Fox Valley religion notes

To include your church in the free listings, e-mail to foxvalley@dailyherald.com, fax to (847) 608-0849, or mail to 385 Airport Road, Suite A, Elgin IL 60123.

St. Peter: On Sunday, Aug. 16, the Rev. Gerhard Mau preaches on "What Time Is It?" at the 9 a.m. service, led by the praise band, at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 43W301 Plank Road (a quarter-mile east of Route 47) in Hampshire. It will be repeated at the 7:30 p.m. Monday service. On Sunday, the Christian Education Committee hosts an "Idea Sharing Exchange" inviting those involved in teaching Sunday school and in children's ministries to come and share your most successful ideas and learn from others. The event begins at 9 a.m. with guest speaker Katherine Richards speaking from Peace Lutheran Church in Lombard. Call the church office at (847) 464-5721 for details.

Little Saints Preschool is receiving registrations for fall enrollment. Parents' night orientating families of students will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, for the Tuesday/Thursday class and 7 p.m. for the prekindergarten class. Call Kristina at (847) 464-5134 for a tour or for details.

Kneseth Israel: Congregation Kneseth Israel has been serving the Fox River Valley for over 116 years. As a member of United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism, it offers a full range of services: Torah school for prekindergarten to high school, adult education classes, a youth program for age 6 to 12, Sisterhood and Men's Club, and age-based interest groups.

This week's Torah portion is "Re'eh." The service is led by Rabbi Jonathan Kohn in prayer and study. Shabbat services are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the synagogue, 330 Division St. in Elgin. Guests are welcome. Registration is now being taken for the new school year. A Back-to-School family picnic will be held on Sunday, Aug. 23. Guests are welcome. CKI believes that each person can participate in the observance of Shabbat through the use of English, Hebrew, and age-appropriate activities. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit www.ckielgin.org.

Shirat Shalom: Congregation Shirat Shalom, 30W509 Shoe Factory Road in Elgin, offers friendly, participatory Shabbat services at 9:45 a.m. Saturdays and followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Services include a spirited Torah discussion, focusing on the parsha of the week. On Aug. 15, Rabbi Ora Schnitzer will discuss the weekly Torah portion of Re'eh. It is also Birchot Hakodesh. Rosh Hodesh Elul is Thursday, Aug. 20. Moses tells the people that they are being given a choice between blessing if they obey God's commandments and curse if they do not and Moses reviews the commandments that God has given to Israel. On Saturday, Aug. 22, the weekly Torah portion is Shoftim. Moses teaches that the judges must have the ability to remain objective and the strength to refuse bribery. Shirat Shalom will hold High Holiday services beginning Friday, Sept. 18. Ticket information will be on the Web site, CongregationShiratShalom.org on Aug. 27. For details, call (847) 695-6246, e-mail shiratsh@comcast.net, or visit www.CongregationShiratShalom.org

First UMC-Elgin: On Sunday, Aug. 16, the youth group will provide a presentation at the 9 and 11:30 a.m. services at First United Methodist Church at 216 E. Highland in Elgin. The group will give a report on the summer mission trip to an Indian reservation in Wyoming in July. The 9 a.m. service will also have special music by Brian Robery on the pan steel drum and the youth group will provide special music at the 9 a.m. and the 11:30 a.m. services. The Youth Group's Holy Grounds Coffee House will be held at the church from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. The public is invited. At the Coffee House, visit with friends, work on computers, play board games, or do some homework. For details, call (847) 741-0038 or visit www.fumcelgin.org.

St. John: On the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Aug. 16, the Rev. Howard Gleason will preach the sermon, "Sophia," based on Proverbs 9:1-6, at the 9 a.m. service at St. John Lutheran Church, 13N535 French Road in Burlington. The summer schedule includes a 9 a.m. Sunday service and a 7 p.m. Wednesday service. The ladies' annual pie baking project to raise funds for local and distant ministries was a great success again. Nearly 300 pies were baked and sold before the close of the weekend. Thanks to all who helped with the pie baking in any way. They also thank Thrivent who helps ministries such as this by matching funds raised. St. John will begin Sunday school and Sunday morning Bible studies Sunday, Sept. 13. All are welcome from preschool (potty-trained) and up.

The church has paper recycling bins in their parking lot for local residents. For details, call (847) 683-2338 or visit www.stjohnburlington.com.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Aug. 16, First Congregational United Church of Christ of Elgin welcomes the Rev. Pat Lindquist to its pulpit at 8:15 a.m. in the chapel and at 10:15 a.m. in the sanctuary, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Her sermon is titled "Recognizing the Divine in Ordinary Everyday Moments." She is a church member as well as an ordained United Church of Christ minister. Rehabilitation of the exterior of the church is moving quickly. On Rally Day, Sept. 13, the congregation will open the "time capsule" that was hidden in the 1961 education wing cornerstone. New items are being prepared to be placed in the 2009 cornerstone. For details, call the church at (847) 741-4045 or visit www.fcc-elgin.org.

Second Baptist: On Sunday, Aug. 16, the Rev. Nathaniel L. Edmond will deliver the message, "No More Buts," inspired by Exodus 4:1, at the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services at the church, 1280 Summit St. in Elgin. The Male Chorus will perform at both services. Rev. Edmond and the Male Chorus will travel to St. Paul Baptist Church located on Bode Road in Elgin at 3 p.m.

On Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. "Let's Talk: Let Your Voice Be Heard! The Teen Summit" is designed to allow youth ages 12-18, to share in a discussion on selected topics within a group setting. They will have a safe environment to talk and will leave the summit empowered, knowing that today is not the outcome of their future. Teens will have their own space to discuss the things that are important to them, like "How do I communicate with parents or relative caregivers? What are my responsibilities at home? Do I really want a relationship with my biological parents? Is college for me? Call the church office to register or after Sunday services. The program is free; a light continental breakfast will be served. For information, call (847) 695-7757. The Kinship Care Education Symposium will run in conjunction with the Teen Summit. Are you considering taking in a relative? Have you already opened your heart and home to another family member and want to gain a better understanding about your legal and financial rights? The symposium will provide workshops on your legal rights; insurance, school and immunization records; financial support; financial workshops; and mental well-being. Participants will be able to enter the sanctuary anytime during the symposium and pray with the Missionary Prayer Ministry. On Wednesday Bible study will begin at noon followed by Wonderful Wednesday starting at 7 p.m. For details, call (847) 695-7757 or visit www.SBCElginIl.org.

First Congregational: On the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Aug. 16, the Rev. Aaron James, senior pastor, will preach "The Bread from Heaven," based on John 6:51-58, at the 9 a.m. service at First Congregational Church, 900 S. Eighth St. in West Dundee. Larry Dirst will serve as guest piano/organ accompanist. Sunday's Ministry of Music will be a piano and violin duet by sisters, Salina and Charlotte Norman. The religious education ministry will be highlighted during worship. Join them after the service for coffee and fellowship. Back-to-school supplies will be collecting for underprivileged children in the area by the Mission Ministry through Aug. 23. Any school item will be appreciated. Donations, material or monetary, can be dropped off at the church. Your gifts will give many children an opportunity to have a great start on the new school year. Children, age 3 through fifth grade, will begin their worship in the sanctuary with their families at 9 a.m. After the children's message, they will be dismissed to God's Big Backyard for "Fruits of the Spirit." Get on board with the next visit of Thomas the Tank Engine to the Illinois Railway Museum. Help raise money for Habitat for Humanity by working during Thomas' annual stop on Aug. 14-16, 22-23 in Union. The railway museum will donate your wages to Habitat for Humanity. Volunteers, age 16 and older, are needed to help with tickets and story telling, tend crossing gates, serve as a host and much, much more. If you are interested in helping out, visit www.hfhnfv.org. Volunteers also may call Connie Kitzinger of Habitat for Humanity at (847) 836-1432. The church serves dinner at the Community Crisis Center in Elgin on a monthly basis. The next meal will be provided Tuesday, Aug. 18. If you are interested in cooking, donating food, diapers, infant formula or delivering the meals, call the church office. Some menu items need to be prepared while others can be purchased and dropped off at the church. Any help is appreciated by the temporary residents. PADS of Elgin Inc. provides safe shelter, support services and advocacy to homeless individuals in Dundee, Elgin and Hanover townships. Four volunteers, 18 and older, are needed to provide staffing at PADS, 1730 Berkley Street in Elgin, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19. Volunteer by calling the church office. For details, call (847) 426-2161, ext. 210 or visit www.fccdundee.com.

Messiah: Messiah Lutheran Church, 500 Church Road in Elgin, will have the theme "Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life" at the 9:30 a.m. services on Sundays through Aug. 23. The women's group meets at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and the men's group meets at 7 p.m. Thursdays. For details, call the church office at (847) 695-2960.

King of Glory: On Sunday, Aug. 16, King of Glory Lutheran Church, Hopps and Randall roads in Elgin, will observe the 11th Sunday after Pentecost by looking at the theme, "Two Directions" based on John 6:66-69, at the 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. services. They will examine the true Bread of Life, Jesus Christ. The regular weekly worship schedule includes a more traditional style worship at 8:15 a.m. Sundays, as well as a contemporary style worship at 10:45 a.m. led by the praise team singers and band. Adult Bible classes are held every Sunday at 9:20 a.m. On Mondays, join "The Refuge" and connect with God in a different, informal way at 7 p.m. Come for fellowship starting at 6:30 p.m. and enjoy some coffee and snacks before worship. For details, call (847) 931-1520 or visit www.kogonline.org.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Aug. 16, the Rev. Jim Benzing will focus on scripture from Ephesians 5:15-20 at the 10 a.m. service at First Congregational Church, 30 N. Washington St. in Carpentersville. The theme will be "Thanks Any Time, Any Place!" Sunday school is on summer break. Nursery care is available during the service. Registration for its Sunday school program will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Sundays, Aug. 16, 23 and 30. There are no fees for the program, which is designed for children age 3 through seventh grade. It will begin at 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 in the fellowship hall. Youth classes are offered for children attending eighth grade and up. For details, call (847) 428-1712.

St. James Episcopal: On the 11th Sunday After Pentecost, Aug. 16, the Rev. Leigh Vandermeer, guest priest, will be preaching at the 9 a.m. service at St. James Episcopal Church, 516 Washington St., West Dundee. The readings appointed for this week are 1 Kings 2:10-12 and 3:3-14, Psalm 111, Ephesians 5:15-20, and John 6:51-58. The Rev. Don Frye is on vacation from Aug. 6-16. The pastor will be in the office Aug. 21 and 28. To schedule an appointment, call Liz Jackson, parish administrator, at (847) 426-5612. For details, call (847) 426-5612 or visit stjamesdundee.org.

Day of Renewal: Magnificat: A Ministry to Catholic Women McHenry Chapter-Mother of the Eucharist invites you to a Spirit filled Day of Renewal with the world renowned Rev. John H. Hampsch for a special "Generational, Teaching and Healing Mass" on Saturday, Aug. 15, The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15 at The Church of the Holy Apostles, 5211 W. Bull Valley Road, McHenry. Admission is free, but register by calling Catherine at (815) 455-8425. Bring a sack lunch. Ordained in 1952, the Rev. John H. Hampsch is a member of the Claretian Missionaries and is listed in "Who's Who in Religion in America." In his many years of service, Hampsch has seen all aspects of ministry including parish priest, college professor and prison chaplain to name a few. He is known throughout the world for his inspirational teaching and healing services with a special emphasis on Generational Healing. Fr. Hampsch is currently Director of the Claretian Tape (Teaching) Ministry, one of today's largest Catholic communication ministries. He is the author of 17 books and can be seen on his two TV series, "Send Forth Your Spirit" and "Glad You Asked." To learn more about Fr. Hampsch please visit his Web site at www.claretiantapeministry.org.

Mosaic Youth Group: Epworth United Methodist Church's Mosaic Youth Group is open to all kids, seventh to 12th grade. It is designed to give kids a safe place to experience life and friends, as well as a chance to develop a strong Christian understanding of the world. Mosaic Youth Group meets from 1 to 3 p.m. Sundays. Kids are encouraged to bring their friends and neighbors. On Saturday, Aug. 15, attend a Feed My Starving Children event in Aurora; meet at the church at 1 p.m. On Sunday, Aug. 16, enjoy Youth Group Swimming. The venue has yet to be determined; visit www.epworthumcelgin.org, or follow them on Facebook@ Mosaic Youth Group. On Sunday, Aug 23, Epworth UMC will host an outdoor praise worship service and pet blessing. Bring your pets to be blessed and stick around after for a free community picnic. On Sunday, Aug. 30, join a Mosaic Youth Group meeting at Epworth church. They will meet noon to 4 p.m. for food, Bible study and games. Mosaic Youth Group meets each season to plan activities. They welcome any ideas the kids want to share. For details, call the church office at (847) 931-5400. Epworth UMC is at 37W040 Highland Ave. in Elgin. Visit www.epworthumcelgin.org and you can follow church news and happenings on Facebook and Twitter @epworthumcelgin.

Discovery Canyon: Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, 783 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin, will host a vacation Bible school on the theme, "Discovery Canyon: Explore the Wonders of the Word!" from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, and Thursday, Aug. 20; and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 22. A light, drop-in supper will be offered for children and parents at 5:30 p.m. preceding the two evening sessions. All children age 3 through sixth grade are welcome to come, and bring friends. For information, call (847) 741-5124 or visit hacob.org.

Ice cream social: Apostolic Christian Resthaven, 2750 W. Highland Ave., Elgin, will hold its 24th annual ice cream social featuring homemade pies and cakes from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20. For details, call (847) 741-4543.

Teen summit, symposium: Second Baptist church, 1280 Summit St. in Elgin, will host "Let's Talk: Let Your Voice Be Heard! The Teen Summit" from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. It is designed to allow youth ages 12-18, to share in a discussion on selected topics within a group setting. They will have a safe environment to talk and will leave the summit empowered, knowing that today is not the outcome of their future. Teens will have their own space to discuss the things that are important to them, like "How do I communicate with parents or relative caregivers? What are my responsibilities at home? Do I really want a relationship with my biological parents? Is college for me?" A Kinship Care Education Symposium will run in conjunction with the Teen Summit. The symposium is for those who are considering taking in a relative or have already opened their home to another family member. It will give you a better understanding about your legal and financial rights. The symposium will provide workshops on your legal rights; details on insurance, school and immunization records; tips on financial support and budgeting; and maintaining your mental well-being. Participants will be able to enter the sanctuary anytime during the symposium and pray with the Missionary Prayer Ministry. Call the church office to register or after Sunday services. The program is free; a light continental breakfast will be served. For information, call (847) 695-7757. Visit www.SBCElginIl.org.

Praise, pets and picnic: On Sunday, Aug. 23, join Epworth United Methodist Church for an outdoor praise worship, pet blessings and community picnic at 10:30 a.m. under the big tent. Enjoy the fun and free food. Free pet blessings will be offered at this time and all pets and owners are welcome. Ensure that your pet is properly leashed or crated. After the service's conclusion, Epworth UMC will host a community picnic, with games, activities and fun for all ages. Lunch will be provided and all are invited. Epworth UMC is at 37W040 Highland Ave., on the northwest corner of Randall Road and Highland Avenue in Elgin. Visit www.epworthumcelgin.org.

Pig roast: St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church will hold a pig roast from 2 to about 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, at the church, 14N205 Reinking Road in Pingree Grove. It also will feature applesauce, baked beans, slaw, kraut, desserts and beverages. Tickets are $6 for adults or $5 for children. A moonwalk, hot dogs and gifts will be available for children in attendance. Carry-outs are available. For details, call (847) 464-5721.

Church history: The youth of Community United Methodist Church in South Elgin are looking for historical information. They will be leading worship at 9 a.m. Aug. 30. The theme of the service will be the United Methodist heritage. They are asking anyone who has information, historical documents, or photos from the church's past (back to the church's founding in1892 if possible). Any information received would be appreciated in helping put together a meaningful service of celebration. Call the church at (847) 931-0563 or send info to cumcsouthelgin@sbcglobal.net.

Financial workshop: Did you know that there are over 800 scriptures that deal with money in the Bible? Congregational Church of Algonquin, 109 Washington St., will offer a workshop with Financial Peace University teaches how to make the right decisions with your money. You will learn practical skills and confidence needed to achieve your financial goals and experience financial peace. Dave Ramsey is an entertaining educator. He will lead the group in tried methods of finding peace with finances in these trying times. Classes will be $93 per family to participate and begin Sept. 15. For details, call the church office at (847) 658-5308.

"Whole Day of Holy Play": Church Women United of the Barrington Area invites all women to a "Whole Day of Holy Play" from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10 at Techny Towers in Northbrook. Candee Nustra, CWU president, describes the day, "Based on the Biblical story of Queen Esther, who really knew how to play, we will explore how we, as women of God, may play, be pampered, love our sisters and serve our God by serving others!" For complete information see downloadable details at churchwomenunited.freehostia.com, contact any Church Women United representative or call Community Church of Barrington at (847) 381-1294.

Holiday in the Halls: Crafters wanted for the St. Thomas More School annual craft fair and bake sale, "Holiday in the Halls" from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7. The event will be held at the school, 1625 W. Highland Ave., Elgin. There will be more than 80 booths. For booth information, contact Laura Przybylski at (847) 888-4363.

Register at Good Shepherd: Good Shepherd Lutheran School, 1111 Van St. in Elgin, is accepting applications for enrollment for the 2009-10 school year. Good Shepherd will offer kindergarten to fifth grade at 1111 Van St. The preschool is located at its Nesler Road and Route 20 location and offers programs for both 3- and 4-year-olds. Before-school care is available for preschool and after-school care is available at both sites. Church membership is not required. Information and registration for the school will be held, along with meeting of teachers and tours of the school. Also learn about the all-day kindergarten program. To schedule a tour or for details, contact the school office at (847) 741-7795 or the preschool office at (847) 697-4745.

Angel Food Ministries: Hunger is a very real problem in this nation - each year over 5 million Americans face life without adequate food. With today's economic challenges, many ordinary families have fallen on hard times and just need a little help to make ends meet while they get back on their feet. That's where Angel Food Ministries can make the difference. Angel Food is a nationwide program offering low-cost food relief to anyone in need. However, Angel Food Ministries is available to everyone that wishes to order. Orders are usually due midmonth with delivery usually the last Saturday of each month about 9:30 a.m. If you or someone you know needs help - Angel Food is here for you. For details, including what is available and the cost, visit www.angelfoodministries.com and type in the ZIP code 60120, select Community of Christ Church or call (847) 741-1366 to leave a message. Your call will be returned. Community of Christ, 1675 E. Chicago St. in Elgin, is participating in this program to provide food assistance to families across America. For details, visit elgin.chicagomissioncenter.org.

School registration: St. John's Lutheran School, 300 Jefferson St. in Algonquin, is now accepting kindergarten through eighth grade day school registration for the 2009-10 school year. St. John's Day School offers an all-day kindergarten program and first- through eighth-grade classes. St. John's School Program offers core subjects as well as computers, art, music, band, chapel and physical education. The program is complemented by after school extracurricular programs including art classes, chess club, foreign language classes, scouting programs and sports programs including: soccer, volleyball, basketball and pep squad. St. John's also offers BASS (Before and After School Services) program for all enrolled students. It has limited class sizes and acceptance is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Enrollment is open to the community and is not limited to church members. St. John's is located in downtown Algonquin, just 1 block west of route 31. For information or to enroll your child contact St. John's school office (847) 658-9311 or via email at stjohns@covad.net.

Register for school: St. Laurence School, 572 Standish St. in Elgin, is now accepting registration for kindergarten for the 2009-10 school year. It offers a full day kindergarten with a comprehensive curriculum, small class size and experienced teachers. St. Laurence School is accredited by the state of Illinois and the Diocese of Rockford. They offer classes from preschool through the eighth grade. To learn more about the school or make an appointment for a personal tour, call the school office at (847) 468-6100. Visit stlaurenceschool.com.

Preschool at Light of Christ: Light of Christ Preschool, 100 Hanson Road, Algonquin, is continuing enrollment for the 2009-2010 school year. A new curriculum is being offered for children ages 3-5. Enrichment program with lunch also available. Visit locpreschool.com or contact Preschool Director Michele Niehoff at (658)-0955 for information.

Register for Griffin school: Griffin Christian School, a ministry of Fox Valley Baptist Church, is now accepting enrollments in all grades for the 2009-10 school year. The school, located at 16N562 Vista Lane in East Dundee, is for preschool through 12th grade. They offer a full, Bible-based academic schedule, along with classes in art, music, computer skills, gym, and several foreign languages. After school care is also available. The preschool program is for both 3- and 4-year-olds. Parents will be able to choose between a two-day or a five-day program, either mornings or full day. The kindergarten program is either mornings or full day. Both programs feature early learning activities with a low student-to-teacher ratio, and include phonics-based reading instruction. The elementary program is a multi-age class, but with traditional classroom instruction and a phonics-based reading program. The middle and high school programs use a technology based individualized program, utilizing the latest in computer technology to assist in the learning process and prepare students for the modern collegiate experience. For several of their subjects the middle and high school use an online curriculum with real time assistance, where each student can complete his subjects with lessons specifically tailored to his needs. Traditional classroom instruction in several subjects is also included. For details, or to make an appointment to visit the school, call (847) 428-5413 or visit griffinchristianschool.org.