McHenry Co. religion events
CWU honors resident: The Elgin-South Elgin Unit of Church Women United named Peggy Homfeldt their Valiant Woman for 2008 as part of their May Friendship Day Celebration. Homfeldt has been a member of Church Women United and the publicity chairwoman for this group for many years. Carol Hecht, president of Church Women United, presented the award at their celebration on May 3 at Christ the Lord Lutheran Church.
Mother's Day concert: On Sunday, three diverse and engaging musicians will regale Elgin area residents at a Mother's Day concert at 3 p.m. The concert is a benefit for the Community Crisis Center. The theme "Always Home, Always Hope" fits this organization that provides safety, shelter, and new possibilities for victimized women and children, while also being a motif particularly appropriate for Mother's Day. The event is jointly sponsored by the Crisis Center and the Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, 783 W. Highland Ave., Elgin. Their sanctuary will be the site of the concert. It will be a free-will offering. Lyric baritone David Farwig from Colorado will open the concert with an uplifting program of excerpts from Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Songs of Travel." Folksinger, music educator, and Elgin resident Peg Lehman will follow with contemporary and original folk songs to engage and delight the audience and build a sense of community. Lee Krahen-buhl, folksinger, songwriter, and wit will conclude the concert with original folk and repartee that will intrigue audience members, make them think, and sometimes make them laugh. Gifted local accompanist Nancy Miner will accompany Farwig on the piano. The Community Crisis Center was founded in 1975 by a group of dedicated volunteers to help those in crisis due to domestic violence, sexual assault, or economic circumstances. It offers a 24-hour crisis hotline; information and referral; emergency shelter; individual and group counseling; medical, legal and welfare advocacy; emergency assistance with food, clothing, rent and utilities; and transitional housing.. For information, call the Crisis Center at (847) 697-2380 or the church at (847) 741-5124.
Augsburg Choir in concert: The 60-member Augsburg Choir is sharing its music with the East Dundee community. Collegiate Choir members from Augsburg College will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 310 E. Main St. The Augsburg Choir, under the direction of Peter Hendrickson, represents the finest in choral music. Praised for its versatility and musicality, the ensemble performs a diverse repertoire, including compositions by many well-known Scandinavian and American composers. For information, visit www.augsburg.edu/music/ensembles.html. "One of the choir members is our own Cassie Sanders. We are so pleased to have her return to East Dundee and bring 59 of her equally talented associates," said Bill Gade, music director for Immanuel. Sanders is a graduate of Immanuel and member of the congregation. All are welcome. There is no fee to attend. Call the church office at (847) 428-4477 for directions or more information.
Meditation class: Beginning this week, a Tuesday morning meditation class is being offered from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Center for Spiritual Evolution, 204 Spring St .(lower level) in Cary. It will be under the direction of Bhante Sujatha, Sri Lankan Buddhist monk. The meditation practice to assist in finding happiness and contentment in life is open to everyone. The introductory class on Tuesday will be two hours from 10 a.m. to noon. Bhante Sujatha will discuss what meditation is and why it is practiced and provide practical instruction of meditation postures, mindful breathing, concentration, Loving Kindness practice, and opening of one's wisdom eye. A regular meditation practice helps you melt away feelings of isolation, awaken your true compassion even for those who have hurt you, and free yourself from needless suffering, while helping others find happiness. For details, call (847) 516-1950 or visit www. newthoughtmchenry.org.
Learn about church history: On May 17, the Rev. Richard Simon, a Catholic Scripture scholar, will give a presentation at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. His topic will be "Where Did the Bible Come from Anyway?" He is heard regularly on Relevant Radio's "Searching for the Word." Simon is currently pastor of St. Lambert's in Skokie. All are welcome to attend. For details, call Joe Marmion at (847) 658-0504 or e-mail at marmion@aol.com.
Ordination celebration: On May 18, the pastor and members of New Hope Baptist Church will celebrate the ordination of minister Terry L. Andrews at 4 p.m. at the church, 1405 Wing St., Elgin. Andrews was licensed to preach the gospel in March 1997. He graduated from Judson University in May 1999, and has been employed by the Larkin Center for children and adolescents for 15 years. Celebrate this joyous occasion with the pastor and the New Hope members. For details, call the church at (847) 931-4141.
Bethany Art Series: The Bethany Arts Series presents the Chicago Brass Band in concert at 3 p.m. May 18 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 W. Crystal Lake Ave. in Crystal Lake. The group is a 30-piece brass and percussion ensemble formed in the British brass band tradition. Under the direction of six-time North American Champion Director, Colin Holman, the band strives to reflect the American culture of which it is part. Each member is an accomplished musician selected by individual audition. The concert will involve traditional brass band music along with jazz, modern and American literature. A special feature will utilize Bethany's Gober pipe organ in the finale of Saint-Saens' Symphony No. 3, also known as the Organ Symphony and popularized in the sound track to the Academy Award-winning film, "Babe." There is no admission, but a free-will offering will be taken. For details, call the church office at (815) 459-2690.
Faith in Action Luncheon: On May 21, Faith in Action of McHenry County is hosting a salad luncheon at noon to recognize Older Americans Month. The luncheon will be held at the St. Paul Episcopal Church, 3706 W. St. Paul Ave., McHenry. The event is compliments of Faith in Action; there is no cost for attendees. Entertainment will be provided by Mai-Ling an alternative-classical pianist. Seating for the luncheon is limited. Call the Faith in Action office at (815) 455-3120 by May 14 to secure a reservation. Faith in Action is a local nonprofit organization that provides volunteer services to help support independent living for residents of McHenry County over 62 who live in their homes or with loved ones. Services are provided at no charge, and include transportation, shopping, friendly visits, respite for caretakers, light housekeeping and light yard cleanup. To make a reservation for the luncheon, inquire about services for yourself or a family member, or volunteer, call (815) 455-3120 or visit www.fiamchenrycounty.org.
Highland Summer Adventures: Beginning May 22, a new summer day camp program, "Highland Summer Adventures" will be offered at Highland Christian Academy in Elgin. The program, open to children from preschool 3 through sixth grade, will offer both full-time and part-time childcare options (6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.) through Aug. 15. Creative weekly themes have been chosen to provide a summer adventure of art, music, creative learning and exploration with separate tracks for younger and older children. Each week will include age appropriate activities and fun as well as flexible extended childcare options. For information, call Pam Backey, preschool and administrative director, at (847) 741-5530, ext. 17 or download a registration form at www.highlandsummer.com.
Camps at Good Shepherd: Good Shepherd is offering two-week camps throughout the summer. The camps will run June 9-20, July 7-18, and July 21-Aug. 1 and are for all ages preschool through sixth grade. A variety of topics are available to choose from including arts and music, soccer, volleyball, and Exploring our World. Before- and after-school care also will be available. For details, visit www.goodshepherd-elgin.org, or call the preschool office at (847) 697-4745. Good Shepherd Lutheran School is accepting applications for the 2008-09 school year for preschool through eighth grade. Preschool and kindergarten both offer full-day options, and both locations offer after-school care. The Van Street location houses kindergarten and first through eighth grade. The preschool is at the Nesler Road Christian Life Center. For details, visit www.goodshepherd-elgin.org, or call the school at (847) 741-7795.
Church to host flea market, craft fair: King of Glory Lutheran Church, 36W720 Hopps Road in Elgin, is accepting applications for its outdoor flea market, collectibles, and craft show. It will be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 14. The 10- by 10-foot vendor spaces are $30. To reserve your spot or for details, call Donna Peddy at (847) 742-8699.
Rain Forest VBS: Vacation Bible school has been announced at First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St., Crystal Lake. This year's theme is "Rain Forest Adventure," focusing on participants' time, talents, treasure and commitment to preserving God's beautiful Earth. To introduce the program this year, the church displayed an 8-foot by 12-foot camel during the children's message. It will run from 9 a.m. to noon June 16-19, with a family program June 19. The cost is $25 per child with a maximum of $75 per family. Register online through the CE page of the Web site at www.fcc-cl.org or call the church office at (815) 459-6010.
Power Lab VBS: First Congregational Church in West Dundee invites children to "Power Lab: Discover Jesus' Miraculous Power!" The research and testing will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon June 23-27. Get ready for an adventure, following Jesus as he heals, helps and gives power to people who need him. Power Lab is fizzing with fun for kids, teenagers and adults. They will explore God's Word. Each day your children will be a part of Bible adventures that they can see, hear, touch and even taste. Wacky Works Crafts, Daily Challenges that apply Bible truths to everyday life, team building Hyperspeed Games, lively Bible songs and tasty Test Tube treats are just a few of the Power Lab activities that help faith grow into real life. The vacation Bible school is for children age 3 through fifth grade. School-age kids should sign up for the grade they are currently completing. Register online at www.groupvbs.com/webtoybox/myvbs/fccdundee. Registration is limited. The deadline is June 13 or when space is filled. The cost is $30 per student or $70 for families of three or more and includes a collection of five adorable Bible Buddies, a T-shirt and a Sing andPlay Music CD for each family when you register. As a thank you for parents who volunteer, nursery care is available for any other children, age 2 and younger. To be a part of the fun, go to the Web site and visit the volunteer box on your child(ren)'s Participant Registration form and complete a Volunteer Registration form as well. The church is at 900 S. Eighth St. (Route 31 and Angle Tarn), West Dundee. For details, call the church at (847) 426-2161 ext. 204 or visit www.fccdundee.com.
Power Lab VBS: Immanuel Lutheran Church in East Dundee invites the community to mark their calendars the fourth week in June for vacation Bible school. Normally, Immanuel host VBS on the third week in June but changed their schedule to accommodate the later release of Community Unit District 300 schools. It will take place June 23-27. This year, Immanuel will be using Group Publishing's "Power Lab, Discovering Jesus' Miraculous Power" material to teach children biblical truths. Power Lab doesn't rely on traditional teaching methods; rather kids will experience Bible stories in powerful, life-changing ways. Each day children will take part in fun Bible learning they can see, hear, touch, and even taste. Bible Point crafts, team-building games, and lively Bible songs are just a few of the Power Lab activities that help children apply what they learn into real life. The children also will participate in a hands-on mission project called Operation Kid-to-Kid. Older children will be out in the community serving others for the week of June 23-27. "Last year, we introduced service projects for kids in the fifth and sixth grade. We are hoping to have them working again this summer," stated David Meier, VBS director. Meier estimates that Immanuel hosts more than 200 children during VBS and more than 70 volunteers. The program begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at noon. Immanuel accepts children from the ages of 3 to 12 and welcomes all in the community to join in this fun week. There is no registration fee. A donation of $25 per child for the entire week is encouraged. The church is at 310 E. Main St. For details, call the church office at (847) 428-4477.
CWU honors resident: The Elgin-South Elgin Unit of Church Women United named Peggy Homfeldt their Valiant Woman for 2008 as part of their May Friendship Day Celebration. Homfeldt has been a member of Church Women United and the publicity chairwoman for this group for many years. Carol Hecht, president of Church Women United, presented the award at their celebration on May 3 at Christ the Lord Lutheran Church.
Donate for Mother's Day: Epworth United Methodist Church's worship committee invites everyone to give a donation to a woman in need for Mother's Day. With your help, they are asking people in the congregation to share a Mother's Day blessing with struggling women in the community. Through the guidance of the Community Crisis Center, Epworth is collecting purses, watches and 4- by 6-inch picture frames, new or almost new. Bring your items to church on Mother's Day and place them in the baskets as you enter the sanctuary. Or bring your contribution to Epworth UMC at 37W040 Highland Ave. in Elgin.
Rummage sale: Trinity United Methodist Church, 1647 Ravine Lane in Carpentersville, will have its "Huge Rummage Sale and Bake Sale" on Friday and May 17. Things for the house, things to eat, things for the yard, things for everyone in the family. Sale hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and 8:30 a.m. to noon May 17. Money goes to global and local missions. To donate items for the sale, drop off items at the church Monday through Wednesday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Please, no computer equipment, large appliances or large furniture.Call Trinity UMC at (847) 428-1627.
Summer kickoff: Calvary Lutheran Church, 535 N. McLean Blvd. in Elgin, will hold two special events May 17-18. There will be a "Summer Kick-Off" potluck dinner and game night at 5:30 p.m. May 17. Members and guests are asked to bring a dish to share, as well as your favorite game. Beverages will be provided. On May 18 at 9 a.m., Calvary's Sunday school will serve its annual "Sunday School Breakfast." Everyone is invited to come and enjoy breakfast and singing with the children, as they close another year of Sunday school. Calvary is a member of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. For details, call (847) 741-5433 or visit www.clce.org.
Kids Fun Fair: On May 17, the Highland Kids Club will sponsor a Kids Fun Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Highland Fellowship Church, 2250 W. Highland Ave., Elgin. The event will feature free carnival games, clowns, puppet shows, crafts, demonstrations by the Elgin Police Department and Elgin Fire Department, food and more. The event is free and open to the public. In case of rain, the event will be held indoors. For details, call the church office (847) 741-6629.