Palatine church offers Summer of Serving

More than 80 volunteers offered their helping hands June 13 at the Summer of Serving day hosted by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, in Palatine. The event brought together people of all ages, interests and abilities to assist in work projects supporting eight nonprofit and community organizations throughout Palatine and the surrounding area.

"During the spring, our congregation went through a sermon series called 'Living on Purpose,' which encouraged people to consider how God has given each of us unique gifts, passions and skills that he designed for us to use in service to others," said Susan Klemstein, Summer of Serving organizer and director of Outreach and Assimilation at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

"As a way of encouraging people to use their unique skills and gifts, we set up a variety of serving projects in our local community."

The day began with volunteers gathering at the church to pick up a T-shirt, meet their team leader, get project instructions and coordinate carpooling.

Organizations that benefitted from the June Summer of Serving day included Roots Community Garden, Community Threads Resale Shop, Bookfriends International, Home of the Sparrow, Lutheran Home, Society for the Preservation of Human Dignity, Palatine Fire Department and Prison Ministry.

"We ranged in age from 2 to 75. It was great to see families serving together, and it was also great to watch new friendships form," Klemstein said.

"I enjoyed watching the young children so eager to help. A 2-year-old helped plant and water vegetables in the community garden. You are never too young or too old to help, and it's never too early or late to develop a habit of serving."

The event ended at 12:30 p.m. with a free lunch prepared by the cooking team.

The next Summer of Serving day will take place 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, July 26. Participants will meet at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine, to enjoy a complimentary lunch before heading out with their team to work locations. Teams will return around 3 p.m. to share treats and conversation.

Registration is now available and is open to the public. There are projects fitting for all ages and abilities. Register early to get a free T-shirt.

For information on Summer of Serving, call Susan Klemstein at (847) 359-3451 or visit www.reachgrowserve.org/summer_of_serving.php

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