Northwest suburban religion notes

Deadline for submissions is noon Monday.

New pastor: Peter A. Hellstedt was installed as the pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA), 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. A native of La Grange Park, Hellstedt comes to Prince of Peace after 17 years at Grace Lutheran Church in Mount Prospect and, before that, at congregations in Park Ridge and Decatur. For details, visit princeofpeace.net or call (847) 885-7010.

Oct. 23

CKI: Congregation Kneseth Israel, 330 Division St., Elgin, will have a USY Shabbat Service on Oct. 23; Family Shabbat Service Oct. 30; Kadima Mitzvah Project Nov. 1; Junior Congregation Nov. 10; Hadassah/Sisterhood visit to The Holocaust Museum in Skokie Nov. 22; and Chanukah Bazaar Nov. 22 to Dec. 13. (847) 741-5656 or ckielgin.org.

Spaghetti dinner: From 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, St. John Lutheran Church is sponsoring a communitywide spaghetti dinner in the lower level of the school building, 1101 Linneman Road, Mount Prospect. Dinner includes spaghetti with choice of meat sauce or garlic with olive oil, garlic bread, salad, dessert and beverages. Ticket donation is $8 for adults $4 for kids ages 4-10 and free for kids younger than 4. Raffle drawing is at 7:30 p.m. You do not need to be present for raffle prize drawing. For details, call (847) 593-7670, ext. 1.

Oct. 24

Rummage sale: The Presbyterian Women in the Church of the Cross will have a Fall Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at the church, 475 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. For details, visit www.cotc-pcusa.org.

Fall festival: Christ Community Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, hosts its Annual Fall Festival at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Included are roasted hot dogs, apple bobbing, s'more-making, games and costume fun. All ages welcome. For details, call (847) 895-3654.

Crafters needed: Crafters are being sought to take part in the Craft and Holiday Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood. Applications and additional information is available by contacting LaVerne Ryman at (630) 837-7337, e-mail l_ryman@yahoo.com; Pam Patterson at (815) 308-5313, e-mail pamp8207@comcast.net; or the Church office, (630) 837-0190.

Ham supper: The annual ham supper will be served family-style at St. John UCC, 1475 W Algonquin Road, Palatine. Seatings will be at 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Ticket price is $9 for adults, $4.50 for children and free for kids younger than 3. Reservations are needed. Call Carol Hinds at (630) 830-2394 or Kathy Harlow at (847) 359-2888 for reservations, specific seatings, or for carryout dinners.

Blessing of animals: Anshe Tikvah will hold a Blessing of the Animals Service at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, Childerly Park, 506 McHenry Road in Wheeling. Cats, dogs, lizards, fish and stuffed animals are invited to bring their people for a brief service and blessing. Donations of pet food will be colleted for Nina's Pet Food Pantry. (847) 917-7726.

For working moms: The Saturday morning Moms Bible Study is looking for new members. It meets from 9 to 10:30 a.m. one Saturday morning per month at Panera Restaurant on Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. The next meeting will be Saturday, Oct. 24. For more information, contact Jennifer Slate at (847) 870-9624 or J-Slate@neiu.edu

Pumpkin patch: The sixth annual Pumpkin Patch will be through Oct. 31 at Park Ridge Community Church, located on the church lawn at Prospect and Crescent avenues in Park Ridge. More than 2,000 pumpkins, plus other seasonal items such as Indian corn and gourds, will be on display and available for sale. Hours of operation are: 3-7 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturdays, and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sundays. On Saturdays, Oct. 24, and 31, the Halloween classic movie, "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," will be shown outdoors at dusk, weather permitting. Local musicians will play music in the patch weekends. On Saturday, Oct. 24, families with young children are invited to enjoy games, face painting, balloon animals, and a costume contest at the first Pumpkin Patch Party. Proceeds from the patch sale will be shared between the New Mexico Navajo Tribe that grows the pumpkins and the PRCC Youth Ministry Fund. For details, call (847) 823-3164 or visit www.prccyouth.org.

8th Step Seminar: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host an 8th Step Seminar for those in AA who would like some help in working the program from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 24. Free. For details, call (847) 998-1946 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Art class: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer a three-session art class from noon to 2 p.m. beginning Saturday, Oct. 24. Cost is $14 and includes painting and decorating two Resin Thanksgiving sculptures. Teacher is Maxine Kitts. Other class dates are Oct. 31 and Nov. 7. For details, call (847) 998-1946 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Oct. 25

Praying for the Bears: "How to Pray for the Chicago Bears" is the lighthearted title of the message that will be presented by Gregory Barrette, senior minister of Unity Northwest Church in Des Plaines, at 9 and 11 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 25. He has asked the congregation to wear their Bears gear. (847) 297-0997 or unitynorthwest.org.

Concerts: The Spirit of Life Chorus, a more than 100- member ecumenical Christian concert chorus, will perform at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at St. John Lutheran Church, 7429 Milwaukee Ave., Niles; 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.

Holiday ministries: North Northfield United Methodist Church in Northbrook plans to participate in several ministries to benefit the less fortunate during the holidays. The congregation will gather mittens, hats, scarves, gloves and socks to give to elementary-age children in need in Wheeling Elementary District 21. The church is collecting new items during October for donation during November. The congregation also 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 will be available to donors starting Oct. 25 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 www.northnorthfield.org.

Halloween bash: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer a Halloween Bash from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, for children of all ages. Free. Movies, snacks, refreshments, pizza. and pumpkin-carving contest. For details, call (847) 998-1946 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Beginning genealogy: Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host a Beginners' Workshop led by Judith R. Frazin, former JGSI president at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Northbrook Public Library, 1201 Cedar Lane, Northbrook. For more information, visit jewishgen.org/jgsi or phone (312) 666-0100.

Book discussion: Temple Jeremiah congregant Ruth Adler will lead a discussion of The New York Times best-seller "The Red Tent" by Anita Diamant" at 10 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 25, at Temple Jeremiah, 937 Happ Road, Northfield. This first-person narrative tells the story of Dinah, daughter of Jacob and sister of Joseph, a talented midwife and feminist.

Performance: The wonderful Youth's Magic Horn - a performance of Gustav Mahler's Des Knaben Wunderhorn by Katherine Bergmann, soprano, John Campen, baritone, and Jeffrey Peterson, pianist, will be presented at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 916 E Central Road, Arlington Height. Des Knaben Wunderhorn (The Youth's Magic Horn) explores the range of emotions from humor and love to tragedy and war. The suggested donation is $10. Call (847) 577-6918.

Piano concert: Celebrate the 300th Anniversary of the Piano at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Piano 300th Concert hosted by Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. The evening includes performances by pianists Norreen Klemens, Fran Onley and Rick Burdsell. Many of their students also will perform. A reception will follow the concert. For details, visit www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650.

Teens course: JLI 4 Teens, a new program for high school teens, meets from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Sundays beginning Oct. 25. It is a program of Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook and the Friendship Circle. The first six-week course is titled "MySpace. YourSpace. Is My Life Any of Your Business?" Classes use videos and PowerPoint presentations to explore issues such as suicide, extreme sports, self-defense, and rescuing strangers. The cost is $74. Lunch and materials included. Scholarships available. For more information, visit ChabadNorthbrook.com/teens or call (847) 564-8770.

Fall Boutique: Join for a fun-filled morning of shopping with more than 20 vendors from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Fall Boutique at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Vendors include fused glass, jewelry, Mary Kay, Lia Sophia, children's books, Beijo Bags, needlepoint, art work, handcrafted personalized items, etc. For details, e-mail jane. rosenblum@yahoo.com.

Family concert: Musician Dan Nichols presents a free family concert at 3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 25, at Temple Jeremiah, 937 Happ Road, Northfield.

Meadows on Mission: Pastor Tim Haugen will speak on "Greenhouse" as part of the Meadows on Mission series at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Oct. 25, 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, Oct. 26, a Ladies and a Men's Bible Study will meet separately at 7 p.m. On Tuesday, Oct. 27, 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, Oct. 28, the weekly adult Bible Study and Prayer group and FUEL (senior high youth) will meet at 6:30 p.m. On Thursday, Oct. 29, Awana Clubs for children ages preschool through sixth grade will meet at 7 p.m. On Friday, Oct. 30, a Ladies Bible Study will meet at 9:30 a.m. On Saturday, Oct. 31, Trunk or Treat will take place in the church parking lot from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy games, food, candy and fun. (847) 255-8764, Meadowsfamily.org

Sermon topic: "Faith and Wellness" is the topic for worship, 10:30 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 25, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. School age children will participate in church school during the worship time. Nursery and child care are available for infants and toddlers. CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

Oct. 27

Pastoral care: In honor of National Pastoral Care Week Oct. 25-31 and Clergy Appreciation Month, area clergy and pastoral staff are invited to a free lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. For information, contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.

Dancing through the decades: Beth Judea's United Synagogue Youth invites all Jewish teens to come to the Beth Judea Youth Lounge from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27. Come and dance through the decades dressed in clothes from your favorite decade. Dress like Cain; Moses; or Adam Sandler. Free for members; $10 for Jewish nonmembers. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For details, call Aaron Polonsky at (847) 634-0777.

Adult education: Rabbi Howard Lifshitz will teach a course called "A Moral Life" at Congregation Beth Judea. Using translations of traditional sources, the class will discuss concepts such as compassion, zeal, modesty, humility, shame, peace, and knowing God and loving God. Classes will meet at 8 p.m. on the following Tuesdays: Oct. 27; Nov. 3, 10 and 17; Dec. 1, 8, 15. To register, call (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove.

Oct. 28

Faith enrichment: Holy Family Catholic Community invites all to Community on Wednesday, an evening of faith enrichment and adult formation, from 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 28. Guest speaker Paul Wilkes will present "A Catholic Life." He is the author of "In Due Season: A Catholic Life." Wilkes will be available sign books after his talk. All are invited to Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, (847) 907-3441. holyfamilyparish.org.

Living Rosary: St. Thomas of Villanova will offer the Living Rosary at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the church at 1201 E. Anderson, Palatine. Members recite the Hail Mary and light a candle for each bead until the entire rosary is illuminated surrounding the congregation. Mission rosaries blessed with holy water from Lourdes will be available to all. Other languages beside English will be represented. Hospitality to follow.

Taize service: St. Colette Church, 3900 Meadow Drive in Rolling Meadows, will hold a Taize Prayer and Meditation Service at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28. The atmosphere is one of quiet meditation, prayer and song. Sing from your spirit. Sit quietly in a candlelit church and experience deep inner peace.

Oct. 29

Ethnic diversity: Celebrate Ethnic Heritage Month and Diversity Awareness Month with a Drumming Circle at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, led by music therapist Rita Lopienski, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Learn about the history of drums and how they are used in other cultures, and experience first hand the therapeutic benefits of playing them, such as stress reduction, self expression and spirituality. Free, but reservations are encouraged. For information, contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.

Oct. 30

Haunted house: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer a trip to a haunted house Friday, Oct. 30. Recommended for ages 10 and older. Cost is $10 per person with free McDonald's afterward. Destination is Scream Scene at Oakton Park in Skokie. Meet in the church parking lot at 6:30 p.m. For details, call (847) 998-1946 or visit www.stphilip.info.

Oct. 31

Trunk or Treat: Come to Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, Saturday, Oct. 31, for Trunk or Treat from 5 to 8 p.m. The parking lot will be filled with decorated cars and trucks for you to have a safe environment to trick-or-treat. Enjoy games, food, candy and more.

Pumpkin patch: The Prince of Peace United Methodist Church in Elk Grove Village will be hosting a Pumpkin Patch through Halloween. Everyone is invited to do their Halloween shopping by stopping by the church property at the corner of Devon Avenue and Arlington Heights Road. Colorful gourds will also be available for purchase. Pumpkin Patch hours are as follows: Monday-Friday: 3-7 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sunday: noon-4 p.m. Prince of Peace Church is located at 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village.

Halloween party: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold at Spooktacular Halloween Party from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 31, in fellowship hall. There will be games, treats, crafts and some ghostly surprises for children ages 3 through fifth grade. All are encouraged to wear costumes. Admission is a bag of treats. All preschool children must be accompanied by a parent.

Conference: "You Will Know Them by Their Fruits," a Catholic Conference with the Rev. Christopher Crotty of the Fathers of Mercy, will be held from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For details, visit comeholyspiritconferences.org or call (847) 655-5011.

Nov. 1

Mitzvah Day: Long Grove's Congregation Beth Judea has designated Sunday, Nov. 1, as Mitzvah Day, a day for the congregants to "make a difference" in the Chicago area. Mitzvah Day is a day in which all sectors of the Beth Judea congregation perform good deeds and community service projects. This year, Beth Judea's Mitzvah Day will concentrate on projects that address the economic crisis, especially food drives, JCFS coat drives, support of PADS, WINGS and Shalva. Collection drives, which continue to Nov. 1, kick off this year's campaign: kosher foods and food staples will be put in food baskets that will be donated to the Vernon Township and the Wheeling Township food pantries for Thanksgiving. Paper towels, napkins, cleaning supplies and large toiletries will be donated to the ARK and WINGS. Small toiletries will be given to a number of agencies, including PADS, WINGS, the ARK, US Jewish troops and TOV. New and gently used winter coats will be collected and donated to Jewish Child and Family Service (JCFS), PADS, and local coat drives. First aid supplies are being collected to make into kits for families from many of the above agencies. Band-Aids, single packets of Neosporin, alcohol swabs, Q-tips, Kleenex, small hand sanitizers, first aid cream and cough drops are all needed. Warm socks, gloves, mittens and hats will be given to PADS. Needed are used computers to be donated to United Cerebral Palsy. Gently used (winter or fall) women's business clothing will be collected for the Bottomless Closet. Purses, shoes, new packages of stockings and other accessories are also needed. Beth Judea continues to collect used cell phones for Shalva, printer cartridges for recycling and aluminum cans. Congregation Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For details, call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Ronna Leibach.

Chili cook-off: Christian Life Church, 400 E. Gregory St., Mount Prospect, will offer its annual Chili-Off at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. Chili, hot dogs, nachos and desserts will be served. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Chili is $1.50 for all you can eat. Nachos and hot dogs are $1. Also, there will be a Trunk-or-Treat for children in the church parking lot at 4 p.m. For details, call (847) 259-3090 or visit mail@christianlifechurch.org.

Art fair: Unity Northwest Church is sponsoring an Art Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. Come and browse the selection of arts and crafts that will be offered for sale by talented artisans. Unity Northwest is at 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. For details, call (847) 297-0997.

Anniversary: Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook will celebrate its 10-year anniversary milestone with an elaborate dinner. The event will honor Karen Jossel with the Kindness Award and Philip and Illana Weintraub with the Lamplighter Award. Comedic entertainer Rueven Russel will perform at the event, which will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. For details and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.ChabadNorthbrook.com/dinner or call (847) 564-8770.

Film: Temple Jeremiah, 937 Happ Road, Northfield, will present the controversial film "Forgiving Dr. Mengele" at 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 1. The movie centers around a shocking act of forgiveness by Auschwitz survivor Eva Mozes Kor and the firestorm of criticism it created. Award-winning filmmaker Bob Hercules will lead a discussion following the movie. Hear the "behind-the-scenes" stories of this award-winning movie.

Nov. 3

Preschool/kindergarten: A brand new program for children ages 3 years (by Nov. 1) through kindergarten will be offered at St. Paul, 100 S. School St., Mount Prospect. Using Creative Curriculum, students enjoy a variety of activities to help learn about God and the world around them. Taught by Joyce Voss, Explore is designed to enrich the preschool and kindergarten education students are receiving. This program will be offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. and will be a prepaid program offered in three-week intervals: Nov. 3-18; Dec. 1-16. Contact Dari at dhartmann@saint-paul.org. (847) 255-0332, saint-paul.org.

Nov. 4

Soulquest: The Jewish learning Institute (JLI) presents a new six-week course, "Soulquest: The Journey through Life, Death and Beyond." What do the teachings of Kabbalah and Talmud say about the soul? Learn where you come from, where your lost loved ones are to be found and how the before and after is all connected to the present. The course is offered six Tuesdays, beginning Nov. 3, from 7:30 to 9 p.m., or six Wednesdays, beginning Nov. 4, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook, 755 Huehl Road, Northbrook. For details, visit www.ChabadNorthbrook.com/JLI or call (847) 564-8770

Nov. 6

World Community Day: Church Women United (CWU) of the Barrington Area will celebrate World Community Day Friday, Nov. 6, at Ss. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, 410 N. First St., Cary, beginning at 10:45 a.m. World Community Day is an occasion for Christian women to pray and work for lasting peace. Guest speaker is Karen Hewitson, who is currently serving as the Northern Illinois Conference president of United Methodist Women. CWU of the Barrington Area continues its prison ministry by inviting attendees to bring a gift/donation of new or gently used board games appropriate for girls ages 14 to 21. The games will be used at Illinois Youth Center Warrenville. There will also be an agape luncheon after the service; attendees are asked to bring a sandwich and piece of fruit to share. In keeping with our "green theme," attendees are also encouraged to bring their own mugs to use at the luncheon. For details, call (847) 540-5634.

Christmas Creations: First Baptist Church of Arlington Heights, 1211 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights, will offer holiday workshops at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6. Workshops will be on these topics: Christmas Cookies; Kid's Christmas Craft; Christmas Ornaments; Family Christmas Traditions; Taking Family Photos and Christmas Baskets. Cost is $5. Registration is appreciated. (847) 392-1712 or fbcah.org.

Nov. 7

Seeking crafters: St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, is seeking crafters for its Arts & Craft Fair, which will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, in the Hughes Center. For details or an application, call Judy Ambrose at (847) 891-1255 or e-mail jambrose@stmatthewparish.org or ambrose90@comcast.net.

Concert: Salem United Methodist Church is hosting a dinner and concert at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, featuring their Chancel and Bell Choirs, directed by David Hartley and Karen Keating, along with a choral ensemble from Grove Elementary School, directed by Rachel Rosellini. The talents of many other performers, including pianist Mikhail Antoshin, will be heard. Dinner will be a traditional fall harvest menu. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. For tickets, call (847) 381-0524. The church is at 115 W. Lincoln Ave., Barrington.

Gong meditation: A second Gong Meditation with Kenny Kolter will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, blanket or pillow and water. This program is sponsored by Countryside Church's Adult Faith Development Council. Suggested donation is $20; however, no one will be turned away for lack of funds. To reserve a spot, call (847) 917-4107 or e-mail erv@freshstarthypnosis.com

Book talk: The Reading is Believing book group will discuss "Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus" at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at North Northfield United Methodist Church, Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. (847) 272-2250. northnorthfield.org

Healthy Relationships Workshop: Unity Northwest Church presents a dynamic workshop facilitated by Martha Creek from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7. There will be a one-hour break for lunch. Unity Northwest is at 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Freewill offering. To register, call (847) 297-0997.

Holiday craft sale: Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Women's Club Queen of Peace Guild will hold its 37th annual Holiday Craft and Bake sale Nov. 7-8 in Paluch Hall, 8300 Greenwood Ave., Niles. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 7 and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 8. (847) 823-2550.

Nov. 8

Giving Tree: Lord of Life Church, 119 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg, will be gathering gifts donated by the congregation for the children of LSSI (Lutheran Social Services). The Giving Tree will be in the Nathex of the church beginning Nov. 8. A name will be picked and a present bought for these children by Nov. 29. Then join for the St. Nick's Party at 5 p.m. Saturday Dec. 5, where we will wrap presents and have pizza. For details, call (847) 895-8877.

Coffeehouse jazz: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, is holding a Coffeehouse Jazz event featuring The Plan 9 Trio from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, in fellowship hall. Admission is $5 at the door. Coffee, sweets and other refreshments will be served. (847) 827-6656.

Jewish law: A weekly class studying Jewish law will meet from 8 to 9 a.m. on Sunday mornings at Congregation Beth Judea from Nov. 8 through May 30. The Jewish Law Study Group, led by Rabbi Robert Gamer, will be examine some of the recent decisions of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards of the Conservative Movement. Topics include: employer-employee relations, biomedical ethics regarding pre-implantation, genetic screening, rules regarding tzedakah from ill-gotten gains and more. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.

Concert: Matthew Doran, graduate of St. Peter School, will perform a recital of organ and piano music at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, in the sanctuary at St. Peter Lutheran Church 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights.

Seniors group: The MT Nesters, Beth Judea's seniors group, will meet at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, at the synagogue. The program will be presented by Agnes Schwartz, a child Holocaust survivor. A question-and-answer period will follow. Membership dues are $20 per person for the year. You need not be a member of Beth Judea to be a member of the MT Nesters. For details, call (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

'Loving What Is' Workshop: Unity Northwest Church presents this Byron Katie workshop facilitated by Martha Creek from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. Unity Northwest is at 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. To register, call (847) 297-0997.

Online Genealogy: Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will present "Online Genealogy," led by Harriet Rudnit, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster, Skokie. Learn how to research your family's history using resources available on the Web. The JGSI meeting facilities will open at 12:30 p.m. for those who want to use library materials, get help with genealogy Web sites on the Internet or ask questions before the main program begins. www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or (312) 666-0100.

Nov. 11

GriefShare: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine, will host a special GriefShare presentation on "Surviving the Holidays" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. To register, call (847) 359-3451. reachgrowserve.org.

Concert: Captive Free, a relational music ministry team sponsored by Youth Encounter, will present an evening of experiential worship and music at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. Youth groups are invited to this faith-encouraging program of music and personal sharing. (847) 437-2666. christusvictoregv.org.

Meditation Class: A new meditation group titled "Inside Tracks," sponsored by Unity Northwest Church and facilitated by Michael Korpan, licensed Unity Teacher candidate, and the Rev. Diane Venzera, will launch Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. While there will be opportunities to learn about the different traditions, the focus of the group will be on the practice of meditation rather than on the study of meditation. For details, call (847) 297-0997.

Nov. 12

Camp information: Information Nights for JCC Chicago Camp Chi overnight camp will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8 and Wednesday, Feb. 10, at Bernard Weinger JCC, 300 Revere Drive, Northbrook; and 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12; Wednesday, Jan. 20; and Tuesday, March 2, at Jacob Duman JCC at Woodland Commons, 370 Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove. For details, call (847) 763-3551.

Nov. 13

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Nov. 22

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. 25

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.

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.

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 hours: Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, a not-for-profit fair trade store that specializes in handcrafted jewelry, instruments, wall hangings, scarves, coffee and 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, Amish dolls, 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.

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.

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.