Northwest suburban religion notes
Deadline for submissions is noon Monday. Due to space limitations, not all "Your Faith" items are listed here.
New pastor: The Rev. Betty Jo Birkahn-Rommalfanger was appointed as pastor of Church of the Incarnation, United Methodist, in Arlington Heights. Pastor BJ, as she likes to be called, says that in her 33 years of parish ministry she has often been the first woman pastor to be appointed in a number of the churches she has served.
Nov. 20
Winter camp: Registration is now open for Gan Israel Winter Camp in Northbrook. Gan Israel is part of the largest Jewish camping network in the world. The camp features age-appropriate activities for children ages 5-11 and runs Dec. 21-25. Individual day options are also available. Register in full by Nov. 20 to receive an early bird discount. For details or to register, call Rabbi Schneur Scheiman at (847) 345-6406 or visit www.GanIsraelChicago.com/winter.
Youth Shabbat dinner: The Youth Department of Congregation Beth Judea will host a Shabbat Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, with Shabbat services to follow at 7:30 p.m. All congregants are welcome. The Kadinkers (grades 3-5), Kadima (grades 6-8) and the USY (grades 9-12) and their families will enjoy a kosher Shabbat dinner, and the youth will be participating in the Shabbat service that follows. Cost is 12 years and older $18; 11 years and younger $10; 5 years and younger $5; immediate families $40. (Any youth group member receives a $3 discount.) Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For details, call (847) 634-0777, ext. 114, and leave a message for Aaron Polonsky.
Rabbi installation: Congregation Beth Am invites the community celebrate the induction of their new Senior Rabbi Lisa Sari Bellows at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20. Rabbi Debbie Bravo from Temple Emanu-El in Edison, N.J., is officiating. Honored guests include Rabbi Leonard Zukrow from Temple Beth-el in Pensacola, Fla.; Cantor Ernie Schultz (emeritus) and members from White Stone Church. Shabbat services will begin at 7:30. Following service, the Tefillah Band has a special surprise for Rabbi Bellows and will lead the way into a very festive Oneg, which will include homebaked desserts. Also, Original Bagel & Bialy and Garden Fresh donated dessert treats and the McDonald's of Buffalo Grove is also providing ice cream desserts for the kids. (847) 459-1677. Congregation Beth Am is located at 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove.
Awana Grand Prix: The annual Awana Club Grand Prix for boys and girls ages preschool through sixth grade will meet at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, at Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. (847) 255-8764.
Operation Christmas Child: Shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child will be collected at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille St., Mount Prospect, through Sunday afternoon. Times are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21 and 22. Shoe boxes can be filled with toys and stuffed animals, school supplies, hygiene items, and hard candy. The shoe boxes will go to children in Third World countries as well as children living in countries affected by war or natural disasters. For information or to download a label, visit samaritanspurse.org.
Nov. 21
Dance: New Beginnings Sparkling Dance will be from 8-11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Hughes Center at St. Mathews Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Bring a snack to share. Music provided by Paul Adams. Tickets cost $8 in advance, $10 at door. For details, call Joan Neville at (847) 397-9643.
Breakfast of Champions: From 9-11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, will have a fun-filled day of games, crafts, a pancake breakfast, visit from Skates, the Wolves mascot, and a Basket Raffle. All proceeds benefit the early childhood programs at Prince of Peace. (847) 885-7036.
Turkey dinner: Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Elk Grove Village expects to serve nearly 600 people at its sixth annual Elk Grove Community Thanksgiving Dinner Saturday, Nov. 21. All area senior citizens, those who will be alone for the holiday and those unable to prepare a traditional meal are invited to a free Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, musical entertainment, crafts and fellowship. There will be children's activities provided as well. More than 100 volunteers will help serve guests. For reservations for the 2 or 3:30 p.m. seatings, call (847) 437-2666. Donations are still needed to cover the $4,000 cost of feeding a much larger crowd this year. Checks can be made out to Christus Victor Lutheran Church/Thanksgiving Dinner. For more information, call (847) 437-2666. The church is at 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village.
Anniversary celebration: The First Baptist Church of Elk Grove Village will be celebrating 50 years of service Saturday, Nov. 21. Hors d'oeuvres will be served at 5 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner at 6 p.m. and a celebration worship service at 7:30 p.m. All former and present members are invited. Reservations are required for the dinner. (847) 437-0770.
Renewal service: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a special Renewal Service from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. For details, call (847) 998-1947 or visit stphilip.info.
Holiday bazaar: The Gingerbread House Cookies, Crafts and More Bazaar will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road., Arlington Heights. The Women of Faith will be selling cookies by the pound, baked goods, candies and other treats and crafts. Vendors will be selling candles, jewelry, ornaments, crafts and more to benefit ministries. Candy Cane Lane will feature crafts and activities for children. For details about this free event, call (847) 253-4839.
Nov. 22
CKI: Congregation Kneseth Israel, 330 Division St., Elgin, will have Hadassah visit to The Holocaust Museum Sunday, Nov. 22; Interfaith Thanksgiving Program Nov. 22; Hanukkah Bazaar Nov. 22 to Dec. 13; and USY Turkey Dance Wednesday, Nov. 25. For details, call (847) 741-5656 or visit ckielgin.org.
Food collection: St Paul United Church of Christ, Barrington, is conducting a Share the Harvest food collection to benefit local food pantries. Much-needed nonperishable foods and paper products can be dropped off at the church office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or brought to the worship service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. St Paul is at 401 E. Main St. in Barrington. (847) 381-0460 or stpauluccbarrington.org
Food drive: Living Faith Church is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive. All are encouraged to bring in nonperishable food items for the next weeks. All food donations will be available Sunday, Nov 22, for those needing food for the Thanksgiving holiday. Call the church office, (847) 382-1830, if you need to make special arrangements for your donations. Living Faith Church meets at the Bethel Lutheran Church building, 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine.
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.
Increase Confidence: Pastor Tim Haugen will speak on "Cleaning Up the Shame and Guilt" as part of the How to Increase Your Confidence series at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Nov. 22, 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. (847) 255-8764, Meadowsfamily.org
Food collection: "Reign of Christ" is the sermon topic for 10:30 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 22, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. As an expression of the Thanksgiving Sunday worship, participants will make contributions of filled grocery bags to the community Food Pantry and contributions to the UNICEF Children's Fund will be dedicated. School-age children will participate in church school during the worship time. Nursery and child care are available for infants and toddlers. CongUCC.org, (847) 392-6650.
Nov. 23
Drumming circle: In honor of International Drum Month, Native American Heritage Month and upcoming Thanksgiving, enjoy a Drumming Circle at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski will present "Drumming Circles - The Rhythm of Life." Learn the history, religious use 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. This is free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. Contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.
Nov. 24
Sikh celebration: Upcoming Gurpurabs are Tuesday, Nov. 24, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Martyrdom, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Gurgadi; Monday, Dec. 21, Elder Sahibzadas Martyrdom; Saturday, Dec. 26, Younger Sahibzadas Martyrdom; Tuesday, Jan. 5, Guru Gobind Singh Ji Parkash Utsav; and Sunday, Jan 31, Guru Har Rai Ji Parkash Utsav. Sikh Religious Society is undergoing a renovation project. To see the daily calendar, visit www.srschicago.com/calendar.html. The Sikh Religious Society is at 1280 Winnetka St., Palatine. (847) 358-1117
Nov. 25
Pie and worship: Give thanks to God this Thanksgiving at the traditional Thanksgiving Eve worship service at Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett. Come for worship at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and then stay for the Pie Fellowship. For details, call (630) 830-3630. Living Lord Church is at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road, on Route 59.
Thanksgiving service: Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, 1116 E. Devon Ave., Bartlett, will hold a service of Praise and Thanksgiving at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, with Communion. (630) 837-1166.
Thanksgiving service: St. Paul Lutheran Church, 100 S. School St., Mount Prospect, will offer a service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and a traditional Thanksgiving celebration at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26. (847) 255-0332, saint-paul.org
Joint Thanksgiving Celebration: Prince of Peace United Methodist Church of Elk Grove Village and the Elk Grove Presbyterian Church will join together on Wednesday, Nov. 25, for a Thanksgiving Eve service. The Rev. Hwa Young Chong and the Rev. Lynne Savidis will lead the service, which will feature inspirational music by the churches' combined choirs. Communion will be served. The service will take place at 7:30 p.m. at Prince of Peace Church, Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village.
Thanksgiving Service: Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village, will hold a family Thanksgiving Service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25. (847) 437-2666, christusvictoregv.org.
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.
Thanksgiving service: St. Matthew's Ev. Lutheran Church, 9081 N. Maryland St. in Niles, will host a Thanksgiving Day Service at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 26. (847) 827-4360.
Thanksgiving service: Members of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will gather for the annual Thanksgiving Day worship service at 10 a.m. Nov. 26.
Nov. 27
Memorial service: In honor of National Hospice Month, Chaplain Lori Geschrey, of Odyssey Hospice will lead a Quarterly Memorial Service, honoring individuals who have died in the last three months at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Special music, a candle-lighting service and a time for sharing is included. This is free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. Contact (630) 213-0100 or rlopienski@pathwaysl.com.
Nov. 28
Anniversary celebration: A dinner-dance is being planned by Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, to celebrate 25 years of "Inviting All to New Life In Christ." The event is set for Saturday, Nov. 28, at European Crystal Banquet Hall and Conference Center in Arlington Heights. The evening will begin with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at 6:30 p.m., followed by a five-course gourmet dinner. The premium open bar will begin serving again at 9 p.m. when there will be dancing to the live music of The Moods. There will be a raffle, dance contest and a few other surprises planned for the evening. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling Dolores Siok at (847) 846-7683 or by picking up a reservation form at the front office or the Welcoming Desk of the church. Seating is limited. For details, call Mary Razzano at (847) 882-9487 or mrrazzano@sbcglobal.net.
Advent festival: North Northfield United Methodist Church, Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook, will mark the beginning of the holiday season with an Advent Festival at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28. The evening will include fun for the whole family, starting with a soup, bread and dessert potluck. It also will include crafts and a few fun surprises. On Wednesday evenings during Advent, the congregation will gather to go caroling and visit with church members in local nursing homes. They also will visit the homes of some of the older members of the church family. These gatherings will begin at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2, 9 and 16. (847) 272-2250. northnorthfield.org.
Rite of Healing: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold the Rite of Healing during the 5:30 p.m. contemporary service Saturday, Nov. 28, and during the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services Sunday, Nov. 29. This rite is intended for anyone who wishes to receive an individual blessing in the struggle with any type of illness.
Nov. 29
Advent services: Immanuel United Church of Christ, 415 W. North Ave., Bartlett, will offer Advent services at 9:30 a.m. Sundays, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Holy Communion in Fellowship Hall. (630) 289-1320, bartlettiucc.org
Family Movie Night: St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, plans a Family Movie Night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. The movie will be "Polar Express." Free, includes pizza, snacks and refreshments. For details, call (847) 998-1947 or visit www.stphilip.info.
Anniversary Mass: Cardinal Francis George will be the main celebrant at a Mass at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, with parishioners of Queen of the Rosary Parish, 750 W. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village, in honor of the parish's 50th anniversary.
Study: "Covenant," a central concept at every level of Judeo-Christian belief, provides a source for adult study sessions at Arlington Heights 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.
Nov. 30
Book discussion: The public is invited to a discussion of the book "I Was Told There'd Be Cake" by Sloane Crosley at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. (847) 359-8440 or ccuu@ccuu.org.
Dec. 1
Releasing the year: A two-week class on "Seven Steps for Releasing the Year 2009" will be led by Greg Barrette, minister of Unity Northeast Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 1 and 8. An offering will be taken. (847) 297-0997, unitynorthwest.org.
Silent meditation: A free Silent Meditation Service will be led by Greg Barrette, minister of Unity Northeast Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays in December, beginning Dec. 1. (847) 297-0997, unitynorthwest.org.
Dec. 2
Advent traditions: Hanging of the Greens will begin the Advent season at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2. A special worship service will include families from the congregation decorating the church as the origins and significance of each tradition are explained. A light supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. Donations will be accepted. (847) 253-4839.
Advent services: Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will be holding midweek Advent services Wednesdays, Dec. 2, 9 and 16, at 11 a.m. with Service of the Word and 7 p.m. for Evening Prayer. Following worship during the day, a soup lunch will be served. The evening service will be preceded by dinner at 6 p.m. (847) 827-6656.
Dec. 3
Christmas Smorgasbord: Trinity Lutheran Church 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will hold its annual WELCA Christmas Smorgasbord Thursday, Dec. 3, in Fellowship Hall, with dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by entertainment at 8 p.m. Hosted by the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, it will feature entertainment by Elk Grove's Town Cryers. Donation is $10 or bring a dish. Reservations must be made by Monday, Nov. 30, by calling the church at (847) 827-6656.
Dec. 4
Spaghetti dinner: Immanuel United Church of Christ, 415 W. North Ave, Bartlett, will host a spaghetti dinner in conjunction with the village's tree-lighting ceremony. They will be serving an Italian fest from 4:30-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 Carry-outs are available. Cost is $9 for those 12 and older, $5 for children ages 3-11, and free for those under 3. Also join s for Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m. and children's Sunday school also at 9:30 a.m. (630) 289-1320.
Men's spirituality: Jewish men exploring their spirituality are the focus of the weekend "Getting to God." Led by Rabbi Marc J. Belgrad, the program offers time away from day-to-day pressures and concerns in combination with specially-designed opportunities to talk about faith, doubt and what it means to be a spiritual man in today's world. No previous knowledge or expertise is needed. It will be Dec. 4-6, at a camp setting 1/2 hour west of Milwaukee. For details, contact Rabbi Belgrad at ravmarc@aol.com.
Dec. 5
Holiday Shop: Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett will host a Holiday Shop from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 5. Vendors and products will include Melaleuca, Lia Sophia, Tastefully Simple, Pampered Chef, Party Lite, Makeovers Inc., Upper Case Living, children's books, yummy treats, and more. A portion of proceeds will benefit Living Lord Church and Preschool ministries. For more information or to participate as a vendor, contact Peggy Williams at (630) 584-3341 or crbwilliams@aol.com. Living Lord Church is located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.
Cookies and crafts: The 21st annual Cookie Walk and Craft Show at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. There will be a variety of homemade cookies to buy. All proceeds will benefit the educational programs at the church. There will also be an assortment of vendors. The church is at 751 W. Army Trail Road in Bartlett (corner of Petersdorf and Army Trail Road). Free admission and parking.
Cookie Walk: The Presbyterian Church, at Palatine and Rohlwing roads in Palatine, will have its annual Cookie Walk Saturday, Dec. 5. Pick your own homemade cookies. Doors open at 9 a.m., sale begins at 9:30 a.m. All proceeds support mission projects.
Dec. 6
Benefit concert: On Sunday, Dec. 6, Peter Mayer, lead guitarist with Jimmy Buffett's Coral Reefer Band, will bring his band, The Peter Mayer Group, to Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett for his "Stars & Promises: Sing Joy!" Christmas Concert. The concert will help raise money for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative, a five-year effort to eliminate malaria in south Saharan Africa by 2015. The concert begins at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are limited. Contact Sue in the church office to order at (630) 830-3630, ext. 4610. Living Lord is at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.
Concerts: The Spirit of Life Chorus, a more than 100- member ecumenical Christian concert chorus, will perform at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at St. Walter Catholic Church, 201 W. Maple Ave., Roselle. spiritoflifechorus.org.
Concert: The Mount Prospect Community Band will present "Make a Joyful Noise!" at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, as the final event of the Mount Prospect holiday festival weekend. This free concert is sponsored by the Fine Arts Committee of Trinity United Methodist Church and is held in conjunction with the Trinity United Methodist Women's annual Christmas Cookie Walk at the church, 605 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect. This concert will also feature selections from "The Nutcracker Ballet Suite" by Tchaikovsky. A freewill offering will be taken at the concert to support A Journey from PADS to HOPE, the program in which local churches provide shelter for the homeless.
Dec. 9
Crafty family fun: On Your Way to Christmas will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9. It will feature craft time from 4 to 6:30 p.m. with free materials provided to make a Christmas craft. A child-friendly supper buffet will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by time to finish work on crafts and clean up from 6:30 to 6:50 p.m. The program will be followed by an Advent Worship Service at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Donations will be accepted to cover the cost of food. Call (847) 253-4839 to register. While registration is not mandatory, it will help ensure that there are adequate supplies of food and craft materials.
Meditation group: The next scheduled meditation by "Inside Tracks" is at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9. This is hosted by Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road in Des Plaines. The Rev. Diane Venzera and licensed Unity teacher candidate Michael Korpan will facilitate. The mission of the group is to share the experience of meditations from a variety of different traditions.
Dec. 11
Drum circle: Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, will host a Drum Circle at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11. Bring your own drum or percussive instrument, or one will be provided for you.
Living Christmas Tree: Community Presbyterian Church, 407 N. Main St. at Gregory, Mount Prospect, will host a Living Christmas Tree Concert in the sanctuary at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 11-13. A special performance will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Dec 11, for residents of local area nursing and retirement homes. There is no charge to attend the one-hour concert; however, a freewill offering will be accepted to help both local and global outreach programs. for details, call (847) 392-3111.
Dec. 12
Cookies and Madrigal: Immanuel United Church of Christ Christmas Cookie walk will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Then continue your Holiday Cheer at Ye Olde Madrigal Feast at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. Enjoy a Renaissance feast and music. Contact the office at Immanuel United Church of Christ to reserve your seats for $30 for adults and $25 for seniors. The church is at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood. (630) 837-0190.
Cookie Walk/Living Nativity: Bethel Lutheran Church, 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine, will sponsor two events on Saturday, Dec. 12. A Cookie Walk will be held from 9-11 a.m. The cost of cookies is $9 per pound. The Living Nativity will be held at 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. (847) 397-4372.
Christmas Pageant: A dramatic Christmas musical, "God Speaking Throughout the Ages and Still Today," will be presented by the Music and Arts Ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church, 405 S. Rush St., Roselle, at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, and at the 9:30 and 11 a.m. worship services Sunday, Dec. 13. The program will include a full orchestra, singers, and actors. trinityroselle.com.
Lunch with Santa: Cardinal Drive Church of Christ will offer Lunch with Santa from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the church, 2300 Cardinal Drive, Rolling Meadows. Santa and his elves will be coming to hear the wishes of the children in our community. Each person is asked to bring one can of food for those in need. (847) 259-2995 or cdfamily.org.
Dec. 13
Survivors of Suicide: 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 (LOSS) program meetings from 7-9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at Catholic Charities Northwest Office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines; 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, at Holy Family Church Counseling Center, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness; 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at Carmel High School, One Carmel Parkway, Mundelein. To learn more about Des Plaines- based Catholic Charities Northwest Suburban Services and how they may help you or someone who needs help, call (847) 376-2118.
Lessons and Carols: A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at St. Julian Eymard Church, 601 E. Biesterfield, Elk Grove Village. Bishop Francis Kane will preside and music will feature the St. Julian Eymard adult and children's choirs. Free admission. (847) 593-8938.
Dec. 15
Prayer service: A Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 E. Main St. Barrington. This service is held on the 15th of each month as part of an ecumenical effort in the United States and the world to pray daily until a just and lasting peace comes to all citizens of the Middle East. It includes readings from the Bible, music, prayers, and sharing of timely information. (847) 381-0243 or visit elca.org/Our-Faith-In-Action/Justice/Peace-Not-Walls.aspx.
Dec. 20
Blood drive: The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will hold its annual blood drive through Life Source from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, in the Social Hall of the synagogue on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. A photo ID is required when you fill out your paperwork. Bring a state ID or driver's license. Also, make sure you have something to eat before you arrive. To make an appointment, call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Fred Rabinowitz.
Dec. 23
Live Nativity: The Presbyterian Church of Palatine, 800 E. Palatine Road, will host a live Nativity from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, on the church's front lawn. Candlelight worship service is at 8 p.m.
Dec. 24
Christmas services: Immanuel United Church of Christ, 415 W. North Ave., Bartlett, will offer Christmas Eve Services at 7 and 11 p.m. Dec. 24. (630) 289-1320, bartlettiucc.org.
Family Festival: Congregation Beth Judea will hold its annual Family Festival Thursday, Dec. 24, at the synagogue. The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a hot dog and hamburger dinner. The festivities continue at 7:30 p.m. with a concert by Rick Recht, a Jewish rock musician who is known for his live performances for groups of youth all over the United States. Cost for the concert only is $10 for Beth Judea congregants paid by Dec. 18 and $15 for non-congregants or congregants at the door. Cost for the family dinner with concert: (must R.S.V.P. by Dec. 18) is $54 congregants; $72 noncongregants. Cost for adult dinner with concert: (must R.S.V.P. by Dec. 18) is $18 congregants; $25 noncongregants. Congregation Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. For more information or to R.S.V.P., call (847) 634-0777 or e-mail LNeiman@BethJudea.org.
Christmas service: "Christmas Just Means Love" will be the theme of a candlelight service at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. A brief candlelight ceremony will be preceded by a talk titled "Christmas Just Means Love" given by Greg Barrette, minister of Unity Northwest Church. Eight Christmas carols will be sung as part of the musical celebration. Bradford Newquist will be special musical guest. An offering will be taken. (847) 297-0997, unitynorthwest.org.
Christmas services: Christmas Eve services will be held at 4 and 11 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, at North Northfield United Methodist Church, Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. (847) 272-2250. northnorthfield.org.
Dec. 31
Burning Bowl Ceremony: "Let Go of What You Don't Want and Claim What You Do" will be the theme of a Burning Bowl service at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. A Burning Bowl Ceremony will be held at the start of the service, followed by an opportunity to write a letter to God and a letter from God. An offering will be taken. (847) 297-0997, unitynorthwest.org.
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 store hours: Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, a not-for-profit fair trade store managed by Christ Community Mennonite Church that specializes in handcrafted items (jewelry, instruments, wall hangings, scarves, coffee, 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, dolls, wood marble game, 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.
Stained glass windows: The Altar Guild of Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, has commissioned a 64-page hardcover book about the church's stained glass windows. These books might be purchases after services Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. or Sundays after the 8 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. services in the church office. Donation is $25. (847) 827-6656.
Shabbat interpretive service: On Saturdays, Congregation Beth Judea will be offering a Shabbat Morning Interpretive Service from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. in Room 10 on the lower level of the synagogue. The focus of this new Shabbat morning service will be on examining the structure of the prayer service, learning the major prayers and becoming more comfortable with the choreography and customs of the Shabbat morning service. The only prerequisite is a desire to participate in services. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.
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.
Jewish Preschool and kindergarten: Torah Academy of Buffalo Grove is a new Jewish Day School located within Congregation Beth Am at 225 McHenry Road in Buffalo Grove. The school currently provides half-day and full-day classes for pre-K and kindergarten-aged children, with planned expansion of first- and second-grade classes for the 2010-2011 academic year. For details, visit www.torahacademybg.com.
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.