Newly combined church celebrates with holiday tea

DuPage women who want to "Linger Awhile" may join the women of two recently united congregations at an annual Christmas Tea at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6 at St. Andrew's Golf Club, 3N441 Route 59, West Chicago.

"This is the first event we've held together for the women of the new church," said Shari Watson of West Chicago, coordinator of the tea. "We decided to take a chance on expanding it to two nights to accommodate more women."

The women of the newly combined Water's Edge Bible Church in West Chicago are sponsoring the event featuring a speaker, food and beautifully decorated tables with lavish holiday themes, all reflecting the theme "Linger Awhile."

The new church resulted from the merger of two separate congregations in August: West Chicago Bible Church and Water's Edge, which formerly held services at Glenbard North High School in Carol Stream.

The tea has been an annual event of West Chicago Bible Church for the past seven years. Mary Whelchel of Glen Ellyn will speak on the topic, "Ordinary Women - Extraordinary Grace, Women in the Lineage of Jesus Christ."

In 1984 Whelchel established The Christian Working Woman radio program, which is now broadcast on more than 500 radio stations nationally and internationally. She also is director of women's ministries for the Moody Church in Chicago and has published 15 books, many directed to the spiritual needs of working women.

Her latest book, "Why Do I Always Feel Guilty?" was released in January.

At the tea, women from Water's Edge Bible Church will act as hostesses and decorate their tables with a theme and coordinating tableware. While participants socialize and enjoy the decorations, music will be provided by piano and bass players. The tea sandwiches will be prepared and served by St. Andrew's, while all the sweets for the event will be provided by the organizers.

"So far, we've already gotten a wonderful response," said Watson. "It's a great ice-breaker for women to meet each other and enjoy fellowship."

Advance tickets are on sale until Sunday at (630) 231-1210.

If you go…

What:Water's Edge Bible Church will present its Christmas Tea, "Linger Awhile," featuring author and radio host Mary Whelchel and her program "Ordinary Women -- Extraordinary Grace, Women in the Lineage of Jesus Christ."

When:6:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6

Where:St. Andrew's Golf Club, 3N441 Route 59, West Chicago

Cost: $12 by Sunday

Call: (630) 231-1210