Northwest suburban religion notes
Deadline for submissions is noon Monday. Due to space limitations, not all "Your Faith" items are listed here. To submit items, send them to faith@dailyherald.com.
Synagogue membership: Congregation Beth Judea (Conservative), Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, is now accepting synagogue membership registration, Sunday and Hebrew School registration, as well as "Jewish University" Class registration (grades 8-12), and membership in the various youth groups. For more information, contact Executive Director Lisa Neiman, Education Director Anna Besser, or Youth irector Aaron Polansky at the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 or check out Beth Judea's Web site at bethjudea.org.
Catholic inquiry: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults process, will begin new inquiry sessions on Tuesday evenings, at 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Ministry Center, at St Hubert Church, 729 Grand Canyon, in Hoffman Estates. These sessions are open to all adults who have never been baptized and would like to investigate what the Catholic faith is all about, or who have been baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition and would like to come and learn what the Catholic community believes, or Catholics who were baptized but never brought up in the faith and would like to get back to their roots and prepare themselves for the other sacraments of initiation: Eucharist and Confirmation. After the inquiry sessions, individuals can choose to continue in the process toward full membership in the Catholic Church. There also are RCIA classes for children. To learn more, call (847) 885-7700, ext. 124.
Aug. 21
Outdoor family service: Beth Tikvah Congregation will hold a special Shabbat Outdoor Family Service and Picnic Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. The service will be held at the Village Green area at Prairie Stone on the west side of Hoffman Estates off Higgins Road. The service will begin at 6, followed by your own picnic dinner. For more information or directions to the Village Green, contact the Temple office at (847) 885-4545. Beth Tikvah Congregation is at 300 Hillcrest Blvd.,
High Holy Days: Anshe Tikvah will have High Holy Days at Stevenson High School - Performing Art Center in Lincolnshire. Cantor Rob Jury will be spiritual leader and choir members from Chicago Symphony Choir will be featured. Rosh Hashana is Sept. 18-20 and Oct. 1; Yom Kippur is Sept. 28. Tickets are available. For details, call (847) 917-7726 or visit www.anshetikvah.org. Anshe Tikvah celebrates Shabbat at 6 p.m. Aug. 21 and 28 at Hawthorne School, 200 Glendale, Wheeling. First year of religious school is free with new membership.
Aug. 22
Summer schedule: Summer Saturday Eucharists at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 337 Ridge Road, Barrington Hills, will be at 5 p.m. Saturdays, Aug. 22.
Sacred dance: A workshop for those interested in exploring and developing material for sacred and liturgical dance will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at The South Church, 501 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect. This choreography workshop for your BodySpirit is presented by The Sacred Dance Guild. Participants will be offered time to develop their ideas for solo and group possibilities. No dance experience is necessary to participate in this workshop. Registration is $30. Checks should be made out to "The Sacred Dance Guild" and can be mailed to: The South Church, att.: Angela Nicolosi, 501 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect, IL 60056. For details or to register, contact Rick Kesler at rkesler@thesouthchurch.com or call (847) 253-0501
Renewal service: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a renewal service at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. Experience spiritual renewal through prayer and meditation. For details, visit stphilip.info.
Aug. 23
Membership picnic: Beth Tikvah Congregation invites both members and nonmembers to their Annual Summer Membership Picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23 on the grounds of the temple located at 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates. There will be lots of activities including sand art, volleyball and other games, a moonwalk, dunk tank, bingo and much more. Games for children and adults. Lunch and dessert will be served from noon to 1:30 p.m. For information, call the temple office at (847) 885-4545 or go to beth-tikvah.org.
Corn fest: Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1116 E. Devon Ave., Bartlett, will hold its second annual "Real Thing" Corn Fest from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. In addition to fresh sweet corn from O'Leary Farms in Marengo, roasted corn and bratwurst sandwiches will also be for sale. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Immanuel's partnership with Voice of Care ministry to special-needs children and their families and other ministry projects in the community. After the sale at 3 p.m., the Rev. Don Kretzschmar, executive director of Voice of Care, will conduct the first monthly worship service for special-needs children and their caregivers. Voice of Care will continue to conduct these services the fourth Sunday of every month at Immanuel. In addition to developing a ministry of worship and support for families of special-needs children, Immanuel will establish respite care training opportunities from Marklund Children's Home in Bloomingdale. For details, call Immanuel at (630) 837-1166.
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. A back-to-school picnic will be Sunday, Aug. 23, at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit ckielgin.org.
Summer picnic: Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd. in Hoffman Estates, will have its annual Summer Picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. There is no charge to attend and there will be activities and games for all ages, including volleyball, a dunk tank, bingo, sand art, a moonwalk and more. Lunch and dessert is served beginning at noon. Come and meet the staff, including the Rabbi Marc Covitz and Cantorial Soloist Ilana Axel.
Summer concert: Our Lady of the Brook Catholic Church will host an afternoon of music, open to the public, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. Sopranorama is a unique summer concert event. Sopranos Jessica Koch and Lisa Maatouk-Blackwelder will present an hour of classical music for sopranos, including selections by Vivaldi, Mozart, Schumann, Puccini, Bizet and Barber. Free. A freewill collection will be taken, with proceeds benefiting Our Lady of the Brook Parish. Our Lady of the Brook Parish is at 3700 Dundee Road in Northbrook. For details, call (847) 272-5686 or visit www.olbparish.org.
Church picnic: The community is welcome to join in celebration of 50 years of Grace Lutheran Church at the church picnic at 11:45 a.m. Sunday Aug. 23. The church is at 1624 E. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect. No ticket needed. For details, call (847) 824-7408
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.
Organ Concert: Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 Goebbert St., Arlington Heights, will host an organ concert by Choirmaster Daniel Trzeciak at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 23. Freewill offering will be received to benefit the food pantry.
Snapshots of God's Kingdom: Beginning Sunday, Aug. 23, and continuing each Sunday through Sept. 6, at Prince of Peace UMC. The Rev. Hwa-Young Chong will deliver a sermon series titled "Snapshots of God's Kingdom." The sermons will explore Jesus' teachings about God's Kingdom and why this kingdom will change and benefit our lives. This sermon series is open to all, either during the contemporary service at 9 a.m. or the traditional service at 10:30 a.m. Prince of Peace Church is at the corner of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village.
Aug. 24
School enrollment: St. Thomas of Villanova School in Palatine is still accepting enrollment in all grades, preschool - eighth, for the 2009-10 school year. An open house for preschool and kindergarten will be held beginning at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24. The school is located in Winston Park at 1141 E. Anderson Drive. For information, call the school office at (847) 358-2110.
Real Faith: Pastor Tim Haugen will speak on the subject "Wise Surrender," the sixth in the series titled Real Faith Shows Up, at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Aug. 23, at Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Nursery and toddler care (newborn through age 3) will be available during both services. Children's Church (grades 1 through 6) will be held during the 9 a.m. service only. On Wednesday, Aug. 26, the weekly Corporate Prayer service will be held at 6:30 p.m. On Thursday, Aug. 27, a meeting for women will be held at 7 p.m. to discuss a book by Elizabeth E. Prentiss, "Stepping Heavenward." (847) 255-8764. Meadowsfamily.org.
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 to 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
Workshop: A one-day workshop about evangelism and discipleship will be presents Saturday, Aug. 29, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines. The day starts at 9 a.m. with a continental breakfast, then registration followed with the program and worship service. Preregistration is $12.50 or $15 at the door. The workshop is sponsored by the Metropolitan Chicago Diakonia and presented by members of the Seeking Revival Team. For more information, contactseekingrevival.org.
Electronics recycling: First Congregational United Church of Christ of Des Plaines will host two electronics recycling drop-off sessions to help offset the cost of sending several church members to New Orleans this fall to aid Hurricane Katrina rebuilding efforts. The community is encouraged to drop off unwanted electronics at the church, 766 Graceland Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 29, and Saturday, Sept. 25. The minimum recycling donation is $10. Accepted items include personal computer systems, keyboards, mice, power cords, monitors, speakers, printers and scanners. Televisions made by Sony, LG, Goldstar and Zenith also will be accepted. (847) 299-5561.
Rite of Healing: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will offer the Rite of Healing during the 5:30 p.m. contemporary service Saturday, Aug. 29, and during the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Aug. 30. (847) 827-6656.
Blessing Backpacks: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will offer its annual Blessing of the Backpacks during the 5:30 p.m. contemporary service Saturday, Aug. 29, and during the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Aug. 30. Backpacks, briefcases and satchels will be blessed. (847) 827-6656.
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
Shofar factory: Join in for a hands-on, preholiday experience for the entire family from 11 a.m. to noon Sunday, Aug. 30, at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook, 755 Huehl Road, Northbrook. Craft a genuine shofar from a raw horn as you learn the entire process from the cleaning to the final polishing. Learn the skill of blowing the shofar. The cost is $8 per child (shofar included). RSVP by calling (847) 564-8770. For details, visit ChabadNorthbrook.com.
Family Movie Night: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a Family Movie Night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30. Refreshments included. Free. For details, visit stphilip.info.
Ice cream social: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host an ice cream social from 9:30-10 a.m. (between services) Sunday, Aug. 30. Free. For details, visit stphilip.info.
Membership luncheon: Author and tour guide Dr. Irving Cutler will speak at the annual membership luncheon of the Northwest Chapter Hadassah 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.
Community picnic: St. Peter Lutheran Church and School Community Picnic will be held at noon Sunday, Aug. 30, preceded by an outdoor church service at 11 a.m. on the church grounds at 111 W. Olive Arlington Heights. There will be a car wash, petting zoo, pony rides, children's games, bingo, food tent, and corn roast. Come one, come all - for worship, fun, food and fellowship.
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
Music for children: Kindermusik Northwest, an early childhood music and movement program for youngsters ages 7 and younger, will be offering classes at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights, beginning in September through April 2010. Classes will be offered four days a week to families with young children. For details on the program, visitkidsnmusik.com.
Sept. 1
Exploring Christian Scriptures: Overview of the Christian Scriptures explores the Gospels, Letters, History (Book of Acts), and Apocryphal literature (Book of Revelation) in the New Testament. This five-week class series will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, can be taken for SEE Credit. The Rev. Diane Venzera facilitates. Required course materials are The Bible (New Revised Standard Version required. New Interpreter's Study Bible, published by Abingdon, highly recommended.), and the class workbook - $10. Registration is required; call (847) 297-0997 to register.
Sept. 2
Golf event: The 1st First United Methodist Church Golf Event will take place Wednesday, Sept. 2, at Rob Roy Golf Course in Prospect Heights. All proceeds from this year's outing will go toward the church's many missions. The cost for a round of golf, with a cart, boxed lunch, catered dinner with silent auction, prizes, and awards presentation is $75 per person. Guests can join the dinner and silent auction for only $20. To register for the event or for more information, contact Lee Saip, coordinator, at (630) 715-9160. First United Methodist Church is at 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, (847) 255-5112, fumcah.com
Sept. 3
Finding Strength exhibit: Holy Family Catholic Community will host a 35-piece photo narrative exhibit provided by Wellness Place in September, October and November. The photos will be located all around the building in groupings of three to four photos. The official opening of the exhibit will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3. Representatives from Wellness Place will offer a presentation about the programs available to people with cancer, their family members, friends and caregivers through the local American Cancer Society and Wellness Place. In addition to the exhibit, several evenings are also planned: "What to do When Someone You Love Has Cancer" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14; Mass of anointing for all those who suffer from cancer of chronic illness at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19; and "Caring for the Caregiver" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18. Holy Family Parish is at 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. For details, call (847) 359-0042 or visit holyfamilyparish.org.
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 Universalist 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. 9
Women's Bible study: St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 24500 N. Old McHenry Road, Hawthorn Woods, will offer a Women's Fall Bible Study on the book "The Faith" by Charles Colson. The 12-session series will be led by instructor Georgeanna Guritz, member of The Village Church of Barrington. Classes will run from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 9 to Nov. 25, in St. Matthew's Conference Room. "The Faith" will be available for purchase the first night of class. Child care will be provided. St. Matthew is on Old McHenry Road, between Quentin and Midlothian roads. For details or to register, call Kay Lattanzi at (847) 540-1155.
Women's Bible study: Beth Moore Bible Study, "A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place," will be offered at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Barrington. The 10-week study begins Wednesday, Sept. 9, at the church, 720 Dundee Ave. The study will meet from 9:30-11 a.m. weekly on Wednesdays through Nov. 11. It will be led by St. Matthew's Lay Minister Sue Mullen. Child care will be provided. There is a $20 fee for book/study materials. To register, visit stmatthewbarrington.org or call (847) 382-7002.
Unity World Day of Prayer: On Thursday, Sept. 10, thousands of people around the world will once again join with Unity Churches and Prayer Groups in a sacred partnership of prayer - the 16th annual Unity World Day of Prayer. Unity Northwest Church will participate by holding a special Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Wednesday Sept. 9. This will begin a 24-hour prayer vigil held at the church, 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. (847) 297-0997.
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 to 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. 11
Revival: Living Christ Lutheran Church in Hanover is having a "Revival in Hanover Park" Sept. 11-13. The theme is "Fan the Flame in Me." On Friday, Sept. 11, there will be a Youth Rally with Live Band, led by the Rev. Frank Dominowski. The schedule Saturday, Sept. 12, includes: 9:30 a.m. Prayer Breakfast; 1-2:15 p.m., Prayer Workshop, Discipleship Workshop, Faith Workshop in Spanish; 2:15-3:30 p.m., Budgeting on a Low Income, Kids Club Registration; 3:30-4:15 p.m., Prayer Workshop, Discipleship Workshop, Faith Workshop in Spanish; 4:30-5 p.m., Children's Time with Pastor Dave, Drawing for Door Prizes; 5 p.m., Revival Service led by the Rev. Larry Clark, Handbell Choir and Praise Musicians. Following the service there will be a sloppy Joe dinner and dessert. At 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, there will be a Revival Service led by the Rev. Mary Frances; a potluck luncheon at noon; and at 2 p.m. a Revival Service in Spanish led by Capt. Enrique Azuaje. Throughout the day on Saturday there will be community resources, live Christian music, free food, games, prizes, a Moonwalk and clowns. Living Christ Lutheran Church is at 1402 Arlington Drive, Hanover Park.
Sept. 12
Flute and guitar concert: Enjoy an exquisite blending of flute and guitar music while supporting a newly independent Hispanic church. Barrington United Methodist Church Missions presents Belinda C. King and Steve Vazquez in a Flute and Guitar Concert, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59) in Barrington. This special mission concert celebrates the success of Bethel United Methodist Church, a "Harvest 2020" church, which has been worshipping at Barrington United Methodist Church for nearly a decade and is transitioning to a new church home in Carpentersville. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Bethel UMC will provide refreshments characteristic of Puerto Rico and Mexico, and an opportunity to socialize before this special evening of Spanish music. A freewill offering will be taken during intermission to benefit Bethel Church. (847) 836-5540. BarringtonUMC.com
Penitential Prayers: Selichot, or Penitential Prayers, are recited beginning the Saturday night before Rosh Hashana and last for four days. Congregation Beth Judea, will be holding a Selichot Dessert Reception/ Social Hour in the synagogue's Social Hall at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. A Selichot Service will follow at 10:30 p.m. in the Main Sanctuary. As is the custom, all services at Beth Judea, except for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, are open to the entire community. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777, BethJudea.org.
Bible study: St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church, 411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights, will offer Bible Study programs this fall. Two programs are planned: The Great Adventure: A Journey Through the Bible is a 24-session Catholic study program of 73 books of the Bible. It will be offered Tuesday mornings at 9 a.m., and also on Thursday evenings. The program includes a video lecture by Jeff Cavins, with classroom discussion. The fee for a workbook and study aids is $45, and the classes begin Tuesday, Sept. 15. Acts of the Apostles is a 20-session study program, studying the spread of the church from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. This class is recommended for those who already have an overall knowledge of the Bible. It will be offered three times each week: on Tuesday afternoons, and Wednesday mornings and evenings. It begins Tuesday, Sept. 15. The program includes a video lecture by Jeff Cavins, with classroom discussion. Participants' workbook costs $30. Participants may attend a preview and registration program at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, or at 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. Information and registration are also available through the parish rectory at (847) 255-7452. Questions can be directed to Joanne Twomey. saintalphonsus.com.
Sept. 13
Rally Day: Join Rally Day Sunday, Sept. 13, at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine. The worship service will be outside at 10:30 a.m. followed by the festivities at 11:30 a.m. There will be live music, games, prizes, relay races, contests, water balloon toss, face painting, hot dogs, popcorn, frozen treats, a "moonwalk" and other surprises. Stop by the Sunday school rooms to register and meet your teachers. (847) 358-4600.
Rally Day show: The Third Annual Rally Day Car/Bike/Motorcycle Show & Craft/Vendor Fair will be held on Sunday, Sept. 13 at Christus Victor Lutheran Church,1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. Craft/Vendor Fair & Children's Activities will be from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Car Show will be from noon to 3 p.m. Cars, motorcycles and bikes wanted to participate. Children's bike entry fee is free; car entry fee is $15; and motorcycle entry fee is $10. This free family event is open to the public. (847) 437-2666
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. 18
Drum Circle: All are invited at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, to Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, to join a Drum Circle. Bring your own drum or percussive instrument or not (they will be provided), and experience an amazing change in consciousness and personal vibration. The drum circle offers equality because there is no head or tail. It includes people of all ages. The main objective is to share rhythm and get in tune with self and with each other.
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. 20
Children's programs: Those whose children are between the ages of 3 and 6 and are looking for a progressive spiritual education for them are invited to check out Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. Classes begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. For registration information, contact Colleen Vahey at (847) 359-8440, ext. 4, or visit ccuu.org.
Sept. 22
Hebrew literacy: The Men's Hebrew Literacy Class will be held on Tuesday nights from 8 to 9 p.m. The dates are: Sept. 22 and 29; Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27; Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24; Dec. 1 and 8. "Graduation" will be at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18. In this beginner's class, instructors Howie Goodman and Sandy Victor will teach you how to read Hebrew regardless of your level of previous instruction, through a 12-week program from the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs. The class is open to any adult. The cost is $30, which includes the "Shalom Aleichem" textbook, payable to the Beth Judea Men's Club. To register, contact the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.
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 holyfamilyparish.org or call (847) 359-0042 or (847) 907-3441.
Sept. 27
Zen And The Art of Piano Music: Will Tuttle, Ph.D., a pianist, composer, educator, and author based in Northern California, will be at Unity Northwest Church at 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, Sunday, Sept. 27, and Monday, Sept. 28. A former Zen monk and philosophy professor, Dr. Tuttle has performed and lectured widely throughout North America and Europe. Tuttle's Monday workshop, at 7 p.m., "Opening The Intuitive Gate," an exploration of "the inner realms of intuitive imagery, opens doors into the art of meditative listening and transmits healing energy, peace, and joy into the world." The Sunday evening piano concert, at 7 p.m., "Concert For A New World," will be an inspiring and uplifting instrumental prayer for world peace and for celebrating the beauty of the earth and the potential of the human spirit. He will also perform two solo piano pieces at the church's 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, as well as presenting the meditation and the morning message, "Awakening Your Inner Genius." Appointments are also available early in the week for individuals or couples who would like to have their own personalized music and art portraits done. The workshop and concert are free, though an offering will be collected at each. For information on Dr. Will Tuttle's visit, call (847) 297-0997.
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. 3
Crafters wanted: Community Presbyterian Church, 407 N. Main St. Mount Prospect, will hold its annual Fall Arts and Craft Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct 3. Crafters are needed for this event. Vendor 8-foot-long tables are $30 each or two for $50. No jewelry. For details, call (847) 392-3111.
Crafters wanted: Crafters and artists are wanted for PumpkinFest 2009 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. Call (847) 439-0668 or visit princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net for an application.
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. 10
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 http://churchwomenunited.freehostia.com/ or call Community Church of Barrington, (847) 381-1294.
Crafters wanted: The United Methodist Women of Kingswood UMC in Buffalo Grove is seeking crafters of all types for the church's fall Harvest Fest Fair Saturday, Oct. 10. The fair will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with set up beginning at 8:30 a.m. Items for sale should be handmade. The cost is $25 per 8-foot table space, which includes two chairs. Additional tables are $5 each. Lunch will be available for purchase. The church is at 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. For details and an application, call Arleen Messina at (847) 537-1441 or the church office at (847) 398-0770.
Oct. 12
Columbus Day celebration: The Holy Rosary Council of the Knights of Columbus is having its second annual procession to the park Monday, Oct. 12, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 15 N. Hickory in Arlington Heights. The schedule will be: 8 a.m. Mass; 9 a.m. coffee and rolls; 10 a.m. procession to the park; 11 a.m. rosary at the park; noon dismissal from the hall.
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. to 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 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.
Oct. 24
Arts & crafts: Immanuel United Church of Christ is seeking crafters for 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.