Tri-Cities religion notes

Special events

• On Saturday, Dec. 19, meet local author Cindy Kenney as she presents an hour of fun at Family Christian Book Store, 135 N. Randall Road in Batavia. She will present stories, songs, crafts and snacks. Kenney has a new book being featured called "My Read and Rhyme Story Bible" in addition to four new books in her girl's chapter book series called "The Precious Girl's Club." She is best known for her many books and success for VeggieTales. She will be available for a meet and greet in addition to a book signing after the program which is free.

Kenney has worked in the publishing arena for almost 20 years. She has written more than 50 best-selling books, numerous curriculum programs and more. In addition to writing, she travels around the country making appearances and teaching at local schools, universities, in addition to keynoting and helping new writers at many conferences. To learn more about Kenney, visit KenneyCreative.com. For information about the event, call Family Christian Book Store at (630) 593-5018.

• On Sunday, Dec. 20, Batavia United Methodist Church Chancel Choir and the Batavia High School Chamber Strings will combine to present their fifth annual Christmas cantata, "Sing We Now Of Christmas," at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services at Batavia United Methodist Church, 8 S. Lincoln St. in Batavia. The cantata presents nine settings of time-honored Christmas carols along with a surprise or two. The public is invited to come and enjoy the familiar sounds of Christmas. Batavia UMC Chancel Choir is directed by Ellen Anton and the Chamber Strings is directed by Ryan McCann.

Also on Sunday, Dec. 20, Bethany Lutheran Church will host a "Blue Christmas" at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary. This is a service for those grieving the loss of a loved one or feeling down, because of the absence of someone this holiday season.

On Christmas Day, Bethany Lutheran Church will host their annual Julotta (Swedish/English) service at 8 a.m. in their sanctuary. Magnus Hilbo of North Park will officiate the service in Swedish and English as well as Holy Communion will be served. This traditional Swedish service has been a part of Bethany's history for over 100 years. There will be a Swedish breakfast after the service. This is a quiet and reflective service. Parking and easiest access is found at the east side of the building, off Water Street. For information, call the church office at (630) 879-3444.

• On Sunday, Dec. 20, the Rev. Paul Bischoff, interim pastor, continues his challenging sermons about New Testament insight on Christians and Christmas in today's world at the 10:30 a.m. service at Country Evangelical Covenant Church, Route 47 and McDonald Road in Campton Hills. On Sunday, Dec 20, a Christmas program will be held at the 10:30 a.m. service. 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. On Saturday, Dec. 19, the men's breakfast and Bible study on Matthew 1 and 2 will be at 8 a.m. Wednesday's Bible study will focus on Psalm 23 at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve candlelight service will be at 10 p.m. For information, call (847) 464-5381 or visit countrycov.org.

• On Thursday, Dec. 24, Fox Valley Unity Church, 230 Webster St. in Batavia, will have a Christmas Eve candlelight service at 7 p.m. On Friday, Dec. 25, there will be a Christmas Day service at 10 a.m.

On Thursday, Dec. 31, Fox Valley Unity will have a World Healing Meditation at 6 a.m. Everyone is invited to these services. For information, call Fox Valley Unity Church at (630) 879-1115 or visit foxvalleyunity.org.

Support

• A supportive discussion group for those caring for people coping with memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer's issues meets from 1:30 to 3 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at United Methodist Church of Geneva, 211 Hamilton St. The group is facilitated by Meghan Nelson and Kitty Ganzel. There is no charge, but registration is requested. For details, call (630) 232-7120, ext. 815; e-mail meghan@genevaumc.org; or visit genevaumc.org.

Workshops

• From 7:30 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Fox Valley Unity, 230 Webster St. in Batavia, facilitates a discussion of "A Course in Miracles." This is an ongoing class, rain or shine. Each week a new topic is discussed. Everyone is welcome at any time and the class is open to new attendees. For information, call (630) 879-1115 or visit foxvalleyunity.org.

• Beginning in January, Bible Study Fellowship International will be expanding its preschool program to include members' children ages 5 and younger. The St. Charles class meets from 9:10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays at Riverside Community Church, 37W130 Crane Road. Classes are currently studying the Book of John. For details, visit bsfinternational.org.