide, Hamman Toss, Bozo Buckets, balloon animals, Tic Tac Toe and more), prizes, food (hot dogs, chips, pop and hamentaschen) and lots of fun. Game tickets are 25 cents each; games range from 2-5 tickets. There is a Tot Corner, which is an area with easy-to-reach, easy-to-play games for our younger crowd.

The Purim Carnival is open to all children in the community. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. For further information, contact the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777.

JCC Maccabi Chicago, a JCC of Chicago program that provides athletic, social and cultural experiences to Jewish teens ages 13 to 16, announces plans for the 2008 JCC Maccabi Games.

All interested athletes and families are invited to attend an information night to learn more about this summer's Games in Akron, Ohio, Aug 10-15, and Detroit, Mich., Aug. 17-22. An information night will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Bernard Weinger JCC, 300 Revere Drive, Northbrook.

JCC Maccabi Chicago plans to send a delegation of 25 athletes and five coaches to Akron, Ohio, to compete in boys and girls soccer and bowling. Representing JCC Maccabi Chicago in Detroit, Mich., will be 115 athletes and 25 coaches competing in boys baseball, girls softball, boys and girls basketball, in-line hockey, swimming, tennis, track & field, dance, table tennis, bowling and golf.

Tryouts for the 2008 JCC Maccabi Chicago teams will take place in February and March. For details, call Allan Bogan at (847) 412.4253 or visit www.gomaccabi.org.

Registration has begun for the summer session at Kingswood United Methodist Church in Buffalo Grove. This program is for children ages 2 and 3.

The summer session of Parent's Day Out will start June 16 and will run for seven weeks. Parents will have the option of Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday class from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Children must be 2 or 3 years of age by June 1, 2008, to enroll.

All children are required to have a complete physical and provide a complete Illinois Department of Public Health Certificate of Child Health Examination prior to the start of the program.

A 50 percent deposit of session fees is required with the complete registration form. A $25 nonrefundable registration fee is also due at the time of registration. The balance is due by May 13. Refunds will not be given after June 1. The summer tuition is as follows: Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday: $185.

Kingswood United Methodist Church is at 401 W. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove. For details on programs, missions and worship, visit www.kingswoodumc.com.

The 2008 Summer Program registration is under way at Jacob Duman JCC Early Childhood Services at Woodland Commons, 370 Half Day Road in Buffalo Grove.

Offered are a variety of options for parent/child, 2-year-olds and 3-year olds. Programs run June 16 to Aug. 8. For details or to register, call Ione Miralgio, Linda Newman or Lois Agran at (847) 955-0005.

Working with the ELCA World Hunger Appeal, the children of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, raised funds to gift farm animals to families around the world who are in need. The Sunday school children began their project in the beginning of November and continued through Advent. During that time, they learned about the countries who would be receiving these animals. The Sunday school children collected $624.98, with an additional $261.51 was raised by the preschool children and the Thrivent matching funds for a total of $1,739.48.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, will have open houses. Join us for the 2008-2009 school year. Registration for next year is just around the corner. Open houses are at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 12 for preschool through grade 8.

For information, call the school office for a registration packet, (847) 253-6638.

Family

The Neighborhood Ministry of Holy Family Catholic Community in Inverness hosts fish fry evenings that are open to all denominations.

Dates include Feb. 15, 22, 29 and March 7. Dinners are served between 6 and 7 p.m. in the Social Center, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. There is no fee; however, a freewill offering of $5-10 is suggested.

Entertainers such as Jim Papandrea, Phil DeVet, Jeff Poindexter and Suburban Noize will perform. After dinner, all are invited to process to the church to attend the Stations of the Cross at 7:30 p.m., the traditional Lenten devotion.

For details, call Holy Family Catholic Community at (847) 907-3439.

St. Joseph the Worker Church, 181 W Dundee Road in Wheeling, will be conducting Lenten Fish Frys from 4-8 p.m. Fridays through March 14. All-you-can-eat fish fry includes choice of potato, coleslaw and rye bread.

Shrimp dinners, salad bar and soup are also available, as well as bar and soft drinks. Call (847) 537-2740 for more details.

Congregation Beth Judea's Family Education Weekend will take place Feb. 22-24, featuring Anita Silvert from Theatre Judaica as its Artist in Residence. Silvert will use the Art of Living Midrash to create opportunities for families to experience interactive Torah study. All participants will dive into the biblical texts, bringing their own experiences and insights to the story and characters.

The activities for the weekend are as follows:

Feb. 22: "The Ten Commandmnets Revisited." All families are invited to attend this special Shabbat dinner featuring Anita Silvert. Dinner is at 6 p.m. followed by Shabbat services at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 23: "Moses, Aaron and the Israelites" at 9 a.m. Through the use of Living Midrash, Anita Silvert will work with Gimel families on ideas relating to Moses, Aaron, the 10 Commandments and other topics in Parshat Ki Tissa.

Feb. 23: "What Did Moses Do" at 10:30 a.m. Through the use of Living Midrash, Silvert will work with Bet families on ideas relation to Moses, Aaron, the 10 Commandments and other topics in Parshat Ki Tissa.

Then, at 7 p.m. Feb. 23, "To Forgive or Not Forgive, That is the Question." Through the use of Living Midrash, Silvert will present an adult workshop focusing on the 10 Commandments and other topics in Parshat Ki Tissa.

Feb. 24: "What Did Moses Do" at 9 a.m. After reviewing the story of the Golden Calf, families will explore the story in more detail using various techniques of Living Midrash.

At 9:45 a.m., there will be a session for Aleph parents, who, through the use of bibliodrama, will understand the relationship between Aaron and Moses in a new light.

The 10:30 a.m. session is a program for Dalet families who will work on ideas relating to Moses, Aaron, the 10 Commandments and other topics in Parshat Ki Tissa.

The 11:30 a.m. session will be for second-grade Families. Using story-based Living Midrash, Silvert will engage second-graders and their families in Parshat Ki Tissa.

Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For further information call (847) 634-0777 or visit the Web at www.bethjudea.org.

Congregation Beth Judea, located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, invites the community to join them for their 2008 Purim Celebration March 20.

The fun-filled evening of events, in which everyone is asked to come in costume is as follows:

• 6 p.m.: Havdalah and Pizzathon ($7/adult; $5/children 12 and under)

• 7 p.m.: Family abbreviated Megillah Reading (Book of Esther)

8 p.m.: Ma'ariv and Traditional Megillah Reading

The Jewish holiday of Purim marks the Jewish victory over the Persians, who, led by wicked Haman, sought to destroy the Jewish population in their empire.

Groggers will be handed out to resonate throughout the evening. Hamentaschen will be served to sweeten life. As a Mitzvah project, participants are asked to bring boxes of dry pasta, rice or vitamins to be used as groggers, which will then be donated to a food shelter.

For further information, contact the Beth Judea office at (847) 634-0777.

St. Raymond de Penafort Church in Mount Prospect will host Friday night Fish Frys for the fifth year during the Lenten season. These events will take place from 5 -8 p.m. Feb. 22 and March 14. They will be held in the school cafeteria, which can be accessed via the school's main entrance at the corner of Elmhurst Avenue at Milburn Street.

Both eat-in and carry-out meals---consisting of fresh perch, cheese pizza, french fries, corn, coleslaw, salad, dessert and lemonade -- will be featured. Prices are $8. for adults and $5. for children over the age of 2. There will be special price of $7. for seniors during the 5 to 6 p.m. hour. A donation-only bar will also be available for beer and soda.

For more information, call the parish ministry center at (847) 253-8600

Prince of Peace in Elk Grove Village will present "Growing in Christ," a series of programs on Wednesday nights during Lent through March 12.

These programs are designed for the entire family. From 5:45 to 6:30 p.m., a simple meal will be offered in Fellowship Hall. The meal will be followed with each week's discussion of the movie "Chocolate for Lent" in the sanctuary from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

While the adults study group is in the sanctuary, the youth and children enjoy opportunities for learning and growing prepared just for them. Each week the children, 3 years old through fifth grade, will spend time with crafts, activities and share a prayer time to prepare them for the Lenten Season. The nursery will be available for the very young.

For more information, call (847) 439-0668 or visit the church Web site at princeofpeaceumc.org. The church is located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village.

St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille, Mount Prospect, invites all to attend a Lenten series titled "Come all you people." Services are every Wednesday during Lent at 5 p.m. (kid-friendly) and 7 p.m. A soup supper will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Fundraisers

The Sisterhood of Temple Chai will be sponsoring its fourth Annual Party-Planning Fair ("Simcha Showcase") from 3-7 p.m. Feb. 24. Participants of the Simcha Showcase can meet with nearly 70 vendors including photographers, videographers and DJ's, while obtaining creative ideas for invitations, centerpieces, entertainment and more. Caterers will provide food samples of their menus, from main courses to desserts and candies. Several DJ's and other entertainers will have live performances throughout the day!

The Showcase is free to the public. Temple Chai is located at 1670 Checker Road, one-half block west of Arlington Heights Road, in Long Grove. For more information, e-mail simchashowcase@aol.com, or call (847) 913-6869.

Feb. 17 is Beth Judea Day at "Pitching Penguins," the new comedy written by Beth Judea congregant Michael Rosenbaum and David Brimm. Beth Judea will receive a significant donation for every ticket purchased by members and, if congregants buy more than 40 tickets, Michael will figure out a way to work Beth Judea into the script.

"Pitching Penguins" opens Thursday and runs through March 16 at Victory Gardens Greenhouse Theater, 2257 North Lincoln. Shows are at 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 3 p.m. Sundays.

To obtain proper credit for Beth Judea, call the ticket office at (773) 871-3000 to order tickets for the Feb. 17 show and use the promotion code BETH.

Beth Judea is a Conservative Jewish congregation on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

Moriah Congregation, 200 Taub Drive in Deerfield, will present the best work of more than 50 internationally acclaimed artists from North America and Israel at its 2008 All Judaic Art & Jewelry Fair, which will be from 8 to 11:30 p.m. Feb. 16; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 17; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18. Adult admission is $10 and covers all three days. For details, contact Karen P. Walanka at (847) 948-5340 or kwalanka@moriahcong.org.

A Chili Cook-Off will be at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Lutheran Church of Martha and Mary, 606 W. Golf. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children. A raffle and silent auction will also be held during the Cook-Off. All proceeds will be used to send a team of 27 to Matamoros, Mexico, for the ninth annual Mexico Mission. In Mexico, the Mission Team will sponsor a free medical clinic, teach Bible school, and do construction. For details, call (847) 259-2568.

St. Raymond de Penafort Parish, 301 S. I-Oka, Mount Prospect, is planning its Spring Gala -- The Spirit of Giving for 6:30 p.m. April 25 at the Woodfield Hyatt in Schaumburg. Tickets cost $85/person. An Overnight Stay Package is available for $109. The event features dinner, dancing and an auction. For information, call (847) 253-8600.

St. Hilary's Episcopal Church, 307 W. Hintz Road, Prospect Heights, is planning a Fair Trade Sale on at 11 a.m. Feb. 10. Vendors at the event will be Divine Chocolate and World Shoppe (crafts, stationery, jewelry and decorative gifts), and Bishop's Blend coffee gift baskets. All are invited. For more information, call (847) 537-0590 or (847) 520-3141 or e-mail Rector@sthilaryecusa.com.

Lectures, seminars

Author and nationally known motivational speaker Julie-Allyson Ieron is going to visit St. Peter Damian Catholic Church in Bartlett at 1 p.m. Feb. 24 to present her seminar "Conquering the Time Factor."

Drawn from the pages of Julie's book, "Conquering the Time Factor," this dramatic, interactive session offers a reasoned response to the "Myths that Steal Life's Precious Moments." Julie's Web site is www.joymediaservices.com.

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church 701 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, will offer free live seminars that will help answer the questions most people face today regarding money and finances. These seminars will be presented by Joel A. Leece and William (Bill) Orchard-Hays III. The seminars are educational, and there will be no solicitation or follow-up.

The following will be offered:

Feb. 9: Getting Started 101 -- Budgeting/Getting Out of Debt/Creating Emergency Savings from 9-9:45 a.m.: and Mortgage Basics 101 -- Concepts/Different Types of Loans from 10-10:45 a.m.

Feb. 16: Insurance 101 -- Life Insurance/Health Insurance/Property & Casualty from 9-9:45 a.m.; and Investing 101 -- Principles of Investing/Tax Saving Strategies/Mutual Funds vs. Stocks from 10-10:45 a.m.

Feb. 23: Insurance 102 -- Long Term Care Protection/Disability Income Protection from 9-9:45 a.m.; and Investing 102 -- College Saving Plans/Retirement Plans/Estate Planning from 10-10:45 a.m.

All workshops will take place at Our Saviour's United Methodist Church. To register for any of these workshops or for more information, call Peggy Burtt at (847) 352-8181 or contact her through the church Web site: www.osumc.org.

First United Methodist Church of Palatine, under the auspices of the United Methodist Women and the Mission Committee of the church, will host a day filled with information, music, and education regarding the situation in Israel and Palestine Feb. 23.

Featured speakers at "A Day of Understanding" will include Lynn Pollack of Jewish Voice for Peace, a group which "supports the aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians for security and self-determination" and Connie Baker of Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church who will both lead discussion following the showing of the film, "Occupation 101."

Professor Osvaldo Vena of Garrett Seminary will perform music from his CD, "Still a Dream," which is based on a book of paintings and poems by Jewish and Arab children, "My Shalom, My Peace." His CDs will be available for sale.

"Visiting the Olives" will bring olive oil for tasting, and will sell both the olive oil and soaps made from it.

The day will begin with registration and continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m. A lunch will be served, and we will close at 2 p.m. The cost for the day is $10, and reservations are required by Feb. 15. Checks should be made out to Palatine United Methodist Women and mailed to the following address: First United Methodist Church, 123 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, IL 60067

For more information, contact Kay Daugherty at (847) 358-2702 .

The public is invited to hear Ahmad Sadri, professor of sociology and chair of Islamic World Studies, speak about his personal experiences in Iran and how conflicting interpretations of Islam shape the current global climate.

The program will take place from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. A donation of $10 will be collected at the door.

Reservations are appreciated but not required. Contact Colleen Vahey at (847) 359-8440, ext. 4. Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. Directions may be obtained at www.ccuu.org or by calling (847) 359-8440.

Temple Chai in Long Grove will be sponsoring members of the Chicago chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen at 11:15 a.m. March 30. They will be speaking about the obstacles they encountered while becoming the only black fighter pilots in WW II. Free admission, a light brunch follows the presentation. RSVP to (847) 537-1771

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois (JGSI) presents "Family Tree Maker 2008 -- The Latest Version" by Franklin Mills at 2 p.m. Feb. 24 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. Mills will review Family Tree Maker genealogical software's new interface and dozens of new features.

The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth Israel will open at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate members/guests who want to use library materials, get help regarding genealogical Web sites on the Internet or ask genealogical-related questions before the main program begins at 2 p.m.

Visit http://www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or phone (312) 666-0100 for more information.

Touchstones is sponsoring a workshop, "Taize and the Power of Meditative Music," from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 10 at Glenview Community Church, 1000 Elm St. in Glenview. For details, visit www.mytouchstones.org or call (866) 568-7152.

Touchstones is sponsoring a workshop "God in the Jewish Tradition" from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Schram Memorial Museum, 1799 Patriot Blvd. in Glenview.

Discuss the Jewish idea of God with presenter Gail Ginsburg, adjunct faculty member at Oakton College.

For details, visit www.mytouchstones.org or call (866) 568-7152.

Become trained in higher applications of Reiki, the ancient art of natural healing. Through meditation and the use of chakras, Reiki Master Teacher Katherine Anderson will show you advanced methods of healing, including healing from a distance, hand placement and procedure for doing healing work on others.

You will learn about healing symbols and receive more in-depth chakra information. Students completing this class will receive a Reiki II Attunement and Certificate of Completion. The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 16 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. The fee is $125.

Prerequisite: Reiki I. It's ok if you took the class with someone else, as long as you have received a level I attunement.

Call (630) 289-9258 to register or for more information.

Basic Buddhism Study continues at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect. The next session will be from 10:45-11:15 a.m. Feb. 10. For details, call John Schuh at (773) 551-9041.

Have you ever wondered about who you were in a past life? Have you experienced déjà vu? Do you have questions regarding reincarnation?

Come to the Reincarnation/Past Life Regression Workshop at 1 p.m. Feb. 17 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. The workshop will be facilitated by Board Certified Hypnotherapist Laurie Geschrey. The suggested offering is $45. Call (847) 297-0997 to register.

Join the Rev. Russ Sorensen for an exciting and inspirational look at the history and development of the Unity Movement. Sorensen is eminently qualified to be your guide with his unsurpassed knowledge of Unity's history and his clear understanding of its guiding principles.

More than a history class or a stroll down memory lane, this class is about life-changing ideas that will transform your life. Using real life examples presented in a clear, concise and sometimes humorous way, Sorensen brings to life both the lives and teachings of Unity's cofounders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. You will also have the opportunity to view some items from Sorensen's extensive collection of historical Unity and New Thought artifacts.

For those interested, the class is also offered for SEE credit. The class begins at 7 p.m. Feb. 19 and extends through March 18. The class is being presented at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. Call (847) 297-0997 or visit the Web site: www.unityprospers.com for more information.

The Rev. Patty Pipia will be facilitating a Prayer Workshop from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Feb. 23.

Learn to harness the unlimited power and potential of effective prayer in your own life. Learn to open communication between yourself and your Higher Power. Learn about the small, still voice and entering into your sacred inner chamber.

Unity Northwest is at 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. Call (847) 297-0997 to register or if you have questions.

Knights of Columbus, Holy Rosary Council, presents "Transforming Lives through the Theology of the Body" with Fr. Thomas Loya: "Who is Man for Woman and Woman for Man" from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at the KC Hall, 15 N. Hickory Ave., Arlington Heights.

Loya is currently pastor of Annunciation of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Parish in Homer Glen. He is also host of "Light of the East" radio program and speaks about "Theology of the Body" each week as a regular guest of Relevant Radio's Morning Air Program.

For details, call Jim or Sue at (847) 506-1618.

Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, invites the entire community to a special presentation, "The Dog Tag Return Story" at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 10.

It is the story of a couple who saw a large number of American military "dog tags" being sold as trinkets in a marketplace in Viet Nam. They purchased the dog tags and spent years reuniting them with their owners or surviving family members.

At 10:15 a.m. Feb. 17, Lutheran Church of the Cross again will have a presentation on "Autism is a World."

At 10:15 a.m. Feb. 24, "How to Tell the Difference Between the Law and the Gospel" will be presented. Presented via DVD by James A. Nestingen, professor of church history at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn.. Subsequent discussion to be led by Kathy Mills.

For more information, call (847) 437-5141.

Wayne Messmer, author of "The Voice of Victory," will share his powerful story of courage and conviction at 7 p.m. Feb. 10 at the First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave. Following the presentation, there will be a reception and book signing. For details, call (847) 255-5900 or visit www.fpcah.org

Men's fellowship

The Midwest Region of the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs will hold its annual Man of the Year Dinner on Feb. 27 at Beth Hillel Congregation B'nai Emunah, 3220 Big Tree Lane in Wilmette. This year, Beth Judea's Men's Club proudly honors its Man of the Year, Jim MacCrindle.

For further information on making reservations for this gala event, call Beth Judea's office at (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Man of the Year Dinner Chairman Steve Limer. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. Visit the Web site at www.bethjudea.org.

Queen of the Rosary Men's Club will meet at 7 p.m. Feb. 11 in the gymnasium of the school, 690 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village, for fellowship, games, refreshments and other activities.

Rinkey Dinks Christian Men will meet Feb. 12 at the Palm Court Restaurant, 1912 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights.

The Feb. 12 speaker will be the Rev. Bill Cate, associate pastor at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 202 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg.

Cate is married with two adult children and spent 20 years in the Air Force before being called to the ministry.

Miscellaneous

In an effort to seek common ground and greater understanding between neighbors of different faiths, a series of interfaith dialogues have been planned at three distinct houses of worship.

Patterned after "Abraham Salons" suggested by author Bruce Feiler in his book, "Abraham," each community will jointly stage three different discussions focusing on each of the faiths. The presentations will emphasize the common heritage that began with Abraham, whose story inspires all three of the faiths.

Rabbi Max Weiss of Beth Tikvah Congregation, Pastor Don Myrom of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, and Dr. Khalid Sami of the Islamic Society of Northwest Suburbs have announced that their congregations will each participate in the events. Each leader will speak on their own faith at another's house of worship.

The series will kick off at 7 p.m. March 8 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, with a presentation by Rabbi Max Weiss. The second event will be held at 7 p.m. March 27 at Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates, with a presentation by Dr. Khalid Sami on Islam. The third event will take place at 5 p.m. April 12 at the Islamic Society of Northwest Suburbs Mosque, 3950 Industrial Drive, Rolling Meadows, with a presentation by Pastor Don Myrom.

Each meeting will start with a 20-minute presentation by the featured speaker on their faith, followed by comments from the two other faith leaders. There will also be time for questions from the audience. A short dessert fellowship will conclude each evening.

All of the events are offered free of charge, and all are welcome.

The following events are at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. They are free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. For details, contact (630) 213-0100.

• Feb. 14, 2 p.m.: In honor of National Weddings Month and Valentine's Day, a special wedding service will be held for couples wishing to renew their marriage vows. The Rev. LeRoy Kennel will officiate the ceremony, which includes messages, special music and wedding cake following the wedding. Residents Dan and Effie Polos, married 65 years, and Dudley and Helen Olsen, married 61 years, will renew their vows for the first time.

• Feb. 16, 3:30 p.m.: In honor of Black History Month, the Rev. Pearley Champion will bring the Peace, Mercy and Charity Chorus of Forest Park to perform, and the Rev. Daniel Lee will share a message.

• Feb. 22, 2 p.m.: A Quarterly Memorial Service will be held honoring all those who have passed away. Chaplain Jason Stromstad of Vitas Hospice will lead the service, and candlelighting, special music and a time for sharing memories.

• Feb. 23, 2 p.m.: The Village Church of Bartlett sponsors a Ladies Tea, "Getting to Know You."

Faith World Outreach, 6N100 Route 59, Bartlett, is partnering with Angel Food Ministries to provide groceries to those in need. For $25, a family in need receives a box of quality groceries, both fresh and frozen items. For information, call Faith World Outreach at (630) 830-0193 or go to www.angelfoodministries.com.

Lenten Mission: "No Greater Love -- Reflections on the Seven Last Words of Jesus" will be at St. Marcelline Catholic Church, 822 S. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. The church is sponsoring this Parish Lenten Mission featuring Friar Johnpaul Cafiero, OFM, at 7 p.m. Feb. 10-12 in church or at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 11-13 in the Family Room. See the Web site at www.stmarcelline.com for details. All are welcome.

The annual Valentine's Dinner for adults, will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at Christ Community Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Dinner will be followed with guest speakers Jan and Don Rheinheimer, speaking on "It's Relationships That Matters."

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, invites everyone to join the annual Evening of Romance Feb. 16, 2008. Fr. Pat Brennan will preside at Mass at 6 p.m. where you will have an opportunity to renew your marriage vows.

Afterward, enjoy a catered dinner, music and dancing with a D.J. The theme for the evening is "The Song Remembers When." Every couple that registers will be asked to request a song for the dance portion of the evening. Think about the songs and music that are meaningful to your relationship. All are welcome.

The cost for the evening is $50 a couple and reservations are needed. Nursery is available. Call (847) 907-3441 to see about reservation availability.

St. Peter Community Church will be participating in a health screening Feb. 14 at St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook. There will be screening for stroke, abdominal aortic aneurisms, arterial disease and osteoporosis. There is a minimal charge for these screenings and an appointment is required. For an appointment, call (800) 324-1851.

The screenings are completely painless, non-invasive and require 10 minutes or less each to complete. The complete Wellness Package is $129.

For details, call: (847) 272-2246.

Northbrook Congregation Ezra Habonim holds monthly movie nights. On Thursday nights, Congregation Ezra Habonim shows films of interest to the Jewish community. The films, which are in Hebrew with English subtitles, are shown at the synagogue at 2095 Landwehr Road in Northbrook.

Admission to each film is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Some of the films will highlight subjects that may be geared for adult audiences.

Upcoming films are: "Forgiveness" at 7:30 p.m. May 15.

For information, visit the Web site at www.nceh.org or call the synagogue office at (847) 480-1690.

St Nicholas Episcopal Church opens its Supplemental Food Pantry from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20 to the hungry of Elk Grove Village, Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg.

Bags of groceries are given to anyone in need, with no eligibility requirement. The church is at 1072 Ridge Ave, in Elk Grove Village.

For details, call (847) 439-2067 or visit www.onebreadonebody.org.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a scrapbooking event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 16. Scrapbooking enthusiasts are invited to come and enjoy scrapbooking while sharing some trade secrets. (847) 998-1946.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a Blood Drive from noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 13, sponsored by Life Source Blood Supplies. (847) 998-1946.

Performances

St. Emily Church, 1400 E. Central Road, Mount Prospect, will present a free musical program, "The Song of Mark," at 3 p.m. Feb. 10. This contemporary oratorio by Marty Haugen presents a selection of songs telling the stories of Jesus' ministry from the Jordan River to the empty tomb. The concert features all of St. Emily's choirs and cantors and will be enjoyable for all ages. For details, call (847) 824-5049.

Come join a night of music and desserts from 7-10 p.m. Feb. 17 at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille, Mount Prospect. Costs are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Proceeds will help sponsor youth activities.

The Seventh Rolling Meadows Community Prayer Breakfast will be at 7:30 a.m. Feb. 23. The purpose of this non-denominational Christian event is to gather together elected officials and other community leaders to demonstrate our support and encouragement. The program will include breakfast, music, prayer, and a meditation.

This year Chaplain (Major) Steve Cooper of the Illinois Army National Guard will be at the breakfast. Cooper, with 17 years of military service, was stationed in Iraq from January 2004 through February 2005. In addition to the Bronze Star, Cooper has been awarded the Army Achievement Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Chaplain Cooper will be sharing his experiences as he ministered to the soldiers in Iraq.

The breakfast will be held at The Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road. Tickets are available at Community Church, Kingdom Life House of Prayer, Cardinal Drive Church of Christ, Meadows Baptist Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, St. Colette Catholic Church, and Bethel Lutheran Church; or by calling (847) 255-5510.

Tickets cost $10 each. Because seating is limited, tickets must be purchased by Feb. 18.

Seniors

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village, invites all seniors to its senior luncheons on the third Friday of every other month at 11:30 a.m. Bring a dish to share or just bring yourself and enjoy some good conversation and fellowship.

Special services

Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, 1116 E. Devon, Bartlett, will hold Lenten services starting at 7 p.m. every Wednesday through March 12. The theme for the services is "Living Lent -- the Animals Tell the Story." Preceding the services will be a Soup and Sandwich supper at 5:45 p.m. All are welcome. For details, call (630) 837-1166.

Living Lord Lutheran Church will offer Soup Supper at 6 p.m., followed by Lenten Worship at 7 p.m. each Wednesday through March 12. Bring some soup or bread to share, enjoy fellowship time, and make a "40-Day Spiritual Journey to a More Generous Life." It will be a time of personal introspection and spiritual growth. For more information, call the church office at (630) 830-3630, or visit www.livinglordlutheran.org. Living Lord Church is located at 1044 Congress Drive in Bartlett, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

Congregation Kneseth Israel holds Shabbat services at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. Guests are welcome. CKI believes that each person can participate in the observance of Shabbat through the use of English, Hebrew and age-appropriate activities.

Religious school for pre-kindergarten to high school is offered. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit www.ckielgin.org.

Celebrate the Joys of Conservative Judaism at Congregation Shirat Shalom in Elgin. Friendly, participatory Shabbat services are held every Saturday at 9:45 a.m., and are followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Services include a spirited Torah discussion, focusing on the "parsha of the week". Tot Shabbat services, perfect for children of all ages, are on the third Friday of the month.

Adult education classes are held on Thursdays and Saturdays.

For information, call (847) 695-6246, e-mail hazzansarah@gmail.com, or visit www.CongregationShiratShalom.org.

Immanuel United Church of Christ has new hours. The church at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood, will offer the following times of worship on Sundays:

9 a.m.: Worship (traditional with a bit of contemporary), fellowship and coffee following the service.

10:15 a.m.: Adult and children's education in the west classroom

11:30 a.m.: Worship (Contemporary service)

Fourth Sunday of the month only: 6 p.m.-- No sanctuary required. This time is set aside to work on mission projects.

Call (630) 837-0190 for information. www.streamwoodiucc.org

The Book of Revelation, with encouragement and guidance for nuclear age living, will be taught for four weeks Sundays at 9:15 a.m. by the Rev. LeRoy Kennel at Christ Communuity Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg.

Guest presenter Dr. Nelson Kraybill, president of Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Ind., will continue the study with the focus of "Revelation and the Politics of Worship" March 1 and 2.

The four lecture titles are "In Bed with a Beast" 3:30 p.m. and "The Lion and the Lamb" 7 p.m. March 1, and "The Economics of Worship" at 9:15 and "On Earth as in Heaven" at 10:30 a.m. March 2.

For details, call (847) 895-3654.

A dramatic Lenten sermon with the devil confronting Jesus in the wilderness, played by LeRoy Kennel and Jon Mihevc, will be offered at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, at Christ Community Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. (847) 895-3654

Covenant Church of Schaumburg, 301 N. Meacham Road, Schaumburg, will offer Lenten services at 7 p.m. Feb 20 and March 5, with soup and bread starting at 6:30 p.m. For details, call (847) 605-8334.

St. Marcelline Catholic Church announces the resumption of weekly exposition and adoration of the blessed sacrament. These are held each Tuesday, from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Family Room Chapel. 822 S. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 524-4429.

Christ Lutheran Church will hold Wednesday evening services at 7:30 p.m. throughout Lent. CLC is at 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine.

This year's focus will be on "Learning from Jesus: Living Faithfully." Come at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy a light soup supper and feed your body as well as your spirit. A freewill offering will be taken for supper.

For information, call the church office at (847) 358-4600.

Immanuel Lutheran Church, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, will offer Lenten programs though March 12 with Lenten dinner of soup and salad from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; confirmation for grades 6-8 from 6:15-7:30 p.m.; Community Builders from 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and worship and teaching from 7-7:30 p.m.

Christ The King Lutheran Church (Wisconsin Synod), 100 W. Michigan Avenue, Palatine, will hold midweek Lenten services (Evening Prayer) at 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

The overall theme for Lent 2008 Wednesdays is "Crossroads: Traveling with Our Savior." The quiet evening services last about 45 minutes. Lenten suppers are offered free of charge at 6 p.m. before all services. For information, call (847) 358-0230 or visit www.ByFaithAlone.org.

A prayer service for peace in the Middle East will be held at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 Main St. in Barrington. The service includes reading from the Bible, music, and prayers for peace in the Middle East.

After the service, Bob Anderson of Barrington will show his video presentation of a recent trip to the Holy Land with members from Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Barrington and Grace Lutheran Church in LaGrange.

The service will continue to be held on the 15th of each month until a just and lasting peace is achieved. Call (847) 381-0243 and www.elca.org/middleeast for more information.

Shabbat worship services are offered at 7:30 p.m. Fridays (Kabbalat Shabbat) and at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Birthdays and anniversaries will be recognized at the first Friday night service of the month. Daily minyan services are: Mondays at 6:15 a.m.; Monday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 9 a.m.

Tot Shabbat services are held in the main sanctuary of the synagogue at 6:30 p.m. on the second Friday of every month. Gan Shabbat services are held every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Beit HaMidrash on the Religious School level.

Nonmembers of Beth Judea are invited to attend services. For information, call the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777.

Kol Chaverim, a one-year-old post-denominational, participatory, egalitarian congregation serving all North Shore and Northwest suburbs invites prospective members to regular Shabbat morning services and kiddush lunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Jewish Council for Youth Services (JCYS) Northwest, 1700 Weiland Road, Buffalo Grove.

Among the goals of the congregation is outreach to former members of other groups. In accord with congregational policy, all Holocaust survivors are invited to be honorary members at no charge.

So that they may be prepared to welcome you, respond by calling (847) 398-2019 by Friday. For further information, go to: www.kolchaverim.org

Wednesday services in observance of Lent will be held at North Northfield United Methodist Church.

Services will be from noon to 12:30 p.m. and 7 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays during Lent. All services will be at the church, 797 Sanders Road, Northbrook. For details, call (847) 272-2250 or visit www.northnorthfield.org.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, offers Lenten suppers and services every Wednesday during Lent. The suppers begin at 6:30 p.m. and services begin at 7:30 p.m. (847) 998-1946.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer a 40th Anniversary Celebration Feb. 10. There will be one service at 10 a.m. with former Pastor Jack Finney preaching. A special meal will be served at 1 p.m. at the Glenview Park Golf Club, 800 Shermer Road. (847) 998-1946.

Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, has announced the 2008 Lenten worship service schedule: 6 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. Lenten service Feb. 13, 20 and 27, and March 5 and 12. (847) 437-2666.

Wednesday evening Lenten Services will be held weekly at the Lutheran Church of Martha and Mary, 606 W. Golf, Feb. 13, 20, and 27, and March 2 and 9. A simple supper will be served at 6:30 p.m., followed by worship at 7:30 p.m. This year's Lenten Drama Series is titled "Living Lent: The Animals Tell the Story." For details, call (847) 259-2568.

St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will offer the following Lenten programs:

Feb. 25: "Soup & Substance" series featuring "Crockpot full of Forgiveness" by Jim Welch. Soup at 6:30 p.m. and presentation from 7 to 8 p.m.

March 1: "Woman's Spa II" with Dr. Pat Moran from 9 a.m. to noon.

March 12: Lenten Reconciliation Service at 7 p.m. (Regularly scheduled confession is available at 4:30 p.m. Saturdays.)

Feb. 8 - March 14: Stations of the Cross each Friday during Lent at 7:30 p.m.

St. Alphonsus is at 411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights. For details, call (847) 255-7452 or visit www.saintalphonsus.com.

This year's theme for the observation of Lent and Holy Week at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Des Plaines, is "Together in the Word," a synchronized study of passages from Genesis, Exodus and Mark.

Not only will the studies be the theme of the Rev. Richard Mau's Sunday and midweek sermons, but Mau will also lead expanded roundtable discussions on the theme Sunday and Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings.

As companion for the studies, a calendar of daily readings will be posted on Immanuel's Web site, www.immanueldp.org. The roundtable discussion groups will meet during Lent at 9:15 a.m. Sundays, 10 a.m. Tuesdays and 8 p.m. Wednesdays in the church's Faith Hall.

Worship services are at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Anyone who is interested in taking part in all activities is welcome. For details, call (847) 824-3652. The church is at 855 Lee St., Des Plaines.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold midweek Lenten services on Wednesday mornings starting at 11 a.m., followed by a soup lunch and an evening service at 7 p.m. preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. The services will be held from Feb. 13 through March 12. Regular services will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion is celebrated at all weekend worship services.

Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church will offer Soup and Bread Suppers at 6 p.m. each Friday during Lent, followed by the Stations of the Cross at 7 p.m. Our Lady of the Brook is at 3700 Dundee Road in Northbrook. For information, contact the parish office at (847) 272-5686, or go to the parish Web site at www.olbparish.org.

St. Martin's Episcopal Church, Des Plaines, invites the community to attend its Lenten program series beginning Feb. 13. The church is at 1095 Thacker St., Des Plaines. For details, call (847) 824-2043.

Evening prayer will be at 6 p.m., followed by a potluck supper at 6:30. The program will begin at 7:15 and conclude at 8 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to share. Vegetarian dishes are very welcome, but not required.

The programs scheduled are: "The Violent Bible" Feb. 13; "Kill Them All and Let God Sort Them Out" Feb. 20; "Islam in the Modern World: Jihad or Peace" Feb. 27; "When War is Just" March 5; and "The Compassionate Response to Conflict Resolution" March 12.

Trinity Lutheran Church will offer midweek Lenten services at 11 a.m. Wednesday mornings followed by a soup lunch, and dinner will be held at 6 p.m. prior to the 7 p.m. service. Everyone is invited to attend these midweek services in addition to the regular services at 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday mornings.

For information, call (847) 827-6656.

On Feb. 27, people from the surrounding area will join together at Unity Northwest Church in Des Plaines at 7 p.m. in order to hold the high watch. They will bring with them their own requests for prayer, and those of their friends and loved ones, and lay those prayers upon the altar of God whereby they will be freed from the concerns of what to do as they abide in the consciousness of all is well.

The healing service will be facilitated by the Rev. Russell Sorensen. Sorensen has a dynamic healing consciousness and will present a powerful service in the blessed and healing environment of Unity Northwest's sanctuary of peace and wholeness. In this environment, all in attendance will be enfolded in and embodied with the healing, prospering, freeing and revealing consciousness of God.

You are invited to join all those assembled in a powerful healing service at 7 p.m. Feb. 27 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. More information can be obtained by calling the church office at (847) 297-0997 or on the church's Web site: www.unityprospers.com.

Please join with us for this incredible healing experience.

Lenten services will be at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, through March 12. For details, call (847) 253-4839. For details, call (847) 253-4839.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, offers Lenten Services at noon, 5 and 7 p.m. (no Communion) Feb. 13, 20, 27, March 5 and 12. For details, call (847) 259-4114

Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 W. Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, is currently holding its annual "Missions Conference."

On Feb. 10, Ken Krup of Awana International will speak at both the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services. In the evening, John Roeckeman of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship will be the speaker at the 6:30 p.m. service.

One adult class, Children's Church (grades one-six) and the Student Ministries class (grades seven through 12) meet at 9 a.m. Another adult class and the Adventure Club (4 years old through sixth grade) meet at 10:30 a.m. The Meadows Awana club meets at 7 p.m. Thursday. For information, call (847) 255-8764.

Alan Butterworth, missionary with the Apple of His Eye Mission Society, St. Louis, Mo., will be presenting "Christ is The Passover" at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, at the noon, 5 and 7 p.m. services March 20. During the presentation, he will explain the symbolism of the Passover meal, showing how Christ has fulfilled the Passover as our Messiah. This event is open to the public. (847) 259-4114

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, has added two new Sunday church services: a contemporary worship service at 10:45 a.m. in the Activity Center; and a traditional worship service at 11 am. in the sanctuary. (847) 259-4114.

Women's programs

Resurrection Catholic Community, Route 59 and Army Trail Road, Wayne, will hold a Retreat for Women beginning at 9 a.m., Feb. 16. "All This and Heaven, Too!" begins with a continental breakfast in Marvin Hall at 9 a.m. The presentation begins at 9:30 a.m. Cost for the event is $15 and it is open to all. Preregistration is appreciated, but walk-ins are welcome. For information or to register, call (630) 289-5400, ext. 208.

Joliet Diocese Bishop J. Peter Sartain will present "Believing is Seeing … a Reflection for everyone on the Lenten Gospel Story of the Man Born Blind" from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 25 in the church worship space. All are welcome.

Woodfield Women's Connection will hold a baby shower for CARIS, a pregnancy crisis center at Willow Creek Church in South Barrington, from 7-8:30 p.m. Feb. 12. Items most needed are disposable diapers sizes 0-2, wipes, baby formula and bottles. R.S.V.P. by Friday to wwconnection@msn.com or call Micky at (847) 490-9881.

Church Women United of the Barrington Area will celebrate World Day of Prayer at 1 p.m. March 7 at Wauconda Federated Church, 200 S. Barrington Road, Wauconda.

This year's worship service was written by the women of Guyana. The theme, "God's Wisdom Provides New Understanding," is especially meaningful to the women of Guyana..

The guest speaker for this service is the Rev. Digna Campanano who is staff chaplain for Cardiac Care at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital. She is an ordained clergy in the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church. Rev. Campanano, who hails from the Philippines, has a degree in political science from the University of Pangasinan, Philippines.

All are welcome to attend the service. Free childcare will be provided. For more information, call Linda Osikowicz at (847) 540-5634.

The Women's Book Group of St Paul United Church of Christ, Barrington, invites all women in the community to join them at their next meeting at 10 a.m. Feb. 12. The book we will be discussing is "Searching for God Knows What," by Donald Miller. Written with wit reminiscent of Anne Lamott, the book is about how the Gospel of Jesus explains the human personality. There is no fee to join the group, but please read the book before hand to fully participate. We meet in the library at St Paul, which is located at 401 E. Main St. For information, call (847) 381-0460.

The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea will present an entertaining and educational event at 7:45 p.m. Feb. 21 in the synagogue social hall. Sue Lewis, the education vice president of the Central Great Lakes Region of Women's League will discuss "Bubbemeises: Jewish Customs and Superstitions."

Sue Lewis is a Jewish educator, a Para Chaplain and a much sought-after community speaker. Her lecture will discuss those Jewish behaviors that we do without really knowing the reason behind them, primarily focusing on superstitions that cover the Jewish life cycle (i.e. why Jews don't believe in baby showers).

Sisterhood events are open to all members of the Beth Judea congregation. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For further information, contact the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 or visit www.BethJudea.org.

"Women's Wellness Day: A Day to Pamper Your Spirit" will be presented Feb. 16 at Queen of the Rosary School, 690 W. Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove Village. The event is sponsored by Queen of the Rosary Health Ministry and Alexian Brothers Hospital Network Parish Nurse Program. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. The keynote presentation, "In Pursuit of Superwoman" by Deb DiSandro, will be at 10:30 a.m. Activities for the day include health screenings, massage and healing touch sessions, enrichment activities and door prizes. The fee is $25, which includes lunch and beverages for the day. For information, contact Diane Tieman, parish nurse, at (847) 437-3905.

The Women United of Des Plaines will celebrate World Day of Prayer at Trinity Lutheran Church beginning at 9:30 a.m. March 7 and concluding with a potluck lunch at 11:30 a.m. Women and men in more than 170 countries and regions will celebrate World Day of Prayer. Everyone is invited to join in prayer and song to support Women's Ecumenical Ministries. The annual offering will support the work of World Day of Prayer and help meet the needs of families in regions of turmoil. For information, call Beverly Johnson at (847) 296-5351.

For information on any of the programs, call the church at (847) 827-6656.

Women's Bible Study, led by laypersons, is held every Wednesday morning, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The group is currently focusing their discussion on the book of Proverbs. Newcomers are welcome. Check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for additional information.