Northwest suburban religion notes

Your faith To submit items, e-mail faith@dailyherald.com, or send fax to (847) 427-1301.

Adult education

Immanuel United Church of Christ will hold a new weekly Parents Group Mondays in the west classroom during the same time as the Lifeboat High School Community Youth Group, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., 1500 Old Church Road Streamwood. (630) 837-0190 or streamwoodiucc.org.

The Ministry of New Beginnings, part of the Phoenix Group, is a 31-year-old, Catholic-oriented, nondenominational social support organization for separated, divorced, widowed and single persons. Meetings are held every Monday (except holidays) at 7:30 p.m. in the Hughes Center in front of St. Matthew's Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road in Schaumburg. (847) 891-1220, $3 per meeting, with first visit free.

St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, 729 Grand Canyon Blvd., Hoffman Estates, holds a variety of non-denominational events free and open to all occupations. Learn the fundamentals of careering and get in-depth knowledge from the seminars and meetings and career topics offered in various area locations. Call Bob Podgorski at (847) 925-6005.

Holy Family Parish in Inverness will offer Catholic Scripture Study, "Embracing the Cross: A Look at the Gospel of Mark," from 7-9 p.m. on Thursdays May 1, 15, 22 and 29 (no class May 8). Fr. James McIlhone will trace the reinterpretation of the notions of Messiah and Son of God as it is presented in the Gospel of Mark. This will show the significance of the Paschal Mystery for the understanding of the Gospel of Mark, both by the early Christian community and Communities reading the Gospel today. Fee: $40. Contact the parish office for information or to register: (847) 359-0042, www.holyfamilyparish.org

Looking for meaningful adult fellowship and Bible study? Then come to these programs at Barrington United Methodist Church: Sunday mornings 9-10:15 a.m. "3:16: The Numbers of Hope" through May 4; "The Life You've Always Wanted" through May 4; and "Jeremiah: A Bible Study" through June 1.

Wednesday Evenings a Women's Study meets from 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday mornings Women of the Word meets from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. through May 22. Friday mornings, 10-10:30 a.m. Breathing Spaces meets at the Lake Zurich Starbucks inside Dominick's, at Routes 12 and 22.

Barrington United Methodist Church is located at 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59) in Barrington. Call (847) 836-5540 for more information.

The coed evening group of Community Bible Study, which meets in Mount Prospect, has opened its registration for the 2008-09 study year. A fee of $25 reserves a seat for adults at the class, offering area residents an opportunity for in-depth Bible study for more than 25 years.

Teaching Director Bob Kriskovich, a trained layman, has announced the course to be studied as "The Divided Kingdom," covering the Old Testament books of I and II Kings and the minor prophets. Community Bible Study, which is headquartered in Colorado Springs, offered the course for the first time during the 2007-08 study year.

For information or to register for the course, set to begin from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Sept. 9, call class secretary Pam Reed at (847) 373-7375.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 3201 Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows, will offer an Alpha course from 6-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays through June 12. This practical introduction to the Christian faith offers answers to some key questions. Each weekly session begins with an informal dinner, followed by a large group learning time, and ends with a small group discussion. To learn more about the course, call Trinity Lutheran Church at (847) 398-7122.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, is offering "New Life at St. Peter," which offers the basics of the beliefs and teachings as a Lutheran Church, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sundays through June 22 in Bartz Hall. It is taught by Pastor Greiner.

At the same time on Sundays through June 22, "Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage" will be offered in Room 47 and is led by DCE Kevin Borchers

On Wednesdays, from 12:15-1:15 p.m., "Our Godly Heritage" will be held in Bartz Hall and taught be Pastor Andrada. (847) 259-4114.

Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, will offer an adult education program, "The Power of Forgiveness" at 10:15 a.m. April 27. It includes a powerful DVD that features such people as Elie Wiesel who survived the Holocaust, as well as those who lost loved ones during 9/11 and others. (847) 437-5141.

Children, teens

Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran (Missouri Synod), 1116 Devon Ave., Bartlett, has preschool openings for the fall session for 2-, 3- and 4-year-old children. (630) 483-9611.

Living Lord Lutheran Preschool in Bartlett will host a community Open House from 5:30-7:30 p.m. May 8. Families can meet the teachers, see the classroom, and learn about the 3-year-old and 4-year-old programs. Registration for preschool summer camp (offered three different weeks) will also be available. For more information, call (630) 830-7158, or visit the preschool page at www.livinglordlutheran.org. Living Lord Preschool is located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

St. Hubert Catholic School, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates, continues registration for new students for the upcoming 2008-2009 school year for preschool, kindergarten, first- through sixth-grade elementary, and seventh- and eighth-grade junior high. New to the 2008-2009 school year will be a five-day, full-day combined 3- and 4-year-old preschool program, in addition to the current half-day early childhood program offerings. (847) 885-7702.

Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, has begun registration for the 2008-09 school year. It offers several different options for preschool and kindergarten classes, and an extended day through a Parents' Day Out program. (847) 885-7036.

The Big Barn Preschool at 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, has openings for full-day programs for ages 3-5. Registrations also are being accepted for special summer programs. Call Director Mary Fisher at (847) 895-3257.

Beth Tikvah Congregation will offer Camp Tikvah this summer for children entering kindergarten through fourth grade. The camp has two sessions running from June 23-July 3, and July 7-18. Registration is now being accepted. (847) 885-4545 or www.beth-tikvah.org.

New Hope Preschool is now accepting registration for the fall for 3- and 4-year-old classes. New Hope Preschool is affiliated with New Hope Community Church, 1023 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. (847) 359-5482.

Christ the King Lutheran Preschool, 100 W Michigan Ave., Palatine, is accepting registrations for the 2008-2009 school year for children ages 2 to 5. The 3- to 5-year-old program is Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The 2-year-old program is Tuesday mornings. A preschool extension, the Lunch Bunch, is offered Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. Contact Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230; send e-mail to preschool@ByFaithAlone.org or visit ByFaithAlone.org.

St. Thomas of Villanova School in Palatine is currently accepting enrollment for the 2008-09 school year for preschool through eighth grade. St. Thomas is a recipient of the National Blue Ribbon for academic excellence awarded by the U.S. Secretary of Education. (847)358-2110 or www.stvschool.org.

Registration has begun for the summer session at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. This program is for children ages 2 and 3.

The summer session of Parent's Day Out will start June 16 and will run for seven weeks. Parents will have the option of Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday class from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Children must be 2 or 3 years of age by June 1, 2008, to enroll.

All children are required to have a complete physical and provide a complete Illinois Department of Public Health Certificate of Child Health Examination prior to the start of the program. Summer tuition: Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday: $185. kingswoodumc.com.

The 2008 Summer Program registration is under way at Jacob Duman JCC Early Childhood Services at Woodland Commons, 370 Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove. Offered will be a variety of options for parent/child, 2-year-olds and 3-year-olds. Programs run June 16 to Aug. 8. Call Ione Miraglio, Linda Newman or Lois Agran at (847) 955-0005.

Chabad Community Hebrew School offers Hebrew reading taught using the Aleph Champ motivational Hebrew reading program. Private tutoring for bar/bat mitzvah prep available upon request. www.northbrookhebrew school.com or (847) 564-8770.

Summer and fall 2008 registrations are now being accepted for Sonshine Preschool, 304 W. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights. Summer session is on Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. June 10-July 10 Fees for the summer is $125 for two days a week, and $170 for three days a week. Fall sessions offer both morning and afternoon preschool hours. Call Barb Orze at (847) 520-1116.

Mother's Day Out Preschool at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, will be expanding to three days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays) beginning in September. Programs are offered for children ages 2 to 5. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Registration has begun. Call Lynn Cooper at (847) 439-0668 for a registration packet or more information about MDO Preschool.

A May Crowning will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 13 at Knights of Columbus Hall 15 N. Hickory in Arlington Heights for girls and boys ages 6 to 12. Call Ed Smetana at (847) 253-9419 for details and to sign up.

Family

A Safety Biking Clinic, sponsored by Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church's Rainbow Friends, will be held at 1 p.m. May 3 at the parking lot just south of the church. The clinic will feature Countryside member and longtime biking aficionado Joanie Kozak, who is so committed to biking that she no longer owns a car and bikes everywhere in all kinds of weather. She has considerable expertise in bicycle safety, rules of the road and how to buy a bike that fits your needs. Bicycles will be inspected for safety and she will give tips on how to make bicycling a more enjoyable experience.

All Countryside's Rainbow events are designed to affirm Countryside's values of celebrating all people, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation. Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee. Directions may be obtained at www.ccuu.org or by phoning (847) 359-8440.

Kingswood United Methodist Church's puppet team will perform its spring musical at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. April 27 The Glory Fingers puppeteers recently won a platinum award, the highest honor given, at the Chicago Regional Christian Puppetry Festival.

The musical "Made to Love" will feature songs by Toby Mac and Casting Crowns, and a new sign-language song by Twila Paris. The show's host, Orpah, will explore the topic "Spiritual Gifts." This year's presentation will include never-before-attempted black-light special effects, new puppets and scenery.

The free performance will be in the church sanctuary at 401 W. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove. (847) 398-0770. www.kingswoodumc.com

The junior high students at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic School will perform "Seussical, Jr." May 2 and 3 at the school. Some choreography and assistance is being provided by students from St. Viator High School. Performances will be at 7 p.m. May 2 and at 6:30 p.m. May 3 in the parish center. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children, and will be available at the door. St. Alphonsus is located at 411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights, just south of Palatine Road. (847) 255-5538 or www.stalphonsus.com.

Grace Lutheran Church children's choirs will present the musical, "Life of the Party" at the 9 and 10:45 a.m. services May 4. Kirstie Felland, Grace's director of music, directs and accompanies the children, who range in age from 5 to 13.

The musical, written by Allen Pote and Tom Long, is a humorous retelling of the Bible stories of Mary and Martha. Grace Lutheran Church is located at 1624 E. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect, at the corner of Euclid and Wolf Road. (847) 824-7408.

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village, behind Alexian, Brothers Medical Center, offers Wednesday night dinners. Cost is $1.50 per person. The dinners at 6 p.m. precede the church's weekly AWANA club night for children ages 3 through sixth grades. (847) 593-8337.

Fundraisers

St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 250 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream, is searching for crafters for this year's Corn Fest on Aug. 2. If you are a crafter or a local artisan who would like to sell your creations at this year's event, call Vicki Wright (630) 510-0145 to receive booth information.

Crop 'til you drop and stamp 'til you cramp. From 2-11 p.m. May 10, join stamping and scrapbooking pals at Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett for nine hours of nonstop action. The cost is $25 to reserve a space to spread out with your stamping/scrapbooking projects. A light dinner is included and more food will be available for purchase. Borrow stamps and ink pads, take breakout classes, participate in a raffle for fun prizes, and enjoy. For more details or to register, contact Glenda Travelstead at (630) 213-2061, or go to www.thankyoucrop.eventbrite.com. Proceeds will benefit the ministries of Living Lord Church, located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will offer its Annual Mother's Day Lox Box Sale for Mother's Day on May 11. The box includes ½ pound of lox (Nova or regular) and all the accoutrements: orange juice, cream cheese, tomato, onion and cucumber, along with one-half dozen freshly baked bagels. The Lox Box will also contain a breakfast cake, a tasty bag of kosher cookies, a newspaper and a great bag of "chotchkies."

Cost: Single box price $25; double box price $47; ARK box price $20; Combination box price $40 (order one lox box for your home and one for the ARK). Checks are payable to "Beth Judea Men's Club." Credit cards accepted.

Lox boxes may be picked up at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove on May 11 between 8-11 a.m. or the Men's Club will deliver them to locations within a reasonable distance. A special Mother's Day Brunch spread can be arranged if ordered in advance.

Contact Men's Club Lox Box Co-Chairman, Steve Limer and Jim MacCrindle, at (847) 634-0777 for order forms and further information. You can also fax your order to the synagogue at (847) 634-8055.

Enjoy the sounds of swing era medleys and Broadway musicals while donating to a worthy cause at Temple Jeremiah's "Chai Society" lunch and concert at noon May 14 at 937 Happ Road, Northfield. Music will be performed by the New Horizons, a 25-member senior band from Winnetka, along with Temple Jeremiah's Cantor Amy Zussman and Music Director David Lornson. The temple's Brotherhood and Sisterhood are co-hosting this event. (847) 441-5760, www.templejeremiah.org.

Glenview United Methodist Church, 727 Harlem Ave., Glenview, will hold its annual Top of the Heap rummage and plant sale from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 26. The event is sponsored by the Glenview United Methodist Women and will benefit the Wesley Child Care Center, Inc. of Glenview and various other mission projects. (847) 729-1015.

Christ Church, United Church of Christ, 1492 Henry Ave., Des Plaines, will hold its spring rummage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 29, and from 8 to 11 a.m. April 30, which will be a $3 per bag day. Donations will be accepted at the church from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. until April 28. The proceeds of the sale will benefit the church and missions.

First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, 766 Graceland Ave., Des Plaines, will hold its annual "Second Time Around" rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26. The sale also will have a concession area and bake sale. Baby sitting will be provided. For information, call (847) 299-5561.

Christus Victor Lutheran Church will have its Craft/Vendor and Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3 at the church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village.

St. John's Episcopal Church will participate in the Picket Fence Realty community garage sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 17. St. John's will feature a large selection of garage sale items and baked goods. From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., St. John's Cafe will offer hot dogs and hamburgers for hungry shoppers. Food sales will benefit the Great American Bake Sale, helping to alleviate childhood hunger in the U.S. St. John's Episcopal Church is at 200 N. Main St., Mount Prospect.

Tickets are on sale for the Spring Fling luncheon and fashion show, hosted May 10 by Christ Church United Church of Christ in Des Plaines, and the Dress Barn store in Mount Prospect.

Women from Christ Church will model between 20 and 30 outfits from the Dress Barn's spring line. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. May 10 at Casa Royale Banquets, 783 Lee St., in Des Plaines. There will be a cash bar.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Church members can buy them at the church; members of the public can buy them by calling Rita Barth, at (847) 825-1160.

Community Presbyterian Church will hold its annual rummage sale April 26 at 407 N. Main St., Mount Prospect. On April 26, all merchandise will be half price. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26. (847) 392-3111.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will hold its annual rummage sale. On April 26, hours will be 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. (847) 272-2246.

Our Lady of the Wayside is hosting the 4th Annual Pancake Breakfast and Plant Sale May 4 after all Masses. This event raises funds to send 40 teens on a one-week summer mission trip to help those in need. Tickets are available at the door for $5 per adult, $4 per child, or $20 per family. The event will be held in the OLW gym at 434 W. Park.

Lectures, seminars

Dr. Alice Rothchild will tell of her experiences and sign copies of her recent book, "Broken Promises, Broken Dreams," at 7:30 p.m. May 5 at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 E. Main St., Barrington. An obstetrician-gynecologist living in Boston, since 1997 she has focused much of her energy on understanding the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Rothchild is co-chair of the Boston Chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace.

Her book discusses her experiences in Israel and the West Bank from the point of view of an American Jew and her reflections on those experiences. Royalties from book sales are donated to JVP in Boston.

Holy Family Catholic Community will offer the Gifted Discovery Lab from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 10. Come and discover your gifts for life and ministry in this one-day workshop. Find out how your personality type, interests, life experiences reflect the uniqueness of you as a person. How do the gifts you have contribute to your purpose and how you fit in with God's plan? For information, contact Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, (847) 359-0042, www.holyfamilyparish.org. Lunch is provided; there is a voluntary donation. Please call to register as soon as possible.

Jim Kenney, director of the Deerfield-based Common Ground, will speak about what the world's great religions have in common, followed by questions and discussion during a program at 1 p.m. April 27 at Countryside Church, 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine. The program is "Movement: The Global Convergence of Religions." A donation of $10 will be collected at the door. Reservations are appreciated but not required. Contact Colleen Vahey at (847) 359-8440, ext. 4. www.ccuu.org.

National speaker John Adams, a full-time prayer-based healer using the Christian Science system of healing, will present a talk titled, "Does Christian Science really heal sickness and sin?" at 2 p.m. April 27 at the Hotel Indigo in Palatine, on Northwest Highway right off of Route 53.

Adams will explore how healing is possible through the practical application of scientific prayer in our lives and share experiences that show how he and others have put this prayer-based system of healing into practice in their own lives. For more information on the event, call Sarah Faherty at (847) 732-7208.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will offer Community on Wednesday, Contemplative Conversations at 7 p.m. April 30. Cathleen Falsani will speak about "The God Factor: Inside the Spiritual Lives of Public People."

Falsani is the religion columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. She holds a master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University as well as a master's degree in theological studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She has also been a Gralla Fellow in Jewish Studies at Brandeis University, and was the 1996 Stoody-West Fellow in Religious Journalism. (847) 359-0042, or www.holyfamilyparish.org.

Temple Jeremiah, in cooperation with the Anti-Defamation League, Leaders United and Chicago Urban League, will host a Shabbat dinner and service around the theme of "Expanding our Knowledge of Each Other's Worship," May 2 at Temple Jeremiah, 937 Happ Road, Northfield. The program begins with dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a worship service at 8 p.m. Cost of dinner is $15 and includes a donation to MAZON: The Jewish Response to Hunger. To RSVP or to learn more, contact Temple Jeremiah at (847) 441-5760 or e-mail office@templejeremiah.org or log on to the Web site at www.templejeremiah.org.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois presents "Genealogy Gems from Reading Jewish Tombstones" by Irwin Lapping, director of Waldheim Cemetery and a JGSI member, at 2 p.m. May 18 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster Street, Skokie. Lapping will discuss the meaning of gravestone inscriptions, symbols and other engravings to help you learn more about your family.

The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth Israel will open at 12:30 p.m. The main program begins at 2 p.m., http://www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or (312) 666-0100.

The Stanley C. Golder Interfaith Lecture will be offered at 8 p.m. May 3 at Temple Jeremiah, 937 Happ Road, Northfield, when award-winning journalist Judith Miller addresses "The Rise of Religious Fundamentalism" in the three major Western faiths -- Islam, Judaism and Christianity -- over the past three decades and its impact in today's highly charged political arena.

A well-known author and Pulitzer-prize winning investigative reporter, Miller knows first-hand the role religious beliefs can play in news coverage. She currently writes for the Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, New York Sun and numerous other publications.

As a reporter for the New York Times, Miller spent 85 days in jail rather than disclose her confidential sources. She has since resigned from that newspaper and is working to enact a federal "shield" law to protect reporters and their sources versus the public's right to know. (847) 441-5760 or www.templejeremiah.org.

Join Touchstones April 27 at the Evelyn Pease Tyner Interpretive Center at Air Station Prairie in the Glen for "Renewal in the Wilderness," a workshop lead by John Lionberger. Participants will get an overview of wilderness travel, and see why it's a powerful path to experiencing God. Lionberger is founder of Renewal in the Wilderness, an organization that takes men and women from all denominations and faith traditions out of their normal environments for wilderness travel to give them a chance to spend extraordinary time with God. The workshop will be from 4-5:30 p.m. The Interpretive Center is located at 2400 Compass Road in Glenview. (866) 568-7152 www.mytouchstones.org.

The Jewish Learning Institute begins its six-week fall course "Talmudic Ethics: timeless wisdom for timely dilemmas. Find your way to good decisions." It will be from 7:30-9 p.m. on Tuesday evenings starting May 13, and from 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays starting May 14 at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook 755 Huehl Road (corner Dundee Road) Northbrook.

This course is accredited for CLE credits. For rates and information, call (847) 564-8770 or visit www.ChabadNorthbrook.com/JLI

The '"Lessons In Truth" class is a clear, concise representation of New Thought philosophy and metaphysical Christianity presented at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines,. The five-week class series begins at 7 p.m. May 6. Please purchase the book "Lessons in Truth" by H. Emilie Cady, and read the first two chapters prior to the first class. Call (847) 297-0997 to register or if you have questions.

Certified hypnotherapists Laurie Geschrey and Katherine Anderson will lead a four-week weight loss group intensive, which will include hypnosis sessions, reinforcement materials and group support. It begins May 8 and runs through June 5 at 7 p.m. at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Cost is $25 per week, which will include reinforcement materials. Call (847) 297-0997 to register.

"For the Bible Tells Me So," Dan Karslake's award-winning documentary examining homosexuality and biblical Scripture, will be shown at 2 p.m. April 27 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Congregational UCC welcomes all persons regardless of religious background, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Refreshments and discussion will follow the presentation. www.congucc.org. (847) 392-6650.

Men's fellowship

The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea will lead the Shabbat service at the Annual Men's Club Shabbat at 9:30 a.m. April 26 at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. The kiddush that will follow the service will be sponsored by the Men's Club. (847) 634-0777.

Miscellaneous

Faith World Outreach, 6N100 Route 59, Bartlett, is partnering with Angel Food Ministries to provide groceries to those in need. For $25, a family in need receives a box of quality groceries, both fresh and frozen items. (630) 830-0193 or visit the Web site at angelfoodministries.com.

Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett will host a community Blood Drive from 8 a.m. to noon May 10. Heartland Blood Centers will sponsor the event. For an appointment, call Holly Gould at (224) 238-3093. Walk-ins also are welcome. Living Lord Church is located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Schaumburg is celebrating its 50th year in the community. A formal celebration will be held from noon to 3 p.m. April 27 at the Seville, 700 Barrington Road, Streamwood. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-10. Tickets will be sold in the church office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday until Tuesday, and in the church's Fellowship Hall from 9-11 a.m. Sunday. No tickets will be sold after Tuesday.

Child care for children ages 3 to 10 will be provided at The Seville free, but parents must notify of need for child care at the time of ticket purchase. A movie and a craft project are planned for the children.

The church is at 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. All are welcome. For information, call the church at (847) 885-7010, or visit the church Web site at www.princeofpeace.net

All kinds of school supplies -- paper, pencils, pens, and books are needed in Tanzania. The Missions Ministry Group at Barrington United Methodist Church is asking the community to bring school supplies of all types to the church and put them in a special receptacle in the narthex marked "Tanzania." The church learned of the need from Peace Corps volunteer Pete Wesley, who grew up in North Barrington and has been stationed in Tanzania with the Peace Corps for two years. For more information, contact Kiran Frey at (847) 382- 5410. Barrington United Methodist is located at 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59) in Barrington. (847) 836-5540 or www.barringtonumc.com.

St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Barrington Hills has announced the appointment of the Rev. Mary E. Tudela of Lake Barrington as interim rector. Tudela will serve as St. Mark's spiritual leader until the arrival of the church's new permanent rector who is expected to arrive in late summer.

She also serves part-time on the staff of St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Barrington and is the founding executive director of Samaritan Counseling Center of the Northwest Suburbs, a faith-based counseling center scheduled to open in Barrington this fall.

Tudela's first Sunday of worship is April 27 on St. Mark's annual Rogation Sunday.

St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 337 Ridge Road, Barrington Hills. (847) 381-0596. www.st-markschurch.org

High Road Rider's Motorcycle Club Bike Blessing will have a shoe collection from 9-11 a.m. April 26 at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, located at Barrington Road and Algonquin Road in Parking Lot "A." The group is collecting used shoes in its partnership with Stuff for the Poor to fund the "Aid to Orphans: project [www.stuffforthepoor.com]. Used men's, women's and children's shoes in all styles -- sandals, high heels, gym shoes, dress shoes, etc are welcomed -- 10,000 pairs of used shoes will support 100 orphans for one year in Africa. For more information, contact Kate at redgloveriders@comcast or call [630] 697-6526.

The public is invited, at no charge, to view and discuss the prerelease screening of the documentary film "Blue Gold: World Water Wars" at 7 p.m. May 9 at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine.

Following the movie will be a discussion about humanity's using fresh water faster than it can be replenished, what will become of remaining sources, and who will control them. Countryside Church is located at 1025 Smith Road. (847) 359-8440, ext. 7.

The Rev. Dr. Margaret Gramley and Kingswood United Methodist Church are planning an 11-day spiritual and educational pilgrimage to Greece and Ephesus (Turkey) Nov. 5-15. The 11-day tour includes a three-day cruise. Cost is $2,799 per person in double occupancy (single add $699), round-trip cost out of Chicago. Not included are airport tax and fuel surcharges, tips, travel insurance and entrance visa to Turkey, cruise port charges and fuel surcharge.

An informational meeting will be at noon April 27 at Kingswood UMC, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. Anyone interested is invited to attend. Full brochures and registration information is available. Contact Gramley at margramley@sbcglobal.net or (847) 398-0770.

Beverly Modlin, a local piano teacher and musician, is being feted with a Celebration of 50 Years in Music by Buffalo Grove's Kingswood United Methodist Church on May 4. Beverly has taught hundreds of piano students since moving to Wheeling in 1972 and has been involved in countless musical activities with them as well as at Kingswood.

Beverly has been the director of music, organist, and choir director of the Women's Faith Singers since 1972 at Kingswood. Beverly will be honored at a luncheon following the 10:30 a.m. church service May 4. If you are a previous student and would like to write a letter to Beverly conveying your thoughts and congratulations, please e-mail them to bevmodlin@sbcglobal.net.

Saint Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer scrapbooking from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 26. Those interested in scrapbooking can join to share knowledge, technique, support and fellowship. Free. For information, call (847) 229-9086.

The church will also offer Family Movie Night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 27. "Toy Story" will be shown with big screen and sound along with food, snacks and refreshments. Free.

Touchstones will close the season of its first year with a special gathering of presenters and participants to share dessert and conversation at 5:30 p.m. May 4 at the Schram Museum, 1799 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. All are welcome. www.mytouchstones.org or (866) 568-7152.

Northbrook Congregation Ezra Habonim, 2095 Landwehr Road, Northbrook, holds movie nights monthly. The films are in Hebrew with English subtitles. Admission costs $5 and $10 for nonmembers. Some of the films will highlight subjects that may be geared to an adult audience.

Upcoming films: "Forgiveness" at 7:30 p.m. May 15. nceh.org or (847) 480-1690.

The South Church of Mount Prospect has called the Rev. Rick Kesler to serve as its new pastor. Kesler will assume his new role May 4, leading worship at 10:30 a.m. Open Communion will be served.

Kesler joins The South Church from First Baptist Church of Bedford, Ohio, where he was pastor from July 2003 to March 2008. Previous positions include pastoral assistant at University Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio; executive secretary for the Campus Ministry Association, an interfaith group of religious leaders in the Ohio State University area; and director of theater for Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio.

A trained actor, singer, and director, Kesler's resume also includes numerous regional theater productions, as well as a number of professional films and videos.

Kesler and his wife, Angela Nicolosi, will reside in Mount Prospect. The South Church, lis ocated at 501 S. Emerson St. www.thesouthchurch.com.

The 50th Anniversary Committee of Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit will have a High Tea at 2 p.m. May 17 at the church, 150 Lions Drive, Elk Grove Village. Light fare and sweet table will be served as well as a program of "Stories and Songs of Love and Laughter" by Sandi Sylver. Tickets of $15 adult and $5 for children 13 and under may be obtained through Bobbie Igielski, (847) 593-3065.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 605 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect, is celebrating 50 years of ministry to the community throughout 2008. Special events are being held to commemorate the occasion, including a Homecoming Celebration May 18, which is the official date of the signing of the charter designating TUMC as a congregation in 1958.

A catered luncheon will follow the two morning services on that day, and an afternoon service will feature past ministers, special music and much more. Current and former members and their families, as well as friends and community members are invited to attend the celebration.

There are two services on Sunday morning (8:10 and 10:30 a.m.); a new Upward Call Worship Service on Saturdays at 5 p.m.

To make reservations for the 50th Anniversary Homecoming Luncheon, or to obtain more information about Trinity, call (847) 439-0950 or visit www.Trinitymp.org.

Members of Trinity Lutheran Church (ECLA) in Des Plaines are participating in the annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life event May 16 and 17 at Maine West High School in Des Plaines. Relay For Life is an overnight event that celebrates cancer survivors as well as honoring those in the community who lost their battle with cancer. Anyone interested in joining the team or volunteering to help with the event can contact Betty Bongartz at (847) 298-5818 or call the church office at (847) 427-6656.

St. Nicholas Episcopal Church opens its Supplemental Food Pantry from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays to the hungry of Elk Grove Village, Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg.

Bags of groceries are given to anyone in need, with no eligibility requirement. The church is at 1072 Ridge Ave., Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-2067 or visit online onebreadonebody.org.

Rainbows Groups for people who have experienced a loss through death, divorce, or separation will meet from 7-8 p.m. Mondays at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, for eight weeks beginning May 5. Groups will be available for all age levels from preschool to adult. Call Shirley Laube at (847) 253-4839 for more information and to register.

Free garden plots are available for anyone in the area who is interested in growing flowers or vegetables this summer. The plots are on the property at the rear of the United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Gardeners need not be a church member to participate. To request a plot, call (847) 392-6650.

Holy Wanderers, an excursion ministry of First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, invites individuals to join them on their fall 2008 Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills of South Dakota trip Sept. 7-13. Hosted by the Rev. Bonnie Beckonchrist and Leah Nakamura this seven-day, six-night trip features deluxe coach transportation, lodging, 10 meals and visits to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Bear Country, and Deadwood for the price of $649 double occupancy. Call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org.

Orthodox Holy Week

St. Nectarios Church, 133 S. Roselle Road, Palatine, will offer the following services: April 26 Holy Saturday Morning Vesperal Liturgy at 7 a.m., (holy Communion will not be given before or after the Divine Liturgy) please be on time for the Liturgy of St. Basil the Great Holy Saturday Evening /Canon of the Resurrection at 11:15 p.m., simultaneously in church and Great Hall; Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos will be with us for the Glorious Resurrection Paschal Liturgy in Church at 12:15 a.m.; April 27 Pascha Easter Sunday/Agape at 11:30 a.m., Easter Egg Hunt to follow; April 28 Feast of St. George at 9 a.m., Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m.; May 2 Zodochos Peghe Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m.; May 4 Sunday of St. Thomas Orthros at 8:30 a.m., Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m. (847) 358-5170.

Performances

The Classic Arts Trio will perform a benefit concert at 7:30 p.m. May 9 at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (corner of Route 59). Classic Arts Trio consists of Lyric Opera cellist Walter Preucil, his wife, accomplished violinist Stephanie Preucil, and noted pianist William Koehler. Their special guest this year will be Sally Chishom from the Pro Arte Quartet. For tickets, at $25 for adults, $6 for children, or a freewill offering, call (847) 382-9530.

Seniors

Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road, Bartlett, will offer the following events. They are free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. For information, contact (630) 213-0100.

May 1 at 10:30 a.m.: In honor of Supportive Living Week, Older Americans Month, and National Meditation Month, a program will be presented by Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski on "The Seven Metal Vibration Instruments of Tibet and Nepal". Learn how these instruments are used for meditation in ancient times, by the monks of Tibet, in religious groups, and for yoga classes.

May 1 at 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy a Polish Program led by Daniela Kowalska and other members of the outreach team of St. John the Evangelist in Streamwood. Included will be Polish song, dance and worship.

May 6 at 7 p.m.: In honor of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, Madhu Mehta of Bartlett will present a program on the "History, Religion and Culture of India."

May 23 at 2 p.m.: A Quarterly Memorial Service will be held honoring all those who have passed away. Chaplain Nicole Grasse of Vitas Hospice will lead the service, and candlelighting, special music and a time for sharing memories are included. Everyone is welcome from all faiths.

May 25 at 3 p.m.: In honor of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, a program on Indian weddings and dance will be presented. Enjoy watching folk dance from Punjab, and modern Bollywood dance led by dancers Samir and Suraj Mehta of Bartlett. Madhu Mehta will demonstrate henna art. After the presentation the movie "Bride and Prejudice" will be shown.

Celebrate! Senior Ministry meets Wednesdays from 10:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine. There are many opportunities for those 50+, such as regular meeting, service projects and entertainment both at CLC and in the area. Upcoming events are:

• May 13: Lunch at the Milk Pail followed by the show "Female Stars of Broadway." Lunch is honey dijon chicken breast. Cost is $35. for lunch and show. RSVP at (847) 358-4600. Limited tickets available.

• The group will be joining St. Mark Lutheran Church for a mission trip this fall to go to Mississippi and continue to work on rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina. All ages and abilities are needed. Contact the church office at (847) 358-4600 for more details.

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village, invites all area seniors to its senior luncheons, held the third Friday of every other month at 11:30 a.m. Bring a dish to share if you like, and meet new people while you enjoy conversation and fellowship. (847) 593-8337.

Special services

Congregation Kneseth Israel holds Shabbat services at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. At 9:30 a.m. April 27, Yizkor service will be held. The service is led in prayer and study by Rabbi Kohn. Religious school for pre-kindergarten to high school. (847) 741-5656 or ckielgin.org.

Congregation Shirat Shalom offers Shabbat services every Saturday at 9:45 a.m., followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Tot Shabbat services are on the third Friday of the month. Adult education classes are on Thursdays and Saturdays. (847) 695-6246, e-mail hazzansarah@gmail.com, or visit CongregationShiratShalom.org.

Faith World Outreach Church will offer two services May 18 with worship leader and recording artist Daniel Eric Groves (www.danielericgroves.org). The events are free and child care is provided. The events will be held 10:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. respectively at Faith World Outreach Church, 1280 S. Route 59, Bartlett. (630) 830-0196.

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church in Schaumburg will continue its 50th anniversary celebration with events every month in 2008. The United Methodist Women will have a Mother-Daughter banquet on May 7, featuring brides who were married at Our Saviour's. If you are the mother of a bride, or a bride married at Our Saviour's, contact Sandy Marcks through the church office at (847) 352-8181.

A prayer service for peace in the Middle East will be held at 7:30 p.m. May 15 at Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 Main St. in Barrington. The service includes reading from the Bible, music, and prayers for peace in the Middle East. Following the service there will be a presentation "Islamic Fundamentalism: Is it Fact or Fiction?" by Dr. Khalid Sami, a Muslim and a practicing physician anesthesiologist. He is a native of India, has been in the U.S. since 1963 and now lives in Roselle. The service will continue to be held on the 15th of each month until a just and lasting peace is achieved. The prayer service is part of an ecumenical effort in the U.S. and the world to pray daily until peace comes to the region. (847) 381-0243 or www.elca.org/middleeast.

Rogation Sunday will be celebrated at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Barrington Hills April 27. This Sunday is closest to April 25 which is also the feast day of the patron saint of the church. The annual Rogation Sunday celebration goes back to the English church when local parish priests would bless the land and the animals prior to the planting of a new crop.

St. Mark's invites friends and neighbors from all surrounding communities to come to church and to bring their plants and pets; even their horses. The blessing will take place following the 8 and 10:15 a.m. services. Following the second service there will also be an ice cream social as the youth of the church will raise money for outdoor recreational equipment.

Those bringing pets to St. Mark's on April 27 may leave them in the care of the youth of the church who are happy to do pet-sitting while worship takes place.

St. Mark's Church is located at 337 Ridge Road. (847) 381-0596.

St. Thomas of Villanova will offer the Living Rosary at 7:30 p.m. May 15 in the church. Participants will gather in semi-darkness to recite the Luminious Mysteries. As each bead is recited, a candle will be lit until the formation of the rosary is illuminated, surrounding the congregation. Members of St. Thomas will lead each bead. Other languages besides English will be represented. Worship aids, and "How To Pray the Rosary" pamphlets will be handed out. Mission rosaries, blessed with holy water from Lourdes will be available to all. We will close with May Crowning. St. Thomas is at 1201 E. Anderson Drive in Palatine. For further information, call Elayne Maruska at (847) 358-0089, or e-mail bemaruska@EarthLink.net or Marilyn Korney at St. Thomas, Mkorney@stov.org.

Shabbat worship services are offered at 7:30 p.m. Fridays (Kabbalat Shabbat) and at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Birthdays and anniversaries will be recognized at the first Friday night service of the month. Daily minyan services are: Mondays at 6:15 a.m.; Monday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 9 a.m.

Tot Shabbat services are held in the main sanctuary of the synagogue at 6:30 p.m. on the second Friday of every month. Gan Shabbat services are held every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Beit HaMidrash on the Religious School level. (847) 634-0777.

Kol Chaverim, a 1-year-old post-denominational, participatory, egalitarian congregation, invites prospective members to regular Shabbat morning services and kiddush lunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Jewish Council for Youth Services Northwest, 1700 Weiland Road, Buffalo Grove. Call (847) 398-2019 by Friday. www.kolchaverim.org

A Community Yom HaShoah Service, commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Day, will be at 7 p.m. April 30 at Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Drive, Long Grove, with speaker Samuel R. Harris, president of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center and author of "Sammy: Child Survivor of the Holocaust." (847) 412-4235.

The Center for the New Humanity announces the move of its Sunday celebration services to the Spiritual Awakening Center at 1645 S. River Road, Suite #1 in Des Plaines. The service is at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (630) 532-1372 or log on to www.thenewhumanity.org.

Olive Tree Congregation and the Rock of Israel Congregation will observe erev Yom ha Shoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, at 7 p.m. April 30 by showing the film "Conspiracy." The documentary-style film depicts an actual meeting at which high level officials of the German government during the Nazi regime were made aware of plans for the "final solution." Due to the theme and language, the movie is not appropriate for children. The film will be followed by a discussion, and will be shown at the Rock of Israel, 1598 N Arlington Heights Road in Long Grove. For information, visit www.olive-tree.org or call (847) 222-1230.

A candle-lighting Silent Unity Prayer and Healing Service will be offered at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, at 7 p.m. May 14. Enjoy an evening of prayer, meditation, silence, music, singing, inner reflection, and of inner devotion to the Spirit of God within. Freewill offering. (847) 297-0997.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will host the first Blessing of the Hands service at 2 p.m. May 4. This service is set to coincide with the celebration of Nurses' Week and is designed to provide a time for nurses and all health care professionals, to focus on the ministry they provide on a daily basis. Everyone involved in the health care profession, as well as the public is invited to attend this special service.

Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 W. Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, holds identical worship services at 9 and 10:30 a.m. On April 27, Andrew Bee will speak on the topic "Reflections On Transition" at both of the services. One adult class, the Student Ministries class (grades 7 through 12) and Children's Church meet at 9 a.m. A second adult class and the Adventure Club (4 years old through 6th grade) meet at 10:30 a.m. The Meadows AWANA club meets at 7:30 p.m., Thursday. (847) 255-8764.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St.,, Arlington Heights, will offer Monday night contemporary services at 7 p.m. Vacation time is starting and Monday night service meets the needs of those away on the weekends. (847) 259-4114

Vacation Bible school

Register children entering kindergarten-fifth grade now for vacation Bible school at Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett. "God's Big Backyard" will run from 9 a.m.-noon June 16-20. Kids will learn all about serving others through engaging Bible stories, fun crafts, exciting games, and music with praise band Captive Free. The fee is $25 and includes snacks and crafts. Free T-shirt if registered by May 31. For more information and registration, visit www.livinglordlutheran.org or call (630) 830-3630. Living Lord Church is located at 1044 Congress Drive, on Route 59 just south of Stearns Road.

Applications are available for "A Veggie Tales Vacation Bible Camp" to be held June 23-27 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Preschool age 4 through children in fifth grade are invited to attend. Deadline to register is May 23. For information check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650.

Women's programs

May Friendship Day will be celebrated by Church Women United in Northwest Cook County at 12:30 p.m. May 2 at First United Methodist Church, 123 N. Plum Grove Road in Palatine. The program "God's Wisdom Inspires Hospitality", focuses on Matthew 25:35 - "I was a stranger and you welcomed me." It will begin with a potluck salad luncheon, so bring a favorite salad to share. No reservations are necessary unless childcare, provided without charge, is needed. Contact Nancy Duel, (847) 259-3793. The church is handicapped accessible.

The Church Women United of the Barrington Area celebration of May Friendship Day will be at 11 a.m. May 2 at the Presbyterian Church of Barrington, 6 Brinker Road, Barrington Hills. The 2008 theme is "God's Wisdom Inspires Hospitality." Readings, music, group participation and devotional presentations will emphasize making new friends by reaching out to others.

Young women named by various churches in Barrington, Cary, Fox River Grove, Island Lake, Prairie Grove, Lake Zurich and Wauconda who live up to the motto of "Agreed to differ, resolved to love, united to serve," will be honored.

A collection of the Fellowship of the Least Coin will be a part of the celebration. The many coins collected in countries around the globe benefit projects for women and children around the world. For its prison ministry, attendees are invited to bring a gift/donation of regular size toiletries (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, lotion) and jumbo sized "baggies."

There will also be a salad potluck luncheon after the service; attendees are asked to bring a salad to share. (847) 540-5634.

The Sisterhood of Temple Chai of Long Grove will sponsor its seventh annual Mah Jongg Tournament from noon to 4:30 p.m. June 1. The day begins with a lunch at Temple Chai followed by an afternoon full of mah jongg, raffles, prizes and more. Participants can bring a group of four or the committee will help create a group for you. Each foursome must provide their own mah jongg set and two snack tables.

Early bird registration is $36 per person by May 4. After May 4, registration is $40 per person. Temple Chai is located at 1670 Checker Road, one-half block west of Arlington Heights Road, in Long Grove. For more information, e-mail sisterhood@templechai.org, attention Edie or Meryl or call (847) 537-1771.

The Women's Circle at Park Ridge Community Church will present a Spring Tea from 1-3 p.m. April 26 at Park Ridge Community Church, 100 S. Courtland Ave. There is a suggested donation of $12 per person for tea, sweets, and fun. Enjoy an entertaining afternoon, including guest speaker Marie Clapper who will present "No Country for Old Hens." Call (847) 823-3164 for ticket reservations and further information. www.parkridgecommunitychurch.org.

The Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America will hold the annual spring luncheon at 11:30 a.m. April 26 in Fellowship Hall at Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines. A musical program featuring Broadway favorites, as well as musical comedy numbers will be presented by Joyce Vondrak, accompanied by Don Mead. Cost is $10. For reservations or information, call Beverly Johnson (847) 296-5315 or the church office (847) 827-6656.

St. Thomas Becket Ladies Sr. Bowling League will hold its season-end banquet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 28 at the Astoria Banquet Hall, 1375 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. Prizes and awards will be given out after the luncheon. Fall openings for the league are available. For information, contact Brunswick Zone Bowling Alley, 824 E. Rand Road, Mount Prospect, (847) 392-0550.

May Friendship Day will take place from 9:30-11 a.m. May 2 at St. Martins Episcopal Church, 1095 Thacker, in Des Plaines.

May Friendship Day is an annual event, sponsored by Church Woman United, which unites Protestant, Roman Catholic, Orthodox and other Christian women in a common worship experience. This year's event will focus on the theme "God's Wisdom Inspires Hospitality."

Also a part of the service will be the annual dedication of offerings to the Fellowship of the Least Coin. This dedication provides an opportunity for a represented Unit to honor a certain woman with a Valiant Woman pin and certificate, and also to honor promising young church women. For more information, call (847) 824-2043.

Women's Bible Study, led by laypersons, is held every Wednesday morning, 9:30-11 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The group is starting a new series of study, reading "Wide Open Spaces of God" by Beth Booram. Newcomers are welcome. Check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for information.