Libertyville Chapel launches new ministry to help the unemployed

Are we in economic recovery? It's hard to tell.

Some analysts see upward movement, but others say we'll be stagnant for some time.

While the experts debate the numbers, the unemployed are still feeling effects of the recession. It can be not only an emotional drain, but a spiritual ordeal as well.

Recognizing those needs, the 5,800-member church, The Chapel, has launched a new ministry hoping to meet the practical and spiritual needs of the jobless.

The new Work Ministry group offers practical job search tips and also provides spiritual support to the unemployed, organizers say. The free weekly sessions meet Mondays, 7 to 9 p.m., at The Chapel's Libertyville campus, 1200 American Way, through February.

The meetings feature networking opportunities, guest speakers, job search techniques, and resume help.

"The people in the congregations asked for this," said ministry leader Harvey Matarasso. "There is a general need out there and folks have been asking for help."

Matarasso said The Chapel piloted a similar program last fall and it was a hit. The first session of the new year, was held Jan. 11. Nearly 40 people attended.

"The response has been excellent," he said. "People are at their wits end. What they find here is a supportive community who understands what they are going through. We come together and talk about ideas, but we also pray together and form bonds and friendships."

While there is an emphasis on the spiritual, leaders say the sessions provide proven tips and techniques from experts in the field.

The Jan. 18 session will focus on how to use social media for job seeking. Social media consultant Mark J. Carter of Chicago will show job seekers how to use Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook in their job hunt.

The sessions are open to people from all churches and all faiths, Matarasso said. The Chapel is a nondenominational Christian church with five locations in Lake County, including a new church in Lake Zurich that will open April 4.

Co-leader, Frank Hanold, said the spiritual component offers something different from other agencies that offer help.

"We open with prayer and have a short devotional teaching related to work and life," Hanold said "It's a unique perspective on business."