NW suburban religion notes

Deadline for submissions is noon Monday. To submit items, e-mail faith@dailyherald.com, or send fax to (847) 427-1301.

Stained glass windows: The Altar Guild of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, has commissioned a 64-page hardcover book about the church's stained glass windows. These books might be purchases after services Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. or Sundays after the 8 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. services in the church office. Donation is $25. (847) 827-6656.

Nov. 13

CKI: Congregation Kneseth Israel, 330 Division St., Elgin, will have Friday Night Darfur Discussion Nov. 13; Junior Congregation Saturday, Nov. 14; USY Dinner Nov. 14; 50s Club Dinner and Play Nov. 14; Hadassah visit to The Holocaust Museum Sunday, Nov. 22; Interfaith Thanksgiving Program Nov. 22; Hanukkah Bazaar Nov. 22 to Dec. 13; and USY Turkey Dance Wednesday, Nov. 25. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit ckielgin.org.

Fish fry: Christian Tabernacle Men's Ministry will host a Fish Fry at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov 13, at 100 S. Park St., Roselle.

Mommy Loves Me: Nancy Reimann, mom of two, business owner and former sales and marketing trainer, will share what she has learned about the foundational building blocks for loving your kids and the difference it has made in her family. Reimann will offer ideas on how to genuinely express love and strengthen family relationships. The program will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 13, with continental breakfast at 9 a.m. and program starting at 9:30 a.m. at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 751 W. Army Trail, Bartlett. Admission is $5. Free child care is available by reservation. Register by Monday, Nov. 9, to Dee Oyler at (847) 429-1688 or dolores.oyler@sbcglobal.net

Bumping into God: Married Couples, come to experience "Bumping into God in Marriage" presented by Father Dominic Grassi at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, at St. Hubert Parish Ministry Center, 729 Grand Canyon, Hoffman Estates. It will be a wonderful evening of getting in touch with God's presence in your marriage. Fr. Dominic is a wonderful storyteller and author several books, including the Bumping into God series of finding God in unexpected places. Call the parish office to register: (847) 885-7700.

Drum Circle: Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, will have a Drum Circle at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13. Bring your own drum or percussive instrument or they will be provided. The main objective is to share rhythm and get in tune with self and with each other.

Nov. 14

Book talk: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine, will present a discussion of the best-selling novel "The Shack" by Wm. Paul Young from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 14. This novel tries to answer the perennial question: Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain? (847) 359-3451.

Blood drive: Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett will host a community Blood Drive from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 14. Heartland Blood Centers will sponsor the event. For an appointment, call Holly Gould at (224) 238-3093. Walk-ins are welcome. Living Lord Church is located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

Financial workshop: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will present a free Economic and Investment Workshop from 9:30-11:30 Saturday, Nov. 14. For details, call (847) 998-1947 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Retreat: St. Cecilia Parish invites all to a half-day retreat: "Table Fellowship of Jesus in the New Testament ­- What Does it Mean?" from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 14, in the Parish Center, 700 S. Meier Road, Mount Prospect. The retreat will be led by Fr. Bill Burton, who will explore what Jesus taught by sharing a meal with non-Jews or those considered inferior and what we can learn from these teachings. A light breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. To register, call (847) 437-6208, by Wednesday, Nov. 11. There will be a freewill offering.

Fall Festival of Song: The Lutheran Choir of Chicago will present its free annual Fall Festival of Song Concert at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Elk Grove Village at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Guest clinician will be Dr. Craig Arnold, director of choral activities, conductor of the Nordic Choir and professor of music at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Arnold will direct a mass choir represented by The Lutheran Choir of Chicago and area churches, including Christus Victor's own Chancel Choir. The morning of Nov. 14 will be devoted to the Director's Clinic. Christus Victor Lutheran Church, an ELCA congregation, is at 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road. For details, call (847) 437-2666 or visit www.ChristusVictorEGV.org

Craft fair: The Second Annual South Church Craft & Vendor Fair is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Call (847) 253-0501 or e-mail mciske@earthlink.net for details. The South Church is located at 501 S. Emerson, Mount Prospect.

Mug 'n' Muffin: Ladies are invited to Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, Saturday, Nov. 14, anytime between 7 and 11 a.m. for an opportunity to get to know some other ladies. Bring a mug and a friend. Your choice of coffee, tea or hot chocolate and a muffin will be provided. (847) 255-8764.

Journey of Faith: On Sunday, Nov. 14, Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will continue a Journey of Faith for first-graders in the Stepping Stone Ministry - My Prayer Life. Children and parents walk a prayer labyrinth that leads them through hands-on stations that teach them about each petition of the Lord's Prayer.

Fundraiser: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, is participating in Carson's Community Day on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Randhurst. Coupon booklets are available for $5 at the church office or by calling Linda at (847) 827-6656.

Day of Prayer: Arise! Cry Out!, a nationwide day of prayer sponsored by Moms in Touch International, will be hosted from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, This event will take place at more than 600 sites internationally. Women of all faiths are invited to join together to pray for children. It is possible to register by visiting www.momsintouch.org, but walk-ins are welcome. A $5 contribution to defray costs is suggested, but not mandatory. For details, call Margie Mayfield at (847) 253-4919 or Deb Hallman at (847) 394-0553.

For women: A Women's Day of Reflection, sponsored by Our Lady of the Brook and St. Norbert parishes, will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 at Techny Towers, 2001 Waukegan Road. Lunch is included. Guest speaker Bridget Sperduto will present "Finding the Invitation to God in your Everyday Life." Registration is $40. Payment can be sent to Our Lady of the Brook, 3700 Dundee Road, Northbrook, IL 60062. For details, call Sandy at (847) 714-9428 or Maureen at (847) 498-5229. olbparish.org.

Nov. 15

Concert: The Midwest Chamber Strings (Taka Matsunaga, music director) holds its sixth Concert in the Fall on Sunday, Nov. 15, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. Doors open at 2 p.m., with the performance starting at 2:30 p.m. Featured music will include Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings, Grieg Two Elegiac Melodies, Anderson Fiddle-Faddle, Corelli Concerto Grosso No. 10, and more. The 59 members of the group consists of a various range of ages from 9 years old to adults including 15 contracted professional musicians. A party will be held after the concert at the church. The public is welcome. The advance ticket purchase is $8 ($10 at the door), and free for kids under 5. For more details, call Midwest Conservatory of Music at (847) 312-3690 or visit the Web site at www.midwestconservatory.com.

Drum circle: Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, managed by Christ Community Mennonite Church, will sponsor a drumming circle at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. Registered music therapist Rita Lopienski of Bartlett will present drums from around the world and their use in different cultures and religious groups, and how they are used for healing, stress reduction, creative expression and spirituality. For details, call (847) 895-3676.

Lessons on the Episcopal church: On Nov. 15 and 22, The Rev. David Gibbons will be leading lessons about the Episcopal Church, its roots, history, worship and structure. The forum will be between the 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. services at St. Mark's Church, 337 Ridge Road, Barrington Hills.

Book sale: Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd. in Hoffman Estates, will host a Used Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15.

Gymnastics outing: Congregation Beth Judea's Youth Group, Kadima (sixth- to eighth-graders), will be going to the American Academy of Gymnastics Sunday, Nov. 15. They will meet immediately after Hebrew School in the Beth Judea Youth Lounge. They will leave at noon and be back at the synagogue by 3 p.m. Lunch will be served. Cost is $15 for members; $20 for Jewish nonmembers. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For details, contact director Aaron Polonsky at (847) 634-0777, ex. 114, or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Pro-life Action League: Knights of Columbus, Holy Rosary Council No. 4483, will present "37 years in the Battle for Truth" with Joseph M. Scheidler, national director of the Pro-life Action League, from 3:30-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at the KC Hall, 15 N. Hickory Ave., Arlington Heights. This talk will feature an 11- minute video, "Face the Truth." Scheidler founded The Pro-Life Action League in 1980 with the aim of saving unborn children through nonviolent direct action. For details, visit www.prolifeaction.org

Holiday ministries: North Northfield United Methodist Church in Northbrook plans to once again fill shoeboxes with toys and other gifts to support Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, an international Christian relief organization. Boxes are available to donors s and may be returned by Sunday, Nov. 15. Boxes will be dedicated during the Sunday service Nov. 22. Gifts for "Angel Tree," another project North Northfield has participated in for many years, will be collected Nov. 29 to Dec. 6. These gifts for prisoners' families will be delivered during a Christmas party hosted by Faith Community Baptist Church in Chicago Dec. 20. North Northfield is at Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. For details, call (847) 272-2250 or visit northnorthfield.org.

Book fair: Congregation Beth Am, in partnership with Barnes & Noble Lincolnshire, will hold a book fair Sunday Nov. 15. At 1 p.m., young children through kindergarten are invited to participate in the JUF Book Buddy program with a storytime and craft. At 1:30 p.m., the Beth Am youth choir will perform. A highlight of the afternoon is a book signing by teen author Simone Elkeles. Mention Beth Am at checkout and a portion of your purchase will go to support the community activities of the congregation.

Holiday boutique: Northwest Chapter Hadassah is sponsoring its first Holiday Boutique from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15, at the Claremont Rehabilitation and Living Center, 150 Weiland Road in Buffalo Grove. Vendors will be offering jewelry, oil paintings and framed art, barrettes, scarves, greeting cards, Entertainment books, children's socks, Tastefully Simple foods and a variety of holiday gift items. Admission is free.

Concerts: The Spirit of Life Chorus, a more than 100- member ecumenical Christian concert chorus, will perform at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at Christ Church, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines; and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at St. Walter Catholic Church, 201 W. Maple Ave., Roselle. spiritoflifechorus.org. Bring nonperishable food items on Nov. 15 to benefit the Des Plaines Food Pantry.

Holy Land: "Witnessing the Holy Land" is scheduled to take place from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at Lutheran Church of Martha & Mary, 606 W. Golf Road in Mount Prospect. Among the special opportunities there will be discussions with Bishop Wayne Miller and the Rev. Twila Schock of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America concerning life in the Holy Land today; sampling an assortment of Palestinian foods; a Middle Eastern bazaar to support Palestinian farmers and artisans through offering their products such as olive oil, wood and woven handicrafts; and educational materials highlighting the efforts of Christians, Jews, and Muslims dedicated to living together in peace. Funds contributed during this event will be donated to the Mount of Olives Housing Project. This event replaces for the month of November only the Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East held at Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Barrington. For details, call (847) 259-2568 or e-mail rev.winkler@comcast.net.

Speaking about love: "Love Good, Good Love" is the sermon topic for 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. As an extension of the worship, participants will be invited to pick up a grocery bag with an attached shopping list and fill it up for the community food pantry. Bags are to be returned filled for Thanksgiving Sunday, Nov. 22. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

Meadows on Mission: Pastor Tim Haugen will speak on "Worth-ship" as part of the Meadows on Mission series at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Nov. 15, 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. Adult and student ministries (junior and senior high school) meet at 9 a.m. A second adult Bible class, the Adventure Club for children ages 4 through fourth grade and Club 56 for fifth- and sixth-graders meet at 10:30 a.m. On Monday, Nov. 16, a Ladies and a Men's Bible Study will meet separately at 7 p.m. On Tuesday, Nov. 17, a Ladies Bible Study will meet at 9:15 a.m. and FUSION (junior high youth) will meet at 6:30 p.m. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, the weekly adult Bible Study and Prayer group and FUEL (senior high youth) will meet at 6:30 p.m. On Thursday, Nov. 19, Awana Clubs for children ages preschool through sixth grade will meet at 7 p.m. On Friday, Nov. 20, a Ladies Bible Study will meet at 9:30 a.m. (847) 255-8764, Meadowsfamily.org

Nov. 17

Turkey bingo: A Thanksgiving White Turkey Bingo will be featured during the Senior Fellowship potluck lunch at noon Tuesday, Nov. 17, at North Northfield United Methodist Church in Northbrook. Bring a dish to pass and a wrapped bingo prize to share. The "Senior" group is all-inclusive, so persons attending don't need to qualify as a "senior" to attend. The church is at Sanders and Dundee. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.

Nov. 18

Survivors of Suicide: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago invites those who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide to participate in its Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) program meetings from 7-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at Catholic Charities Northwest Office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines; 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays, Nov. 18 and Dec. 16, at Holy Family Church Counseling Center, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness; 7-9 p.m. Thursdays, Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, at Carmel High School, One Carmel Parkway, Mundelein. To learn more about Des Plaines- based Catholic Charities Northwest Suburban Services and how they may help you or someone who needs help, call (847) 376-2118.

Food drive: The Social Ministry of St. Peter Lutheran Church will be organizing a food drive to help Chicago Uptown Ministry and Jehovah Lutheran Church and School stock their food pantries for the winter. Food collection will be from now until Nov. 18. Bring your nonperishable items to the narthex closet at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights.

King Saul: Community Presbyterian Church, 407 N. Main St., Mount Prospect, is hosting a biblical expose on the life and times of King Saul and his successors. Classes will be at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Nov. 18 and Dec. 2, 9, 16. Learn how the stories interweave in the unfolding drama of Israel's most prominent biblical leaders. Free. (847) 392-3111.

Fall Fashion Show: Beth Judea will host a fashion show at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Beth Judea Social Hall. Celebrate Sisterhood with an evening of fun and fashion featuring a dairy appetizer and dessert social reception, followed by an eco-friendly Fashion Show by kikaPaprika. Bring new or gently-used winter hats, gloves or scarves to provide additional warm clothing for some of the needy families in our community. Cost is $12 per person, plus any extra donation to subsidize future Sisterhood programming initiatives. You can model if you wear between sizes 2 and 20. Call the synagogue office and let them know. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. (847) 634-0777 or www.BethJudea.org.

Nov. 19

Holiday bazaar: Prince of Peace Mothers Day Out Preschool Program is hosting a Holiday Bazaar at the church Nov. 19 at the church, corner of Devon and Arlington Heights roads in Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668.

Nov. 20

Winter camp: Registration is now open for Gan Israel Winter Camp in Northbrook. Gan Israel is part of the largest Jewish camping network in the world. The camp features age-appropriate activities for children ages 5-11 and runs Dec. 21-25. Individual day options are also available. Register in full by Nov. 20 to receive an early bird discount. For details or to register, call Rabbi Schneur Scheiman at (847) 345-6406 or visit www.GanIsraelChicago.com/winter.

Youth Shabbat dinner: The Youth Department of Congregation Beth Judea will host a Shabbat Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, with Shabbat services to follow at 7:30 p.m. All congregants are welcome. The Kadinkers (grades 3-5), Kadima (grades 6-8) and the USY (grades 9-12) and their families will enjoy a kosher Shabbat dinner, and the youth will be participating in the Shabbat service that follows. Cost is 12 years and older $18; 11 years and younger $10; 5 years and younger $5; immediate families $40. (Any youth group member receives a $3 discount.) Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For details, call (847) 634-0777, ext. 114, and leave a message for Aaron Polonsky.

Senior rabbi: On behalf of the board of directors of Congregation Beth Am, Co-Presidents Paula Comm and Ben Hurwitz are proud to announce that Rabbi Lisa Bellows has accepted the role as senior rabbi and will be formally installed at 7:30 p.m. Friday Nov. 20. Rabbi Leonard Zukrow from Pensacola, Fla., will officiate. Rabbi Lisa Sari Bellows was ordained from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1998; she has served congregations in Chicago and Joplin, Mo. Born and raised in Chicago, Rabbi Bellows is married to Kyle and they have three young children. Congregation Beth Am is located at 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove.

Nov. 21

Dance: New Beginnings Sparkling Dance will be from 8-11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Hughes Center at St. Mathews Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Bring a snack to share. Music provided by Paul Adams. Tickets cost $8 in advance, $10 at door. For details, call Joan Neville at (847) 397-9643.

Breakfast of Champions: From 9-11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, will have a fun-filled day of games, crafts, a pancake breakfast, visit from Skates, the Wolves mascot, and a Basket Raffle. All proceeds benefit the early childhood programs at Prince of Peace. (847) 885-7036.

Renewal service: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a special Renewal Service from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. For details, call (847) 998-1947 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Holiday bazaar: The Gingerbread House Cookies, Crafts and More Bazaar will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road., Arlington Heights. The Women of Faith will be selling cookies by the pound, baked goods, candies and other treats and crafts. Vendors will be selling candles, jewelry, ornaments, crafts and more to benefit ministries. Candy Cane Lane will feature crafts and activities for children. For details about this free event, call (847) 253-4839.

Nov. 22

Food collection: St Paul United Church of Christ, Barrington, is conducting a Share the Harvest food collection to benefit local food pantries. Much-needed nonperishable foods and paper products can be dropped off at the church office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or brought to the worship service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. St Paul is at 401 E. Main St. in Barrington. (847) 381-0460 or stpauluccbarrington.org

Food drive: Living Faith Church is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive. All are encouraged to bring in nonperishable food items for the next weeks. All food donations will be available Sunday, Nov 22, for those needing food for the Thanksgiving holiday. Call the church office, (847) 382-1830, if you need to make special arrangements for your donations. Living Faith Church meets at the Bethel Lutheran Church building, 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine.

Genealogy: Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will present the film "Maxwell Street: A Living Memory" at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster, Skokie. The film by Eshel Productions will explore the Jewish experience in Chicago. The JGSI meeting facilities will open at 12:30 p.m. for those who want to use the library materials, get help with genealogy Web sites on the Internet or ask genealogical related questions. For details, visit jewishgen.org/jgsi or call (312) 666-0100.

Nov. 23

Drumming circle: In honor of International Drum Month, Native American Heritage Month and upcoming Thanksgiving, enjoy a Drumming Circle at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski will present "Drumming Circles - The Rhythm of Life." Learn the history, religious use and culture of exotic drums from around the world, and experience firsthand how playing these drums releases stress, promotes creativity and self-expression. Instruments are provided and all ages are welcome. This is free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. Contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.

Nov. 24

Sikh celebration: Upcoming Gurpurabs are Tuesday, Nov 24, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyrdom, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurgadi; Monday, Dec. 21, Elder Sahibzadas Martyrdom; Saturday, Dec. 26, Younger Sahibzadas Martyrdom; Tuesday, Jan. 5, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Parkash Utsav; and Sunday, Jan 31, Guru Har Rai Ji Parkash Utsav. Sikh Religious Society is undergoing a renovation project. To see the daily calendar, visit www.srschicago.com/calendar.html. The Sikh Religious Society is at 1280 Winnetka St., Palatine. (847) 358-1117

Nov. 25

Pie and worship: Give thanks to God this Thanksgiving at the traditional Thanksgiving Eve worship service at Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett. Come for worship at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and then stay for the Pie Fellowship. For details, call (630) 830-3630. Living Lord Church is at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road, on Route 59.

Thanksgiving Eve: "Light a Candle for Thanksgiving Eve" will be the theme of a service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. A brief candlelight ceremony of thanksgiving will be preceded by a talk titled "Gratitude All the Time" by Greg Barrette, minister of Unity Northwest Church. For details, call (847) 297-0997 or visit unitynorthwest.org.

Nov. 26

Thanksgiving Pie Fest: Join Lord of Life Church, 119 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg, for Thanksgiving service at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, and join afterward for pie, coffee, and fellowship. Bring a pie to share with others. For details, call (847) 895-8877.

Thanksgiving service: Members of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will gather for the annual Thanksgiving Day worship service at 10 a.m. Nov. 26.

Nov. 27

Memorial service: In honor of National Hospice Month, Chaplain Lori Geschrey, of Odyssey Hospice will lead a Quarterly Memorial Service, honoring individuals who have died in the last three months at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Special music, a candle-lighting service and a time for sharing is included. This is free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. Contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.

Nov. 28

Anniversary celebration: A dinner-dance is being planned by Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, to celebrate 25 years of "Inviting All to New Life In Christ." The event is set for Saturday, Nov. 28, at European Crystal Banquet Hall and Conference Center in Arlington Heights. The evening will begin with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., followed by a five-course gourmet dinner. The premium open bar will begin serving again at 9 p.m. when there will be dancing to the live music of The Moods. There will be a raffle, dance contest and a few other surprises planned for the evening. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling Dolores Siok at (847) 846-7683 or by picking up a reservation form at the front office or the Welcoming Desk of the church. Seating is limited. For details, call Mary Razzano at (847) 882-9487 or mrrazzano@sbcglobal.net.

Rite of Healing: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold the Rite of Healing during the 5:30 p.m. contemporary service Saturday, Nov. 28, and during the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Nov. 29. This rite is intended for anyone who wishes to receive an individual blessing in the struggle with any type of illness.

Nov. 29

Study: "Covenant," a central concept at every level of Judeo-Christian belief, provides a source for adult study sessions at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. The sessions will study covenant at it relates to every level of the church and the Bible including the Hebrew Testament, Jesus Christ, God, church history, and the United Church of Christ. Participants will utilize "Covenant," a study written by Jane Fisler Hoffman. Sessions will meet from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday mornings through Nov. 29. CongUCC.org. (847) 392-6650.

Spaghetti dinner: Immanuel United Church of Christ, 415 W. North Ave, Bartlett, will host a spaghetti dinner in conjunction with the village's tree-lighting ceremony and we will be serving an Italian fest on Dec. 4 from 4:30-8 p.m. Carry-outs are available. Cost is $9 for those 12 and older, $5 for children ages 3-11, and free for those under 3. Also join us for Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m. and children's Sunday school also at 9:30 a.m. (630) 289-1320.

Family Movie Night: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, plans a Family Movie Night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. The movie will be "Polar Express." Free, includes pizza, snacks and refreshments. For details, call (847) 998-1947 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Anniversary Mass: Cardinal Francis George will be the main celebrant at a Mass at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, with parishioners of Queen of the Rosary Parish, 750 W. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village, in honor of the parish's 50th anniversary.

Nov. 30

Book discussion: The public is invited to a discussion of the book "I Was Told There'd Be Cake" by Sloane Crosley at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. (847) 359-8440 or ccuu@ccuu.org.

Dec. 2

Advent services: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will be holding midweek Advent services Wednesdays, Dec. 2, 9 and 16, at 11 a.m. with Service of the Word and 7 p.m. for Evening Prayer. Following worship during the day, a soup lunch will be served. The evening service will be preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. (847) 827-6656.

Dec. 3

Christmas Smorgasbord: Trinity Lutheran Church 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold its annual WELCA Christmas Smorgasbord Thursday, Dec. 3, in Fellowship Hall, with dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by entertainment at 8 p.m. Hosted by the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, it will feature entertainment by Elk Grove's Town Cryers. Donation is $10 or bring a dish. Reservations must be made by Monday, Nov. 30, by calling the church at (847) 827-6656.

Dec. 4

Men's spirituality: Jewish men exploring their spirituality are the focus of the weekend "Getting to God." Led by Rabbi Marc J. Belgrad, the program offers time away from day-to-day pressures and concerns in combination with specially-designed opportunities to talk about faith, doubt and what it means to be a spiritual man in today's world. No previous knowledge or expertise is needed. It will be Dec. 4-6, at a camp setting 1/2 hour west of Milwaukee. For details, contact Rabbi Belgrad at ravmarc@aol.com.

Dec. 5

Cookies and crafts: Our 21st Annual Cookie Walk & Craft Show at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. There will be a variety of homemade cookies to buy. All proceeds will benefit the educational programs at the church. There will also be an assortment of vendors. The church is at 751 W. Army Trail Road in Bartlett (corner of Petersdorf and Army Trail Road). Free admission and parking.

Dec. 6

Benefit concert: On Sunday, Dec. 6, Peter Mayer, lead guitarist with Jimmy Buffett's Coral Reefer Band, will bring his band, The Peter Mayer Group, to Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett for his "Stars & Promises: Sing Joy!" Christmas Concert. The concert will help raise money for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative, a five-year effort to eliminate malaria in south Saharan Africa by 2015. The concert begins at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are limited. Contact Sue in the church office to order at (630) 830-3630, ext. 4610. Living Lord is at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

Concert: The Mount Prospect Community Band will present "Make a Joyful Noise!" at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, as the final event of the Mount Prospect holiday festival weekend. This free concert is sponsored by the Fine Arts Committee of Trinity United Methodist Church and is held in conjunction with the Trinity United Methodist Women's annual Christmas Cookie Walk at the church, 605 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect. This concert will also feature selections from "The Nutcracker Ballet Suite" by Tchaikovsky. A freewill offering will be taken at the concert to support A Journey from PADS to HOPE, the program in which local churches provide shelter for the homeless.

Dec. 11

Living Christmas Tree: Community Presbyterian Church, 407 N. Main St. at Gregory, Mount Prospect, will host a Living Christmas Tree Concert in the sanctuary at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 11-13. A special performance will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Dec 11, for residents of local area nursing and retirement homes. There is no charge to attend the one-hour concert; however, a freewill offering will be accepted to help both local and global outreach programs. for details, call (847) 392-3111.

Dec. 12

Cookies and Madrigal: Immanuel United Church of Christ Christmas Cookie walk will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Then continue your Holiday Cheer at Ye Olde Madrigal Feast at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. Enjoy a Renaissance feast and music. Contact the office at Immanuel United Church of Christ to reserve your seats for $30 for adults and $25 for seniors. The church is at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood. (630) 837-0190.

Cookie Walk/Living Nativity: Bethel Lutheran Church, 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine, will sponsor two events on Saturday Dec. 12. A Cookie Walk will be held from 9-11 a.m. The cost of cookies is $9/pound. The Living Nativity will be held at 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served. (847) 397-4372.

Dec. 20

Blood drive: The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will hold its annual blood drive through Life Source from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, in the Social Hall of the synagogue on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. A photo ID is required when you fill out your paperwork. Bring a state ID or driver's license. Also, make sure you have something to eat before you arrive. To make an appointment, call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Fred Rabinowitz.

Dec. 23

Live Nativity: The Presbyterian Church of Palatine, 800 E. Palatine Road, will host a live Nativity from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, on the church's front lawn. Candlelight worship service is at 8 p.m.

Ongoing

Bingo Bus to Hines Hospital: Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bartlett is forming groups to visit with and play bingo with veterans at Hines Hospital in Maywood one Saturday each month. For details, call (630) 837-1166.

New store hours: Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, a not-for-profit fair trade store managed by Christ Community Mennonite Church that specializes in handcrafted items (jewelry, instruments, wall hangings, scarves, coffee, unusual gifts) from developing countries has new store hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. A new section featuring Amish items from Shipshewana has been added, including quilts, dolls, wood marble game, rocking horses, small wood items apple butter and peanut butter. For details, call (847) 895-3676.

Cornhole games: Living Lord Lutheran Church, 1044 Congress Drive, Bartlett, will be selling Cornhole (bags) games to benefit church ministries. All proceeds from the sale of these high-quality, handcrafted games will benefit the church. Choose from four different designs, or unfinished, starting at $75. Check out the brochure and place your order online at livinglordlutheran.org. For details, call Sue at (630) 830.3630, ext. 4610.

Shabbat interpretive service: On Saturdays, Congregation Beth Judea will be offering a Shabbat Morning Interpretive Service from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. in Room 10 on the lower level of the synagogue. The focus of this new Shabbat morning service will be on examining the structure of the prayer service, learning the major prayers and becoming more comfortable with the choreography and customs of the Shabbat morning service. The only prerequisite is a desire to participate in services. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.

Children's Bible study: Children in first through sixth are welcome to study the book of Genesis at Community Bible Study's coed evening class from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Northwest Covenant Church, 300 N. Elmhurst Ave., Mount Prospect. Call Penny Pullen at (847) 394-9355 for registration information.

Entertainment book: The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea is selling the 2010 Edition Entertainment Coupon Book. The cost for the Chicago North/Northwest Book is $20, with a voluntary $5 donation to Sisterhood. The 2010 Entertainment Books are available for purchase at the synagogue office, the Sisterhood Gift shop at the synagogue on Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. For details, call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Linda Lippman. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

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 Director Aaron Polonsky at the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 or check out Beth Judea's Web site at bethjudea.org.

Entertainment books: Klesia of Christ Church is selling 2010 Entertainment Books for $20. For details, call Marilyn Comstock at (847) 827-1829, Alice Barnhart at (847) 803-8407 or Barbara Wraas at (847) 824-1591.

Jewish Preschool and kindergarten: Torah Academy of Buffalo Grove is a new Jewish Day School located within Congregation Beth Am at 225 McHenry Road in Buffalo Grove. The school currently provides half-day and full-day classes for pre-K and kindergarten-aged children, with planned expansion of first- and second-grade classes for the 2010-2011 academic year. For details, visit www.torahacademybg.com.

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.

Entertainment books: Members of the choirs of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, are selling 2010 Entertainment books. Cost for each book is $20. Books can be purchased after the 5:30 p.m. service on Saturdays, and after the 8 or 10:30 a.m. services on Sundays, or in the church office during the week. (847) 827-6656.

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.

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 Judea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road

Entertainment books: Our Lady of Ransom Parish in Niles is selling Entertainment 2010 books for $20 each. For details, call Josephine Bax at (847) 823-2550.

Entertainment books: Members of the choirs of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, are selling 2010 Entertainment Books for $20 each. Books can be purchased from choir members after the 5:30 p.m. service on Saturdays, after the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services on Sundays, or in the church during the week. (847) 827-6656.

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 study: Women's Bible Study Group meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. The group is currently studying "Daughters of Eve," by Virginia Stern Owens, exploring the women in the Bible. For details, visit www.CongUCC.org or call (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.