Your faith: Northwest Suburbs
Deadline for submissions is noon Tuesday. Due to space limitations, not all "Your Faith" items are listed here. The complete column appears on the Daily Herald Web site, dailyherald.com.
Adult education
The Ministry of New Beginnings, a Catholic-oriented, nondenominational, social support organization for separated, divorced, widowed and single persons, meets at 7:30 p.m. Mondays in the Hughes Center in front of St. Matthew's Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. The cost is $3 per meeting, with first visit free. (847) 891-1220.
St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, 729 Grand Canyon Blvd., Hoffman Estates, is nondenominational, free and open to all occupations. For details, call Bob Podgorski at (847) 925-6005.
Are you interested in knowing more about joining the Catholic Faith or are you a Catholic wanting to complete your sacraments? RCIA/Footsteps will be held on Wednesday evenings at Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. Join us at 7 p.m. in Breakout Room I. The RCIA (Footsteps) is a process of mentoring, teaching and encouraging participants in their journey of faith. For information, call (847) 907-3439.
Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59), Barrington, presents a Bible study on Revelation at 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings. A study on "The Life You've Always Wanted" is at 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings. Another group for parents of teenagers will meet at 9:15 a.m. Sundays. (847) 836-5540, www.BarringtonUMC.
A book review and discussion will be offered at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. The book, "When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives Of Animals" by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson and Susan McCarthy, is the book to be discussed. Countryside Church is handicap-accessible and is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee. ccuu@ccuu.org.
Rabbi Lisa Bellows will be leading Torah classes for those in 12 Step Recovery programs. The next class will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.
Join Rabbi Marc Belgrad during a viewing and discussion of the movie "Encounter Point," a movie detailing how leaders worldwide are dealing with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.
"It's Not About the Hair" by Debra Jarvis will be the subject of the book group "Reading is Believing" at North Northfield United Methodist Church at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. Jarvis, chaplain at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, writes about breast cancer in her book. The public is invited to attend the event, which will be at the church, Sanders and Dundee, Northbrook. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.
A small group meets to write their life stories from 2-3:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. To register, call (847) 439-0668 or e-mail princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net.
Cathy Anderson will lead a discussion of the book "The Shack" by William P. Young as part of Prince of Peace's Adult Education at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 at Prince of Peace UMC, 1400 Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668 or princeofpeaceumc.org.
Christus Victor Lutheran Church's "A Life Worth Living" Bible study runs Thursdays through Nov. 20 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the church. It will explore the book of Philippians. "A Life Worth Living" is a follow-up study to the Alpha course. Cost is $12 for materials. A daytime session will run from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays through Nov. 19. Cost for the materials is $6 and baby-sitting is available for the morning session. For details, call (847) 437-2666, e-mail alpha@christusvictoregv.org or visit christusvictoregv.org. The church is at 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village.
"Matthew," an 11-week Adult Study Series, is offered from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., Sunday mornings, continuing through Nov. 23, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. Newcomers and nonchurch members are invited to participate. CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650 for additional information.
Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered, 12-step recovery program for anyone struggling with a hurt, habit or hangup, meets Thursdays at The Orchard Evangelical Free Church, 1330 N. Douglas, Arlington Heights. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. for an optional fellowship dinner, followed by the meeting from 7-9 p.m. Child care is provided.
The Celebrate Recovery ministry of The Orchard Evangelical Free Church is hosting Celebrating Freedom in Christ, a night of praise, worship and stories of healing and recovery from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7.
Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, is offering the following topics in its Adult Education program: "The World Economy" with Doug Townsey, professor of finance and economics at DePaul University and financial adviser at Merrill Lynch, Sunday, Nov. 9; "The Lutheran Handbook II: How to Tell If Your Will Is In Bondage and What to Do About It" Sunday, Nov. 16; "The Life of the Apostle Peter" Sunday, Nov. 23; and "The Ark of the Covenant" Sunday, Nov. 30.
Children, teens
Resurrection Catholic Preschool, 30W350 Army Trail Road, Wayne, offers half-day sessions for 3- and 4-year-olds. For details or to enroll for the 2008-09 school year, call Mary Jean Bankmann at (630) 289-5400, ext. 209.
Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran (Missouri Synod), 1116 Devon Ave., Bartlett, has preschool openings for the fall session for 2-, 3- and 4-year-old children. (630) 483-9611.
The Preschool at Prince of Peace, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, offers several options for children ages 3-5 and an extended day for children in the Parents' Day Out Program. (847) 885-7036.
The Big Barn Preschool, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, has openings for the fall school year. The preschool accepts both part-time and full-time day enrollees ages 3 to 6. There are openings for a limited number of Action For Children subsidized families. For details, call Mary Fisher at (847) 895-3257.
Learn about Hanukkah through art projects, storytime and songs with other young area families. This event, for families with children up to age 5, takes place from 10:30 to11:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the following Barnes & Noble locations: 720 Hawthorne Center, Vernon Hills; and 590 E. Golf Road, Schaumburg. To RSVP, contact Abby Halper at (312) 444-2844 or e-mail bookbuddies@juf.org. This free event is sponsored by Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago and is open to the public.
New Hope Christian Academy is now accepting registration for the fall for the 3- and 4-year-old preschool and full-day program. If you'd like to schedule an appointment or need information, call (847) 359-5482. New Hope Christian Academy is a part of New Hope Community Church, 1023 E. Palatine Road, Palatine.
Little Saints Christian Preschool, 630 S. Quentin Road, Palatine, has openings for the 2008-09 school year. Classes are for children who will be 2 to 4 years old by Sept. 1. Class times are from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (847) 991-2334.
Immanuel Lutheran School, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, has openings in its all-day and afternoon half-day kindergarten classes for the 2008-09 school year. After-school care is available until 6 p.m. Call the school office at (847) 359-1936.
Christ the King Lutheran Preschool, 100 W Michigan Ave., Palatine, is accepting registrations for the 2008-09 school year for children ages 2 to 5. The 3- to 5-year-old program is Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The 2-year-old program is Tuesday mornings. A preschool extension, the Lunch Bunch, is offered Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. Call Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230; e-mail to preschool@ByFaithAlone.org; or visit ByFaithAlone.org.
St. Thomas of Villanova School in Palatine is accepting enrollment for the 2008-09 school year for preschool through eighth grade. (847) 358-2110 or stvschool.org.
St. Mark Lutheran Church at 200 S. Wille St. in Mount Prospect will have its first of three Lighthouses for Junior High students from 7-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. The Lighthouse will have a variety of fun activities including an inflatable obstacle course, DDR, Ping-Pong table, foosball, bags game, a craft, food and lots of fun. Cost is $7.
Children of the Shepherd Preschool, a nondenominational preschool, is registering children for fall 2008 classes. Classes are offered 9 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Tuition for two days/week is $94 per month; three days/week is $141; four days/week is $188; and five days/week is $235 per month. A $50 nonrefundable registration fee is due at enrollment. The preschool is at 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights. (847) 459-7992.
Mother's Day Out Preschool at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, has expanded to three days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays). Programs are offered for children ages 2 to 5. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Call Lynn Cooper at (847) 439-0668.
Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Biesner Elk Grove Village, offers Awana, fun and games in a Christian setting for ages 3 years old through sixth grade, every Wednesday from 6:45-8:15 p.m. Dinner available 6-6:30 p.m. for a $2 donation.
Senior high students are invited to come on a tour of tastes at a progressive dinner to three homes from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, sponsored by First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Registration deadline is Sunday, Nov. 2. Call to register, (847) 255-5112.
Junior high students at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, will meet from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, to bake cookies to be delivered to homebound members of the church or neighborhood. Bring your premixed cookie dough to take part.
Lutheran Church of the Cross is opening a new before- and after-school care program for children ages 5 to 12.
Hours are 6 to 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 to 6 p.m. weekdays, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. nonschool days (except major holidays). Early dismissals and half days are in accordance with school district schedule,
A breakfast food will be given for a morning snack and a snack is provided in the afternoon. Lunches are provided through a catering service. Meal prayers and some Bible stories are included. Time is scheduled for homework, arts and crafts, games, outings and more.
For details or to register, contact Sharon Stephan at (847) 437-5176 during daytime hours or at home from 7 to 9 p.m. at (224) 678-9062. Lutheran Church of the Cross is at 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights.
Show off your Dance Dance Revolution skills at youth program night at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Junior high meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and senior high from 7 to 8:30 a.m. There will be multiple televisions set up to compete and have fun with this interactive dance game. For details, call (847) 255-5112.
Family
Erntedankfest, a German Harvest Festival will be offered at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Christ the King Ev. Lutheran Church (Wisconsin Ev. Lutheran Synod), 100 W. Michigan Ave., Palatine. (847) 358-0230, www.ByFaithAlone.org.
Congregation Beth Judea invites the community to welcome Shabbat with other families who have young children at the synagogue, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. The Families with Young Children Committee will hold its regular services at 6:30 p.m. the second Friday of the month for a 30-minute Tot Shabbat session. Call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Debbie Frager.
Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove, has started a new Family Shabbat program Saturday mornings Nov. 1 and 15, Dec. 6 and 20. Join in for Shabbat songs, snacks, stories and crafts from 10 to 11 a.m. This program is geared toward children ages 3-8. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.
Congregation Beth Judea offers Gan Shabbat, a program for children and their families. This service, specially designed for children ages 9 and younger and their families, will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays. After Gan Shabbat, all participants will be encouraged to join the main service and the community kiddush. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.
Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove, will be hosting JCC's Got Shabbat? program from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Join in for a service filled with fun, food, Shabbat songs and the humorous storyteller Dot Kane. This free program is open to the community. (Designed for families with children 4-8, but all are welcome.) For details, visit congregation-betham.org.
Congregation Beth Judea's Family Education Weekend will take place Thursday, Nov. 13, through Sunday, Nov. 16, featuring Mordechai Rosenstein as its Artist in Residence. Rosenstein has been creating myriad pieces utilizing vibrant colors and flowing lines that transform the art of Hebrew calligraphy into a modern day feast for the eyes for almost 30 years. The Hebrew alphabet is the essence of the art of Mordechai Rosenstein.
The activities for the weekend include a program with Mordechai and the Beth Judea "University" students and their parents Thursday evening, Nov. 13; a synagogue dinner, followed by Mordechai speaking about "My Journey as an Artist" Friday evening, Nov. 14; Shabbat Morning, Nov. 15 will be spent with the Gimel students and their parents before attending services in the main sanctuary; and an "Evening of Art" at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 (Cost $20/per person); and Sunday morning, Nov. 16, Mordechai will be creating art with the students and their parents.
Beth Judea is a Conservative Jewish congregation on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. (847) 634-0777 or BethJudea.org.
"Noctoberfest" will be from 6 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Queen of the Rosary in the gymnasium, 750 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove VIllage. This fundraiser will benefit the Catholic Grade School Athletic Funds and "The Heart of a Marine" Foundation. In addition, there will be a Food Drive Contest to collect nonperishable food products for the Elk Grove Food Pantry. The person who provides the most generosity will be provided with a free family portrait from Photography by Zabinski. The event also will feature Paloma Band, a German musical group. Tickets in advance: $10/adult; $5/child (under 12). Tickets at the door: $15/adult; $8/child (under 12). Ticket provides admission, a bratwurst or hot dog, chips and a soft drink. Other items & beverages sold separately. For ticket sales and information, contact Butch Ehrke at (847) 364-9174 or (847) 980-3080 or Rich Siok at (847) 228-5677.
Fundraisers
Little Angels of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church is hosting its annual Vendor Fair and Bake Sale from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6. There will be an assortment of vendors to purchase from, along with baked goods. The church is at 751 W. Army Trail Road in Bartlett.
St. Matthew Parish will host its 12th annual craft fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, in the Hughes Center, 999 Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Admission is $1, children 12 and under are free. There will be an all-day raffle, bake sale and refreshments. For information, e-mail jambrose@stmatthewparish.org or call (847) 891-1255.
The 20th annual Cookie Walk & Craft Show at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church will be from 9 a.m. ti 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. All proceeds will benefit the educational programs at the church, 751 W. Army Trail Road in Bartlett. Free admission and free parking.
Enjoy a pancake breakfast hosted by the Knights of Columbus from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Nov. 2, at the Rowly Center, 120 E. Anderson Drive, Palatine. Tickets are $6 per person, $5 veterans, $4 seniors or $15 per family. This event is one way the Knights raise funds for a variety of local charities, support of religious vocations and Respect Life initiatives. For details, call George Tibus at (847) 991-0738
Creative seasonal decor in three Barrington-Inverness area residences and the Honquest Althrop Dream Home is the focus of the Friday, Nov. 7, Homes for the Holidays, Holy Family Catholic Academy's fourth annual holiday Housewalk. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Included are an 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. box lunch and 5-7 p.m. wine and cheese event at Honquest "furniture for living," 1455 S. Barrington Road, Barrington. Tickets cost $30. The Housewalk has joined with Holy Family Catholic Community to present a Thursday, Nov. 6, Trim the Home Floral Expo/ Show at the Academy, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness. Exhibits open at 4 p.m.; autumn and holiday decorating demonstrations begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. A 5-7 p.m. optional catered dinner is $12. Combined Trim the Home/Floral Show/Housewalk tickets (including the box lunch and wine and cheese event) are $40. Proceeds benefit the academy, which provides faith-based education from 2-year-old preschool through eighth grade and Holy Family Catholic Community's enrichment programs. Register for events by calling (847) 846-7683 or (847) 382-1700. www.holyfamilyparish.org or www.honquest.com.
The Holy Family Lutheran School Benefit dinner and auction will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at The Meadows Club, at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows. The dinner and auction raises essential tuition assistance funds for 190 of Chicago's Westside students who are enrolled at the Holy Family Lutheran School. The event is sponsored by Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights. For more information, call (847) 255-8700.
The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea is now selling the 2009 Edition Entertainment Coupon Book. The cost for the Chicago North/Northwest Book is $20. The Entertainment Books are available for purchase at the synagogue office, the Sisterhood Gift shop at the synagogue Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. or online at entertainment.com/e-mail (Account #10520). Beth Judea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.
Our Lady of Ransom Parish in Niles is selling the Entertainment 2009 books for $20. Sales benefit the parish. (847) 823-2550.
St. Zachary Women's Club in Des Plaines is selling Entertainment Books for $20. For more information, call Joan at (847) 824-5613.
Members of the choirs at Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, are selling the 2009 Entertainment Books for $20 each. Books can be purchased at the 5:30 p.m. service Saturdays and after the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services on Sundays, or in the church office during the week.
Sunshine Preschool of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church is looking for crafters for its upcoming Craft/Vendor Fair Saturday, Nov. 1. (847) 520-1116.
St. John Lutheran Church is sponsoring a communitywide spaghetti dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, in the lower level of the school building, 1101 Linneman Road, Mount Prospect. Dinner will include spaghetti with choice of meat sauce or garlic with olive oil, garlic bread, salad, dessert and beverages. Ticket donation: $8 adults, $4 for ages 4 to 10 and free for kids younger than 4. There also will be a raffle drawing at 7:30 p.m. For details, call (847) 593-7670, ext. 1.
St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will be having its annual Coat and Blanket Drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. The coats and blankets can be dropped off in the lower level of the church by the overhang. Donation receipts will be given. Coats and blankets that are clean and in good condition will be welcomed. They will be given to local charities and shelters. For details, call (847) 272-2246.
Boy Scout Troop 6 from Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. In addition to pancakes and sausage, there will be an egg station. Tickets may be purchased at the door for a donation of $5. In addition, the Scouts will have a food drive. Bring a can of food for the Des Plaines Food Pantry. (847) 827-6656.
Mother's Day Out Preschool at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, is holding a fundraising event, Holiday Bazaar, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20. For details, contact Lynn Cooper at (847) 439-0668 or e-mail princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net.
St. Peter Community Church will once again be participating in Operation Christmas Child. Everyone is invited to pack a Shoe Box Gift. These boxes are shipped all over the world, where they are most needed.
You use an empty shoebox or a plastic box the size of a shoe box. You can wrap the box (lid separately) but wrapping is not required. Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child's age category, 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Use the appropriate boy/girl label. Mark the age category on the label and tape the label to the top of your box.
Then, fill the box with a variety of gifts such as small toys, school supplies, hard candy, a toothbrush or comb. In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. If you include your name and address, the child may write back. Place a rubber band around each shoe box and lid.
Provide a donation of $7 or more for each shoebox you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs.
Drop-off times are: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Nov. 17-19; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, and Saturday, Nov. 21-22; and 1-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23.
For details, call (847) 272-2246. St. Peter Community Church is at 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook.
First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. (between Rand and Arlington Heights roads), Arlington Heights, will hold its 29th annual Holly-Day Fair Craft show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Every item is handcrafted. Take a shopping break and enjoy a hot lunch in the Holly-Day Cafe (lower level). Shop at the Holly-Day Bake Shop - where everything is homemade and packaged in festive holiday wrap and containers. Also returning this year is our popular "Recycled Christmas" room. You will find special Christmas decor that others have grown tired of but are still in perfect (or almost perfect) condition. This one-day event is a $2 donation at the door, $1 for senior citizens. No strollers please, wheelchair accessible. Call the church office, (847) 255-5112, if you would like to set up a booth. For details, call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org. Proceeds to benefit the missions and ministries of United Methodist Women.
Church of the Incarnation United Methodist, 330 W. Golf Road, Arlington Heights, will hold its 30th annual Creative Hands Boutique Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4, 5 and 6. This juried arts and crafts boutique features unique handcrafted items made by local crafters. In addition, the "Soup Kitchen" featuring homemade soups and refreshments will be open daily. All Soup Kitchen proceeds support local missions like PADS. Also, the Christmas tree lot, with many varieties of trees and wreaths, will be open daily beginning the last week of November. Boutique hours are: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. A donation of $2 will be collected at the door. These donations will be sent to Habitat for Humanity, Spring of Life Partnership. (847) 956-1510.
St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights, is selling Entertainment Books for $20. Available in the church office during the week. Contact Shannon Fischer at (847) 259-4114, ext. 128.
Lectures, seminars
Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett is offering a free seven-week series of Sunday morning forums on Christian topics from 9 to 10 a.m. Nov. 2-Dec. 14. Topics include: "HWJV: How Would Jesus Vote?" (Nov. 2); "Napkin Evangelism" (Nov. 9); "Can You Hear Me Yet?" (Nov. 16, about using gadgets to connect with others); "Using Your Brain to Serve God" (Nov. 23); "Advent Celebrations" (Nov. 30); "Christian Vocation" (Dec. 7); and "Wheat Ridge Ministries" (Dec. 14). Living Lord Church is at 1044 Congress Drive, on Route 59 just south of Stearns Road. www.livinglordlutheran.org or (630) 830-3630.
Community on Wednesdays is offered at Holy Family Catholic Church. Special guest speaker Paul Lakeland will speak on the topic "Catholicism at the Crossroads: How the Laity Can Save the Church" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. Lakeland is the Aloysius P. Kelley S. J. Professor of Catholic Studies at Fairfield University in Connecticut, where he has taught for more than 25 years, mostly in Catholic ecclesiology, liberation theology and religion and literature. For information, call (847) 359-0042 or visit checkholyfamilyparish.org.
Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host Jewish Lawndale presented by Amanda Friedeman of Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth Israel will open at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate members/guests who want to use library materials, get help with genealogical Web sites on the Internet, or ask genealogical-related questions before the main program begins at 2 p.m. jewishgen.org/jgsi or (312) 666-0100.
A weekly class studying Jewish Law will meet from 8-9 a.m. Sundays at Congregation Beth Judea. The group will meet from October through May. The Jewish Law Study Group, led by Rabbi Robert Gamer, will be looking in-depth at some of the recent decisions of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards of the Conservative Movement. No previous knowledge is required and all texts will be in English or have translations. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For information, call Rabbi Gamer at the synagogue office (847) 634-0777.
The Lutheran Social Services presents Parenting Teenagers at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at Good Shepherd in Prospect Heights and Parenting Children Ages 0-5 at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Plaines. Each program is free and will last 90 minutes. For details, call (630) 993-0100.
Basic Buddhism classes continue at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church on the first Sunday of the month at the church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect (corner of Route 83 and Euclid). (847) 259-3018.
On Wednesdays, Nov. 5 and Nov. 12, from 7:30-8:30 p.m., Prince of Peace United Methodist Church will have sessions providing leadership tools that will inspire and show how to sustain personal health, integrity, and strategic focus as a leader. The Rev. Hwa-Young Chong will lead the sessions. All are welcome to attend. Prince of Peace church is at Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village. Call (847) 439-0668 for more information.
Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines offers a Drum Circle at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. Bring your own drum or percussive instrument or they will be provided, and experience an amazing change in consciousness and personal vibration. The drum circle includes people of all ages. The main objective is to share rhythm and get in tune with self and with each other. We form a group consciousness. We entrain and resonate. A new voice, a collective voice, emerges from the group as we drum together. All are welcome.
Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, will hold a workshop on Living Beyond Stress from 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. The economy these days may make it easy to forget that we already have all that we need. Come and discover or rediscover how to let go of fear and anxiety and live by love and choice. Cynthia Hosman, licensed counselor and Unity Northwest chaplain, will conduct this workshop for coping with stress in body, mind and spirit. Suggested freewill is $20. For information or to register, call (847) 297-0997.
St. Simon's Episcopal Church will host a forum discussing the unique season of Advent at 9 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2. It will be led by St. Simon's rector, the Very Rev. Robert P. Dekker. Child care is available throughout the morning. St. Simon's is at 717 Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights, adjacent to Northwest Community Hospital. saintsimons.org or (847) 259-2930.
Congregational United Church of Christ of Arlington Heights will host "Grieving at the Holidays" workshop from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. This two-hour workshop on handling grief during the holidays will be presented by the Rev. Nicolle Grasse, chaplain, Vitas Hospice, and the Rev. Brenda Kitchka, chaplain, Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter. The church is at 1001 W. Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights. Public is welcome. (847) 392-6650.
Men's fellowship
Rinkey Dinks Christian Men will meet at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at the Palm Court Restaurant, 1912 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, for lunch. David S. Terrill, director of gift planning at Northwest Community Hospital, will speak on "Making Charitable Gifts that are both generous and smart."
59 Minutes for Men begins a new year of discussion, fellowship and light breakfast refreshments. The group meets from 8 to 8:59 a.m. the third Saturday of each month in the Youth Center (lower level) of First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Books for the fall study date of Nov. 15 are available in the church office by calling (847) 255-5112.
Miscellaneous
Susan Geegan of Holy Family Parish in Inverness and Susan Matousek of St. Mary of the Annunciation Parish in Mundelein received the Bishop Quarter Award presented by Cardinal Francis George, archbishop of Chicago, during recent ceremonies at Holy Name Cathedral. Cardinal George also presented 42 Christifideles Awards to 56 Archdiocesan Catholics who reside in Vicariate I.
The following received the awards: George and Bernadette Oslovich, Buffalo Grove, St. Edna Parish; Peter Chaput, Arlington Heights, St. James Parish; Georgene Farman, Barrington, St. Anne Parish; Charles and Rita Riha, Bartlett, St. Peter Damian Parish; Lorraine Lalowski, Wheeling, St. Mary Parish; Efrain and Lidia Camacho, Evanston, Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe; Bob and Lori Uselding, Des Plaines, St. Zachary Parish; Josephine Anzelone, Elk Grove Village, St. Julian Eymard Parish; Tony and Charlene Chakeen, Elk Grove Village, Queen of the Rosary Parish; Lois Brondy, Grayslake, St. Gilbert Parish; Roger and Dzidra Malinski, Schaumburg, St. Hubert Parish; Teri Feurer, Wauconda, St. Mary of Vernon Parish; Donald Schmit, Fox Lake, St. Bede Parish; Elizabeth Pawlowski, Barrington, Holy Family Parish; Liane Klingler, Lake Forest, St. Mary Parish; George and Martha Orbank, Lake Villa, Prince of Peace Parish; Mary Manson, North Barrington, St. Francis De Sales Parish; William Butrym, Libertyville, St. Joseph Parish; Rita Gunther, Mundelein, St. Mary of the Annunciation Parish; Jesus and Betty Garcia, Mundelein, Santa Maria Del Popolo Parish; Gil Sommer, Arlington Heights, St. Cecilia Parish; Bill and Donna Mulderink, Des Plaines, St. Emily Parish; Tom and Betsy Shelven, Des Plaines, St. Emily Parish; Darlene and Dwayne Stewart, Mt. Prospect, St. Raymond De Penafort Parish; Jo Rene and John Anderson, Mount Prospect, St. Thomas Becket Parish; Leo Miklius, Palatine, St. Theresa Parish; (the late) Robert Chernesky, Palatine, St. Thomas of Villanova Parish; Joe and Bonnie Romanowski, Arlington Heights, St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish; Michael Koehler, Rolling Meadows, St. Colette Parish; Christine Mendralla, Round Lake, St. Joseph Parish; Thomas Griffin, Elgin, Church of the Holy Spirit; Theresa and Alois Kolbeck, Schaumburg, St. Marcelline Parish; Cecilia and Froilan Concepción, Inverness, St. Matthew Parish;
Nancy Licht, Streamwood, St. John the Evangelist Parish; Therese Tonyan, Lakemoor, St. Peter Parish; Marie and Tony Bruno, Gurnee, St. Patrick Parish; Andres Ortiz, McHenry, Transfiguration Parish; Judith and (the late) Patrick Clyne, Beach Park, St. Anastasia Parish; Mario Pena, Waukegan, Holy Family Parish; Dave and Becky Vogel, Wheeling, St. Joseph the Worker Parish; and Richard McFarlin, Zion, Our Lady of Humility Parish.
A series of events this fall will again be co-sponsored by Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, the Islamic Society of the Northwest Suburbs (ISNS) in Rolling Meadows and Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Schaumburg. The series will continue with an exploration of the role of prophets and scripture in the Jewish faith at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at ISNS Mosque, 3950 Industrial Ave., Rolling Meadows; and the series will conclude at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Prince of Peace, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, with an exploration of the role of prophets and scripture in Muslim faith. In addition to presentations by clergy from respective faiths, there will be a time for questions from the audience, and the evenings will conclude with dessert fellowship and a time for more informal discussion. There is no charge for admission and the public is invited to all events.
Faith World Outreach, 6N100 Route 59, Bartlett, is partnering with Angel Food Ministries to provide groceries to those in need. For $25, a family in need receives a box of quality groceries, both fresh and frozen items. (630) 830-0193 or angelfoodministries.com.
Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett will host a community blood drive from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8, at the church, 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59. Heartland Blood Centers will sponsor the event. For an appointment, call Holly Gould at (224) 238-3093. Walk-ins also are welcome.
The First St. Hubert Parish alumni event will begin with Mass celebrated by St. Hubert Pastor Father Robert Rizzo at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, in the newly renovated St Hubert Church, due to open in November, 2008, followed by a reception with refreshments in the Parish Ministry Center Multipurpose Room and an Open House Walk of the School. E-mail your attendance response to St. Hubert Development Core Team-Alumni Relations Arm Chairperson Denise Herrmann at dherrmann@sthubertschool.com.
A Drumming Circle will be offered at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. November is International Drumming Month. Drums will be provided by Gifts of the World Store. Persons with drums of their own are invited to bring them. This event will be led by registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski.
The Rev. Gordon Straw has been chosen as the interim minister at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Schaumburg. Straw will serve as pastor while the church chooses a permanent minister. Straw, a resident of Chicago, was ordained in The American Lutheran Church in 1986 and is an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He is an enrolled member of the Brothertown Indian Nation. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is at 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. (847) 885-7010 or princeofpeace.net.
For the third year, St. John UCC is offering a labyrinth. The labyrinth, mowed into the church's lawn at 1475 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, is a seven-circuit adaptation of the 11-circuit labyrinth found in Chartres Cathedral in France. There is a single path going into and out the center.
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 Program, meeting Sundays from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9 and Dec. 14 at the Catholic Charities Northwest Office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines; Wednesdays from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 19 and Dec. 17 at Holy Family Church Counseling Center, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness; and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 13 and Dec. 18 at Carmel High School, One Carmel Parkway, Mundelein.
To learn more about Des Plaines-based Catholic Charities North/Northwest Suburban Services, call (847) 376-2118.
The Chai Center for Enrichment and Renewal is offering Stress Release with Deborah Kronenberger, MA, LPC. Learn and experience various techniques for stress reduction from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Free to Temple Chai members, $10 nonmembers. RSVP (847) 537-1771, ext. 234, or thechaicenter@templechai.org.
The Chai Center for Enrichment and Renewal is offering Tai Chi Chih with Donna Elhose. Learn this spiritual form of martial arts in which slow movements contribute to a sense of well-being, better balance and focus and profound effects on the body, mind and spirit from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Free to Temple Chai members, $10 nonmembers. RSVP (847) 537-1771, ext. 234, or thechaicenter@templechai.org.
The Chai Center for Enrichment and Renewal is offering Brain Gym with Barbara Bednarz. With gentle physical movements and processes, enhance your ability to function and improve physical coordination, balance, fine and gross motor muscle control and spatial awareness from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Free to Temple Chai members, $10 nonmembers. RSVP (847) 537-1771, ext. 234, or thechaicenter@templechai.org.
Jewish Yoga is offered 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 17 (no class Nov. 26) at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Join us for this beginner's yoga class co-lead by Jayne Alenier, certified yoga teacher, and Rabbi Lisa Bellows. This class of traditional yoga and relaxation is infused with Jewish teachings and spirituality. Everyone is welcome, drop-in rates are available. congregation-betham.org
Long Grove's Congregation Beth Judea has designated Sunday, Nov. 2, as Mitzvah Day, a day for the congregants to "make a difference" in the Chicago area. Mitzvah Day is the beginning of Beth Judea's tzedakah year at Beth Judea, by having a variety of projects for individuals and families to work on to create a better world.
Many local organizations will benefit from this annual day to make a difference for others. This year, projects will benefit the following agencies: JUF/TOV Uptown Café, Jewish Child and Family Services, Brentwood Nursing Center, The Ronald McDonald House, WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger), The Night Ministry, Council for Jewish Elderly, The Fairy Godmother Project, The ARK, The Haven, PADS, The Vernon Township Food Pantry, the Wheeling Food Pantry, Project Linus, Shalva, Inspiration Café, The Humor Cart, the Jewish Community of Yerkaterinburg (Russia) and United Cerebral Palsy.
Collection drives include: travel size toiletries, playing cards, hand lotions, greeting cards and note cards, manicure items, first aid items, white socks, new of used DVDs, magazines, suduko or puzzle books, diapers and baby wipes, baby items, multivitamins, kosher food for Thanksgiving, paper goods, gently used women's clothing, used inkjet or laser printer cartridges, used cell phones, used computers, new or very gently used winter wear for children and adults, and much more.
Congregation Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For more information, contact the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Ronna Leibach.
Congregation Beth Judea (Conservative), Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, is now accepting 2008-09 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 details, call Executive Director Lisa Neiman, Education Director Anna Besser or Youth Director Aaron Polansky at (847) 634-0777 or visit bethjudea.org.
People looking for an environmentally responsible way to dispose of light electronic equipment now have a place to do so at a new location in Northbrook. Cell phones, iPods, laptop computers, laser printer toner cartridges and ink jet cartridges may be left at the office of North Northfield United Methodist Church, located at the corner of Sanders and Dundee roads. (Please call for the church hours before making a special trip. Please also note that this recycling program is unable to accept heavy electronic items such as desktop computers and televisions.) Donated items will be recycled through the eScrip recycling program. Proceeds will benefit the church. For information, call (847) 272-2250 or visit www.northnorthfield.org.
The St. Stephen Gaslight Players will have auditions for "Oklahoma" from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at St. Stephens Hanley Hall, 1267 Everett Ave., Des Plaines. Auditions are open. Show dates are Feb. 13-15, 20-21. No appointments are necessary. Prepare 16 bars of music from "Oklahoma," dress for movement and prepare to read a passage from the script.
A free beginning yoga class will be offered 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.
Prince of Peace United Methodist Church in Elk Grove Village has a volunteer opportunity for guitarists and drummers to participate in the contemporary church. The band leads music every Sunday morning with a group of talented vocalists. Schedule is flexible and rehearsal time is minimal. If interested in playing with a fun group of people on Sunday mornings, contact Prince of Peace Church at (847) 439-0668 or princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net.
St. Nicholas Episcopal Church opens its Supplemental Food Pantry from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays to the hungry of Elk Grove Village, Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg.
Bags of groceries are given to anyone in need, with no eligibility requirement. The church is at 1072 Ridge Ave., Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-2067 or onebreadonebody.org.
First Church of Christ, Scientist, Arlington Heights invites all to join in celebrating the 100th anniversary of "The Christian Science Monitor," a daily international newspaper that has won seven Pulitzer Prizes and is known for its clarity and objectivity in covering the important news of the world. Stop by the Christian Science Reading Room, 402 S. Arlington Heights Road, to take a look at the world through the Monitor's eyes. Reading Room hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. the third Wednesday: and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. (847) 255-4853.
Church Of The Incarnation is looking for singers and instrumentalists for the Chancel Choir and Incarnation Sound Praise Band. Singers from high school age through adult are welcome to join the Chancel Choir which sings for the Sunday service at 10:15 a.m. Rehearsals are 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Instrumentally, the band is looking for guitarists, drummers, and keyboardists for Sunday services at 10:15 a.m. Instrumentalists also from high school age through adult are welcome to join Incarnation Sound Praise Band. Rehearsals are at 9 a.m. Sundays. The church is at 330 W. Golf Road, Arlington Heights. Call (847) 956-1510 for details.
Holy Wanderers is an excursion ministry of First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. (847) 255-5112, www.ahfumc.org. Upcoming events are:
• The Symphony Center presents Chanticleer Monday, Dec. 1, at Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St.; tickets $40; van transportation $15; balcony general seating; 6 p.m. departure from church parking lot; 8 p.m. concert. Sign up for van transportation or meet us there after work or by using your free senior pass on public transportation.
Community Prayer is offered from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays in the Kingdom Life House of Prayer Chapel at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. (847) 506-1511 or KingdomLifeHouseOfPrayer.org.
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.
Performances
Knights of Columbus Mary's Millennium Council No. 12801 of Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Streamwood are presenting the new show from the creator of Late Nite Catechism, titled "Sisters Christmas Catechism" Friday, Nov. 14. Sister tackles the question, "Whatever happened to the Magi's gold?" It's CSI: Bethlehem when Sister invites her audience to be characters in a living Nativity/crime scene. Tickets cost $30 each. For tickets, call the parish office at (630) 837-6500 and leave a message for the Knights of Columbus. If you leave your e-mail address, a ticket order form can be e-mailed back to you to print and mail in with your payment.
The David Crowder Band will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at Life Changers International Church, 2500 Beverly Road, Hoffman Estates. Tickets cost $25 in advance; $23 for groups of 10 or more, plus one free; $30 day of event. Charge by phone at 800-965-9324 or look online at itickets.com.
The Gospel Messengers Choir from Carthage College in Kenosha, WI, will perform at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S Rohlwing Road, Palatine A freewill offering will be taken. (847) 358-4600.
"Late Night Catechism 2" will be presented by St. Thomas of Villanova School and Parish Saturday, Nov. 15, at St. Thomas of Villanova Church. 1201 E. Anderson Drive, Palatine. Preshow appetizers and cash bar at 6:15 p.m., performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35. For tickets and information, call (847) 359-3868 or visit stvschool.org/sisters.
Benjamin Britten's Abraham and Isaac will be sung by tenor David Portillo and Mezzo-soprano Katherine Calcamuggio, with Wayland Rogers at the piano Sunday, Nov. 2, at North Shore Unitarian Church, 2100 Half Day Road (Route 22) in Deerfield. The performance is part of a service on the controversial topic, offered twice at 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. The singers act out the ancient story: the father taking his son to Mount Moriah, building an altar where Abraham binds Isaac and after heartbreaking farewells raises his knife to slay him before God intervenes at the moment of sacrifice. Britten's pacifism echoes that of World War I poet and soldier, Wilfred Owen, and American sculptor, George Segal, all of whose striking comments on the parable brings the ancient into the present. Admission is free. (847) 234-2460.
A community Hymn Sing will be hosted Sunday, Nov. 2, by The Orchard Evangelical Free Church. The theme for this event is "Knowing Christ In Our Daily Walk." The program will begin at 6 p.m., preceded by an organ and piano prelude at 5:45 p.m. Come and enjoy singing the old familiar hymns and choruses, along with instrumental favorites, solos, and vocal groups. A time of refreshments and fellowship will immediately follow.
The co-hosts for the evening are Bob Olson, a local minister of music, and Stan Guillaume, a former member of the "16 Singing Men." Popular vocalist Glenn Jorian, known for his vocal artistry and lead tenor of the Melody Four Quartet, will be participating with Jan Di Francesca, as well as John Hacker, Tom Olson and Midge Wells of The Orchard. Glen Ramsborg will be at the organ. Also included on the program will be selections by a children's ensemble and the "Hymn Sing" ensemble.
The Orchard Evangelical Free Church is at 1330 N. Douglas Ave., Arlington Heights. For additional information, call Donald Scherrer at (847) 870-8315 or Stan Guillaume at (312) 608-2403.
Heidi Rittmeyer and Matthew Doran, two young St. Peter organ students, will be giving a joint recital at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2. Included in the All Saints Day program will be works of Bach, Pachelbel, Brahms and Vierne. Come and enjoy the sounds of St. Peter's pipe organ and the talents of our gifted high school organists. The concert is free and refreshments will follow.
Seniors
The following events are at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. They are free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. For information, call (630) 213-0100.
• Monday, Nov. 3, 3:30 p.m.: The Spanish Club of South Elgin High School presents Dia de los Muertos, in honor of All Saints Day and Mexico's Day of the Dead, where people remember departed souls in a festive mood with photographs of loved ones who have died, costumes of skeletons and lots of food.
• Monday, Nov. 17, 10:30 a.m.: In honor of International Drum Month, Native American Heritage Month and upcoming Thanksgiving, enjoy a Drumming Circle. Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski will present "Drumming Circles-The Rhythm of Life." Learn the history, religious usage 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.
• Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2 p.m.: In honor of National Hospice Month, the Rev. Martha Parker, a chaplain of Vitas Hospice, will lead a Quarterly Memorial Service honoring individuals who have passed away in the last three months. Special music, a candle lighting service and a time for sharing is included.
Laff (Life After Fifty-five) will meet at Temple Beth Tikvah in Hoffman Estates at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov 1, for pizza and a movie. The movie will be "Out of Faith," a story about Holocaust survivors whose children intermarry. Members $1 and guests $3. For details, call Marilyn at (847) 934-0886
Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, will offer a a Learn @ Lunch program at noon Wednesday, Nov. 5. The cost for this catered lunch and educational program is $6. The presentation is "Moving a Lifetime" with Mary Jo Zeller from Gero Solutions, senior relocation specialists. You will learn about trends influencing downsizing, how this move is different from other moves, right sizing, minimizing the stress of moving and simplifying. Call Carrie Hill at (847) 255-8700, ext. 315 to register by Saturday, Nov. 1.
Special services
Congregation Kneseth Israel holds Shabbat services are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. In addition to services, social activities are planned by the award-winning youth group, 50+ club, men's club and sisterhood. (847) 741-5656 or ckielgin.org.
Congregation Shirat Shalom in Elgin offers Shabbat services at 9:45 a.m. Saturdays, followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Tot Shabbat services are the third Friday of the month, and adult education classes are Thursdays and Saturdays. Hebrew School registration is now open.
Everyone is invited to join us for our next Adult Education class on Saturday, Nov. 1. We will be discussing "Maimonides' Thirteen Principles of Faith" at 12:30 p.m., following Shabbat services and luncheon. Call for details at (847) 695-6246. CongregationShiratShalom.org.
Celebrate the Festival of All Saints at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, with the people of Trinity Lutheran Church of Roselle in a special A Hymn Festival For All The Saints. We will recognize the special fellowship of saints using an assortment of hymns and choral anthems, special readings and meditations.
Music will be presented by the Gloria Dei Chorale, Trinity Brass Ensemble, Gospbells Hand Bell Choir, with music director and organist Gary Lichthardt. Trinity is at 405 S. Rush St. in Roselle. (630) 894-3263 or www.trinityroselle.com.
A prayer service will be at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 Main St. in Barrington. This service includes reading from the Bible, music, and prayers for peace in the Middle East. It is part of an ecumenical effort in the U.S. and the world to pray daily until a just and lasting peace comes to all citizens of the region. (847) 381-0243 or www.elca.org/middleeast.
Following this service, there will be a presentation by a guest speaker on "Israel and Palestine - An Inside View." Lynne Rigg is a retired Lutheran pastor from Wisconsin who will share her varied experiences as an Ecumenical Accompanier and peace presence in the West Bank for three months in the spring of 2003.
Shabbat worship services are offered at 7:30 p.m. Fridays (Kabbalat Shabbat) and at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Birthdays and anniversaries will be recognized at the first Friday night service of the month. Daily minyan services are: Mondays at 6:15 a.m.; Monday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 9 a.m.
Tot Shabbat services are held in the main sanctuary of the synagogue at 6:30 p.m. on the second Friday of every month. Gan Shabbat services are held every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Beit HaMidrash on the Religious School level. (847) 634-0777.
Kol Chaverim, a 1-year-old post-denominational, participatory, egalitarian congregation, invites prospective members to regular Shabbat morning services and kiddush lunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Jewish Council for Youth Services Northwest, 1700 Weiland Road, Buffalo Grove. Call (847) 398-2019 by Friday. kolchaverim.org.
A special Thanksgiving Eve Service will be held at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, facilitated by spiritual leader Jo Ann Ballard. Come light a candle, worship in song and prayer. Unity Northwest is a nondenominational church and welcomes all people.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will have services for All Saints Day at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, and 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will honor all veterans at services at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, and 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Veterans are invited to wear some sign of their service, such as a cap, beret or medal.
St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, is changing the format and location of the Monday night worship service. This will be a traditional service in the sanctuary and Communion will be celebrated on the first and third weekend of the month.
All are invited at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, to a special service to honor veterans at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights. There will be reserved seating, patriotic music, special performances, the Wheeling High School Honor Guard, and much more. Following the service there will be light refreshments. The whole community is invited. If you would like to make a donation for the Care Packages that will be assembled later in the afternoon, call the church office at (847) 259-4114.
A Taizé service will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, in the sanctuary at The Christian Church of Arlington Heights, 333 W. Thomas St., Arlington Heights. The service offers a service of music, silence and meditative prayer in the style of the Taizé Community in France the first Thursday of each month. Music starts at 7:15 p.m. Prayer service begins at 7:30 p.m. (847) 259-0059.
The Rev. Tim Haugen will preach on the subject "Profit or Non-Profit" at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Nov. 2, at Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows.
Adult, student ministries Bible classes and children's church meet at 9 a.m. Another adult Bible class and the Adventure Club for children ages 4 through sixth grade meet at 10:30 a.m.
The AWANA Club for children ages 3 through sixth grade meets each Thursday at 7 p.m. (847) 255-8764.
The Kingdom Life House of Prayer Chapel at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows. 2720 Kirchoff, Rolling Meadows, offers worship from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays. (847) 506-1511, KingdomLifeHouseOfPrayer.org.
Women's programs
CWU of the Barrington Area will celebrate World Community Day on Friday, Nov. 7, at Faith Community United Church of Christ, 2023 Route 176 in Prairie Grove, beginning at 10:45 a.m. The guest speaker is Nancy McCarty, executive director of Music Theatre Workshop (MTW); she also serves as production manager and art director for all MTW productions. MTW is a nonprofit company dedicated to positive youth development through the arts.
CWU of the Barrington Area continues its prison ministry by inviting attendees to bring a gift/donation of new large-size panties, new or clean gently-used bras in all sizes, and white socks. Ten Thousand Villages will be displaying handmade, fairly-traded crafts available for purchase. There will also be an agape luncheon after the service; attendees are asked to bring a sandwich and piece of fruit to share. For more information, call (847) 540-5634.
The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea invites all women to attend their Annual Membership Dinner in the synagogue's Social Hall Wednesday, Nov. 19. The theme of this year's dinner is "Celebrating All Women of Valor" (Ashet Chayil). Hors d'oeuvres and cocktails begin at 7 p.m.; dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per woman; new members are paid guests of the Sisterhood. Reservations are due by Monday, Nov. 6. Chairperson of this annual dinner is Heidi Sakol. For details, call (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.
"God's Wisdom Sets Us Free" is the theme of the 2008 World Community Day being celebrated by Church Women United in Northwest Cook County at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at Elk Grove Presbyterian Church, 600 E. Elk Grove Blvd. Mary Cornille, from Sisters of the Living Word, will help us reflect on the struggles in our lives and in the lives of others, explore the compulsions and addictions that can imprison people's lives, and recognize what real freedom can mean. Refreshments will follow. "Gifts of the World" gift shop will be there to sell fairly traded handmade items from around the world. For information and child care reservations, call Nancy Duel, (847) 259-3793.
The fall session of the Ladies Bible class will be on Wednesday mornings, at 9:30 a.m. in Bartz Hall at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, studying the book of Acts.
Also, a Women's Bible Sharing will continue Tuesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the sanctuary in the LifeLight series with the book of Joshua.
In addition, at 8:15 a.m. Friday mornings, women will meet in the Board Room to start up with the book "Revolutionary Generosity" in conjunction with the other small groups in the church. This group is open to women of all ages.
A women's Bible study, led by laypersons, meets every Wednesday, 9:30 to 11 a.m., at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The group is reading "Daughters of Eve" by Virginia Owens. The book examines the women in the Bible and their message to women today. Newcomers are welcome. Check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for information.
CoffeeHour is a women's Bible study and outreach of Arlington Countryside Church in Arlington Heights. A variety of studies are offered and different times to meet - morning (child care available) and evening. acchurch.org.
Piecemakers Quilting Ministry holds monthly "bees" at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. They are starting the season stitching "bell pulls." These narrow quilts can be done by hand or machine. No bell is required. Piecemakers welcomes people who sew, quilt or wish they could. Call the church office for details, (847) 255-5112.