Note on religion: Cook County

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 hold 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 streamwoodiucc.org.

The Ministry of New Beginnings, part of the Phoenix Group, is a 31-year-old, Catholic-oriented, nondenominational social support organization for separated, divorced, widowed and single persons. Meetings are held every Monday (except holidays) at 7:30 p.m. in the Hughes Center in front of St. Matthews Church 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 891-1220, $3 per meeting with first visit free.

St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, 729 Grand Canyon, Hoffman Estates, holds a variety of non-denominational events free and open to all occupations. Learn the fundamentals of careering and get in-depth knowledge from the seminars and meetings and career topics offered in various area locations. Call Bob Podgorski at (847) 925-6005.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host Catholic Scripture Study led by Jim Papandrea, director of Adult Faith Formation. Join in at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, April 15, 22, 29, to explore the topic: Armageddon Outta Here: What the Book of Revelation Really Says -- The Old Testament Background of Apocalypse. Learn how to decipher the symbols of Revelation and understand the text in its historical context. With some Old Testament background and an understanding of the relationship of the Church to the Roman Empire, we will be able to interpret the message of Revelation, both for its original audience and for us today. (847) 359-0042, www.holyfamilyparish.org.

Prince of Peace United Methodist Church in Elk Grove Village (at the corner of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue) will begin a six-week DVD study group on the book "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. The group will meet on Tuesday evenings April 15 through May 20. (847) 439-0668. Prince of Peace UMC is located at 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village.

Cathy Anderson will lead a discussion of the book "Sister of My Heart," by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni as part of Prince of Peace's Adult Education.

The book discussion session will be held at 7:30 p.m. April 23 Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 Arlington Heights Road, located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668 or princeofpeaceumc.org.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 3201 Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows, will offer the Alpha course from 6-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays through June 12. This practical introduction to the Christian faith offers answers to some key questions. Each weekly session begins with an informal dinner, followed by a large group learning time, and ends with a small group discussion. To learn more about the course, call Trinity Lutheran Church at (847) 398-7122.

Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, will offer the program "End of the Spear" at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. It's the story of a band of persistent American missionaries in Ecuador. This is a full-length feature film, based on a true story.

An adult education program "How to Read the Bible -- The Lutheran Handbook," will be offered at 10:15 a.m. April 20, including a DVD presentation by Rolph Jacobson, assistant professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. And an in-depth discussion led by Carolyn Ohman to follow.

"The Power of Forgiveness" will be discussed at 10:15 a.m. April 27 through a powerful DVD that features people like Eli Wiesel who survived the Holocaust, as well as those who lost loved ones during 9/11 and others. (847) 437-5141.

"God Is Still Speaking," a four-week Bible study, is offered from 7-8:30 p.m. four consecutive Thursdays evenings, April 17, April 24, May 1, and May 8 at St. John United Church of Christ, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights. Two passages will be studied each evening. There's nothing to read or buy, and it's not necessary to attend every session. (847) 255-6687. www.churchonthepark.com.

Children, teens

Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran (Missouri Synod), 1116 Devon Ave., Bartlett, has preschool openings for the fall session for 2-, 3- and 4-year-old children. (630) 483-9611.

St. Hubert Catholic School, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates, continues registration for new students for the upcoming 2008-2009 school year for preschool, kindergarten, first- through sixth-grade elementary, and seventh- and eighth-grade junior high. New to the 2008-2009 school year will be a five-day, full-day combined 3- and 4-year-old preschool program, in addition to the current half-day early childhood program offerings. (847) 885-7702.

Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, has begun registration for the 2008-09 school year. It offers several different options for preschool and kindergarten classes and an extended day through a Parents' Day Out program. (847) 885-7036.

The Big Barn Preschool at 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, has openings for full-day programs for ages 3-5. Registrations also are being accepted for special summer programs. Call Director Mary Fisher at (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 7-18. Registration is now being accepted. (847) 885-4545 or 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, the Lunch Bunch, is offered Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. Contact Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230; send e-mail to preschool@ByFaithAlone.org or visit ByFaithAlone.org.

St. Thomas of Villanova School in Palatine is currently accepting enrollment for the 2008-09 school year for preschool through eighth grade. St. Thomas is a recipient of the National Blue Ribbon for academic excellence awarded by the U.S. Secretary of Education. (847)358-2110 or stvschool.org.

Meet and greet Noah's Ark Preschool's new kindergarten teacher at the school's Open House Wednesday. Debbie Randle-Hayes will be heading up the new extended-day kindergarten class at Noah's Ark, which will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily starting this fall. The kindergarten information session will be from 9-11 a.m. and the "How Great Thou Art!" open house will be from noon until 2 p.m. Wednesday at 98 Algonquin Road, (at Route 59) Barrington.

Noah's Ark is a ministry of Barrington United Methodist Church. Regular preschool classes are half-day, from 9-11:30 a.m. (847) 844-3738. BarringtonUMC.com.

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: Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday: $185. kingswoodumc.com.

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

Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Synagogue invites parents with school-age children to meet Education Director Alice Bechtolsheim and Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow while learning about Shir Hadash's one-day-a week religious school at an open house from 11:40 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday at Field Middle School, 3131 Techny Road, Northbrook. (847) 498-8218, shir-hadash.org.

Chabad Community Hebrew School offers Hebrew reading taught using the Aleph Champ motivational Hebrew reading program. Private tutoring for bar/bat mitzvah prep available upon request. Northbrookhebrew school.com or (847) 564-8770.

Summer and fall 2008 registrations are now being accepted for Sonshine Preschool, 304 W. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights. Summer session is on Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. June 10-July 10 Fees for the summer is $125 for two days a week, and $170 for three days a week. Fall sessions offer both morning and afternoon preschool hours. Call Barb Orze at (847) 520-1116.

Mother's Day Out Preschool at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, will be expanding to three days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays) beginning in September. Programs are offered for children ages 2 to 5. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Registration has begun. Call Lynn Cooper at (847) 439-0668 for a registration packet or more information about MDO Preschool.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, recently raised $600 to help find a cure for cystic fibrosis. The money was raised as part of a Mini-March fundraiser held by the preschoolers and their families. For more information about the preschool or its programs, call Preschool Director Susan Johanson at (847) 827-1518 or smjohanson@aol.com.

The Saturday Club Visits the Farm is the theme of the Faith Lutheran Church children's program from 9-11 a.m. April 19 at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Children ages 2 to 12 are invited to enjoy activities inspired by the book "Charlotte's Web," and a snack will be served. The cost is $5 per child. Call (847) 259-4839 for more information and to register.

A May Crowning will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 13 at Knights of Columbus Hall 15 N. Hickory in Arlington Heights for girls and boys ages 6 to 12. Call Ed Smetana at (847) 253-9419 for details and to sign up.

Family

Kingswood United Methodist Church's puppet team will perform its spring musical at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. April 27 The Glory Fingers puppeteers recently won a platinum award, the highest honor given, at the Chicago Regional Christian Puppetry Festival.

The musical, "Made to Love," will feature songs by Toby Mac, Casting Crowns and a new sign language song by Twila Paris. The show's host, Orpah, will explore the topic of Spiritual Gifts. This year's presentation will include never before attempted black light special effects, new puppets and scenery.

The free performance will be in the church sanctuary at 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. (847) 398-0770. kingswoodumc.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 ages 3 through sixth grade. (847) 593-8337.

Fundraisers

The St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 250 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream, seeks crafters for this year's Corn Fest Aug. 2. If you're a crafter or a local artisan who would like to sell your creations at this year's event, call Vicki Wright (630) 510-0145 to receive booth information.

Holy Ghost Church Council of Catholic Women's Spring Fest: Water for Life benefit will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the church, 254 N. Wood Dale Road, Wood Dale. The event will include a German meal catered by Schnitzel Platz Restaurant in Glendale Heights, entertainment by Bob and Hank and a split-the-pot raffle. Tickets cost $20. For details, call Mary at (630) 350-1932 or Tina at (630) 595-8031.

Immanuel United Church of Christ, 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood, will hold a rummage sale from 9 am. to 4 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 19 in Volkening Hall. Coffee, tea and lemonade will be available for 25 cents per cup. (630) 837-0190. streamwoodiucc.org.

Church of the Cross, 475 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates, will hold its annual Spring Rummage Sale, sponsored by the Presbyterian Women, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 19. (847) 885-1199.

The Barrington United Methodist Women will have a "Like New Spring and Summer Clothing ReSale" April 18-19 at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road, (southeast corner of Routes 59 and 62) Barrington. The sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon April 19, with a bargain bag sale the second day, with all the goodies you can fit into either a $3 or a $5 bag. Proceeds from the sale will go toward local missions.

Donations of clothing will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday; and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. Tax donation receipts will be available. (847) 836-5540.

The Presbyterian Church of Palatine Spring Rummage Sale and Bake Sale will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 19 at 800 E. Palatine Road.

A spaghetti dinner will be served April 19 at St. John U.C.C., 1475 W Algonquin Road, Palatine. Seatings will be at 5 and 6:15 p.m. Tickets cost $8, $4 for children 10 years old and younger. Carry-outs will be available. Enjoy tossed green salad; spaghetti with choice of sauces; garlic or Italian bread; assorted homemade desserts; and coffee or soft drinks. For reservations, call (847) 991-5427.

In preparation for Passover, Congregation Beth Judea will hold a Shop & Share Days fund-raising drive at all Jewel-Osco stores Monday to Wednesday. Present a Shop & Share slip those days at time of purchase and Jewel-Osco will donate 5 percent of purchases (including groceries, pharmacy, photo and liquor purchases), less tax, to the Congregation Beth Judea General Fund.

Slips are available at the synagogue, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.

The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will offer its Annual Mother's Day Lox Box Sale for Mother's Day on May 11. The box includes ½ pound of lox (Nova or regular) and all the accoutrements: orange juice, cream cheese, tomato, onion and cucumber, along with one-half dozen freshly baked bagels. The Lox Box will also contain a breakfast cake, a tasty bag of kosher cookies, a newspaper and a great bag of "chotchkies.'"

Cost: Single box price $25; double box price $47; ARK box price $20; Combination box price $40 (order one lox box for your home and one for the ARK). Checks are payable to "Beth Judea Men's Club." Credit cards accepted.

Lox boxes may be picked up at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove on May 11 between 8-11 a.m. or the Men's Club will deliver them to locations within a reasonable distance. A special Mother's Day Brunch spread can be arranged if ordered in advance.

Contact Men's Club Lox Box Co-Chairman, Steve Limer and Jim MacCrindle, at (847) 634-0777 for order forms and more information. You can also fax your order to the synagogue at (847) 634-8055.

Glenview United Methodist Church, 727 Harlem Ave., Glenview, will hold its annual "Top of the Heap" rummage and plant sale from 6 to 8 p.m. April 25 ($3 admission fee Friday only) and from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 26. The event is sponsored by the Glenview United Methodist Women and will benefit the Wesley Child Care Center, Inc. of Glenview and various other mission projects. (847) 729-1015.

Christ Church, United Church of Christ, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines, will hold its spring rummage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 29, and from 8 to 11 a.m. April 30, which will be a $3 per bag day. Donations will be accepted at the church from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. until April 28. The proceeds of the sale will benefit the church and missions.

Tickets are on sale for the "Spring Fling" luncheon and fashion show, hosted May 10 by Christ Church United Church of Christ in Des Plaines and the Dress Barn store in Mount Prospect.

Women from Christ Church will model between 20 and 30 outfits from the Dress Barn's spring line. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. May 10 at Casa Royale Banquets, 783 Lee St., in Des Plaines. There will be a cash bar.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Church members can buy them at the church; members of the public can buy them by calling Rita Barth at (847) 825-1160.

A rummage sale will be held 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to noon April 19 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 304 W. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights. There will be a $3 bag sale April 19. Proceeds will support the charitable activities of the church's Mission and Fellowship Group. (847) 537-4430.

Community Presbyterian Church will hold its annual rummage sale April 24-26 at 407 N. Main St., Mount Prospect. On April 26, all merchandise will be half price. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 24; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 25; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26. (847) 392-3111.

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. An overnight stay package costs $109. The event features dinner, dancing and an auction. (847) 253-8600.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will have an Italian Buffet at 5 p.m. today. The menu will be chicken tetrazzinni, mostaccioli, Italian sausage and peppers, salad, bread, dessert and beverage. For tickets, call (847) 272-2246. Cost: $12 and $5 for children ages 5-12. (847) 272-2246.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will hold its annual rummage sale. Preview Friday will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 25. Admission costs $3. On April 26, hours will be 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. There is no admission fee for Saturday. (847) 272-2246).

Arlington Heights resident Courtney Hay, will be leading a worship workshop at the Celebrating God Through the Arts festival at Cyrus Ministries in Big Rock, Ill., from 1 to 8 p.m. today. The festival serves as a fundraiser for the Karitos Christian Arts Festival, an annual Chicago area event.

She will be teaching a workshop titled "Prophetic Worship" which will address contemporary themes in today's worship such as Davidic worship, 24/7 worship and prophetic flow.

Admission to today's event is $10 per person. Children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information and directions, visit karitos.com and cyrusministries.com.

United Methodist Women of First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights will hold its annual Rummage Sale today at the church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. Hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be a bag sale, one bag for $4 or two bags for $6. A wide variety of items will be featured, including furniture, housewares, clothing, specialty, children's items, and much more.

Lectures, seminars

A National Workshop on Christian Unity will be held Monday to Thursday at the Chicago Marriott O'Hare. This annual gathering of ecumenical officers, theologians, clergy, lay leaders and anyone with an interest in strengthening Christian unity will feature 16 workshops; daily denominational worship services; joint Eucharists; a keynote address by the Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, general secretary of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA; and a panel discussion on the nature of the local church and global church.

Workshop topics include the Emerging Church movement; the Anglican/Orthodox agreed statement on The Church and the Triune God; the influence of race on ecumenism; the ecumenical implications of the theology, ritual and practice of baptism; ecumenical advocacy on global moral issues; ecumenical coalition on gun violence, immigration and community organizing; and Muslim and Christian women's dialogue in Chicago.

Sr. Dr. Lorelei Fuchs, SA, theological consultant for The Interchurch Center, New York, will preach at the opening prayer service Monday at Mary Seat of Wisdom parish, 920 W. Granville Ave., in Park Ridge. The service is open to the public. A reception follows the service which begins at 7:30 p.m.

A joint Episcopal, Lutheran and Methodist Eucharist will be celebrated Tuesday at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 306 S Prospect, Park Ridge beginning at 6 p.m. Also on Tuesday, a Catholic Eucharist will be celebrated at St. Joseph Ukrainian Catholic Church, 5000 N. Cumberland, Chicago, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Churches Uniting in Christ will hold a worship service Wednesday at First Baptist Congregational Church, 1613 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, beginning at 5:30 p.m. All services are open to the public.

The closing panel discussion at 10:45 am. Thursday, moderated by Dr. John Blessington, executive producer of cultural and religious broadcasts for CBS Television, will examine "The Local Churches and the Global Church."

Registration is $150 for the full conference or $50 a day. For full-time students, the fee for the entire conference is $50. The Chicago Marriott O'Hare is located at 8535 W. Higgins Road. Information and online registration at www.nwcu.org.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine will be the site of the 2008 Maximum Impact Simulcast: Advance, on Friday. The simulcast is designed to provide business professionals with a day to advance their leadership. This simulcast will feature authors, businessmen and leadership experts, including Valorie Burton, professional executive coach; Andy Stanley, author of "Visioneering"; Spencer Tillman, CBS Sports analyst; and Dick Vitale, ESPN college basketball analyst. For information or to order tickets, contact Lutheran Church Charities at (866) 455-6466 or www.LutheranChurchCharities.org. Corporation sponsorships and early registration reduced price available.

Jim Kenney, director of the Deerfield-based Common Ground, will speak about what the world's great religions have in common, followed by questions and discussion during a program at 1 p.m. April 27 at Countryside Church, 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine. The program is titled "Movement: The Global Convergence of Religions." 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. ccuu.org.

National speaker John Adams, a full-time prayer-based healer using the Christian Science system of healing, will present a talk titled, "Does Christian Science really heal sickness and sin?" at 2 p.m. April 27 at the Hotel Indigo in Palatine, on Northwest Highway right off of Route 53.

Adams will explore how healing is possible through the practical application of scientific prayer in our lives and share experiences that show how he and others have put this prayer-based system of healing into practice in their own lives. For more information on the event, call Sarah Faherty at (847) 732-7208.

A discussion about agnosticism, humanism and/or atheism will be at 7 p.m. Tuesdayat Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. A movie will be shown titled "Evolution, The Mind's Big Bang: What About God?" that appeared on Public Television. A conversation will follow. Countryside Church is located at 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee Road. cuu@ccuu.org.

St. Paul United Church of Christ in Barrington presents "A Challenge to Love: An Interactive Workshop" at 11 a.m. April 20. Participate in a very informal discussion of how we, as a community, should address the spiritual needs of our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered brothers and sisters. St Paul is at 401 E. Main St. (847) 381-0460, stpauluccbarrington.org.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host Community on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Wednesday with guest speaker the Rev. James Halstead, who will address the topic "In Hope We Are Saved." Halstead is associate professor of religious studies and chairman of the Department of Religious Studies at DePaul University in Chicago. He holds doctorates in religious studies and moral theology from the Katholieke Universitiet Leuven, (Louvain), Belgium. (847) 359-0042 or holyfamilyparish.org.

Peggy Simonson will discuss her humanitarian trip, through Rotary International, to Nigeria to administer polio vaccine to at-risk children and distribute donated clothing. The program will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. April 22 at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. A discussion will follow. Countryside Church is at 1025 Smith Road. (847) 359-8440, ext. 7, or ccuu.org.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois presents "Jewish Genealogy Resources in Chicago" by Mike Karsen, president of JGSI and the author of the Web site Guide to Jewish Genealogy in Chicagoland, at 7 p.m. April 23 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. Karsen will review the various research facilities and Web sites available to genealogists in the Chicago area. For more information, visit jewishgen.org/jgsi or call (312) 666-0100.

Touchstones will present "Unity in Diversity" from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday at the Schram Museum in the Glen. A veteran wordsmith and a devoted Baha'i for nearly four decades, Tom Murphy presently works as a staff writer and editor in the office of the secretary at the national headquarters of the Baha'i Faith in Evanston. He has served as president of Building Unity Through Diversity in Glenview, a nonprofit local organization dedicated to building bridges of understanding and appreciation among the village's diverse constituent populations. The Schram Museum is located at 1799 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (866) 568-7152 or visit mytouchstones.org.

Join Touchstones April 20 at the Schram Museum in the Glen for "Pure Land Buddhism." We know of Tibetan Buddhism; we know of Zen. But what is Pure Land Buddhism? The Rev. Dr. Steve Durham, pastor of Mayfair Presbyterian Church, and occasional lecturer at Common Ground (Deerfield), has a background in journalism, education and mission, and special interest in eastern religions. The workshop will be from 4-5:30 p.m. The Schram Museum is located at 1799 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (866) 568-7152 or visit mytouchstones.org.

The next Basic Buddhism class will be at 10:45 a.m. Sunday at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., (corner of Euclid and Route 83) Mount Prospect. The class is free. (847) 259-3018.

Introduction to Self-care with Bach Flower Essences Healing is coming to Unity Northwest Church at 7 p.m. April 21. Class will include a very brief review of how the Essences/Remedies were discovered and how they work, as well as the philosophy and spirituality of the Bach Remedies. Detailed information will be provided on the use of Rescue Remedy and will serve as an example for choosing remedies. Class will focus on practical application of the Essences for personal use (as well a touch of material on how to help your pets and plants). Class will include how to choose remedies for self healing, how to prepare remedies for self healing, and how to adjust remedies as you use them over a period of time.

Phyllis Lauer facilitates and will also be available for one-to-one consultations (pro bono) in private. She is also a certified Reiki practitioner. A freewill offering will be accepted.

"For the Bible Tells Me So," Dan Karslake's award-winning documentary examining homosexuality and biblical Scripture, will be shown at 2 p.m. April 27 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Congregational UCC welcomes all persons regardless of religious background, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Refreshments and discussion will follow the presentation. congucc.org. (847) 392-6650.

Men's fellowship

The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will lead the Shabbat service at the Annual Men's Club Shabbat at 9:30 a.m. April 26 at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. The kiddush that will follow the service will be sponsored by the Men's Club. (847) 634-0777.

Miscellaneous

Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, will host the following activities. They are free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. For more information call (630) 213-0100.

• 3 p.m. April 20, The Immanuel Lutheran Church of Streamwood will present an Easter cantata, "My Chains are Gone - An Easter Celebration of Freedom," directed by Tina Anderson.

• 10:45 a.m. April 23, A Passover Seder will be led by Rabbi Jonathon Kohn and members of Congregation Kneseth Israel in Elgin.

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 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 next event will take place at 5 p.m. today 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.

St. John the Evangelist Church will have a Texas Hold 'em Tournament at Kyle Hall, 513 Parkside Circle, Streamwood, at 6 p.m. April 19. Tournament fee is $50 per player, players must be 21 years old, and prizes are awarded to the top five finishers. To register, contact Brian Prus at (630) 540-9350 or send e-mail addressed to bcprus@ameritech.net.

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 visit angelfood ministries.com.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Schaumburg is celebrating its 50th year in the community. A formal celebration will be held from noon to 3 p.m. April 27 at the Seville, 700 Barrington Road, Streamwood. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-10. Tickets will be sold in the church office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday- Friday until April 22, and in the church's Fellowship Hall from 9-11 a.m. Monday and April 20 No tickets will be sold after April 22.

Child care for children ages 3 to 10 will be provided at The Seville, at no charge, but parents must notify of need for child care at the time of ticket purchase. A movie and a craft project are planned for the children.

The church is located at 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. All are welcome. For information, call the church at (847) 885-7010, or visit the church Web site at princeofpeace.net.

All kinds of school supplies -- paper, pencils, pens, and books are needed in Tanzania. The Missions Ministry Group at Barrington United Methodist Church is asking the community to bring school supplies of all types to the church and put them in a special receptacle in the Narthex marked "Tanzania." The church learned of the need from Peace Corps volunteer Pete Wesley, who grew up in North Barrington and has been stationed in Tanzania with the Peace Corps for two years. For more information, contact Kiran Frey at (847) 382-5410. Barrington United Methodist is located at 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington. (847) 836-5540 or barringtonumc.com.

Salem United Methodist Church welcomed a new youth director, Charis Rose. She will be directing the Kids' and Tween's Club (6:30 p.m. Wednesday nights), Children's Church on Sundays, The Salem Experience (Jr./Sr. High Youth Group), the upcoming youth mission trip and the vacation Bible school activities. Rose comes from a large family, with six of her siblings being adopted from Vietnam while she was growing up. Her months there visiting orphanages and villages when the two youngest were adopted were a very formative experience for her, and helped foster her love of children.

The documentary film "The Awakening Universe: A Film By Neal Rogin" will be shown at 7 p.m. Friday at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. This film shows how science, spirit and ancient indigenous wisdom are now all converging to reveal that we stand in the very heart of that which created us. Also to be shown are segments from the accompanying interview with philosopher and cosmologist Brian Swimme, who is featured in the movie. Countryside Church is at 1025 Smith Road, Palatine. (847) 359-8440, ext. 7, ccuu.org.

Northbrook Congregation Ezra Habonim, 2095 Landwehr Road, Northbrook, holds movie nights monthly. The films are in Hebrew with English subtitles. Admission costs $5 and $10 for nonmembers. Some of the films will highlight subjects that may be geared to an adult audience.

Upcoming films: "Forgiveness" at 7:30 p.m. May 15. nceh.org or (847) 480-1690.

Our Lady of the Brook Parish will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a gala dinner May 10 in the Parish Worship Center. The evening will begin with Mass at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person, and are available by mail. Send ticket orders and a check (payable to "Our Lady of the Brook") to: 40th Anniversary Dinner, Our Lady of the Brook Parish, 3700 Dundee Road, Northbrook, IL 60062. R.S.V.P. by Tuesday at (847) 272-5686 or visit olbparish.org.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will celebrate Earth Day April 19-20. Events will focus on earth-keeping and eco-justice themes. Hands-on "Green Opportunities" will be available for adults and children. Wear green and you may receive a special surprise. Sunday School students will take part in the Earth Day celebration April 20 by helping to clean the church grounds and plant flowers. For information about the Sunday School, contact Cathy Williams at (847) 827-6656.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 605 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect, is celebrating 50 years of ministry to the community throughout 2008. Special events are being held to commemorate the occasion, including a Homecoming Celebration May 18, which is the official date of the signing of the charter designating TUMC as a congregation in 1958.

A catered luncheon will follow the two morning services on that day, and an afternoon service will feature past ministers, special music and much more. Current and former members and their families, as well as friends and community members are invited to attend the celebration.

There are two services on Sunday morning (8:10 and 10:30 a.m.); a new Upward Call Worship Service on Saturdays at 5 p.m.

To make reservations for the 50th Anniversary Homecoming Luncheon, or to obtain more information about Trinity, call (847) 439-0950 or visit Trinitymp.org.

Feed My Starving Children is having a mobile packing event at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille St., Mount Prospect from Wednesday to April 20. There are four shifts on Wednesday-Saturday (9:30-11:30 a.m., 1:30-3:30, 4-6 and 6:30-8:30 p.m.) and two shifts on Sunday (9:30-11:30 a.m. and noon-2 p.m.). Volunteers of all ages are needed to hand-pack nutritious meals for starving children. Sign up by calling the church at (847) 253-0631.

Members of Trinity Lutheran Church (ECLA) in Des Plaines are participating in the annual "American Cancer Society Relay For Life" event May 16 and 17 at Maine West High School in Des Plaines. Relay For Life is an overnight event that celebrates cancer survivors as well as honoring those in the community who lost their battle with cancer. Anyone interested in joining the team or volunteering to help with the event can contact Betty Bongartz at (847) 298-5818 or call the church office at (847) 427-6656.

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., Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-2067 or visit online onebreadonebody.org.

Passover

Shirat Shalom is holding its family Passover Seder at 7:40 p.m. April 20. Menu is Sephardic/North African with Ashkenazi "must haves" (matzah ball soup and gefilte fish), and will be cooked by chef Scott Kumperschmidt. Cost is $18 adults, $8 under 12. R.S.V.P. by Tuesday (firm). Congregation Shirat Shalom, is at 30W509 Shoe Factory Road, near I-90 and Route 59 in Elgin. (847) 695-6246. CongregationShiratShalom.org.

The following special Passover programs will be held at Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates:

• Sunday, from 4-7 p.m., "A Taste of Passover," Chicago's most noted kosher chef, Laura Frankel, who serves as executive chef for Wolfgang Puck's foodservice operations at the new Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, will conduct a Passover cooking demonstration along with sampling of delicious wines that will enhance your Passover Seder. The cost is $20 per person and is limited to the first 30 people. Call (847) 885-4545.

• April 20 at 6 p.m., the annual Community Second Seder will take place. Reservations are required. A traditional Seder service, dinner, singing, and an opportunity to celebrate the holiday together. Seating is limited. Call 847-885-4545 or go to www.beth-tikvah.org.

Performances

The 10th annual Barrington Area Handbell Festival Concert will take place at 7 p.m. April 20 at Barrington United Methodist Church. This year's concert includes seven Barrington church bell choirs with almost 100 ringers, more than 330 bells, 250 handchimes, organ, five-piece brass, flute, oboe, djembe, tambourine and claves.

New to the concert this year will be solo songs by the Crystal Brass and a beautiful oboe solo called "Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us." Solo songs will also be performed by each participating choir.

Barrington United Methodist Church is at 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington. A freewill offering will be taken. Call Cathy Gathman at (815) 477-2565 for information.

The Soul Notes will give a concert at 4 p.m. Sunday at Grace Lutheran Church, 1624 E. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect. The Soul Notes are a seven-voice vocal ensemble and will perform a concert of traditional and popular classics, jazz and spirituals. There will be a reception following. (847) 824-7408.

A Tennessee minister will bring Benjamin Franklin to life inside a Des Plaines church Sunday. The Rev. Dave Mitchell will present his one-man show, "Ben Franklin's Relationship With God," at 4 p.m. at Christ Church, United Church of Christ, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines (at Cora and Henry). A freewill offering with be taken at the program, which is expected to last about 40 minutes.

Also Sunday, Mitchell will be the guest minister at Christ Church's 9:30 a.m. service, making use of his ventriloquist talents. He interweaves humor, storytelling and family entertainment into his message, which is about positive Christian motivation. (847) 297-4230.

First Congregational Church, 766 Graceland Ave., Des Plaines, and Trinity Lutheran Church of Des Plaines will present a spring concert of their combined choirs at 4 p.m. April 23 in the sanctuary at First Congregational Church. The choirs, directed by Charles Moore and accompanied by an orchestra, will perform Gabriel Faure's Requiem and Cantique by Faure. Douglas Williams of Trinity will be organist. Featured performer will be harpist Erin Ponto. A freewill offering will be collected and childcare will be provided. (847) 299-5561.

The Drama MinistryŒat Park Ridge Community Church will present the St. Sebastian Players in "Politics Can Be Murder," a "whodunit" murder mystery at 6:30 p.m. today at Park Ridge Community Church, 100 S. Courtland Ave., Park Ridge.

Tickets are $25 each and include dinner, wine, dessert, and a murder mystery to solve. Call (847) 823-3164 for ticket reservations and further information.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, will host the Barrington Children's Choir in a concert at 3 p.m. Sunday. The concert will include folk, classical and contemporary music. A freewill offering will be received and a reception will follow. (847) 259-4114.

A free concert will be presented by the Southminster Community Chorus and the John Hersey High School Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. today at the Southminster Presbyterian Church, 916 E. Central Road, Arlington Heights. The concert will a performance of the "Gloria RV. 589," by Antonio Vivaldi.

Admission is free, and donations will be accepted. Call (847) 392-1060.

A community hymn sing will be at 6 p.m. Sunday at the Arlington Heights Evangelical Free Church, 1330 N. Douglas. The theme for this event is, "Knowing Christ Through His Words and Deeds." The program will be preceded by an organ and piano prelude at 5:45 p.m. The public is invited to come and sing familiar hymns and choruses, along with instrumental favorites, solos and vocal groups. Refreshments follow.

Performers include Bob Olson, a local minister of music, and Stan Guillaume, vocalist Glenn Jorian, John Hacker, Tom Olson and Midge Wells. Call (847) 392-4840.

Seniors

The next program for LAFF, the senior group of Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, will be at Beth Tikvah at 7:30 p.m. today. The "acting up" group will entertain with singing and dancing. Refreshments will be served. Cost is $1 for members, $5 for guests.

Celebrate! Senior Ministry meets Wednesdays from 10:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine. Upcoming events include:

• April 23: "The Fun Guy," John Franklin Finch. St. Thomas members will join us for the luncheon and performance. Sign up requested.

In addition, the group will be joining St. Mark Lutheran Church for a mission trip this fall to Mississippi to continue working on rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina. All ages and abilities are needed.

Call ahead to reserve your spot for all events, (847) 358-4600.

Information about the American Association of Retired People program, which provides free tax preparation assistance for seniors, will be featured during the Senior Fellowship potluck lunch at noon Tuesday at North Northfield United Methodist Church, located at Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook.

The public is invited to attend, and to bring a friend. Bring a dish to pass. The "senior" group is all-inclusive, so persons attending don't need to qualify as a "senior" to participate. (847) 272-2250 or visit northnorth field.org.

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village, invites all area seniors to its 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. (847) 593-8337.

Special services

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 ckielgin.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. On Sunday, a class on "The Shabbat" will be held at 12:30 p.m., following services and lunch. (847) 695-6246, e-mail hazzansarah@gmail.com, or visit CongregationShiratShalom.org.

Beth Tikvah Congregation offers a Tot Shabbat celebration from 10:30 a.m. to noon today. Begin by welcoming Shabbat with a short service, singing and learning about the holiday of Passover. The children will then listen to a Passover story and take part in a craft-related project. Contact educator@beth-tikvah.org or preschoolbtac@sbcglobal.net or call the temple office. (847) 885-4545.

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church in Schaumburg will continue its 50th Anniversary celebration April 19-20 when members welcome back the Rev. Mike Hickok, who served Our Saviour's as an associate pastor from 1992-1995. During his ministry he also served as youth minister.. Hickok is currently the senior pastor at Hinsdale United Methodist Church. He will be leading worship at the 5 p.m. service April 19 and at both the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services April 20. There will be a potluck dinner immediately following the second service.

The 50th anniversary celebration will continue with events every month in 2008. The United Methodist Women will have a Mother-Daughter banquet on May 7, featuring brides who were married at Our Saviour's. If you are the mother of a bride, or the bride married at Our Saviour's, contact Sandy Marcks through the church office at (847) 352-8181.

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

After the service, Don and Sally Kruse will present a dialogue "The Palestinian Predicament and the Israeli Dilemma." Sally plays the part of a Palestinian woman, and Don acts as an Israeli man.

The service will continue to be held on the 15th of each month until a just and lasting peace is achieved. The prayer service is part of an ecumenical effort in the U.S. and the world to pray daily until peace comes to the region. (847) 381-0243 or visit elca.org/middleeast.

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 1-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 Northwest, 1700 Weiland Road, Buffalo Grove. Call (847) 398-2019 by Friday. www.kolchaverim.org

A Community Yom HaShoah Service, commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Day, will be at 7 p.m. April 30 at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Drive, Long Grove, with speaker Samuel R. Harris, president of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center and author of "Sammy: Child Survivor of the Holocaust." (847) 412-4235.

The Center for the New Humanity announces the move of its Sunday celebration services to the Spiritual Awakening Center at 1645 S. River Road, Suite #1 in Des Plaines. The service is at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (630) 532-1372 or log on to thenewhumanity.org.

The next contemporary service of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Des Plaines, will be held at 4:30 p.m. April 19 in Immanuel's school gym, 842 Lee St. Families, neighbors, and friends of the community are invited to join in the celebration of Earth Day, the theme of which will be "God's Creation for Us." The Rejoice Singers of Palatine will provide music and inspiration supporting the theme. A freewill fellowship dinner will follow the service. To make dinner reservations, call (847) 824-3652.

The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights culminates its yearlong celebration of 50 years of ministry with an Anniversary Festival Worship Service at 10 a.m. Sunday. The Rev. Wayne N. Miller, bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod of the ELCA, will preach, former pastors, and other clergy will be in attendance. (847) 537-4353.

Women's programs

Beth Tikvah Congregation will have its annual Women's Passover Seder at 6 p.m. April 24. The event is for women only. The Annual Women's Seder is at Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Tickets cost $20 and should be reserved ahead of time. Checks or cash may be dropped off at Beth Tikvah; include your name and phone number and the names of those who will be attending. (847) 885-4545.

The Church Women United of the Barrington Area celebration of May Friendship Day will be at 11 a.m. May 2 at the Presbyterian Church of Barrington, 6 Brinker Road, Barrington Hills. The 2008 theme is "God's Wisdom Inspires Hospitality." Readings, music, group participation and devotional presentations will emphasize making new friends by reaching out to others.

Young women named by various churches in Barrington, Cary, Fox River Grove, Island Lake, Prairie Grove, Lake Zurich and Wauconda who live up to the motto of "Agreed to differ, resolved to love, united to serve," will be honored.

A collection of the Fellowship of the Least Coin will be a part of the celebration. The many coins collected in countries around the globe benefit projects for women and children around the world. For its prison ministry, attendees are invited to bring a gift/donation of regular size toiletries (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, lotion) and jumbo sized "baggies."

There will also be a salad potluck luncheon after the service; attendees are asked to bring a salad to share. (847) 540-5634.

The Sisterhood of Temple Chai of Long Grove will sponsor its seventh annual Mah Jongg Tournament from noon to 4:30 p.m. June 1. The day begins with a lunch at Temple Chai followed by an afternoon full of mah jongg, raffles, prizes and more. Participants can bring a group of four or the committee will help create a group for you. Each foursome must provide their own mah jongg set and two snack tables.

Early bird registration is $36 per person by May 4. After May 4, registration is $40 per person. Temple Chai is located at 1670 Checker Road, one-half block west of Arlington Heights Road, in Long Grove. For more information, send e-mail addressed to sisterhood@templechai.org, attention Edie or Meryl or call (847) 537-1771.

The Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America will hold the annual spring luncheon at 11:30 a.m. April 26 in Fellowship Hall at Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines. A musical program featuring Broadway favorites, as well as musical comedy numbers will be presented by Joyce Vondrak, accompanied by Don Mead. Cost is $10. For reservations or information, call Beverly Johnson (847) 296-5315 or the church office (847) 827-6656.

St. John's Episcopal Church will offer an afternoon of high tea, featuring English bone china, delicate tea sandwiches, cookies, scones and clotted cream. The tea will be from 3 to 5 p.m. April 19 at St. John's Episcopal Church, 200 N. Main St., Mount Prospect. There is no cost for the event, but reservations are appreciated at (847) 392-1700.

The Women's Guild of St. Thomas Becket Parish will host its annual dinner-fashion show April 24 beginning at 6 p.m. at Bristol Court Banquets, 828 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect. The theme for this event will be Runway Rapsody! and will feature clothing, modeled by their members, food, prizes and fun. Fashions will be provided by Coldwater Creek and Carson Pirie Scott. The grand raffle this year will feature all cash prizes. The winners need not be present that evening. Raffle tickets are $2 each or 12 for $20. Tickets for the evening cost $35 and are available by calling Aggie (847) 299-6571. For more information, call the rectory at (847) 827-9220.

Women's Bible Study, led by laypersons, is held every Wednesday morning, 9:30-11 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The group is starting a new series of study, reading "Wide Open Spaces of God" by Beth Booram. Newcomers are welcome. Check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for information.