Notes on Religion

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 during the same time as the Lifeboat High School Community Youth Group, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 1500 Old Church Road Streamwood. (630) 837-0190 or www.streamwoodiucc.org.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host an evening Scripture Study at 7 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 28, March 13 and 27. Pauline A. Viviano will discuss "The Devil Made Me Do It … The Concept of Satan and the Demonic, and its Evolution Through the Scriptures." The cost is $40. Viviano is an associate professor of theology at Loyola University of Chicago.(847) 907-3441.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host "Foundations: Search for Community -- The Church … Past … Present … Future," presented by Fr. George Kane and Fr. Leo Mahon from 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, March 3, 10 and 24. (847) 359-0042.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine will offer a two-week Bible study titled "Is the World Coming to an End?" from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, March 1 and 8. (847) 359-3451.

Rabbi Howard Lifshitz will teach a course called "The Prophets" at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. It is the fourth class in this year's Beth Judea Adult Education Series. All classes meet at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays: March 4, 11 and 18; April 1, 8, 15 22 and 29. (847) 634-0777.

The Book Group at North Northfield United Methodist Church will discuss "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson at 10 a.m. March 1 at the church, located at Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.

Cathy Anderson will lead a discussion of the book "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen as part of Prince of Peace's Adult Education at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at Prince of Peace UMC, 1400 Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668 or 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. 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

Children, teens

Little Angels Early Learning Program of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church is holding an Open House from 9 to 11 a.m. Feb. 23. The Early Learning Program is for ages 2 to pre-K. It is located at 751 W. Army Trail Road (intersection of Army Trail Road and Petersdorf -- across from Bartlett High School). (630) 830-3003.

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. (847) 885-7036.

Saint Hubert Catholic School, 255 Flagstaff Office, Hoffman Estates, will offer an early childhood open house from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Feb. 28 in St. Hubert Catholic School's Early Childhood Wing. (847) 885-7702. www.sainthubert.org

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

Beth Tikvah Congregation will offer Camp Tikvah this summer for children entering kindergarten through fourth grade. Camp has two session running from June 23-July 3 and July 7- go to 18. Registration is now being accepted. A Camp Tikvah Information Day will be from 10:30-11:15 a.m. Feb. 24. (847) 885-4545 or www.beth-tikvah.org

New Hope Preschool is now accepting registration for the fall for 3- and 4-year-old classes. New Hope Preschool is affiliated with New Hope Community Church, 1023 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. (847) 359-5482.

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

A preschool extension (Lunch Bunch) is offered Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Contact Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230; e-mail preschool@ByFaithAlone.org; or visit www.ByFaithAlone.org.

A preschool open house will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Feb. 24.

Immanuel Lutheran School, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, will host an all-school open house and registration from 7-8:15 p.m. March 13. 847-359-1936.

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, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. There will be games, prizes and food. Game tickets are 25 cents each. (847) 634-0777.

Registration has begun for the summer session at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road, 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.

Summer tuition is as follows: Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday: $185. 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. Call Ione Miralgio, Linda Newman or Lois Agran at (847) 955-0005.

Registration for Fall 2008 has begun for the Mother's Day Out Preschool Program at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights. Road, Elk Grove Village. A new expanded program begins in September. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day for children 2 to 5 years old. (847) 439-0668.

Family

Bethel Baptist Church hosts its ninth annual Pine Car Derby Race from 1 to 4 p.m. March 8 in the gymnasium, 200 N. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. There will be more than 200 entries from children ages 6 to 12 racing toward the finish line. Admission is free. Call Pastor Josh Plonk at (847) 885-3230, ext. 3033 or visit www.bethelministries.org.

Covenant Church of Schaumburg, 301 N. Meacham Road, Schaumburg, will have an Easter Egg Hunt March 22. (847) 605-8334.

JCC's got Shabbat? will be offered from 4 to 5:30 p.m. March 8 at Congregation Beth Am, 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Enjoy crafts, snacks, Havdallah and Hula, Hula! Window to Polynesia. Free. Projects are designed for families with children ages 4-8, but all are welcome. www.gojcc.org or (847) 412-4225.

Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, offers a Purim Celebration March 20 with the following:

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

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

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

Groggers will be handed out to resonate throughout the evening, and 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. (847) 634-0777.

Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook presents PURIM LIVE! with renowned Israeli singer and entertainer Yoel Sharabi March 20 at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook, 755 Huehl Road (corner Dundee Road). Children's program at 6 p.m. will include a balloon show by Smarty Pants. Reading of the Megillah scroll at 7:30 p.m.; and a grand celebration and concert at 8 p.m. Refreshments, masquerade and fun for the family. Free admission. Nominal cost for children's program. (847) 564-8770 or: www.ChabadNorthbrook.com

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village (behind Alexian, Brothers Medical Center), offers Wednesday night dinners. Cost is $1.50 per person. The dinners at 6 p.m. precede the church's weekly AWANA club night for children age 3 through grade 6. (847) 593-8337.

Prince of Peace, at Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village, will present "Growing in Christ," a series of programs for the family on Wednesday nights during Lent through March 12.

Dinner from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m., 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 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. (847) 439-0668.

St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille, Mount Prospect, offers 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.

Fish fry

• Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness: 6-7 p.m. Feb. 29 and March 7. No fee; however, a freewill offering of $5-10 is suggested. After dinner, Stations of the Cross at 7:30 p.m. (847) 907-3439.

• St. Theresa, 455 N. Benton St., Palatine: 4:30 to 7 p.m. March 7; $7, $4 for children under 10. (847) 934-4320.

• St. Joseph the Worker Church, 181 W Dundee Road, Wheeling: 4 to 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. (847) 537-2740.

• St. Raymond de Penafort Church in Mount Prospect: 5 to 8 p.m. March 14 in the school cafeteria, Elmhurst Avenue at Milburn Street. Both eat-in and carry-out meals of fresh perch, cheese pizza, french fries, corn, coleslaw, salad, dessert and lemonade; $8. for adults and $5 for children older than 2, special price of $7 for seniors during the 5 to 6 p.m. hour. Donation-only bar. (847) 253-8600

Fundraisers

St. Thomas will have a Pancake Breakfast from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 16 t at the Rowley Center, 120 E. Anderson Drive, Palatine, hosted by the Knights of Columbus. Cost: $6, $4 seniors, $15 family. Call George Tibus (847) 991-0738.

The Sisterhood of Temple Chai will have its fourth Annual Party-Planning Fair ("Simcha Showcase") from 3 to 7 p.m. Feb. 24, featuring nearly 70 vendors including photographers, videographers and DJ's. Caterers will provide food samples. Several DJ's and other entertainers will have live performances.

Free. 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. E-mail simchashowcase@aol.com, or call (847) 913-6869.

Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church, 8624 W. Normal Avenue, Niles, will hold its 19th Annual Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29. All proceeds of the sale benefit the parish as a whole. (847) 823-2550.

St. Raymond de Penafort Parish, 301 S. I-Oka, Mount Prospect, will host 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 costs $109. The event features dinner, dancing and an auction. (847) 253-8600.

A Winter Farmer's Market and brunch will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 9 at Park Ridge Community Church. Admission is free. The brunch will feature organically grown and other high quality foods prepared with regional farmstead products. The suggested donation for brunch is $10 per person. Participating farmers will be on site to sell their own products, including organic tilapia fish, grass-fed meats, farmstead cheeses and eggs, flour, dried fruit, honey, syrup, jams, preserves, wool and other woolen goods.

Proceeds from the brunch and Farmer's Market will be shared with participating farmers and the Harvest of Hope Fund which helps farm families meet emergency medical, utility and farm bills. (847) 823-3164 or see www.parkridgecommunitychurch.org. 100 S. Courtland Ave.

Lectures, seminars

Author and nationally known motivational speaker Julie-Allyson Ieron will visit St. Peter Damian Catholic Church in Bartlett at 1 p.m. Feb. 24 to present her seminar "Conquering the Time Factor." This 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 regarding money and finances. These seminars will be presented by Joel A. Leece and William Orchard-Hays III.

The following will be offered:

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

All workshops will take place at Our Saviour's United Methodist Church. To register, call Peggy Burtt at (847) 352-8181 or visit www.osumc.org.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host Community on Wednesday at 7 p.m. March 5 with guest speaker Everett Worthington. The topic is "Forgiveness: What is Forgiveness and How Can We Forgive Others and Ourselves Better?" (847) 907-3441.

A book review and discussion will be offered at 6:30 p.m. March 16 at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. The book is "Blessed Unrest: How the Largest Movement in the World Came into Being and Why No One Saw It Coming," by Paul Hawken. Countryside Church is handicap-accessible and is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. ccuu@ccuu.org.

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. Facilities open at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate those 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. www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or phone (312) 666-0100.

The Rev. Patty Pipia will be facilitating a Prayer Workshop from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Feb. 23 at Unity Northwest, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. 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. (847) 297-0997.

John Maxwell Taylor and Emily Hartwell Taylor will discuss "The Spiritual Dynamics of Love and Relationships" in a workshop at 1 p.m. March 2 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. (847) 297-0997. A freewill offering will be accepted.

Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, will present "How to Tell the Difference Between the Law and the Gospel" via DVD by James A. Nestingen, professor of church history at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., at 10:15 a.m. Feb. 24. Subsequent discussion to be led by Kathy Mills. (847) 437-5141.

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 honors its Man of the Year, Jim MacCrindle. Call (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. www.bethjudea.org.

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, the Rev. Don Myrom of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, and Dr. Khalid Sami of the Islamic Society of Northwest Suburbs will each 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 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 the Rev. 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.

Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett offers the following free, but reservations are encouraged. (630) 213-0100.

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

• March 6, 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy a Polish Program led by Daniela Kowalska and other members of the outreach team of St. John the Evangelist in Streamwood. Included will be Polish song, dance and worship.

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. (630) 830-0193 or www.angelfoodministries.com.

Trinity Lutheran Church, Roselle, will dedicate its new Care Center with a "parade from old to new" and other activities March 15. The new building, at 233 E. Maple, will house both child care and adult care facilities as well as a forthcoming youth center.

The dedication will begin at the older facility at 575 S. Rush with opening remarks and devotions at 10:45 a.m., followed by an Easter egg hunt. After the hunt, the children will line up for a parade to the new facility -- just a few blocks away. At the new center, there will be an official welcome and blessing from Senior Pastor Charles S. Mueller, Jr., as well as a few other speakers, including Roselle Mayor Gayle Smolinski. There will then be a ribbon cutting followed by refreshments and building tours. (630) 894-3263

Northbrook Congregation Ezra Habonim, 2095 Landwehr Road, Northbrook, holds movie nights monthly on Thursday nights. The films are in Hebrew with English subtitles. Admission 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. www.nceh.org or (847) 480-1690.

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

Bags of groceries are given to anyone in need, with no eligibility requirement. 1072 Ridge Ave, in Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-2067 or www.onebreadonebody.org.

The Rev. Curt Hansen of Elk Grove Village has been called as the seventh senior (lead) pastor of Elk Grove Baptist Church, effective March 1. Hansen, 52, is a longtime Elk Grove Village resident and former missionary to the Phillipines. Hansen has been the church's part-time pastor of children's ministries as well as the full-time director of missionary recruiting for the Baptist General Conference. Hansen is also a gifted keyboardist, serving for many years at EGBC as piano accompanist and principal organist. In addition, he has taught adult Sunday school classes and worked with the children in the church's Awana program. He holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and master of divinity degree.

Holy Wanderers, an excursion ministry of First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, has group tickets available for "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the Cadillac Palace Theater, Chicago, for the 2 p.m. Feb. 23. Tickets are $57. Call (847) 255-5112 or e-mail bettym@ahfumc.org

In conjunction with its PADS project, St. Simon's Episcopal Church, 717 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, is collecting new long underwear and other undergarments. Donations may be put in the basket in the narthex no later than Feb. 24.

St. John United Church of Christ, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights., celebrates its 106th anniversary March 2 with a pancake breakfast from 8:30-9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.-noon, with a worship service from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Breakfast cost: adults $5; children under 12 $3. Guest preacher is the Rev. Richard Ellerbrake, grandson of the Rev. John Ellerbrake, third pastor of St. John Church, who served from 1913-1934. (847) 255-6687. www.churchonthepark.com.

Performances

Park Ridge Community Church, 100 S. Courtland Ave., will offer free half-hour concerts at noon in the church sanctuary on Wednesdays during Lent, followed by lunch 12:30 p.m., offered at $5.00 per person.

Featured artists are: classical guitarist Brian Torosian Feb. 27; Joe Lill on the trumpet March 5; and soprano Sarah Hibbard accompanied by pianist Rick Hagedorn March 12. (847) 823-3164.

Veteran and young bands alike from Park Ridge will "come together" to play Beatles music from 7-10 p.m. March 7 and 8 at Park Ridge Community Church, 100 S. Courtland Ave. Tickets cost $15 at the door, and $5 for students. Tickets may be purchased at the Park Ridge Community Church office during normal business hours or through Allegro Music (847) 692-6021 located in the South Park Shopping Center at 800 W. Devon in Park Ridge. All proceeds will benefit the Youth Ministry Fund at Park Ridge Community Church.

A free memorial gospel concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 7, at St. John United Church of Christ, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Hts. Musicians John Goldman, Pierre Walker, and others will present soulful renditions of favorites from the African-American church tradition. Reception to follow. (847) 255-6687. www.churchonthepark.com.

Seniors

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village, invites all area seniors to their senior luncheons, held the third Friday of every other month at 11:30 a.m. Bring a dish to share if you like, and meet new people while you enjoy conversation and fellowship. The next gathering will be in April. (847) 593-8337.

Special services

Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, 1116 E. Devon, Bartlett, will hold Lenten services 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. (630) 837-1166.

Living Lord Lutheran Church will offer Soup Supper at 6 p.m., followed by Lenten Worship at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through March 12 at the church, 1044 Congress Drive in Bartlett. Bring soup or bread to share, enjoy fellowship time, and make a "40-Day Spiritual Journey to a More Generous Life." (630) 830-3630, or www.livinglordlutheran.org.

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. Religious school for pre-kindergarten to high school. (847) 741-5656 or www.ckielgin.org.

Members of Elgin's Jewish community will gather March 7 at Congregation Shirat Shalom in a display of Jewish revitalization and unity called Shabbat Across America/Canada. Congregation Shirat Shalom will be one of about 700 synagogues across the continent that will simultaneously open its doors to practicing and non-practicing Jews alike, so they may join together to experience and rejoice in a traditional Shabbat service and festive meal.

Led by Hazzan Sarah Alexander, attendees will experience an interactive Friday night Explanatory Service and a traditional Shabbat dinner with all the rituals explained. The event will take place from 7-9 p.m. at 30W509 Shoe Factory Road. RSVP requested. (847) 695-6246. www.congregationshiratshalom.org

Congregation Shirat Shalom offers Shabbat services every Saturday at 9:45 a.m., followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Tot Shabbat services are on the third Friday of the month. Adult education classes are on Thursdays and Saturdays. (847) 695-6246, e-mail hazzansarah@gmail.com, or visit www.CongregationShiratShalom.org.

Immanuel United Church of Christ, 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood, has new Sunday worship hours:

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.

(630) 837-0190 or www.streamwoodiucc.org

Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, 1600 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, is offering a Lenten series "Back to Basics" at 6:33 p.m. Sundays. 633 worship is held at 6:33 pm each Sunday evening for youth, young adults and everyone else. (847) 882-6116 or www.orumc.org.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, will hold Lenten services at 6 p.m. Wednesdays through March 12. The theme is "Re-Painting Your Faith -- A Work in Progress."

Each evening begins with a meal, followed by activities and a worship service from 7:40 to 8 p.m. Freewill donations will be accepted to help cover meal costs and craft supplies. (847) 885-7010, or www.princeofpeace.net.

The Book of Revelation 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. (847) 895-3654.

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

St. Marcelline Catholic Church resumes weekly exposition and adoration of the blessed sacrament 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, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine, will hold Wednesday evening services at 7:30 p.m. throughout Lent. This year's focus will be on "Learning from Jesus: Living Faithfully." Come at 6:30 p.m. for a light soup supper. A freewill offering will be taken for supper. (847) 358-4600.

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

Special guest will be Issa Boulos, director of the Middle East Music Ensemble at the University of Chicago. (847) 381-0243 or www.elca.org/middleeast.

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

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine, will hold midweek Lenten Services with Holy Communion Wednesdays through March 12. Services begin at 7 p.m. Sermons will center on the "PASSIONate Feelings" of some of the central figures surrounding the Passion of Christ. (847) 359-3451 or www.reachgrowserve.org.

Christ The King Lutheran Church (Wisconsin Synod), 100 W. Michigan Ave., Palatine, will hold midweek Lenten services (Evening Prayer) at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. The overall theme is "Crossroads: Traveling with Our Savior." Lenten suppers are offered for free at 6 p.m. before all services. (847) 358-0230 or www.ByFaithAlone.org.

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. (847) 634-0777.

Kol Chaverim, a one-year-old post-denominational, participatory, egalitarian congregation 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. Call (847) 398-2019 by Friday. 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. at the church, 797 Sanders Road, Northbrook. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a Renewal Worship Service at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 23. (847) 998-1946.

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.

Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, has the following Lenten worship service schedule: 6 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. Lenten service Feb. 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. 27, 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." (847) 259-2568.

The theme of the Midweek Lenten Suppers at Grace Lutheran Church will be "Take up Your Cross" and the Wednesday evening services will continue throughout Lent, beginning at 6 p.m. (847) 824-7408. 1624 E. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect.

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.)

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

411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights. (847) 255-7452 or 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.

The Rev. Richard Mau's Sunday 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. (847) 824-3652. 855 Lee St., Des Plaines.

Special services with Charlie Orr will be offered at 7:30 p.m. March 7; 6 p.m. March 8; and 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. March 9 at Mount Prospect Bible Church, 505 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect. www.mp-bc.org or call (847) 439-3337.

Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church,3700 Dundee Road, Northbrook 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. (847) 272-5686 or www.olbparish.org.

St. Martin's Episcopal Church, Des Plaines, 1095 Thacker St., Des Plaines, offers its Lenten program series. 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. The programs scheduled are: "Islam in the Modern World: Jihad or Peace" Feb. 27 by Professor Azam Nizamuddin,; "Religion and God: Does War Fit?" by Colonel Jill Morgenthaler March 5; and "The Compassionate Response to Conflict Resolution" March 12. (847) 824-2043.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold midweek Lenten services starting at 11 a.m. Wednesdays, followed by a soup lunch; and an evening service at 7 p.m., preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. The services will be through March 12. Regular services will be at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday Holy Communion is celebrated at all weekend worship services. (847) 827-6656.

A healing service, facilitated by the Rev. Russell Sorensen, will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 27 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. (847) 297-0997 or www.unityprospers.com.

Unity Northwest Church at 7:30 p.m. March 12 will prepare for the rising up of Christ consciousness though music and prayer. Take a journey that begins with an inner preparation and contemplation, continues through the release of error thinking and false beliefs, and finally ends with the affirmation of the power of God within us. 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. (847) 297-0997.

Lenten services will be at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through March 12. (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. 27, March 5 and 12. A light lunch follows the noon service with dinner served from 5:30-6:30 p.m. (847) 259-4114.

Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, will have "Last Week -- Monday" as the sermon topic for worship at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 24, with the Rev. Connie Stewart as guest speaker. Further exploration of the Jesus's final days is offered in a weekly adult study series that meets Sunday afternoons at 4:30 p.m. through March 30 at the church. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650

Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 W. Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, will hold one worship service at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 24. The Rev. Tim Haugen, senior pastor candidate, will be speaking. The adult classes and the Student Ministries class (grades 7-12) will meet at 9 a.m.; the Adventure Club (4 years old through sixth grade) will meet at 10:30 a.m. The Meadows AWANA club meets at 7 p.m. Thursday. (847) 255-8764.

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

St. John United Church of Christ of Arlington Heights will offer midweek Lenten potluck suppers and worship services at the church, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., every Wednesday in Lent. The potluck is at 6 p.m. and the 30-minute worship service begins at 7 p.m. The services will feature reflections on the Apostles' Creed. (847) 255-6687 or www.churchonthepark.com.

Cardinal Drive Church of Christ, 2300 Cardinal Drive, Rolling Meadows, will celebrate Meet Our Neighbors Day March 2. The community is encouraged encourage to arrive at 9:45 a.m. for friendly conversation, coffee and a sweet treat Then at 10:15 a.m. attend worship. Following the assembly stay for lunch. Nursery services and Children's Worship (age 3 through second grade) also are provided. (847) 259-2995. www.cdfamily.org.

The worship at 9 a.m. March 9 at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights will feature vocal selections from "Jesus Christ Superstar," featuring Greg Ferguson, Jim King, Amy Bearden, Anne Arza, Matt Krings, Jim Abdnor and Larry Johnson. This concert version will be accompanied by Jeannie Richardson, Kevin Gentile, Kyle Gentile, Carolyn Richardson, and guest musicians Dane Del Principe (guitarist) and Chris Rice (bass).

Church School that day for nursery through kindergarten only. The 11 a.m. worship will be a chapel service of hymns and prayer. 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. (847) 255-5112. www.ahfumc.org

St. Simon's Episcopal Church, 717 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, offers Lenten Opportunities for Learning Feb. 28, March 6 and 13. It begins at 6:30 p.m. with a simple supper, followed by a Bible study at 7 p.m., and concluding with Compline at 8 p.m. The study will be led by Vicki Garvey and will focus on the Gospel lessons found in the Gospel of John. Childcare will be provided. (847)259-2930.

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

World Day of Prayer 2008 will be celebrated by Church Women United in Northwest Cook County with a breakfast and service at 9 a.m. March 8 at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton.

The women of Guyana developed the theme "God's Wisdom Provides New Understanding" to express the awesomeness of God's creation and that we can learn from it. The Rev. Diane Shields from First Presbyterian will bring the message.

Tickets are $5. Free childcare is provided, but reservations are necessary. The church is handicapped accessible. Contact Nancy Duel, (847) 259-3793, to register or to request childcare.

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, staff chaplain for Cardiac Care at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital and an ordained clergy in the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church. Campanano, who hails from the Philippines, has a degree in political science from the University of Pangasinan, Philippines.

Free child care will be provided. Call Linda Osikowicz at (847) 540-5634.

All ladies are welcome to come to the Ladies' Bible Study on Tuesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village. The current theme is "Living with Discernment in the End Times." Childcare is available. An evening session on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. is also available. Bring your Bible, your questions, and your coffee. (847) 593-8337.

The Women United of Des Plaines will celebrate World Day of Prayer at Trinity Lutheran Church at 9:30 a.m. March 7 and conclude 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. The annual offering will support the work of World Day of Prayer and help meet the needs of families in regions of turmoil. Call Beverly Johnson at (847) 296-5351.

St. Raymond's Ladies Golf League is accepting new members for the coming golf season. You need not be a church member; in fact, many of our participants are not St. Raymond's parishioners. This is a nine-hole league that plays on Thursday mornings at the Mt. Prospect Golf Course. All skill levels from professional to novice. We are a warm and friendly group so come join us. Contact Char French at 24-reichl@comcast.net or (847) 417-9243, or Mariann Olivier at mollietwo@comcast.net or (847) 253-3617 before March 15.

Women's Bible Study, led by laypersons, is held every Wednesday morning, 9:30 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. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

St. Simon's Episcopal Church, 717 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, offers a Women's Book Club at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28, discussing "Slaughterhouse Five" by Kurt Vonnegut in the Parish Office wing. (847)259-2930.