Cook County religion notes
Deadline for submissions is noon Monday. Due to space limitations, not all "Your Faith" items are listed here. The complete column appears on the Daily Herald Web site, dailyherald.com. To submit items, send them to faith@dailyherald.com.
Education registration: Congregation Kneseth Israel is now taking registration for the new school year. Torah school for pre-K through high school, adult education classes and an award-winning youth program are offered. The synagogue is at 330 Division St., Elgin. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit www.ckielgin.org.
Help for preschool: A free or reduced tuition program for families with unemployed parents is being offered by Christ the King Lutheran Preschool, 100 W, Michigan Ave., Palatine. A family with one unemployed parent will be offered half-price tuition; if both parents are unemployed, the child will receive free tuition. This will remain in effect for as long as necessary. The tuition relief is available for all preschool programs, including the afternoon KinderClub. In addition, free or reduced tuition is available to military families. Those deployed in the States will be offered half tuition rates; those deployed overseas, free. For details, contact Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230 or visit www.ByFaithAlone.org.
July 31
Women's conference: The 2009 Women's Summer Conference will be Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1, at Harvest Bible Chapel, Elgin Campus, 1000 N. Randall Road, Elgin. Join the women of Harvest Bible Chapel as they picture "Pearls, Treasures Under Pressure." Jennifer Rothschild, author and inspirational speaker, will be speaking. There are 30 workshops electives from which to choose. Visit http://harvestbiblechapel.org/pearlsconference to register. For details, call (847) 398-7024, ext. 3601
Rummage sale: Low-cost household and clothing will be among the items available during a "Beat the Recession" rummage sale Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1, at North Northfield United Methodist Church in Northbrook. In addition to house wares and clothing, members of the church are being asked to donate toys, kitchen wares, lawn and garden items, furniture and books for the sale. Proceeds will benefit the church, with 10 percent donated to local food pantries. The public is invited to attend the sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 31 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 1 at the church, Sanders and Dundee. For details, call (847) 272-2250 or visit northnorthfield.org.
Aug. 1
Life After Fifty-Five: Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates Laff Group (Life After Fifty Five) has two events coming up in August. At 7:30 p.m. Saturday Aug. 1, Lance Brown will present "On the Road with Will Rogers." Coffee and dessert will be served afterward. Cost for members $1, $3 for guests. Call Leora at (847) 359-0439. At 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, a private tour and wine-tasting will be held at Lynfred Winery, 15 S. Roselle Road, followed by dinner at Riccardo's Italian Restaurant. Cost is $12 per person for the tour. Contact Leora at (847) 359-0439 by Aug. 19.
Summer schedule: Summer Saturday Eucharists at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 337 Ridge Road, Barrington Hills, will be at 5 p.m. Saturdays, Aug. 1, 8, 15, and 22.
Anniversary celebration: The Rev. George Schelter, senior pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will celebrate the 35th anniversary of his ordination. The Rev. Cynthia Hileman, assistant to the bishop, will preach at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1. The Rev. Wayne Miller, bishop of the Chicago Metropolitan Synod of the ELCA, will preach at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 2. A reception will be held after services in fellowship hall. Schelter requests any gifts in recognition of the celebration be made directly to the Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.
Aug. 2
Financial Peace University: Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road in Palatine, will offer Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University classes beginning Aug. 22. Classes will be at the church from 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays for 13 weeks. A free preview class and registration will be at noon Aug. 2 at the church. Financial Peace University is designed to teach you and your family how to manage your money using biblical principals. For details, call (847) 358-4600 or visit www.clcpalatine.org
Rummage sale: The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea will host its Annual Rummage Sale from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2, in the Beth Judea Social Hall. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.
New worship schedule: Taking to heart its 50th anniversary slogan, "Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future," Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, begins a new Sunday morning worship and Bible study schedule on Sunday, Aug. 2. EGBC is inverting its current Sunday schedule and will start the day with its worship service at 9:30 a.m., followed by Bible study for all ages at 11 a.m. Other schedule changes to come at EGBC include more emphasis on smaller, home-based Bible Studies, and a series of interactive media forums on teen faith beliefs and practical help in parenting and marriage. Elk Grove Baptist will celebrate its 50th year of service to the community with a weekend of festivities Friday to Sunday, Sept. 18-20. For more information about services times and schedules of other church events, visit elkgrovebaptistchurch.org or call (847) 593-8337.
Real faith: The Rev. Tim Haugen will discuss "Preparation and Practice," the third in the series titled "Real Faith Shows Up," at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Aug. 2, at Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Nursery and toddler care will be available during both services. Children's Church for grades 1 through 6 will be held during the 9 a.m. service only. For details, call (847) 255-8764.
Aug. 3
Vacation Bible school: St. Paul UCC, Community Church of Barrington and Salem UMC will hold a summer vacation Bible school, "Serengeti Safari," from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 3-7 at 401 E. Main St. Barrington. Children ages 4 to fifth grade are welcome to attend. To register, call (847) 381-0460 before July 24. Camp fee is $30 per child, $60 per family. For details, visit stpauluccbarrington.org.
Vacation Bible school: Come join the adventure of "The Kingdom of the Son - A Prayer Safari" at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 3-7 at the Cardinal Drive Church of Christ, 2300 Cardinal Drive, Rolling Meadows. Explorers ages 3 through grade six will enjoy Bible study, skits, crafts, games, and refreshments at various learning centers. To register, visit cdfamily.org. For details, call (847) 259-2995 or e-mail office@cdfamily.org.
Vacation Bible school: South Church, Mount Prospect, offers vacation Bible school from 6-8 p.m. Aug. 3-6. Come explore religions from around the world. The program for children in preschool through fifth grade includes four nights of music, dance, art, stories and games. Dinner will be served. For registration information, call (847) 253-0501 or visit thesouthchurch.com
Vacation Bible school: Multigenerational Vacation Bible School will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, from Monday, Aug. 3 through Friday, Aug. 7. Classes for preschool through adults conducted in English and Spanish will begin at 6 p.m. each day with a light supper at 8 p.m. The theme is "A Tiny Adventure - Discovering the Greatness of God." The program will include music, Bible study and crafts. Admission is free. Call (847) 253-4839 to register.
Aug. 4
Life Line Screening: Stroke prevention screening will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at St. Philip Lutheran, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview. Four tests cost $139. To register, call (800) 324-1851.
Aug. 6
Drumming circle: Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski leads a Drumming Circle at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Discover the culture and therapeutic and spiritual benefits of drums from around the world. Drums provided. For details, call (630) 213-0100, or visit rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.
'Godspell': The Voices of Light youth theater ensemble, sponsored by the Youth Council of Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, will present "Godspell" at 7 p.m. Aug. 6-8 at Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, 1600 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Tickets can be purchased for $8 each by calling Peggy Miller at (630) 289-5389 or the church office at (847) 882-6116. Tickets will be sold at Our Redeemer's between Sunday services or at the door before performances, unless sold out.
Water bottle ministry: In the heat of the summer, both Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and Immanuel Lutheran Church of Palatine will team up with more than a dozen other Lutheran congregations in the North and Northwest suburbs for a unified outreach initiative. On Thursday, Aug. 6, volunteers from both churches will provide commuters at the Palatine Metra station with free water bottles. Each water bottle will have a custom label pointing to Jesus as the source of Living Water, as well as an additional tag with information about each congregation. For details, contact Prince of Peace Lutheran Church at (847) 359-3451 or www.reachgrowserve.org, or Tom Schroeder, Immanuel Lutheran Church & School, tpjpc@sbcglobal.net.
Gong meditation: The public is invited to participate in the song of the gong from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Countryside Unitarian Universtalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. Gong Meditation can help with stress, fatigue, depression, anger and blocked energy. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, blanket or pillow, and water. Suggested donation is $10; however, no one will be turned away for lack of funds. To reserve a spot, call (847) 917-4107 or e-mail ervtoth@yahoo.com.
Aug. 8
Arts & crafts: Immanuel United Church of Christ is seeking crafters for its Arts & Craft Fair, which will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, and its Old Church Craft & Holiday Fair, which will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Both will be held at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood. For details or an application, call Pam Patterson at (815) 308-5313 or e-mail pamp8207@comcast.net; LaVerne Ryman at (630) 837-7337 or e-mail l_ryman@yahoo.com; or call (630) 837-0190.
Chick-n-Chop: Immanuel United Church of Christ in Streamwood will offer its annual Chick-n-Chop from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. There will be an arts and crafts event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and a cookie walk at noon. Entertainment will be provided by the Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Trio. The prices are: $12 for full meal in advance and $13 at the door; $10 for half meal in advance and $11 at the door; $4 for hot dog meal in advance and $5 at the door. Immanuel United Church of Christ is located at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood. (630) 837-0190, streamwoodiucc.org
Run/walk: Join Saint Paul Lutheran Church of Mount Prospect Aug. 8 for the second annual Run/Walk to help feed starving children. To register for the race, visit www.stpaulfmsc.com. The church is at 100 S. School St., Mount Prospect. For details, call (847) 255-0332 or visit www.saint-paul.org
Pig roast: The Evangelical Free Church of Des Plaines will hold its 8th annual Community Pig Roast and Outdoor Concert from 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. Food will be served at 4 p.m. Headlining will be Cruise Machine. Other activities include dunk tank, drawings for prizes, children's games with prizes, a moon walk, cake walk and motorcycle show with trophies for the winners. Everything at the event is free. The church is 55 W. Golf Road, Des Plaines. (847) 635-7776.
Teen apologetics conference: Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, is the regional host for "The Big Dig," an apologetics conference for teens sponsored by Focus on the Family, Saturday, Aug. 8. Apologetics is the branch of theology that is concerned with defending or proving the truth of Christian doctrines. Focus on the Family, a nationally recognized radio ministry founded by Dr. James Dobson, is providing a coast-to-coast satellite feed. A sample of questions asked (and topics discussed) include, "How do you know God is real?" "Isn't Creation a myth unsupported by true science?" Wasn't Jesus just a man?" and "Aren't Christians just a bunch of hypocrites?" Among the speakers scheduled are journalist Lee Strobel and radio host Hank Hanegraff. Elk Grove Baptist is one of four Illinois sites hosting the satellite feed from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tickets for the simulcast are $10 per person and must be reserved through the Elk Grove Baptist Church Web site, elkgrovebaptistchurch.org/bigdig.html. For more information, call (847) 593-8337.
Aug. 9
Concert and barbecue: An outdoor barbecue and concert by Peder Eide will be presented Sunday, Aug. 9, at Good Shepherd UMC in Bartlett. The barbecue will begin at 5 p.m., followed by Good Shepherd talent at 6 p.m. and Peder Eide at 6:30 p.m. The barbecue costs $5 for adults 13 and older, $3 for children ages 2-12. A freewill offering will be taken during the concert. Bring your lawn chairs/blankets. In case of rain the event will be held indoors. RSVP for the picnic by calling (630) 830 3003 or e-mailing church@gsbartlett.com. Good Shepherd UMC is at the southwest corner of Army Trail and Petersdorf in Bartlett.
Go Bananas: Families are welcome on a trip to Go Bananas, an indoor amusement park, at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, planned by St. Philip Lutheran, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview. Meet at the park, 1227 E. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. First 12 to RSVP are free. Call (847) 998-1946.
Aug. 10
Summer camp: There are current openings for Christ the King Summer Camp from 9:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 10-14 for ages 3-7 and for fall morning preschool for ages 3-5. Christ the King is at 100 W. Michigan Ave., Palatine. Visit ByFaithAlone.org
Spiritual Pilgrimage: The Rev. Patty Pipia will lead a Spiritual Pilgrimage to see John of God Monday, Aug. 10, through Saturday, Aug. 22, and Saturday, Sept. 26, through Wednesday, Oct. 7. Pipia was called to lead spiritual pilgrimages after her personal experience with John of God in 2004. For details, call (847) 845-8818.
Aug. 11
Book discussion: St. Cecilia Church will host a book discussion on the novel "The Shack" from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, in the Parish Center, 700 S. Meier Road, Mount Prospect. On Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 1-2:30 p.m., the Rev. Bill Zavaski, pastor of St. James Church in Arlington Heights, will give his insights on the book and answer questions. Call the parish office, (847) 437-6208, to register for this free program.
Aug. 15
Prayer service: A Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East will be at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 E. Main St. in Barrington. This service is held on the 15th of each month as part of an ecumenical effort in the U.S. and the world to pray daily until a just and lasting peace comes to all citizens of the Middle East. It includes reading from the Bible, music and prayers. To learn more, call (847) 381-0243 or visit http://www.elca.org/Our-Faith-In-Action/Justice/Peace-Not-Walls. aspx.
Aug. 16
Groundbreaking: The public is encouraged to attend a day of celebration Sunday, Aug. 16, outside in front of Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 E. Main St., Barrington, beginning with opening prayers and groundbreaking at 10:30 a.m. This will be immediately followed by an outdoor worship service and a free picnic lunch. The groundbreaking celebrates the start of a major addition to the church. For details, call (847) 381-0243.
School supply collection: The Social Action Committee of Congregation Beth Judea is collecting school supplies for Jewish Child and Family Service clients in elementary school, middle school and high school. Packing for the collection will take place from 10:30 a.m. - noon Sunday, Aug. 16. Drop-offs can be made in the synagogue office from now until Aug. 16 before 10:30 a.m. The following donations are requested: backpacks, pencils, pens, pocket folders, spiral notebooks, crayons, washable markers, pencil top erasers, large erasers, watercolors, glue sticks, supply boxes, scissors, rulers, boxes of Kleenex, protractors and compasses, calculators, assignment books, book covers, sketch pads, colored pencils, three-ring binders, highlighters, and packages of wide-ruled notebook paper. All supplies should be new, but if you have used calculators in good condition, they can be recycled. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.
Aug. 20
Artistic spiritual program: The Master's Touch Artistic Team of Hanover Township will present a spiritual program of dance, song, drama, storytelling, mime and art with a tribute to fathers at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. For details, call (630) 213-0100 or visit rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.
Adult Academy: Congregation Beth Judea, a Conservative synagogue that has been serving the Northwest suburban area since 1968, is proud to announce its first class in its Fall Semester Adult Academy. Are you curious about Judaism? Beth Judea will be offering a weekly Introduction to Judaism course at 8 p.m. Thursdays beginning Aug. 20. Free. To register, call (847) 634-0777 or e-mail them at info@BethJudea.org. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.
Aug. 23
Block party: Keith Coast, children's evangelist and family entertainer, is bringing his variety program to Elk Grove Baptist Church at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, for its Back-to-School Block Party. Coast, the featured presenter at the morning worship service, will be followed by a community picnic with catered food and inflatable games. For details, contact Curt Hansen at curt.hansen@att.net, (847) 593-8337 or visit www.elkgrovebaptistchurch.org. Elk Grove Baptist Church is at 801 Beisner Road.
Aug. 25
College courses: Holy Family Catholic Church, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will serve as a satellite campus for Loyola University Chicago in the Northwest suburbs. Twelve courses will be offered in succession, which will culminate in an master's degree in pastoral studies. The following course will be offered in the fall: IPS 570: Introduction to Theology and Ministry, Introductory Session, 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, Tuesday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays Sept. 12, 26, Oct. 10, 17, Nov. 7, and Wrap Up, 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17. To register at Loyola or for more information, contact: Randy and Rachel Gibbons, Institute of Pastoral Studies, Loyola University Chicago. (312) 915-7450.
Aug. 28
Memorial service: A Quarterly Memorial Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, honoring all those who have passed away. Chaplain Lori Geschrey of Odyssey Hospice will lead the service, and candlelighting, special music and a time for sharing memories are included. For details, call (630) 213-0100 or visit rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.
Shabbat under the stars: Congregation Beth Judea will host its 11th Annual BBQ/Picnic and Shabbat Under the Stars Service Friday, Aug. 28, on the grounds of the synagogue, at Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. Join the congregation at 6:15 p.m. for an outdoor barbecue/picnic, followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat Service Under the Stars at 7:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair and table or blanket; dress comfortably. In case of inclement weather, the picnic will move indoors. Kosher barbecue (hot dogs and burgers) cost $10/adult; $5/child ages 2-12; free for kids younger than 2; $30/family (household). Vegetarian meals are available upon request. RSVP to the synagogue office by Aug. 24 at (847) 634-0777.
Aug. 29
Golf outing: Unity Northwest's second annual golf outing will be Saturday, Aug. 29, at Rob Roy Golf Club, 505 E. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights. Tee times begin at 11:50 a.m. Foursomes or individual golfers welcome. Dinner begins at 4:30 p.m. The cost is $65 for nine holes of golf, cart, dinner and five raffle tickets; or $25 just for the dinner and five raffle tickets. Contributions of raffle items are welcome. Advertising is available in the form of hole sponsor, raffle items or cash donations. Additional advertising will be through the church bulletin and at the dinner. For details or to reserve your spot, contact the church office at (847) 297-0997, unitynw@yahoo.com, or unitynorthwest.org.
Aug. 30
Membership luncheon: Author and tour guide Dr. Irving Cutler will speak at the annual membership luncheon of the Northwest Chapter Hadassah on Sunday, Aug. 30. His topic will be: "Chicago Jewry from Shtetl to Suburbia." The luncheon will begin at noon at the North Shore Chapter office, 3000 N. Dundee Road, Suite 313, Northbrook. Call Elyse at (847) 392-7583.
Golf outing: The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea of Long Grove will host its 14th annual golf outing Sunday, Aug. 30, at the Buffalo Grove Golf Club, 48 Raupp Blvd., Buffalo Grove. First tee off will be at 11:30 a.m. Back this year will be a Handicap Scramble (come as a foursome or the Men's Club will arrange one). In addition to 18 holes of golf with an electric cart, there will be a 7 p.m. dinner at Lou Malnati's in Buffalo Grove. Golfers, nongolfers and businesses can sponsor a hole for $100. The cost for golf and dinner is $95 per person; if you pay by July 30, the cost is $90. Golfers younger than 21 pay $85. Dinner only for adults is $20, $5 for kids. Proceeds from the Memorial Golf Outing go directly to the Jack Rizman Memorial Fund. For details or to register, leave a message for Chuck Walcer at (847) 634-0777.
Holocaust museum: Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will present a docent- led tour of the Illinois Holocaust Museum at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30, at 9600 Woods Drive, Skokie. The cost of the tour is $10 per adult or $8 per senior (age 65+). Space is limited, reservations are required at rsvp@jgsi.org or call (312) 666-0100.
Sept. 6
Book discussion: The public is invited to discuss the book "Predictably Irrational: the Hidden Forces that Shape Our Decisions" by Dan Ariely at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, in Room 6 at Countryside Unitarian Universtalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. In a series of experiments, MIT behavioral economist Dan Ariely refutes the common assumption that we behave in fundamentally rational ways. Blending everyday experience with groundbreaking research, Ariely explains how expectations, emotions, social norms, and other invisible, seemingly illogical forces skew our reasoning abilities and how to break through these systematic patterns of thought to make better decisions. For details, call (847) 359-8440.
Sept. 10
Adult faith formation: CALLED, a two-year program held at Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, begins Thursday, Sept. 10, and will continue on Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. CALLED stands for A community of Adult Lay Leaders Educated toward Discipleship. This Adult faith formation program is for adults seeking knowledge and spiritual growth to more fully live the call to leadership and discipleship. The common bond is willingness to grow in your faith, learn about the teachings of the Catholic Church, and have a desire to develop leadership skills and a commitment to ministry. For more information or to register, contact Dee at (847) 907-3441 or dselesky@holyfamilyparish.org.
Sept. 14
Bible study: "Search for God - Finding God in Difficult Times" will be presented by the Rev. George Kane from 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays Sept. 14, 21, 28 and Oct. 5. Come read, study, appropriate the challenging yet consoling message of the Gospel of Mark. Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness.
Study series: Bible Journey, presented by the Rev. George Kane and Dawn Mayer, will begin the week of Sept. 14 at Holy Family Parish. It will continue through May from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays or 7 -9 p.m. Thursdays. The ongoing series is a combination of lectures and small group discussions. Sessions this year will focus on first generations of believers as they offer their reflections on the life of Jesus, the meaning of discipleship, and the challenges of living in community. There will be a fee for study materials. For more details or to register, contact Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness at (847) 907-3441 or dselesky@holyfamilyparish.org.
Sept. 15
Challah baking: Chabad Women's Circle presents a mothers and daughters Challah baking evening at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook, 755 Huehl Road, Northbrook. Learn the art of classic braiding and some specialties for Rosh Hashana. Suggested donation $8. For details and to RSVP, call Miriam at (847) 564-8770 or visit www.ChabadNorthbrook.com.
Sept. 19
Crafters wanted: St. John United Church of Christ, 1475 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, is seeking exhibitors for its 35th Annual Craft Fair and Flea Market, to be held Sept. 19 on the church grounds at the southwest corner of Algonquin and Roselle roads. Booth reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. (847) 255-2848.
Personal discernment: A Gifted Discovery Lab will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Facilitated by the Gifted Ministry Team - Mimi Ferlita, Irene Wise, Stephen Wise. Many times we ask the question - Why am I here? What is my life's purpose? The Gifted Lab is an opportunity for you to devote six hours to personal discernment of your Gifts. The process will include discernment guided Scripture, new concepts, learning to listen to your own wisdom, sharing with others. To register, contact Dee at (847) 907-3441 or dselesky@holyfamilyparish.org. Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness.
Sept. 26
Marriage encounter: A Marriage Encounter Weekend will be Sept. 26-27 at Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. The Saturday schedule is 7:30-9:30 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (includes Mass.) All are welcome. For details or to register, visit www.holyfamilyparish.org or call (847) 359-0042 or (847) 907-3441.
Oct. 2
Women's conference: The Rev. Patty Pipia will speak at a Women's Leadership Conference, "The Spirit of Leadership Reawakening the Feminine" Oct. 2 and 3. The conference is sponsored by The Present Moment, 521 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, and will be held at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Keynote speaker is Marianne Williamson, best-selling author and internationally acclaimed speaker on spiritual, political and personal issues. For details, visit thespiritofleadership.net.
Oct. 4
Fall fest: St. Alphonsus Liguori will host a Fall Fest and Craft Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, at St. Alphonsus, 411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights. Crafters are needed. The fee is $35 for an 8-by-8 foot space and includes one table and one chair, or $60 for two spaces with two tables and two chairs. Electrical outlets are available upon request. Crafters will be allowed access as early as 7:30 a.m. for setup in the gymnasium. For details, contact Lisa Gould at (847) 644-1914 or Lgould5934@aol.com.
Oct. 14
Farmers market: Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Community is the site of a new weekly farmers market in Northbrook this summer. The market is Wednesdays through Oct. 14 from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. The market features 30 vendors, selling the freshest produce, flowers, organic foods, homemade pet treats, artisan cheeses, toffee and baked goods. There is plenty of free parking, and samples will be available. Consider attending the 8:30 a.m. Mass. A raffle is available each week, with one lucky winner taking home a bag of goodies valued at $75. Our Lady of the Brook is at 3700 Dundee in Northbrook. For details, call (847) 272-5686 or visit www.olbparish.org.
Oct. 16
Catholic festival: The 2009 Catholic Festival of Faith, an opportunity for Catholics to come together to dialogue, exchange ideas and strengthen their faith, will be conducted on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16-17, at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. The Festival will include a wide-range of practical workshops and sessions for teachers, principals and families including such topics as interventions with families in crisis, sexuality of the body for high school students, connecting schools to parish life, using Catholic School Boards effectively and a retreat for second-graders before first Communion. Also, providing important and topical presentations will be experts on ecology, catechesis and the arts, who will talk about many subjects including journaling, understanding "helicopter" parents, and infusing social teaching into curricula. Keynote speakers scheduled to appear at the festival include Chicago native, the Most Rev. Wilton Gregory, archbishop of Atlanta; Fr. Louis J. Cameli, Cardinal's Delegate for Faith and Mission, who has written numerous books on spirituality; the Rev. Guillermo Campuzano, C.M., a Vincentian priest from Colombia, currently teaching at DePaul University and advising the Archdiocesan project for Latino young people; R. James Nicholson, the former U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, along with his wife, Suzanne; and ValLimar Jansen, a singer, cantor and recording artist known for her work with Gospel, contemporary Christian and gospel-jazz style music. Go to catholicfest.org for online registration or to learn more about the 2009 Catholic Festival of Faith. For additional information, call the Catholic Festival of Faith at (312) 534-3100 or e-mail decw@archchicago.org.
Oct. 18
Barrington CROP Walk: Representatives of area churches, schools, businesses and civic organizations are preparing for the 27th annual Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk, determined to improve upon last year's outstanding performance of 442 walkers and more than $65,000 in receipts. The event will take place throughout the village of Barrington, beginning at St. Paul United Church of Christ, 401 E. Main St., with registration at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18. To learn more, contact one of the event chairs, Pat Enders, representing Salem United Methodist Church at (847) 381-0524 or John Grom, representing Community Church of Barrington, at (847) 381-1294.
Ongoing
Food collection: St Paul United Church of Christ is collecting for the Palatine Food Pantry every Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon. The church is at 144 E. Palatine Road in Palatine and any nonperishables would be appreciated especially pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, peanut butter. This Outreach program will run through the end of August. (847) 358-0399.
KinderClub: Christ the King Preschool, 100 W. Michigan Ave., announces "KinderClub," a play and learning program for children ages 5-6 in kindergarten. It will be offered from noon to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Kindergartners have a lunch date and play date with seasonal activities. Cost is $15 per day. Contact Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230 or preschool@ByFaithAlone.org, or visit ByFaithAlone.org.
Shabbat Worship Services: Shabbat worship services are offered at 7:30 p.m. Fridays (Kabbalat Shabbat) and 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Daily minyanim are at 6:15 a.m. Mondays; 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and 9 a.m. Sundays. (847) 634-0777 or BethJudea.org.
Moms Bible Study: The Saturday morning Saint Paul Moms Bible Study would like to welcome new members. The group meets one or two Saturdays per month from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Panera Restaurant on Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. The group is currently studying a book about Christian parenting. For details, contact Jennifer at J-Slate@neiu.edu. St. Paul Lutheran Church is at 100 S. School St., Mount Prospect. saint-paul.org.
Parents Day Out: Fall registration for the 2009-10 Kingswood Parent's Day Out program is under way. Children must be 2 or 3 years of age by Sept. 1, 2009, to enroll. If space permits, children will be accepted during the school year as they reach the age of 2 and 3. Class time is from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Children attend either a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday class. Parents may enroll their child/children for one day per week. Class size is limited to 16 children. The first day of class starts the week of Tuesday, Sept. 1. The monthly tuition fee is as follows: Tuesday-$95, Wednesday-$100, Thursday-$95, Friday-$95. In addition, there is a $25 nonrefundable registration fee. For details, contact Barb Symonds at (847) 398-0770, ext. 16. Kingswood United Methodist Church is at 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove.
Jewish youth programs: Beth Judea offers programs for third-graders through high school students, regardless of their Jewish affiliation. Kadinkers is the youngest youth group and is for students in third through fifth grades. It meets once a month on a Sunday after Sunday school. Yearly dues are $18. Kadima is the youth group for students in sixth through eighth grades. Kadima meets once or twice a month. Yearly dues are $35. United Synagogue Youth is the youth group for all high school students. This teen group meets on a weekly basis for an assortment of activities. Yearly dues are $40. For details on these groups, contact Aaron at (847) 634-0777, ext. 114. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove.
Basic Buddhism classes continue at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church the first Sunday of the month at the church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect. (847) 259-3018.
Tell your story: Writing your story is a new small group at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church in Elk Grove Village that meets the second Wednesday of the month from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at 1400 Arlington Heights Road. Call (847) 439-0668 or e-mail princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net to register. There is no cost to attend. All are welcome.
A free beginning yoga class: From 9 to 10 a.m. Saturdays at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect. Bring your yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. (847) 259-3018.
Jewish Yoga: Jewish Yoga is going strong at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. A class is offered from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Wednesdays. The class is open to nonmembers. Call for pricing details, (847) 459-1677. In addition, a drop-in class is offered from noon to 1:15 p.m. the first Sunday of the month. This class is free with a suggested donation for attendance.
For young families: The Families with Young Children Committee at Congregation Beth Judea will be holding its regular services at 6:30 p.m. the second Friday of the month, with a 30-minute Tot Shabbat session with Debbie Frager, a teacher in the BJE-ECC (Board of Jewish Education Early Childhood Centers), who is also a Beth Judea congregant. The group will then enjoy their own Oneg Shabbat. In addition, Gan Shabbat, a program for children and their families, will meet every Shabbat morning in the Beit Midrash on the Religious School level. This service, specially designed for children ages 9 and younger along with their families, will run from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays. For detail, call (847) 634-0777. Beth Jedea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road
Beth Am Food Pantry's food distribution: Offered the last Sunday of the month from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Nonperishable food donations are always welcome. Congregation Beth Am is at 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. (847) 459-1677.
Rainbows Grief and Support sessions will meet Mondays at 7 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. The classes are for children (as young as preschoolers) and adults who have experienced the loss of a family member through death, divorce, deployment or even absence due to a serious illness. Classes are facilitated by trained adults. For details, call Shirley Laube or Lynn Manning at (847) 253-4839.
St. Edna Church, 2525 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, offers several support groups, including ones for those who have been widowed, a group for mothers who have lost a son or a daughter and a group for those struggling with divorce. (847) 398-3362, ext. 318.
Women's Bible Study: Led by laypersons, meets Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Newcomers welcome. congucc.org or (847) 392-6650.
CoffeeHour is a women's Bible study and outreach of Arlington Countryside Church in Arlington Heights. A variety of studies are offered at different times. For details, visit acchurch.org.