Fox Valley religion notes

To include your church in the free listings, e-mail to foxvalley@dailyherald.com, fax to (847) 608-0849, or mail to 385 Airport Road, Suite A, Elgin IL 60123.

St. John: St. John's Lutheran Church and School, 115 N. Spring in Elgin, will celebrate the second to last Sunday in the church's year and the message will be based on the Epistle, Hebrews 10:11-25. The Rev. Hannibal Frederich will preach on the theme "All the More" as the church considers the Epistle's admonition to stir up each other up to do good works and remain faithful "all the more" as the day of Jesus' return comes closer. Services are at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday. There are multiple Bible classes for adults and the Sunday school program for children from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Sunday as well. A nursery is available during the 10:30 a.m. service. For information, call (847) 741-0814.

Evangelical Covenant: On Sunday, Nov. 15, Evangelical Covenant Church, 1565 Larkin Ave. in Elgin, will worship at 10:30 a.m. with traditional worship and Children's Church for kids through sixth grade. High school and adult Sunday school classes meet at 9:15 a.m. On Friday, Nov. 13, enjoy a special presentation on the life and art of Warner Salman at 7 p.m. On Sunday, Nov. 15, guest Klyne Snodgrass, author of "Stories with Intent: A Comprehensive Guide to the Parables of Jesus," will lead Sunday school and morning service. The book earned Christianity Today's award for "2009 Book of the Year" in Biblical Studies. He is a theologian, author and professor of New Testament Studies at the North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago. For details, call (847) 888-2302.

Country Covenant Church: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Paul Bischoff, interim pastor, continues his challenging sermons about New Testament insight about how you view God and how these views affect every day lives and the lives of people that you meet in the workplace at the 10:30 a.m. service at Country Evangelical Covenant Church, Route 47 and McDonald Road in Campton Hills. He challenges you to relate the Bible to your every day life. Adult Sunday school and church activities for children are held at 9:30 a.m. The children's message will be given by George Delask. For information, call (847) 464-5381 or visit countrycov.org.

Kneseth Israel: Congregation Kneseth Israel offers Torah school for prekindergarten to high school, adult education classes, a youth program for age 6 to 12, Sisterhood and Men's Club, and age-based interest groups. This week's Torah portion is "Chaye Sarah." The service is led by Rabbi Jonathan Kohn in prayer and study. Shabbat services are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the synagogue, 330 Division St. in Elgin. Prospective members, interfaith families, and guests of all faiths are welcomed. On Friday, Nov. 13, there will be Darfur Discussion at 7:30 p.m. The Junior Congregation will meet at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, followed by the USY Dinner at noon. The Hadassah/Sisterhood is planning to visit the Holocaust Museum in Skokie on Sunday, Nov. 22 and to host the Hanukkah Bazaar, from Nov. 22 to Dec. 13. CKI believes that each person can participate in the observance of Shabbat through the use of English, Hebrew, and age-appropriate activities. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit ckielgin.org.

Shirat Shalom: Congregation Shirat Shalom, 30W509 Shoe Factory Road in Elgin, offers friendly, participatory Shabbat services at 9:45 a.m. Saturdays and followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Services include a spirited Torah discussion, focusing on the parsha of the week.

This week's Torah reading is "Chayei Sarah," about Sarah's death at age 127 and her burial in the Machpeilah Cave in Hebron, which Abraham purchases. Abraham's servant, Eliezer, is sent laden with gifts to Charan to find a wife for Isaac. For details, call (847) 695-6246, e-mail shiratsh@comcast.net, or visit CongregationShiratShalom.org.

First UMC-Elgin: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Jonathan Hutchison will preach on "Birth of What?" at the 9 a.m. service and the Rev. Mona Walker's sermon will be "Forgotten Blessings" at the 11:30 a.m. service at First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland in Elgin. Special music in the 9 a.m. service features the Cathedral Choir under the direction of John Slawson. At the 11:30 a.m. service, the Homegrown Praise Band will be featured.

There are Christian education classes for all ages from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. "Guy's Stuff" movie night will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 with Chris Palm leading a discussion of the movie, "Fight Club." For details, call (847) 741-0038 or visit www.fumcelgin.org.

St. John: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Howard Gleason will preach the sermon titled, "Out of the Dust" based on Daniel 12:1-3, at the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services at St. John Lutheran Church, 13N535 French Road in Burlington. Fellowship is at 9 a.m. and the Family Education Hour from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. The handbell choir and altar guild have joined up to host their annual spaghetti supper from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Cost is $5 for adults; $2.50 for 6 to 12 years old. Kids 5 and under eat free.

A traditional Thanksgiving Eve service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25. The start of Advent services will be with suppers Wednesday, Dec. 2.

St. John is part of the Burlington-Hampshire Food Pantry. Your donations are welcomed. Drop-off points in the Burlington area include the post office and Old Second Bank, as well as the church. For details, call (847) 683-2338 or visit www.stjohnburlington.com.

St. Peter: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Gerhard Mau preaches on "Out of Dust" at 9 a.m. at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 43W301 Plank Road (a quarter-mile east of Route 47) in Hampshire. Sunday school and Bible class meet at 10:20 a.m. The Ladies' Aid annual bazaar and bake sale, as well as vendors and a silent auction, will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. A luncheon will be served from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Senior Card Club meets at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19. The Angel Food Distribution will be Saturday, Nov. 21. For details, call the church office at (847) 464-5721. Little Saints Preschool is accepting registrations for a new 3-year-old Intro to Preschool class for those who missed the September age deadline. Call Kristina at (847) 464-5134 for details.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Paris N. Donehoo, senior pastor, will preach on "A Bigger Cup" at 8:15 a.m. in the chapel and 10:15 a.m. in the sanctuary at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. The readings are based on 2 Kings 4:1-7 and Luke 6:32-38. The Chancel Choir will sing Joel Raney's anthem "Bless the Lord, O My Soul." Beginning at 9:15 a.m. breakfast is served and the in-depth Bible study class is taking up the challenge of studying the book of Revelation. When approached honestly and openly, Revelation is a treasure trove of encouragement as well as a challenge for disciples of any age. Damaris, a women's fellowship group, will meet to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 at Alexander's Restaurant, Route 31 in Elgin. On Saturday, Nov. 21, the youth will leave at 9 a.m. for a trip to Wilderness Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. The will return at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. For details, call the church at (847) 741-4045 or visit www.fcc-elgin.org.

First Congregational: On Veterans' Sunday Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Aaron James, senior pastor, will preach the sermon, "The Destruction of the Temple Foretold," based on Mark 13:1-8, at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services at First Congregational Church, 900 S. Eighth St. in West Dundee. The church will recognize all veterans of the armed services and commemorate the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. The Congregational Care Ministry will be highlighted during worship. After both services, join them for fellowship and treats.

Children, age 4 to fifth grade, will begin their worship in the sanctuary with their families at 9 a.m. After the children's message, they will be dismissed to their new Sunday school rotation rooms for Children's Worship Workshops. The workshops included: art, story and drama, Bible games and computers and science and cookery. Classes or groups rotate into a different workshop each week, but stay with the same story for four weeks learning it in-depth through a variety of media. Teachers do not rotate; they stay put in their workshop repeating their lesson to a new group of children each week. Nursery care is available for infants through first-grade from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m.

Sunday's Ministry of Music at the 9 a.m. service will be by the Tinkerbells, directed by Charlotte Norman; the Junior Choir, directed by Charlotte Norman; and the Chancel Choir, directed by Robert Blazek with Linda Gilmore, piano/organ accompanist. The 10:30 a.m. service will feature songs and music by the Praise Singers and Band: Cheri Blazek, Robert Blazek; Sonja Boekenhauer, Penny Mensik and Sue Schmidt with Robert Blazek, saxophones; Mark Frystak, guitar; Linda Gilmore, keyboard; Patrick Infusino, bass and Cary Plettau, drums.

Donations of food and monetary support to supply needy families in the community Thanksgiving dinners are being collected through Nov. 22.

High school youth group meets at 2 p.m. Sunday for "Rake and Run" with Chad Coe, director of youth ministries. The group will make calls on congregation members who are either elderly or disabled and cannot rake the leaves from their yard themselves. Plan for food, fun and festivities afterward. The middle school youth group will meet from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesday, to think about "Thanksgiving: More than just turkey and pie."

Adult Bible Study with the Rev. Aaron James begins from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 to 10 a.m. Thursdays. Join the pastor and embark on a new faith journey. The church serves dinner at the Community Crisis Center in Elgin on a monthly basis. The next meal will be provided Tuesday, Nov. 17. If you are interested in cooking, donating food or delivering the meals, call the church office. Some menu items need to be prepared while others can be purchased and dropped off at the church. Any help is appreciated by the temporary residents. PADS of Elgin Inc. provides safe shelter, support services and advocacy to homeless individuals in Dundee, Elgin and Hanover townships. Four volunteers, 18 and older, are needed to provide staffing at PADS, 1730 Berkley St. in Elgin, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18. Volunteer your service by calling the church office. For details, call (847) 426-2161, ext. 210 or visit www.fccdundee.com.

Epworth UMC: Epworth United Methodist Church, 37W040 Highland Ave. in Elgin, offers CONNECTIONS Family Worship at 5:30 p.m. the second Saturday of each month. This Nov. 15 service features examining ways to give thanks and helping our community by assembling a Thanksgiving meal in a bag to be donated to the Community Crisis Center in Elgin. Participants of any age will benefit from this hands-on activity, teaching scripture and active faith. This combines activities, games and many other opportunities, with solid biblical teachings through drama, video and music. Or, attend a traditional worship service at 8:30 a.m. or a praise worship at 11 a.m. Sunday school for all ages begins at 9:45 a.m. For details, visit epworthumcelgin.org or call (847) 931-5400. Or friend them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

Messiah: Messiah Lutheran Church, 500 Church Road in Elgin, will display quilts and health kits during its Thankoffering worship at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. A Thanksgiving Eve service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, with appetizers being served at 6:15 p.m. and dessert with fellowship after the service. For details, call the church office at (847) 695-0144.

King of Glory: On Sunday, Nov. 15, King of Glory Lutheran Church, Hopps and Randall roads in Elgin, will look at the theme, "Out of the Dust" based on Daniel 12, at the 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. services. The regular weekly worship schedule includes a more traditional style worship at 8:15 a.m. Sundays, as well as a contemporary style worship at 10:45 a.m. led by the praise team singers and band. Adult Bible classes are held every Sunday at 9:20 a.m. They also offer during the school year various midweek educational opportunities as well as a preschool education for 3- and 4-year-olds, as well as youth programs for various age groups. On Mondays, join "The Refuge" and connect with God in a different, informal way at 7 p.m. Come for fellowship starting at 6:30 p.m. and enjoy some coffee and snacks before worship. For details, call (847) 931-1520 or visit kogonline.org.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Jim Benzing will focus on scripture from Mark 13:1-8 with the theme, "Bad News/Good News" at the 10 a.m. service at First Congregational Church, 30 N. Washington St. in Carpentersville. Nursery care is available during the service. The free Sunday school program for children age 3 through seventh grade will begin at 9 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Youth classes are offered for children attending eighth grade and up. For details, call (847) 428-1712.

St. James Episcopal: On the 24th Sunday After Pentecost, Nov. 15, the Rev. Don Frye will be preaching at the 8 and 10 a.m. services at St. James Episcopal Church, 516 Washington St., West Dundee. His sermon will be "Not by Human Power." The pastor will be in the office on Friday, Nov. 13. To schedule an appointment, call Liz Jackson, parish administrator, at (847) 426-5612. For details, call (847) 426-5612 or visit stjamesdundee.org. In conjunction with the Dundee Rotary, the church will be offering cases of either Florida's Indian River Country navel oranges or seedless, red grapefruit for sale. Full cases, half cases, and mixed cases are available. Orders may be placed through the church office at (847) 426-5612 until Nov. 19. The fruit will be distributed Dec. 12.

Second Baptist: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Nathaniel L. Edmond will deliver the message, "Thank God for favor" inspired from II Corinthians 8:1-5, for the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services at Second Baptist Church, 1280 Summit St. in Elgin. The Male Chorus will render the music at both services. Basketball is back on Fridays from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in the multipurpose facility. The Brotherhood Ministry invites all men to come out every fourth Saturday of the month to fellowship. Free haircuts will be provided. On Wednesday Bible study will begin at noon followed by Wonderful Wednesday starting at 7 p.m. Bus and child care services are available. For details, call (847) 695-7757 or visit www.SBCElginIl.org.

Special events

Pork and Kraut Dinner: The St. John's Men's Club will host the 42nd annual Pork and Kraut Dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13. Tickets are $10 for adults, $4 for kids, age 6 to 12. Children, age 5 and younger, get in free. St. John's Lutheran Church is at 300 Jefferson St. in downtown Algonquin. For tickets, call (847) 658-6010 or (847) 658-7005. Tickets for this dinner must be purchased in advance and often sell out.

"Late Nite Catechism": The Church of Holy Apostles, 5211 W. Bull Valley Road in McHenry, presents "Late Nite Catechism - 'Til Death Do Us Part" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13. Need some advice on your marriage? She's got a boatload! Sister is back in full force as your feisty marriage counselor in "Til Death Do Us Part." Order your tickets now as they will sell out fast. Tickets are $25 each and $20 for seniors, age 60 and older. Tickets are available for advance purchase at the parish office and the parish bookstore. Tickets will also be available at the door. Popcorn and beverages will be available during the show. For information, call (815) 385-5673.

Spaghetti supper: St. John Lutheran Church, 13N535 French Road in Burlington, will host its annual all-you-can-eat spaghetti supper/bake sale from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Carryouts are available. Cost is $5 or $2.50 for ages 6 to 12. For details, call (847) 683-2338.

Turkey raffle: St. Thomas More School, 1625 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin, will host its annual turkey raffle from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Proceeds support St. Thomas More Catholic School. This is an adults-only event. There will be food, beverages, DJ, cash prizes, 50/50 raffle, and Baggo. For details, call Christine Comparone at (630) 659-9499.

Focus on Parenting: Join a live simulcast of "Focus On Parenting" from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 at Elgin Bible Church, 1580 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Perhaps one of Christianity's biggest challenges is the fact that the majority of children are abandoning their Christian faith upon entering college and adulthood. Parents invest countless hours and energy toward the physical and emotional health of their children. But, what about their spiritual health? Join thousands of parents all across the country as they look at parenting through the eyes of God, the benefits of God's design for your family and learn how to help your children and family thrive. With "Focus on Parenting," you will receive encouragement and practical everyday tools from leading parenting experts such as Kevin Leman, Elisa Morgan of MOPS, Larry Fowler of Awana, Mark Holmen, Ron Luce, Phil Vischer, Juli Slattery and Bob Waliszewski. Visit www.elginBiblechurch.org. For tickets or details, e-mail pleman@fvi.net or call Phil at (847) 404-7909. Preregistration cost is $35 for individuals or $40 at the door. A boxed lunch is also available for $10 additional.

Thanksgiving service: Vineyard Christian Fellowship Church, 220 Division St. in Elgin, will hold the citywide Thanksgiving service at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. Child care and refreshments will be served after the service. Everyone is invited. For details, call (847) 697-8001.

Brunch: The Annual Bells Brunch will be served from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15 at the First Congregational Church, Main and Church streets in Huntley. This popular event is hosted by members of the church's handbell choirs, and includes a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes. Everyone is invited; bring the whole family. Tickets are $7 or $3.50 for children. Tickets may be purchased from bell choir members, the church office, or at the door. No reservations are needed. Proceeds will help fund bell festival trips. For information call (847) 669-3691.

Blood drive: Congregation Kneseth Israel, 330 Division St. in Elgin, invites you to its seventh annual community blood drive from 8:30 a.m. to noon Sunday, Nov. 15 in partnership with Heartland Blood Centers. Register online at heartlandbc.org by going to the "Donating" tab, clicking on "Blood Drive Open to the Public" and entering "Elgin." Walk-ins are welcome. Photo I.D. is required. For information, contact CKI Blood Drive Coordinator Paul Glaser at pauljayglaser@sbcglobal.net.

"Latter Rain Awakening": Join Morning Star Church and The River Church for "Latter Rain Awakening Chicago," a prophetic evangelism conference featuring prophetic evangelists Sandy Brown-Glassford and Greg Glassford, Wednesday, Nov. 18 through Sunday, Nov. 22, except Nov. 21. Brown-Glassford is an inspired and prophetic preacher/evangelist, who tells the story of her agonizing, mafia-influenced lifestyle as a Las Vegas cocktail waitress, including drug addictions, prostitution, self-abuse and several near fatal suicide attempts. Her true story of deliverance brings hope and freedom to all who hear it. Greg Glassford has performed as a solo artist and with his SpiritWind Band, leading concert crusades and teaching people how to enter into the presence of God through music and worship. Together, the couple have a new song and a fresh new message to the Body of Christ, our nation and the world. Meeting times are 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov 18; 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19; 7:14 p.m. Friday, Nov 20; and 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. There is no charge for these meetings. Morning Star Church and The River Church are at 41W350 Powers Road in Huntley. For details, call (847) 669-9800 or visit morningstarwoc.org and theriver-church.com.

New food pantry: The Larkin Avenue Baptist Church, 1158 Larkin Ave. in Elgin, has opened a new food pantry. More information, including times and eligibility, can be obtained from the church's Web site, www.labcelgin.org, or calling the church office at (847) 742-5014.

Thanksgiving baskets: This Thanksgiving many will be giving thanks for the bountiful blessings they enjoy. However, there are those who aren't as fortunate and won't be able to have a traditional turkey dinner. Morning Star Church, 41W350 Powers Road in Huntley, has seen this need in the community and, as in many years past, will be distributing Thanksgiving baskets, with everything needed for a Thanksgiving feast. Food item donations to fill these "baskets of blessings" are greatly appreciated. The following is a list of items needed. Non-refrigerated items that are needed for each basket include: two boxes of stuffing, canned vegetables (two each of corn, string beans and yams), one 5-pound bag of potatoes, one 3-pound bag of apples, one package of brown-and-serve rolls, two packages of turkey gravy, one can of cranberry sauce, one pound mixed nuts, and one pound assorted chocolates. Refrigerated items needed for each basket are: a 12- to 14-pound frozen turkey, one container of frozen Cool Whip, one quart of eggnog, one pound butter or margarine, one Sara Lee frozen pumpkin pie, and one Sara Lee frozen apple pie. All food items must be received by Friday, Nov. 20. Financial donations of any amount are also welcome. A gift of $50 will prepare a basket for one family. Morning Star Church wants to ensure that no one in our community is left out this Thanksgiving, so call (847) 669-9800, ext. 155, or e-mail outreach@morningstarwoc.org if you wish to donate or know someone who might be in need of one of these baskets. Visit www.morningstarwoc.org/thanksgiving for details.

Concert fundraiser: A free concert by the band NoBlurr will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at Highland Fellowship Church, 2250 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin. An offering will be taken with the proceeds benefiting the scholarship fund at Highland Christian Academy. NoBlurr group members Rene LeDesma of Elgin, Camille Eiseman of Crystal Lake, Annie Sander of Crystal Lake and Tom Vitacco of Carpentersville have traveled the globe with Willow Creek Community Church of South Barrington for over 15 years. They have served alongside renowned artists such as Matt Redman, Nicole Nordeman, Darlene Zschech and others. The academy offers affordable rates for parents of children in preschool (age 3) through eighth grade. A needs-based scholarship program is available as well as many incentives for families considering enrollment. Flexible payment schedules are also available. The public is welcome to attend the concert, but seating is limited. For information, visit www.abouthca.com or call the church at (847) 741-5530. Visit noblurrmusic.com for more details about the band and their schedule.

Documentary: On Saturday, Nov. 21, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Woodstock, 221 Dean St., will show the documentary, "The Next 7 Generations," narrated by Ashley Judd, at 6:30 p.m. It documents the momentous journey of 13 indigenous grandmothers, as they travel around the globe to promote world peace and share their indigenous ways of healing. Originating from all four corners, these 13 wise women elders, shamans and medicine women, first came together in 2004 at a historic gathering in upstate New York. Motivated by their concern for our planet, they decided to form an alliance: The International Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers. The film begins at their first gathering follows them to the Amazon rain forest, the mountains of Mexico, throughout North America, and to Dharamsala, India, for a private meeting with the Dalai Lama. Facing a world in crisis, they share their visions of healing and a call for change now, before it's too late. Through their teachings, they are lighting a way to a peaceful, sustainable planet. This film documents their unparalleled journey and timely perspectives on a timeless wisdom. Before the film showing, enjoy the Green Sanctuary Fair Trade Gift Fair, featuring a variety of gift and food items. For information, call the church at (815) 338-0731, e-mail office@cucw.org, or visit cucw.org.

Fair Trade Gift Fair: The fifth annual Fair Trade Gift Fair will be held for one day only from noon to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Woodstock, 221 Dean St. The fair features socially responsible gifts that benefit the buyer, seller and the planet. The sale include handcrafted items and textiles from imported from the Third World directly from artisan co-ops as well as fair trade coffee, tea, and chocolate. The fair is sponsored by the Green Sanctuary, the environmental ministry of the Unitarian Universalist congregation. For information, call (815) 338-0731 or visit cucw.org.

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service: The third annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service is planned for 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 at First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St. in Crystal Lake. All are welcome to attend this service to give thanks, enjoy fellowship and make an offering for the benefit of others. Sponsored cooperatively by the FaithBridge Interfaith Association, the evening will include texts, prayers, music and participants from the various traditions. Offerings will benefit the Woodstock, Carpentersville and Richmond food pantries. For information, call the Rev. Budd Friend-Jones at First Congregational, (815) 459-6010; Rabbi Maralee Gordon at the McHenry County Jewish Congregation, (815) 455-1810; or Taufiq Ahmad at the American Muslim Community Organization, (847) 604-4818.

Christmas trees: Epworth United Methodist Church, 37W040 Highland Ave. in Elgin, will have fresh-cut Christmas trees available to take home beginning on Saturday, Nov. 28 and Sunday, Nov. 29, and continuing every weekend until Dec. 13. These quality trees come from local growers and come in many shapes, sizes and prices. The trees will be featured in the southeast lot. For details, call (847) 931-5400 or visit epworthumcelgin.org.

Cookie Walk: First Congregational Church, 900 S. Eighth St. in West Dundee, will host its ninth annual Cookie Walk from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. The community is invited to this event. Admission is free. Homemade holiday cookies and candies will be available in many varieties and will be sold by weight. Pick your own specialty holiday cookies from the selection; there is no need to bake this Christmas. A boutique of holiday items and handmade mittens, hats and scarves will also be on sale and the church's cookbook, "A Taste of Heaven," for $5 each. Many of the cookie recipes are included. The church provides financial support to six area organizations in the community serving children, families and singles. All proceeds from Cookie Walk 2009 will be used to fund these charities helping the hungry, the homeless and those in need. For details, call (847) 426-2161 ext. 210 or visit fccdundee.com.

Catholic author visits Huntley: St. Mary Parish, in partnership with Relevant Radio, will welcome Scott Hahn, an influential Catholic theologian and author, for three talks from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 at the church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. A popular speaker and teacher whose dramatic story of conversion to Catholicism has been the subject of many television and radio interviews, Hahn is a professor of theology and scripture at Franciscan University of Steubenville and is the founder and director of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. Hahn, a former Presbyterian minister and theologian with years of ministry experience, was professor of theology at Chesapeake Theological Seminary before he converted to Catholicism on Easter, 1986. Since that time, he has helped many Catholics come to a deeper appreciation of their Catholic faith. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The first presentation, "First Comes Love," starts at 10:30 a.m. Hahn uses the concept of family to explain Catholic thought about the Trinity. From 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., there will be a lunch break. At 1:30 p.m., Hahn will present "Why Scripture Matters," in which he will discuss what it means (and how) to read Scripture from the heart of the Church. After the break, which takes place from 2:30 to 3 p.m., Hahn will present his last talk, "Reasons to Believe" in which he will offer straightforward responses to common objections to the Catholic faith. Hahn will have a selection of his materials for sale in the narthex (cash or check only) and will be available to answer questions and autograph books. Registration is required. The fee is $15 for all three talks. Registration at the door is $20. To register, call Janet Marmion at (847) 669-3137, ext. 101 or e-mail jmarmionstmary@aol.com. Child care will be provided for each talk. Indicate you intend to use child care when you register.

Christmas concert: First Congregational Church, 900 S. Eighth St. in West Dundee, will host "We Wish You Christmas" at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. The community is invited to this concert to celebrate the songs of the season. This special concert, in conjunction with Dickens in Dundee, will feature musical groups and individuals from the church singing, ringing and playing sacred and secular songs. A reception will follow with desserts and beverages. A free-will suggested offering for the concert and reception will be $10 per person. The church provides financial support to six area organizations in the community serving children, families and singles. Proceeds will be used to fund these charities helping the hungry, the homeless and those in need. For details, call (847) 426-2161 ext. 210 or visit fccdundee.com.

Festival of Light: "Sancta Lucia Pageant, A Festival of Light" will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 340 Grand Blvd., Elgin. Bethlehem's Swedish heritage comes alive in this beautiful pageant of the Christmas season. The guest soloist is Rise Jones. A Swedish buffet will be served in the church hall after program. A free-will offering will be taken with all monies going to the Elgin Interfaith Food Pantry. For details, call (847) 741-8434.

Christmas Carol Sing: St. James Episcopal Church will be host to a Christmas Carol Sing as part of the Dickens in Dundee celebration at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at the church, 516 Washington St., West Dundee. A choir made up of singers from area churches will lead the singing. The concert will include handbells, instrumental music, and brass along with organ and piano accompaniment for the carols. Traditional Christmas carols will include "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" and "It Came upon the Midnight Clear." The St. James Handbell Choir will play "Let There Be Peace on Earth" by Sy Miller and Jill Jackson. The community choir will sing "Come and Hear the Joyful Singing," music and choral setting by Hal H. Hopson. There will be a reception after the concert in the Boynton Fellowship Hall. The Rev. Don Frye is the long-term supply priest for St. James and Phyllis Connelly is Director of the choir and St. James Handbell Choir. A free-will offering will be taken. Anyone in the community is invited to sing in the choir. Rehearsals will be at 11:30 a.m. Sundays, Nov. 15-29, and 1:45 p.m. Dec. 6. Call (847) 515-8743 or e-mail slvrshu35@comcast.net to register for singing in the choir.

Christmas concert: First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St., Crystal Lake, presents its family Christmas concert, "Wondrous Birth" at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, featuring the 60-member adult Vestry Choir, the Jubilate Handbell Choir and the high school Alleluia Sound Choir. There will be traditional carols like "Away in a Manger" and "O Come O Come Emmanuel" as well as contemporary pieces such as "Sleigh Ride," "Christmas Nightingale" with Cynara Pierzina on flute and the comedic PDQ Bach "Throw the Yule Log On Uncle John." The Men of the Vestry Choir will present the Nigerian Christmas carol, "Betelehemu" with percussion accompaniment. The Vestry Choir will perform selected movements from "Cantata 142" attributed to J.S. Bach. FCC's Jubilate Handbell Choir will join the Vestry Choir on the "Alleluia" movement. Jubilate will also perform the "Overture" from the Nutcracker Suite as well as "Caroler's Hoedown." The Alleluia Sound Choir will sing "I Saw Three Ships" with four hand piano duo of JoAnn Black and Barbara Thorsen and the Spanish carol, "Riu Riu Chiu" featuring seniors Emily Wolfe, Taylor Dostal, Michael Ferguson and BJ Gannon. For details, call the church office at (815) 459-6010 or visit fcc-cl.org.

Christmas puppet show: The HANDS 4 HIM Puppet Team invites you to their annual Christmas puppet show at Elgin Bible Church, 1580 E. Chicago St. This year, the performance is titled "Lukeys in Kalamazookey!" Come and join the fun at this family Christmas celebration and learn how the "Lukeys" lose their beautiful, colored spots. The show will be presented at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. Doors open 30 minutes before the performance. The event is free. All are welcome. For information, call (847) 888-1978.