Northwest suburban religion notes

Adult education

The Ministry of New Beginnings, a Catholic-oriented, nondenominational, social support organization for separated, divorced, widowed and single persons, meets at 7:30 p.m. Mondays in the Hughes Center in front of St. Matthew's Church, 1001 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. The cost is $3 per meeting, with first visit free. (847) 891-1220.

St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, 729 Grand Canyon Blvd., Hoffman Estates, is nondenominational, free and open to all occupations. For details, call Bob Podgorski at (847) 925-6005. Surviving Life's Transitions is the subject of the next meeting from 7 to 9:15 p.m. Sept. 8.

A Marriage Encounter Retreat Weekend will be Sept. 27-28 at Holy Family Parish, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. The schedule is 7:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday and 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, includes Mass. www.holyfamilyparish.org. For details or to register, call (847) 359-0042 or (847) 907-3441.

The Rev. William Meninger is coming from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 27 to Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, to present a day of enrichment. He will speak about Varieties of Prayer. Meninger is a Trappist monk of St. Benedict's Monastery in Snowmass, Colo. The fee is $12. To register, call (847) 359-0042.

Precepts Bible Study begins at 7:15 p.m. Sept. 9 and 9:15 a.m. Sept. 10 to study the book of James. Contact Immanuel Lutheran Church, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine. (847) 359-1549.

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine will host a book review and discussion at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 28 at the church, 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine. The book to be discussed is "The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World" by Eric Weiner. ccuu@ccuu.org.

An in-depth Bible study on "James - The Tests of a True Religion" will begin Sept. 8. This five-week class will be at 6 a.m. at Harris Bank in Palatine, and 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. at St Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods. Instructor will be Tim Hetzner, president of Lutheran Church Charities and founder and author of Word Among Us Bible Studies. To enroll, call (866) 455-6466 or visit www.LutheranChurchCharities.org.

A study of the biblical texts of Brahms' German Requiem will be from 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 17. and will continue on the next seven consecutive Wednesdays through October at the Community Church of Barrington, 301 E. Lincoln, Barrington. Bring a brown bag dinner; drinks will be provided. The study will lead up to a performance of Brahms: Requiem by The Chicago Master Singers with the Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Divine World Chapel in Techny, Ill. (847) 381-1294.

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church will host weekly, moderated current events discussions from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Sundays in Room 9 of the church, 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine.

The schedule of topics is "Water and Rights" Sept. 6; "Justice, Mercy, Retribution and Restoration: What Does Each of Us Want, By What Means, and Why?" Sept. 21; and "Hunger, Politics, Economics and Culture" Sept. 28.

For details, visit ccuu.org or call (847) 359-8440.

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, the process through which people join the Roman Catholic church, is forming now at St. Theresa in Palatine to start at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 29. For details about this program, call (847) 358-7760 and leave your name and number for Deacon Lou Riccio. St. Theresa is at 467 N. Benton St. in Palatine.

A small group meets to write their life stories from 2-3:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. To register, call (847) 439-0668 or e-mail princepeaceumc@sbcglobal.net.

St. Stephen Protomartyr Catholic Parish, 1280 Prospect Ave., Des Plaines, will host the 24-week Great Adventure Bible Timeline Story developed by Jeff Cavins. The program will be covered in three, seven- to eight-session "semesters" from mid-September through mid-May. Sessions will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays led by Deacon Tony Towey. The same program will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. The two-hour sessions will begin Sept. 16 and 17. Total cost of materials for the three semesters is $40. A 30-minute preview of this program will be at 4 p.m. Sept. 6 and 9 a.m. Sept. 7 in the school library. Call Deacon Tony at (847) 699-8268 or ajtowey@juno.com.

The coed evening group of Community Bible Study, which meets in Mount Prospect, has opened its registration for the 2008-09 study year. Fee is $25. Bob Kriskovich, a trained layman, will lead "The Divided Kingdom," covering the Old Testament books of I and II Kings and the minor prophets. The course will begin from 7:30-9 p.m. Sept. 9. For details or to register for the course, call Pam Reed at (847) 373-7375.

Is this all there is to life? The Alpha course discusses the meaning of life. The next course starts Oct. 5, with brunch. Call Northwest Covenant Church, Mount Prospect, (847) 255-4671.

A five-session study, "Momentum for Life," will begin from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village. This course provides leadership tools that will inspire and show how to sustain personal health, integrity, and strategic focus as a leader. (847) 439-0668.

An instructional program for adults will be offered by St. Mary and St. Stephen Protomartyr Catholic parishes from 10:30 a.m. to noon Sundays beginning Sept. 7 at St. Mary, 795 Center St., Des Plaines. Program is open to adults who are considering becoming a Catholic, have been baptized and wish to receive sacraments or wish to enhance their understanding of the Catholic faith. Registration is required. (847) 824-8144.

Cathy Anderson will lead a discussion of the book "Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years" by Sarah L. Delany as part of Prince of Peace's Adult Education at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 24 at Prince of Peace UMC, Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668 or princeofpeaceumc.org.

St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will offer "The Great Adventure: A Journey Through the Bible," a 24-session Catholic study program of 73 books of the Bible, at 7 p.m. Mondays or 9 a.m. Wednesdays. Fee is $40, and the classes begin Sept. 15 or 17. "Matthew: The King and His Kingdom" is recommended for those who already have an overall knowledge of the Bible. It will be offered Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings, beginning Sept. 16 or 17. Participants' workbook costs $30. Both classes will be at St. Alphonsus Liguori Parish, 411 N. Wheeling Road in Prospect Heights. Participants may attend a preview and registration program at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 6 or 9:30 a.m. Sept. 7. (847) 255-7452 or saintalphonsus.com.

A Precepts Bible Class begins a 16-week study of Philippians at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 11 in the Board Room at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights. (847) 259-4114 or www.stpeter-ah.org.

The Alpha course will meet at 511 W. Rand Road in Arlington Heights, a campus of Northwest Covenant Church. (847) 255-4671. Alpha will meet Sundays starting with brunch at 10:30 a.m. The first meeting is Oct. 5. The course and the weekly brunches are free and no commitments are required. Each session ends promptly at 1 p.m. RSVP by calling Northwest Covenant Church at (847) 255-4671 or visiting www.northwestcoveant.com.

Children, teens

Resurrection Catholic Preschool, 30W350 Army Trail Road, Wayne, offers half-day sessions for 3- and 4-year-olds. For details or to enroll for the 2008-09 school year, call Mary Jean Bankmann at (630) 289-5400, ext. 209.

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.

Parents of infants are invited to learn the techniques of infant massage and its benefits from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursdays, Sept. 11 to Oct. 2, at Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Fee is $75 per couple, with financial adjustments available. For details or to register, call (224) 625-2819 or visit www.beth-tikvah.org.

Trinity Lutheran Church in Roselle welcomes the Pioneer Club for youth ages 5-12. This new program is offered to public school children as a way to expand their learning and faith connections.

Pioneer Club meets from 5:45 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays in Trinity's Family Life Center, September through February. Activities includes gym time, crafts, class time, music and an optional dinner. Once a month there is a family night.

Registration for this program is Sept. 10. For details, contact Gail Kabacinski at (630) 894-3263, ext. 223, or e-mail gail.kabacinski@trinityroselle.com.

The Preschool at Prince of Peace, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, offers several options for children ages 3-5 and an extended day for children in the Parents' Day Out Program. (847) 885-7036.

The Big Barn Preschool, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, has openings for the fall school year. The preschool accepts both part-time and full-time day enrollees ages 3 to 6. There are openings for a limited number of Action For Children subsidized families. For details, call Mary Fisher at (847) 895-3257.

New Hope Christian Academy is now accepting registration for the fall 3- and 4-year-old preschool and full-day program. Call (847) 359-5482. New Hope Christian Academy is a part of New Hope Community Church, 1023 E. Palatine Road, Palatine.

Little Saints Christian Preschool, 630 S. Quentin Road, Palatine, has openings for the 2008-09 school year. Classes are for children who will be 2 to 4 years old by Sept. 1. Class times are from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (847) 991-2334.

Immanuel Lutheran School, 200 N. Plum Grove Road, Palatine, has openings in its all-day and afternoon half-day kindergarten classes for the 2008-09 school year. After-school care is available until 6 p.m. Call the school office at (847) 359-1936.

Christ the King Lutheran Preschool, 100 W Michigan Ave., Palatine, is accepting registrations for the 2008-09 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. Call Valerie Schultz at (847) 358-0230; e-mail to preschool@ByFaithAlone.org; or visit ByFaithAlone.org.

St. Thomas of Villanova School in Palatine is accepting enrollment for the 2008-09 school year for preschool through eighth grade. (847) 358-2110 or stvschool.org.

Registration for Spirit Play, a progressive, Montessori-inspired approach to religious education, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine will meet between 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. Sept. 14. Classes are from 10:30 -11:30 a.m. Sundays throughout the school year. For details, call Colleen Vahey at (847) 359-8440, ext. 4. Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine.

Beginning Sept. 14, Sunday school begins at 9:05 a.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Barrington Hills. Following classroom time, all children join their parents for the 10:15 a.m. service so families can take Communion and worship together. For children ages 3 through second grade, St. Mark's uses the Godly Play curriculum. Children in third through sixth grades enjoy a rotation program. Children ages 11 to 16 participate in the "Journey to Adulthood." Church services are at 8 and 10:15 a.m.

Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook presents "The Shofar Factory," a hands-on preholiday experience for the entire family, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at 755 Huehl Road (corner Dundee Road). Craft a genuine shofar from a raw horn as you learn the entire process, from the cleaning to the final polishing and blowing. This event is for children ages 5-12. Cost is $8 per child. (847) 564-8770 or ChabadNorthbrook.com

A new Sunday school program at Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, will kick off on Rally Day Sept. 7. "Seasons of the Spirit" integrates worship, learning and service following the seasons of the church so adult worship time connects to the lessons learned in Sunday school. Sunday school begins at 9:30 a.m., immediately following the children's sermon at the 9:15 a.m. contemporary service. Children are released at 10:15 a.m. Services are at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 9:15 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday. (847) 437-2666.

In addition, Christus Victor will celebrate Rally Day with a classic and custom car, motorcycle and bicycle show from noon- 3 p.m. Sept. 7.

Children of the Shepherd Preschool, a nondenominational preschool, is registering children for fall 2008 classes. Classes are offered 9 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Tuition for two days/week is $94 per month; three days/week is $141; four days/week is $188; and five days/week is $235 per month. A $50 nonrefundable registration fee is due at enrollment. The preschool is at 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights. (847) 459-7992.

Mother's Day Out Preschool at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 S. Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village, has expanded to three days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays). Programs are offered for children ages 2 to 5. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Call Lynn Cooper at (847) 439-0668.

Sunshine Preschool of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church located at 304 W. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights, is hosting a "You and Me" program for parents and children age 18 months to 3 years. Class meets from 9:15-10:15 a.m. Mondays, Sept. 29 to Nov. 10. Cost is $40. Call Barb Orze at (847) 520-1116.

Lutheran Church of the Cross is opening a new before- and after-school care program for children ages 5 to 12.

Hours are 6 to 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 to 6 p.m. weekdays, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. nonschool days (except major holidays). Early dismissals and half days are in accordance with school district schedule,

A breakfast food will be given for a morning snack and a snack is provided in the afternoon. Lunches are provided through a catering service. Meal prayers and some Bible stories are included. Time is scheduled for homework, arts and crafts, games, outings and more.

For details or to register, contact Sharon Stephan at (847) 437-5176 during daytime hours or at home from 7 to 9 p.m. at (224) 678-9062. Lutheran Church of the Cross is at 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights.

Meadows Baptist Church Awana Club will restart the season at 7 p.m. Sept. 11. Children ages 3 to sixth grade are invited to attend. The theme fwill be Crazy Olympic Games. The church is at 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Call (847) 255-8764.

Sonshine Tuesday School at Cardinal Drive Church of Christ, 2300 Cardinal Drive in Rolling Meadows, is now taking registration for the fall. The program meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 9 through May, and is free for all children between the ages of 3 and 5. All parents are welcome to participate in the Adult Tuesday morning Bible and Activity Class. For details or to register, call (847) 259-2995.

St. Colette's Religious Education is accepting registration for grades 1-8. Classes for grades 1-6 are open Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday classes run from 5 to 6:30 p.m., while Thursday classes are 6 to 7:30 p.m. Grades 7 and 8 meet Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. For details, call (847) 394-0274. Classes begin Sept. 7. St. Colette is at 3900 Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows.

Family

Community Church of Barrington will host its second annual fall festival Sept. 28 at 301 E. Lincoln in Barrington. Morning worship will be at 10:30 a.m., festival starts immediately afterward. There will be hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, and games for all. (847) 381-1294.

Christ Lutheran Church will host its fourth annual Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 6 on the church lawn, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine. There will be live music, carnival games, crafts, raffles, a Baggo tournament and refreshments. There will also be crafts for sale. For details, call (847) 358-4600.

Congregation Beth Judea invites the community to welcome Shabbat with other families who have young children at the synagogue, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. The Families with Young Children Committee will hold its regular services at 6:30 p.m. the second Friday of the month for a 30-minute Tot Shabbat session. Call (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Debbie Frager.

The congregants of Congregation Beth Judea will go at 2 p.m. Sept. 21 to pick apples for Rosh Hashana, which begins Sept. 29. The apple picking will take place at All Seasons Farm, 14510 Route 176 in Woodstock. Cost: $30 for a 1/2 bushel of apples. RSVP to the synagogue by Sept. 14 by calling the office at (847) 634-077 or e-mailing LNeiman@bethjudea.org. Congregation Beth Judea (Conservative) is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove.

Trinity Lutheran Church will hold its annual Septemberfest from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 7 at 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines. The community is invited to this free fest, which includes food, bingo, inflatable games and a petting zoo. A bake sale will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (847) 827-6656.

Park Ridge Community Church welcomes all families to join in Rally Weekend activities Sept. 6-7. Sept. 7 is Rally Sunday, where families may tour Sunday school classrooms, meet the teachers and register for Sunday school classes between 9 and 10 a.m. Everyone is invited to a 10 a.m. worship service, followed by a church picnic at 11 a.m. featuring lawn games, a moonwalk, hot dogs, ice cream and refreshments.

Sunday school classes will begin Sept. 14. Classes for adults, youth and children are offered during the 9 a.m. worship service each Sunday. An additional worship service is offered at 10:30 a.m. (847) 823-3164 or www.parkridgecommunitychurch.org.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 3201 Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows, will have a Neighborhood Picnic Sept. 14, following the 10 a.m. contemporary service. All are welcome at this free event, which will feature food, the band One Track Mind, games and prizes.

The fall program at St. John United Church of Christ, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights, begins on Rally Day, Sept. 7. Worship is at 9:30 a.m. in North School Park (across the street from the church), followed by lunch and games for all ages from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (847) 255-6687 or www.churchonthe park.com.

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, will kick off the fall season from noon to 3 p.m. Sept. 7 with a picnic at Greens Park (across the street from the church, east of Olive-Mary Stitt School). OSLC will have food provided by Dave's Specialty Foods, live music, family games and opportunities to learn about church ministries. Tickets are $6 for teens and adults and $3 for children ages 3-12. There will also be a raffle and prizes. (847) 255-8700 or www.oursaviours.org.

Fundraisers

Immanuel United Church of Christ is having a rummag from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 19 and 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 in Volkening Hall, 1500 Old Church Road Streamwood. (630) 837-0190 or www.streamwoodiucc.org

Immanuel United Church of Christ is having an Old Church Craft and Holiday Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18. Admission is free. There will be crafts, refreshments and raffles. To be a crafter, call (630) 837-0190 for an application. The cost is $40 per booth. The church is at 1500 Old Church Road, Streamwood.

The Harding-Estell Women's Missionary Society of Living Faith Church will host a Fall Fashion Show fundraiser for children's ministry from 2-4 p.m. Sept. 13 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. (847) 382-1830 or www.livingfaithcwc.com. Living Faith Cathedral Worship Center Church is at 1250 S. Grove Ave, Suite 200, Barrington. Sponsors include the Living Faith Harding-Estell Women's Missionary Society, TJ Maxx of Skokie, and Sam's Club of Streamwood. Participants include the Living Faith Garden For His Glory Children's Ministry and children from the surrounding communities.

St. John United Church of Christ, 1475 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, is seeking exhibitors for its 34th Annual Craft Fair and Flea Market, which will be Sept. 20 on the church grounds, Algonquin and Roselle roads. For reservation forms, call (847) 255-2848.

Congregation Beth Judea will hold a Shop & Share Days fundraising drive at all Jewel-Osco stores Sept. 22-24. Slips are available at the synagogue, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. Call Sylvia Shore at (847) 634-0777.

The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea is now selling the 2009 Edition Entertainment Coupon Book. The cost for the Chicago North/Northwest Book is $20. The Entertainment Books are available for purchase at the synagogue office, the Sisterhood Gift shop at the synagogue Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. or online at www.entertainment.com/email (Account #10520). Beth Judea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.

Queen of the Rosary's USS QR dinner cruise will be Sept. 13 and features dinner from the Mediterranean in a cruise theme setting, music, dancing, games, gambling and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $60. Purchase tickets at Queen of the Rosary Parish, 680 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village. Open to ages 21 and older. (847) 437-0403.

Our Lady of Ransom Parish in Niles is selling the Entertainment 2009 books for $20. Sales benefit the parish. (847) 823-2550.

Members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Plaines are selling Entertainment 2009 books for $20 to support the worship and music programs at the church. The books can be purchased from choir members after the 5:30 p.m. service Saturdays, after the 8 and 10:30 a.m. services Sundays or in the church office during the week. (847) 827-6656.

Crafters are wanted for PumpkinFest 2008 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church, 1400 Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-0668 or dsimek-RN@comcast.net.

Crafters are wanted for the Fall Fest and Craft fair, which will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 4 at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic School, 411 N. Wheeling Road, Prospect Heights. The fee is $35 for an 8-by-8-foot space and includes one table and chair, or $60 for two spaces with two tables and two chairs. (847) 828-2111.

Sunshine Preschool of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church is looking for crafters for its upcoming Craft/Vendor Fair Nov. 1. (847) 520-1116.

Local residents are invited to sign up for a sales spot at a Community Garage Sale, which will be Sept. 20 at Congregational UCC, 1001 Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. No fee to participate; sellers keep all proceeds from their sales booth. (847) 392-6650.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights, is selling Entertainment Books for $20. Available in the church office during the week. Contact Shannon Fischer at (847) 259-4114, ext. 128.

Lectures, seminars

Beth Tikvah Congregation hosts a public forum at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 19 to address what's at stake for the United States and American Jews as America gets set to vote in the upcoming presidential election. The forum will be led by Jay Tcath, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council in Chicago. RSVP to Beth Tikvah by e-mailing office@Beth-Tikvah.org; calling (847) 885-4545; or visiting www.beth-tikvah.org.

Christ Community Mennonite Church is celebrating the International Day of Peace with other organizations and faith-based groups around the world from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 20 and 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 21 at the church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. For details or to register, visit www.christcommunitymennonite.org or call (847) 895-3654.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host an evening Scripture Study at 7 p.m. Sept. 15, 22 and 29. Pauline A. Viviano, Ph.D., will present "Catholics Confront Creation - The Bible and Creation, Science and Creation, The Church and Creation." For details or to register, call (847) 907-3441. Fee: $30.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois welcomes Stephen Morse, Ph.D., to discuss how to use his "One-Step Web pages: A Potpourri of Genealogical Search Tools" and "One-Step Web pages: A Hodgepodge of Lesser Known Gems" at 1 p.m. Sept. 21 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. This program is free to members of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois. There will be a $10 charge to nonmembers (which will apply to JGSI membership when you join by Oct. 31). To reserve your place, e-mail rsvp@jgsi.org. For details about JGSI programs, visit www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or call (312) 666-0100.

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host "Hidden Treasures in the JGSI Library and Highlights from the IAJGS Conference" at 2 p.m. Sept. 21 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. Facilities open at 12:30 p.m. Visit jewishgen.org/jgsi or call (312) 666-0100.

"Deepening Our Faith" series is offered by Theology of Park Ridge, from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 10 and 24; Oct. 8 and 22 and Nov. 12 at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 205 N. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge. Cost for all sessions is $30; $8 per single session. Call (773) 774-4421.

Basic Buddhism classes continue at Rissho Kosei Kai Buddhist Church on the first Sunday of the month at the church, 1 W. Euclid Ave., Mount Prospect (corner of Route 83 and Euclid). The next class will be at 10:45 a.m. Sept. 7. (847) 259-3018.

A Reiki I class will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 6 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Reiki Master Katherine Anderson will teach hand positions, meditation and an introduction to the chakra system and Universal Laws. Cost is $125. Call (630) 289-9258 to register.

Master Your Energy, Change the World: The Principles of Energy Leadership will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sept. 21 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Suggested offering is $35. (847) 297-0997.

The Conscious Classroom will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 27 at Unity Northwest Church 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Registration & Networking at 8:30 a.m., workshop begins at 9 a.m. This training is for members of youth ministry teams and will explore how to create an environment where children and teens feel safe and nurtured. Call (708) 785-7566 or e-mail glrkids@comcast.net. $40 workshop fee and lunch offered on a freewill offering basis.

Unity Northwest Church will offer a presentation and workshop on "The Work of Byron Katie: Four Questions that Can Change Your Life!" from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 30 to Oct. 14, at the church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Freewill offering. Call (847) 297-0997 to register.

The Rev. John Kieschnick will lead a special workshop on "Giving According to God's Plan" Sept. 20 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights. His Bible study will focus on the power of God's grace. Kieschnick will also be participating in worship services Sept. 20 and 21. (847) 259-4114 or www.stpeter-ah.org.

Do you want to feel closer to God? First Church of Christ, Scientist, Arlington Heights, invites everyone to view an Internet lecture at your convenience in your own home. The lecture, "The Certainty of God's Spiritual Healing," is presented by Bosede Bakarey, C.S.B. of Nigeria. The lecture may be viewed through Sept. 15 at www.chicagospirituality.com or www.CSDirectory.com. Join in for Sunday services and Sunday school at 10 a.m. or Wednesday testimony meetings at 8 p.m. at 401 S. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights.

Dr. Paul L. Maier will present "Martin Luther and the Reformation" Oct. 4 in the Martin Activity Center at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights. Maier is professor of ancient history at Western Michigan University. Doors will open at 9 a.m. for registration and coffee. Early registration is $15/person (prior to Sept. 21) and $20/person after. Registration fee includes lunch and breaks. To register, call (847) 259-4114.

A prophecy seminar "The Time of the End and the Opening of the Book of Daniel" will be presented from 1:30-4 p.m. Sept. 27 in the Hendrickson Room at the Arlington Heights library, 500 N. Dunton Ave. For details, call Dave at (847) 253-0538.

Men's fellowship

The Archdiocese of Chicago's Office for Evangelization is sponsoring the inaugural Chicago Catholic Men's Conference 2008 Sept. 6 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. The conference will consist of presentations and breakout sessions by renowned Catholic speakers, Mass and an end-of-day tailgate dinner and social. Registration can be made online at www.itsaguythingonline.org, or by calling (312) 751-5288. The attendance fee of $85 includes dinner. Walk-up registrations will be taken the day of the conference beginning at 6:30 a.m.

Rinkey Dinks Christian Men will meet at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 9 at the Palm Court Restaurant, 1912 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, for lunch. The September speaker will be Jim Modi talking about United States and Middle East policies.

Miscellaneous

The Archdiocese of Chicago and the Office of Assistance Ministry will sponsor a new program for family members of those who have been sexually abused as children by priests or deacons of the Catholic Church. The four-session program, which begins the first week in September, will be conducted by a licensed clinical social worker at no cost to the participants. For details, contact Kathleen Leggdas at (312) 751-5268; kleggdas@archchicago.org or www.archchicago.org.

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 angelfoodministries.com.

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 119 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg, will have its Rally Day Sept. 7. Lord of Life will have a church picnic with church services in the outdoors. All are welcome to attend. (847) 895-8877 or www.lord-of-life.org

Hope Community Church has been ministering in the Hoffman/Schaumburg area for the last 10 years. Currently, the church meets at 10 a.m. Sundays at Eisenhower Junior High, Jones and Hassell roads in Hoffman. To celebrate 10 years, Hope is sponsoring a "No Sale" garage sale. Items have been donated for the event and will be given away to anyone in the community who wishes to attend the event, which will take place at Eisenhower from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sept. 14.

After serving more than 12 years as minister of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Schaumburg, the Rev. Donald Myrom is preparing to retire. Myrom's first day leading the church was Feb. 14, 1996. His last day will be Sept. 14, 2008, and he will be preaching at all services that weekend.

During his time at Prince of Peace, Myrom has been active in the broader community. He served for nine years on the board of Schaumburg's Friendship Village and for five years on the board of Lutheran Social Services of Illinois. He was also was a member of the board of trustees at the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, and was active in the Schaumburg/Hoffman Estates Clergy Association.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is at 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. Traditional services are at 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. Sundays. A contemporary service is at 11 a.m. Sundays. www.princeofpeace.net or (847) 885-7010.

Join Bill Kramer of St. Marcelline Parish in Schaumburg and other volunteers from the Northwest suburbs as they travel to New Orleans in October to aid Catholic Charities of New Orleans in its efforts to rebuild New Orleans.

Kramer is seeking eight to 25 adult volunteers (ages 21 and older) from any faith, to work with him and Catholic Charities of New Orleans Oct. 13-17. He is especially in need of a few volunteers with construction experience.

For details or to volunteer, call Kramer at (847) 352-0092 or (773) 278-2000, ext. 4635, or e-mail wmfkramer@comcast.net.

For the third year, St. John UCC is offering a labyrinth. The labyrinth, mowed into the church's lawn at 1475 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, is a seven-circuit adaptation of the 11-circuit labyrinth found in Chartres Cathedral in France. There is a single path going into and out the center. .

Holy Family Catholic Community will dedicate the new Brennan Center for Children, Youth and Families following the 4:30 p.m. Mass Sept. 6. The facility is named in honor of the Rev. Patrick Brennan, pastor for the last 13 years. The $6.7 million addition to the parish will provide an additional 38,400 square feet of adaptive multipurpose space for parish ministries, youth groups and other activities serving the needs of the Holy Family community. There will be tours of the facility and refreshments Saturday and following all Masses Sunday.

The event marks the opening of the first floor of the two-story addition. The space includes a 6,300-square-foot multitorium and eight multipurpose rooms. Holy Family is at 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness.

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church has welcomed the Rev. Hilary Landau Krivchenia.

Married, with a daughter, 14, and two stepchildren in college, she was, for eight years, the minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Lafayette, Ind., after having received her Master's of Divinity at Meadville/Lombard Theological School in Chicago.

Her first official sermon will be at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 6. Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. (847) 359-8440 or www.ccuu.org.

St. Paul United Church of Christ, Barrington, will hold its Rally Day Celebration Sept. 7. Starting at the 9:30 a.m. service, with a message from the Rev. Jeanne Hanson. The celebration continues after the service with a Ministry Fair in Fellowship Hall. There also will be a potluck chicken dinner. The church is at 401 E. Main St. in Barrington. (847) 381-0460 or stpauluccbarrington.org

Congregation Beth Judea (Conservative), Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, is now accepting 2008-09 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 details, call Executive Director Lisa Neiman, Education Director Anna Besser or Youth Director Aaron Polansky at (847) 634-0777 or visit bethjudea.org.

The Christian education program of North Northfield United Methodist Church, Sanders and Dundee, Northbrook, starts its fall season Sept. 7. Adult education is held Sunday mornings starting at 8:45 a.m. with a discussion of the book "What do our neighbors believe?" by Howard Greenstein, Kendra Hotz and John Kaltner. The book examines the similarities and differences of beliefs and faith traditions within Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The children's program begins with a new curriculum, "Sharing God's Love." Children's education starts at 10:10 a.m. Sundays, while the youth group meets after the morning church service at 11 a.m. Church services start at 10 a.m. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.

Prince of Peace United Methodist Church will be presenting a special Rally Day Celebration Sept. 7 with the Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, a program that describes what wildlife rehabilitation is all about and gives you a glimpse into the types of patients they treat. The program will be presented between the 9 and 10:30 a.m. worship services at 1400 Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village. Refreshments will be served at 9:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

"The Last Lecture" will be the subject of discussion of the Book Group at 10 a.m. Sept. 6 at North Northfield United Methodist Church, Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. (847) 272-2250 or www.northnorthfield.org.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will start the program year Sept. 7 with a "Welcome Home" theme. Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. worship service at 10 a.m. and an ice cream social at 11 a.m., including a Northbrook fire truck, bocce ball, Baggo, a bouncing house and barbershop music. Call the Rev. Jan Smith at (847) 272-2246.

The Blessing of the Animals will be held at St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, at 10 a.m. Sept. 13. Bring pets to be blessed by the Rev. Jan Smith. (847) 272-2246.

A free beginning yoga class will be offered 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.

St. Alphonsus Liguori will host its third annual Oktoberfest at 7 p.m. Sept. 26. The evening, open to adults 21 and older, will feature traditional Oktoberfest music by the Johnny Wagner Band. Other performances include yodeling, the Alphorn and cowbells. Tickets are $20 before Sept. 15 ($25 after Sept. 15 or at the door, space permitting) and include a dinner of grilled bratwurst, potato salad, sauerkraut and desserts. The Beer Tent will offer imported German beer, domestic beer, wine, Jägermeister and soft drinks.

Tickets are now available, either in the church lobby following Sunday Masses or by mail. Tables of 10 can be reserved in advance with full payment only. Make checks payable to Saint Alphonsus Church and mail to: St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest 411 N. Wheeling Road, Prospect Heights, IL 60070. All mail order tickets will be available at will-call. For details, call (847) 255-7452.

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 onebreadonebody.org.

Cornerstone Bible Church, 400 N. Elmhurst Road in Prospect Heights, invites both children and adults with a love of music to participate in their programs. Participation in Cornerstone's Children's Christmas Musical is open to all children in the community, grades K-8. Rehearsals are from 4-5 p.m. Sundays beginning Sept. 7. For details, call Lindsey Foote at (847) 754-1303.

Cornerstone Singers and Cornerstone Orchestra are both open by audition. They perform twice a month for church services, plus present a series of Christmas Concerts (Dec. 11-14). Rehearsals are held Wednesdays (singers) and Thursdays (orchestra), both at 7:15 p.m. For details, call Dennis Criser at (847) 305-9501.

Church Of The Incarnation is looking for singers and instrumentalists for the Chancel Choir and Incarnation Sound Praise Band. Singers from high school age through adult are welcome to join the Chancel Choir which sings for the Sunday service at 10:15 a.m. Rehearsals are 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Instrumentally, the band is looking for guitarists, drummers, and keyboardists for Sunday services at 10:15 a.m. Instrumentalists also from high school age through adult are welcome to join Incarnation Sound Praise Band. Rehearsals are at 9 a.m. Sundays. The church is at 330 W. Golf Road, Arlington Heights. Call (847) 956-1510 for details.

The Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, launches a yearlong series of programs to celebrate the church's 50th anniversary. The official launch of the church's "Back to the Future" 50th Anniversary Celebration will be during outdoor worship at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 7. The festivities Sept. 7 include a traditional family picnic after worship, followed by the dedication of a commemorative Peace Pole in the church's Memory Garden at 1 p.m.

Visitors are invited and welcome to attend the anniversary celebrations. Children will be included in the worship and dedication services.

"Back to the Future" 50th Anniversary Celebration plans include a special choir concert in November, installation of individually designed stained glass windows, and an anniversary dinner in June 2009. Check: www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for additional information.

Church school for children, youth and adult Bible study begin Sept. 14 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, in Arlington Heights. Adult study is from 9 to 10 a.m. Participants will explore the book of Matthew. Church School is at 10:30 a.m. Children will explore the stories in Genesis. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

A Columbus Day-Fatima Day Celebration will be held Oct. 13. The schedule is: 8 a.m. Mass with Fr. Becker; 9 a.m. coffee and rolls; 9:30 a.m. procession from Knights of Columbus Hall, 15 N. Hickory in Arlington Heights to North Park with songs and rosary; 10 a.m. prayers and songs at park; noon process back to hall. Knights, children, and anti-abortion groups welcome.

Community Prayer is offered from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays in the Kingdom Life House of Prayer Chapel at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. (847) 506-1511 or www.KingdomLifeHouseOfPrayer.org.

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.

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, will begin its Healing Touch Spiritual Ministry Clinic Sept. 6 and will continue on the first Saturday of each month through May 2009. From 8:30 to 10 a.m., a Healing Touch Practitioner Exchange will take place at OSLC and from 10 a.m. to noon, Individual Healing Touch Sessions will be open to the community. Practitioners and clients can schedule appointments through Gretchen Mahin at (847) 398-6679. Healing Touch is a sacred healing art that flows from the laying-on-of hands found within the Christian tradition. Through prayer, centering and healing intention, specially trained ministers use their hands as instruments of God's grace to enhance the body's capacity for healing and well-being.

Seniors

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

• Sept. 25, 10:30 a.m.: Ron Raben, education director of Congregation Kneseth Israel in Elgin will talk about the history of upcoming Rosh Hashana (Sept. 30) and Yom Kippur, which follows 10 days later. Enjoy sampling the traditional chola and hearing the sounds of the blowing of the shofar ram's horn.

• Sept. 26, 10:30 a.m.: Celebrate Native American Day and Active Aging Week with a Drumming Circle led by Music Therapist Rita Lopienski. Learn about the history of drums and how they are used in their cultures, and experience firsthand the therapeutic benefits of playing them, such as stress reduction, self-expression and spirituality.

LAFF (Life after fifty-five) will meet at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates. Steven J. Bloomfield, M.S. will help those attending understand causes of negative stress and how to relieve the impact and manage stress. Bloomfield has a background as a mental health counselor, a human resources executive and faculty member of Chicago-area universities. We look forward to a fun and educational evening. Members $1 and guests $3.

Special services

Ha Mishkan David, The Tabernacle Of David, will celebrate The Feast Of Shavu'ot/Tabernacles at 3 p.m. Oct. 18 at Comfort Suits, 2480 Bushwood Drive, Elgin. Registrations taken by phone or e-mail. Free admission. Bring a kosher dish. Food/fellowship/music. For information, visit hamishkandavid.org or call (847) 464-5477.

Congregation Kneseth Israel holds Shabbat service at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. Registration is now being accepted for fall religious school, grades prekindergarten through high school. Religious school begins Sept. 7. Erev Rosh Hashana is Sept. 29. For registration, membership, or highholy day tickets, contact the synagogue office. (847) 741-5656. ckielgin.org.

Congregation Shirat Shalom offers Shabbat services at 9:45 a.m. Saturdays, followed by a community kiddush luncheon. Tot Shabbat services are the third Friday of the month, and adult education classes are Thursdays and Saturdays. Hebrew School registration is now open, call for details at (847) 695-6246.

Aglow International will hold its One Hour With Jesus from 10 to 11 a.m. Sept. 8 at Addison Presbyterian Church, 233 N. Mill Road, Addison. A prayer meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. The group is open to women, men and teens but baby sitting is not available. For details, visit www.aglow.org or call Nancy at (630) 543-3016.

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church, 701 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, has begun its summer schedule for services. Church services are held at 5 p.m. Saturdays and 9:30 a.m. Sundays. Summer Sunday school is held at 9:30 a.m. Sundays for children preschool age through sixth grade.

"Faith at Work" will be presented by three laymen, Michael Sacco, Linda Cwiak, and Lonnie Ropp, during the worship service, as a Labor Day sermon, at 10:30 a.m. Sunday at Christ Community Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg.

Outdoor worship will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road in Palatine through early September. Come casual to this outdoor contemporary service at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. There is also a traditional service every Sunday indoors at 8:30 a.m. For details, call (847) 358-4600.

Come sample a "Taste of BUMC" on Sept. 7 at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59), as the church begins its regular schedule with 8 and 10:30 a.m. services; nursery care available for infants and toddlers all morning. At 9 a.m. is Sunday school for all ages. Rally Day activities will begin at 9 a.m. with an introduction of BUMC's many educational, fellowship, mission and music offerings. At 9:15 a.m. children will be accompanied to their rotation stations for the new Sunday school curriculum; at 9:20 a.m., adults are invited to sample some of the adult education classes offered for the fall. A continental breakfast will be served. At 11:45 a.m., enjoy a "Taste of BUMC" following the 10:30 a.m. service, sharing a simple lunch in Fellowship Hall, and enjoying a variety of activities, including, a hayride, children's games, and entertainment. For more information, call the church office at (847) 836-5540 or visit the church's Web site at: www.BarringtonUMC.com.

St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 720 Dundee Ave., Barrington, has begun its summer worship schedule. Sunday services will be at 8 and 9:30 a.m. and an additional service will be held at 7 p.m. Mondays. The Monday evening service is a smaller, more intimate and informal worship service. Twice during the summer the Monday evening service will be held on Tuesday. Child care will be available during both Sunday morning services. For information, call (847) 382-7002.

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.

Congregation Beth Judea will hold a Selichot Dessert Reception at 9:30 p.m. Sept. 20 in the synagogue's Social Hall. A Selichot Service will follow at 10:30 p.m. in the main sanctuary. As is the custom, all services at Beth Judea, except for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, are open to the entire community. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. For details, contact Lisa Neiman at (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. kolchaverim.org.

Hope Lutheran Church at Arlington Heights and Checker roads in Long Grove, announces its return to fall service times. Effective Sept. 7, Hope will offer a traditional worship service at 8:30 a.m., and a contemporary worship service at 11 a.m., every Sunday. Hope also announces that Sunday school will kick off the 2008-9 year with Rally Day at 9:45 a.m. Sept. 7. The theme for the year is "Growing in Christ." Contact the church at (847) 634-2070 to register for Sunday school or with any questions.

The Center for Spiritual Living Des Plaines (formerly the Center for the New Humanity) is hosting a special program Sept. 7 honoring the global growth of the Religious Science movement. In addition to a special lesson on global outreach, the Rev. Margo Ruark will share about the various active international ministries, what is now provided and how members can be a part of the expansion. The celebration begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Spiritual Awakening Center, 1645 S. River Road in Des Plaines.

The Center for Spiritual Living Des Plaines is affiliated with International Centers for Spiritual Living (Religious Science International), Spokane, WA, an association of 152 affiliated churches in the US and Canada, with centers, seed groups and contacts in 34 other countries. For details, call (773) 339-4696 or write info@thenewhumanity.org

The September event for the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Elk Grove Village, will highlight the church's musical heritage in a Vespers Hymn Festival at 4 p.m. Sept. 28. Christopher Loemker, prominent contributor to Lutheran Church music, will be guest organist. The Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit is at 150 Lions Drive in Elk Grove Village.

Unity World Day of Prayer will be held Sept. 11. People around the world will join with Unity churches and prayer groups in a sacred partnership of prayer - the 15th annual Unity World Day of Prayer. Unity Northwest Church will participate by holding a special prayer service at 7 p.m. Sept. 10. This will begin a 24-hour prayer vigil held at the church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Anyone in need of prayer support may call (800) NOW-PRAY (669-7729).

The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights, announces the Summer Worship Schedule will be held through Sept. 7 with a single service at 9:30 a.m., using the liturgy "Now the Feast and Celebration." (847) 870-8603.

The Lutheran Church of Martha and Mary, 606 W. Golf Road, begins its fall worship schedule Sept. 7. Traditional worship services begin at 8:30 a.m. Sundays, followed by Sunday school and Total Family Opening at 9:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship begins at 11 a.m. (847) 259-2568.

Concordia Chicago Wind Symphony will perform at the 9:30 and 11 a.m. services Sept. 14 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights. They will begin playing about 15 minutes before the two services.

In addition, a community church picnic will be Sept. 14, 10:45 a.m. outdoor worship service to 4 p.m. Bring your family and friends and a food tent, games and crafts for all ages, clowns, prizes, pony rides, dunk tank, prize bingo games, moon walk and other attractions. (847) 259-4114 or www.stpeter-ah.org.

The Rev. Tim Haugen will preach on the subject "Love Prevails" at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. services Sept. 7 at Meadows Baptist Church, 2401 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Adult, student ministries and children's church Bible schools meet at 9 a.m. A second adult Bible class and the Adventure Club for children ages 4 through sixth grade meet at 10:30 a.m.

Women's programs

The Ladies of St. Marcelline, 822 S. Springinsguth, Schaumburg, invite all to join them Sept. 25 for Women at the Well, a program co-sponsored with the parish and Alexian Brothers Hospital Network. The gathering is held in the parish Family Room, where participants enjoy a light meal, followed by a presentation. The presenter for the evening is Stef Standefer, who plans to provide a funny and honest look at our desires and dreams as we journey through life with God. Requested donation of $7. (847) 524-4429.

The recently formed Holy Ghost Ladies Auxiliary's mission is to assist the Knights of Columbus Holy Ghost Council 4977 enriching the parish community through charitable work, leadership and spirituality. The group develops its own special projects and fundraising events, as well as supporting the Knights and other church ministries. The next meeting which will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at St. Theresa, in the Pauline Center in Palatine. The auxiliary is open to all Christian ladies ages 18 or older. At the Sept. 9 meeting, there will be a potluck. For information, call Denise Ciciora at (847) 991-2049.

The Presbyterian Women's circles of the Presbyterian Church of Palatine will be meeting at various times throughout the day Sept. 17 for fellowship and Bible study. Baby sitting is available. All women are invited and encouraged to attend. The church is at 800 E. Palatine Road. Call the church office at (847) 358-4650 for details.

The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea has planned its first social program of the 2008-09 year for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17. Studio J is affiliated with the Duman JCC, 390 Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove. The cost is $20 per person. (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove.

The Des Plaines Bible Church, 946 Thacker St., Des Plaines, welcomes women to meet from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays for Bible study. The first session is Sept. 9. A complimentary breakfast will be served. Child care is available. For reservations, call (847) 297-2525.

The United Methodist Women's fall gathering will begin at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16, in Fellowship Hall (lower level), First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Dr. Sarah Jerome, Arlington Heights Elementary School District 25 superintendent and a member of the congregation, will speak about educating children globally and the importance of teaching peace and forgiveness in today's world. For details, contact Jo Mazik at (847) 640-7323. For child care reservations, contact Jennifer Jones at (847) 392-0876. www.ahfumc.org.

Women's Bible Study, led by laypeople, is held every Wednesday morning, 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Newcomers are welcome. CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

Women's Bible Sharing will continue in the LifeLight series with the book of Joshua. All women are invited to join in from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays in the sanctuary at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights.

In addition, a Ladies Wednesday Morning Bible Class begins at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 10 in Bartz Hall. (847) 259-4114 or www.stpeter-ah.org.

CoffeeHour is a women's Bible study and outreach of Arlington Countryside Church in Arlington Heights. A variety of studies are offered and different times to meet - morning (child care available) and evening. www.acchurch.org.