McHenry County 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.

McHenry County Jewish Congregation: The McHenry County Jewish Congregation will host its first-ever road rally at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. Essentially a scavenger hunt on wheels, up to 120 participants will compete to solve several clues in various locations in Crystal Lake and surrounding areas. The cost per car is $100 (with four adults per car recommended), and nonmembers are welcome to participate. The road rally will start and end at MCJC at 8617 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake.

Rabbi Maralee Gordon offers a class for adults called "Feeling at Home in the Synagogue: What does Judaism have to Say About -" from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. Sundays. The classes are open to all adults.

MCJC's Book Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, to discuss "My Father's Paradise: A Son's Search for his Jewish Past in Kurdish Iraq" by Ariel Sabar. All are welcome to attend. Adult education is also offered on Sundays and Wednesdays at noon. Religious school meets each Wednesday from 4:30 to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m. to noon. Twice-a-week instruction is offered to second- to seventh-grade students, and Sunday-only instruction is offered for the parent-tot, pre-K and kindergarten to first grade classes, and those in eighth grade through high school. Adult education is also offered at noon Sundays and Wednesdays. Shabbat services are at 6:30 p.m. Fridays, and 9 a.m. Saturdays at the synagogue, 8617 Ridgefield Road in Crystal Lake. Shabbat services are led by Rabbi Maralee Gordon and are free and open to everyone. It is located on Ridgefield Road in unincorporated Crystal Lake, accessible from Route 14. For information, call (815) 455-1810 or visit mcjc-online.org.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Michelle McNamara will preach "Hannah's Story" based on I Samuel 1:4-20, at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services at First Congregational Church, 11628 E. Main St. in Huntley. The Chancel Choir will sing in both services and the Whitechapel Handbell Choir will play in the second. The Sunday school children, after attending the first part of the 9 a.m. service, will learn about "Rebuilding the Temple" and how building together is cause for celebration. This is the Sunday for the Mission of the Month collection. This month's mission is Faith in Action, a volunteer organization that provides services to seniors in the area. The special needs this month of the Grafton Township Food Pantry are: cereal, juices, peanut butter, jellies, and snacks for school lunches. On Wednesday, Clickin Sticks, the knit/crochet group, will meet at 1 p.m. On Sunday, Nov. 15, the annual Bells Brunch will be served from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It includes a delicious variety of breakfast and lunch dishes. Tickets, $7 or $3.50 for children, may be purchased from bell choir members, the church office, or at the door. No reservations are needed. For details, call (847) 669-3691 or visit www.firsthuntley.org.

St. John Lutheran: This weekend, the Rev. William Stroup will deliver the message, "Dust to Dust to Everlasting Life," based on Daniel 12:1-3, at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday at St. John Lutheran Church, 300 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Adult Bible class Sunday at 9:15 a.m. A supervised nursery is offered at the 10:30 a.m. service. Sunday school children meet at the 10:30 a.m. service, and are excused to go to their classes after the children's message. Coffee and Fellowship follows the Sunday services. The Mission Resale Shop, located on Washington Street, is open on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gifts and good quality used clothing, and small household items can be purchased at reasonable prices. Donations are gratefully appreciated, and proceeds benefit mission work locally and afar. Call (847) 658-9300 or visit www.stjohnsalgonquin.org.

St. John's Lutheran School offers a day school program for first to eighth grade; all-day kindergarten and morning and afternoon preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds. Church membership is not required. To register or schedule a school tour, call Principal Ralph Peterson at (847) 658-9311.

Shepherd of the Prairie: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Mark Boster will lead at the 5 p.m. Saturday, 9 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday services at Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church, 10805 Main St., Huntley. Holy Communion will be celebrated at each service. Sunday school and nursery care is available at both services. The adult Bible study meets at 10:30 a.m. The Thanksgiving service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24. This is an opportunity to gather with others of the community and from other churches to give thanks and worship together inter-denominationally. The Power Hour will be from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Sunday, and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. On Tuesdays, the first music team will meet at 5 p.m. with the second music team at 6 p.m. Prairie Points Quilting Group will meet at 9 a.m. and Little Lambs Learning Program will be from 9 a.m. to noon. On Wednesdays, Shepherd Voices Choir will meet at 7 p.m. Confirmation classes will meet for pizza at 6 p.m. at the church. On Thursday, Nov. 11, the Prayer Shawl Knitting Group will meet at 9 a.m. and the Prairie Ringers Bell Choir will meet from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call (847) 669-9448 or visit www.sotp.org.

Faith Community: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Bruce Cole leads worship with the sermon, "Rescue: The Ring is the Thing," based on Luke 19, at the 9 a.m. blended service and 10:30 a.m. contemporary service at Faith Community Church, 10547 Faiths Way in Huntley. Holy Communion will be celebrated. Nursery for children up to age 3 is available at both services as well as Sunday school for children from age 4 through middle school.

Alcoholics Anonymous holds a weekly closed meeting at noon Sundays and 7:30 p.m. Mondays. On Tuesdays, TOPS meets at 11:30 a.m. New members are welcome. The Silver Saints Senior group will meet for lunch and fellowship at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16 at the Golden Corral in Algonquin. All seniors are welcome. Awana meets Mondays with a family dinner at 5:30 p.m. and Kids Club from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Call the church office for a registration form or go to fccwired.tv. "Friends" Bible study meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays. They are currently studying the book "The Power of a Woman's Words" by Sharon Jaynes. All women are welcome. Adult Bible studies are offered at 9 a.m. Wednesdays to discuss the scripture of the upcoming sermon. There is also a 7:30 p.m. Bible study on the book of Romans. They will be hosting a "Stop & Shop Vendor Fair" from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Purchase Christmas gifts, support local vendors and enjoy an afternoon out. Ten percent of all sales will support the food pantry, children's coat drive and Feed My Lambs Ministries. Concessions and chair massages will be available as well. The Faith Community Food Pantry is open from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays. First-time clients should bring a photo ID and proof of residency. The middle school "Wednesday Night Life" praise, worship and classes are held Wednesdays with dinner at 5:30 p.m. and worship, teaching and LIFE groups from 6 to 7:30 p.m. All students in sixth to eighth grades are invited to attend.

"Play 2 Learn" playgroups for children ages 2-4 will be offered each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning here at FCC. For details, call April LoCoco at (847) 309-8445. Call (224) 569-6501 or visit www.fccwired.tv.

First Congregational: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Dave Inglis and FCC Youth will preach at the 9 and 10:45 a.m. services at First Congregational Church, 461 Pierson St., Crystal Lake. Sunday school is offered at 9 and 10:45 a.m. Each Sunday, all children, age 2 to seventh grade, will begin worship with their family. After the children's message, they will be excused to their appropriate Sunday school class. Nursery care and Toddler Time is provided for infants, and toddlers at each service. On Sunday, Nov. 15, Community Harvest bags are to be returned. Youth Sunday Chili Lunch prepared and served by the Junior Fellowship group at 11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Sharing the Gift of Advent at 12:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room. Christianity 101 at 5 p.m. in the Banner Library. On Monday, Nov. 16, Mature Singles Group traveling to Elgin Community College to see "Under The Lights" will meet at 4:30 p.m. at FCC to carpool. On Tuesday, Nov. 17, Friendly Service meets at 10 a.m. in the multipurpose room. Prayer Shawl Ministry meets at 1:30 p.m. in the Banner Library. Heartland blood drive from 3 to 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. An informational lecture, "Navigate the Healthcare System" will be at 7:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, Fellowship News Assembly at 9 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Seasons of the Spirit Bible Study is held at 10:15 a.m. in the Banner Library. Confirmation class meets at 5:30 p.m. in the youth room. On Thursday, Nov. 19, Young at Heart meets at the Crystal Lake Country Club at noon. Moms' Time Out meets at 6:30 p.m.; call church office for location. On Friday, Nov. 20, Mature Singles Group will go to Lake County College to see Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People." To attend, call Ron Woodruff at (815) 206-0498. For details, call (815) 459-6010 or visit fcc-cl.org.

McHenry County Church of Religious Science: On Sunday, Nov. 15, the Rev. Anne Muelleman will preach on "Kingdom of Enough" at the Center for Spiritual Evolution, McHenry County Church of Religious Science. It highlights a book by David Walker, a Religious Science minister and former president of Religious Science International. Everyone is welcome to attend the 10 a.m. Sunday Celebration Service at 204 Spring St., lower level in Cary. Music will be provided by Dominic Dragoo. There is a children's program and toddler care. If you arrive early, there is a meditation at 9:30 a.m. There is a Tuesday morning mediation with Bhanta Sujatha at 10 a.m. for a $10 donation. As a trans-denominational church, all services and activities are open to everyone without obligation. For details, call (847) 516-1950 or visit www.newthoughtmchenry.org.

Congregational Church of Algonquin: On Memorial Sunday, Nov. 8, the Rev. Brian Cope will preach at the 8 and 10 a.m. services at the Congregational Church of Algonquin, 109 Washington St. The sermon will be based on 1 Samuel 1:4-20. Music will be offered by the Senior Choir. They will read the name and light a candle for each member of the church who has died. Everyone also will be invited to come forward to light a candle for any of their departed loved ones. Sunday school for seventh to 12th grade is at 9 a.m. The Adult Christian LIFE hour is at 9 a.m. Sundays with different classes. Shepherd University, the children's Sunday school program, will be at 10 a.m. Sundays. This program is based on the Rotation Model that uses a variety of learning techniques which includes; games, crafts, Bible lessons, puppets, cooking and storytelling.

The "SERRV Sale" will be from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. It is a nonprofit organization with 60 years of experience dedicated to eradicating poverty wherever it resides. With every handicraft you purchase, you help artisans and their families to have better lives. The Movies and More Club will meet at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. It is for second through sixth grades. They will be going out to lunch and then to a movie.

On Sunday, Nov. 22, a representative of Heifer International will give a Mission Moment on its work. The Hanging of the Greens will be at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. The Thanksgiving service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24. This is an opportunity to gather with others of the community and from other churches to give thanks and worship together inter-denominationally.

The Men's Fellowship are selling Entertainment Books for $20. The entertainment books help to raise money for the Men's Fellowship. The money they raise helps toward buying Bibles for elementary students and confirmation Bibles for seventh-graders. They also help fund various other projects at the church. Shop at the Heavenly Attic Resale Shop, 307 S. Main St. in Algonquin. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For details, call (847) 658-5308.

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.