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.

Are you interested in knowing more about joining the Catholic Faith or are you a Catholic wanting to complete your sacraments? RCIA/Footsteps will be held on Wednesday evenings at Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. Join us at 7 p.m. in Breakout Room I. The RCIA (Footsteps) is a process of mentoring, teaching and encouraging participants in their journey of faith. For information, call (847) 907-3439.

The public is invited, at no charge, to weekly, moderated current events discussions at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Sundays in Room 9. New participants may request future e-mail information on suggested readings. The following topics are scheduled for the month of October: "Property Rights: Their Meaning and Limitations" Oct. 19. Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. For details, visit ccuu.org or call (847) 359-8440.

Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road (at Route 59), Barrington, presents a Bible study on Revelation at 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings. A study on "The Life You've Always Wanted" is at 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings. Another group for parents of teenagers will meet at 9:15 a.m. Sundays. (847) 836-5540, www.BarringtonUMC

League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area invite the public to a Community Book Discussion of "Where Does the Money Go: Your Guided Tour to the Federal Budget Crisis" by Bill Bittle and Jean Johnson. At 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Barrington Public Library, 505 N. Northwest Hwy., Barrington. This book provides a candid, insightful and irreverent look at the federal budget and the deficits that have led to a $9 trillion national debt. The League is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to making democracy work through voter education and citizen participation. All are welcome.

A discussion about Agnosticism, Humanism and/or Atheism will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. Questions and comments will be welcome on the questions, "Does 90 percent of the United States believe in God? What do you think?" The event is free. Countryside Church is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. cuu@ccuu.org.

A book review and discussion will be offered at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. The book, "When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives Of Animals" by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson and Susan McCarthy, is the book to be discussed. Countryside Church is handicap-accessible and is at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee. ccuu@ccuu.org.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a coed spiritual retreat from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the church. The purpose is spiritual formation and faith development. Cost is $10 and includes a light lunch and all materials. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

Rabbi Lisa Bellows will be leading Torah classes for those in 12 Step Recovery programs. The next class will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.

Kingswood United Methodist Church invites the community to take part in its 2008 Make a Difference Day event, titled "Finding a Job Using - Community Resources." People who are unemployed, thinking of changing jobs, recent graduates, stay-at-home moms looking to get back in the workforce and anyone interested in looking for a job can stop by anytime between 9 a.m. and noon on Saturday, Oct. 25, to talk to professionals about resume writing, job banks, interviewing skills, and more.

Agencies that will be represented include: Lake Forest Career Resource Center, OMNI Youth Services, Randstad Temporary Services, IL Employment and Training Center, St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, Vernon Area Public Library, and St. Frances Job Ministry. The event will take place at Kingswood UMC, 401 W. Dundee, Buffalo Grove. The event is free and all participants will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gas card. For more information, call (847) 398-0770 or visit kingswoodumc.com

Join Rabbi Marc Belgrad during a viewing and discussion of the movie "Encounter Point," a movie detailing how leaders worldwide are dealing with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sundays, Oct. 19, and Nov. 2, at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.

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.

"Seeing Gray: Faith, Morality, and Politics in a Black and White World," a new series at St. John's Episcopal Church, continues at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays until Oct. 29 at the church, 200 N. Main, Mount Prospect. There is no charge. For details, call (847) 392-1700.

Christus Victor Lutheran Church's "A Life Worth Living" Bible study runs Thursdays through Nov. 20 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the church. It will explore the book of Philippians. "A Life Worth Living" is a follow-up study to the Alpha course. Cost is $12 for materials. A daytime session will run from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays through Nov. 19. Cost for the materials is $6 and baby-sitting is available for the morning session. For details, call (847) 437-2666, e-mail alpha@christusvictoregv.org or visit christusvictoregv.org. The church is at 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village.

Small Groups begin the first week of October at Congregational UCC, 1001 Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Discussions will center on matters of faith and human relationships. Groups will be limited in size and meet one night a week for 10 weeks. Groups are being organized now. For information, call (847) 392-6650.

"The First Christmas," explored in the recently published book by authors, Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan, provides the basis for a book discussion series that begins 4 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. Subsequent discussion session will be held at 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 16. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

"Matthew," an 11-week Adult Study Series, is offered from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., Sunday mornings, continuing through Nov. 23, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. Newcomers and nonchurch members are invited to participate. CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650 for additional information.

"Women in the Bible," a spiritual retreat at St. John United Church of Christ, 308 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights, is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct 25, including lunch. The multimedia presentation is for women and men, and will be led by Cathy Wille. Call the church to register: (847) 255-6687. www.churchonthepark.com.

A seven-week grief and support group, "A Time to Grieve and a Time to Heal," will begin Monday, Oct. 27 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights. This Christian support group is for people dealing with losses in their lives The group meets on Monday evenings from 7-8:15 p.m. Call the church office at (847) 259-4114 for more information.

The Faith and Fiction Book Club meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, to discuss "Every Last Cuckoo" by Kate Maloy at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. The book for Sunday, Nov. 16, will be "Mr. Ives Christmas" by Oscar Hijuelos. For details, call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org

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.

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 for the 3- and 4-year-old preschool and full-day program. If you'd like to schedule an appointment or need information, 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.

Bethel Lutheran Church, 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine, is hosting a free Music Ministry International youth seminar from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. Pastor Matthew Ollikainen of Bethel and Sister Ginny Feldmann will be guest speakers along with a special performance by Dooney Gospel Rapper. Included in the day will be praise and worship, Bible reading competition, Bible quiz and Bible memory verse competition. For more details, contact Tariq Khan at (847) 254-1207 or (847) 934-3945.

Learn about Sukkot, a Jewish fall festival, through art projects, storytime and songs for families with children up to age 5. Meet with other young area families from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Barnes & Noble, 590 E. Golf Road, Schaumburg. To R.S.V.P., contact Abby Halper at (312) 444-2844 or e-mail bookbuddies@juf.org. This free event is sponsored by Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago and is open to the public.

Learn about Hanukkah through art projects, storytime and songs with other young area families. This event, for families with children up to age 5, takes place from 10:30 to11:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the following Barnes & Noble locations: 720 Hawthorne Center, Vernon Hills; and 590 E. Golf Road, Schaumburg. To R.S.V.P., contact Abby Halper at (312) 444-2844 or e-mail bookbuddies@juf.org. This free event is sponsored by Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago and is open to the public.

Get lost in a fun night with Beth Judea's USY at the Corn Maze from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28. Meet at the Beth Judea Youth Lounge; transportation will be provided to the Corn Maze. Snacks will be provided. Cost is free to members and $15 for Jewish nonmembers. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Contact Youth Director Aaron Polansky at (847) 634-0777, ext. 114, or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Congregation Beth Judea's Youth Groups, Kadinkers (third- to fifth-graders) and Kadima (sixth- to eighth-graders) will be going to the American Academy of Gymnastics on Sunday, Oct. 26. They will meet immediately after Hebrew School in the Beth Judea Youth Lounge, will leave at noon and be back at the synagogue by 3 p.m. Pizza will be provided after gym time at the gymnastics academy. Cost: $15 for members; $25 for Jewish nonmembers. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. Any questions may be directed to Beth Judea Youth Director Aaron Polansky at (847) 634-0777, ext. 114, or e-mail Aaron at YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Beth Judea's USY (United Synagogue Youth) goes to the Comedy Club on Saturday, Oct. 18. The USY will meet at the synagogue at 6:45 p.m. for Havdallah. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for Jewish nonmembers. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For information, contact Youth Director Aaron Polansky at the synagogue office (847) 634-0777, ext .114, or e-mail him at YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

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.

Students from St. Paul of the Cross School in Park Ridge will have an All-American Political Rally at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the school, 140 S. Northwest Hwy. This event, as well as a mock election sponsored by the League of Women Voters Tuesday, Nov. 4, will culminate activities students from all grade levels have been participating in over the past two months to study the political process.

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.

Elk Grove Baptist Church, 801 Biesner Elk Grove Village, offers Awana, fun and games in a Christian setting for ages 3 years old through sixth grade, every Wednesday from 6:45-8:15 p.m. Dinner available 6-6:30 p.m. for a $2 donation.

Artists' Studio Day will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Sponsored by the Lambs of Faith Ministry, this Saturday Club event will allow young artists to learn about the techniques of famous artists to create their own masterpieces.

All materials will be provided. The morning's activities also include a snack and "Jesus Time." Different groups will meet for age 3 preschool through third grade. Suggested donation is $5 per child to cover materials. Walk-ins welcome, but advance registration appreciated. Call the church office at (847) 253-4839 for more information and to register.

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.

Show off your Dance Dance Revolution skills at youth program night at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Junior high meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and senior high from 7 to 8:30 a.m. There will be multiple televisions set up to compete and have fun with this interactive dance game. For details, call (847) 255-5112.

Family

Erntedankfest, a German Harvest Festival will be offered at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Christ the King Ev. Lutheran Church (Wisconsin Ev. Lutheran Synod), 100 W. Michigan Ave., Palatine. (847) 358-0230, www.ByFaithAlone.org.

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.

Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove, has started a new Family Shabbat program Saturday mornings Oct. 18, Nov. 1 and 15, Dec. 6 and 20. Join in for Shabbat songs, snacks, stories and crafts from 10 to 11 a.m. This program is geared toward children ages 3-8. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.

Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove, will be hosting JCC's Got Shabbat? program from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Join in for a service filled with fun, food, Shabbat songs and the humorous storyteller Dot Kane. This free program is open to the community. (Designed for families with children 4-8, but all are welcome.) For details, visit congregation-betham.org

Congregants of Congregation Beth Judea will meet at the synagogue at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 for a Havdallah service. Then they will go on a Road Rally. Register now. Cost of $10 per person and will cover prizes and dessert. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For information, contact Executive Director Lisa Neiman at the synagogue, (847) 634-0777 or via e-mail at LNeiman@BethJudea.org.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a Halloween Bash from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, for children of all ages and their parents at the church. The event is free and includes a "monster house," pumpkin carving contest, refreshments and games. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights, invites "trick-or-treaters" to its first Trunk-or-Treat from 4-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, in the church's parking lot. Trunk-or-Treat is like tailgating for toddlers and teens. Come and see the decorated trunks and find a treat. For information, call (847) 537-4353.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will be having its Annual Turkey Dinner Wednesday, Oct. 22, with the first seating starting at 5 p.m. The dinner includes turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, dressing, vegetable, slaw, cranberries, rolls, pumpkin and apple pie, and beverages. The tickets will be $15 for adults, and children 5-12 are $5, under 5 are free. You can purchase tickets after church on Sundays at 11 a.m., or you can purchase them from the church office (847) 272-2246.

Oktoberfest will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Faith Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Pork loin dinner with all the trimmings, concertina band, singalong, and more. An evening of fun and feasting for families and friends. Tickets cost $15 and benefit Faith Men's Club ministries. Call (847) 253-4839 for information and reservations.

Fundraisers

Immanuel United Church of Christ is having an Old Church Craft and Holiday Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 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.

Little Angels of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church is hosting its annual Vendor Fair and Bake Sale from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6. There will be an assortment of vendors to purchase from, along with baked goods. The church is at 751 W. Army Trail Road in Bartlett.

Living Lord Lutheran Church and other local congregations, organizations and community members are joining together for the fifth annual Bartlett CROP Hunger Walk at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. The walk steps off from Living Lord Church at 1:30 p.m. and includes a 1-mile or 5-mile course. Walkers and supporters will celebrate after the walk with a party at Living Lord featuring live music and food. This is a grass-roots, community effort, and everyone is welcome to get involved by either walking or supporting a walker with a financial donation. A total of 25 percent of the funds raised will go directly to the Hanover Township Food Pantry and the Northwest DuPage Walk-In Ministry. For details, contact the church office at (630) 830-3630, ext. 4611, or visit livinglordlutheran.org. To sign up or contribute, contact the church office or Mike Smith at mikesmith@maine207west.k12.il.us. Living Lord Church is at 1044 Congress Drive in Bartlett, on Route 59 just south of Stearns Road.

Disco kings and queens of all ages are invited to a 1970s dance night at Living Lord Lutheran Church in Bartlett from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. "That '70s Night" will feature a teen DJ spinning the classic records from this era of platform shoes and disco balls. Prizes will be awarded for best-dressed people of the night. A freewill offering will be accepted, and snacks and drinks available. Proceeds will support Living Lord's upcoming high school summer mission trip. Living Lord Church is at 1044 Congress Drive, on Route 59 just south of Stearns Road.

Illinois Kairos Outside will be sponsoring a Vendor Blender from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. There will be many home party vendors such as Pampered Chef, Lia Sophia, Mary Kay and more, all in one place. Each of the vendors will be donating a product to be raffled during the day. There will also be lunch items to purchase as well as a bake sale.

The Greater Woodfield Area CROP Hunger Walk will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19. CROP now stands for Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty. There will be a 10K, 5K or a Golden Mile walk against hunger this year. Registration starts at 1:30 p.m. and the walk begins at 2 p.m. at Our Saviour's United Methodist Church, 701 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Other churches participating in the CROP Hunger Walk include Lord of Life Lutheran, Our Redeemer's United Methodist, Prince of Peace Lutheran, Roselle United Methodist, Church of the Cross and Salem Korean UMC. Twenty-five percent of the funds raised will go to local PADS sites like Prince of Peace in Hoffman Estates and to the Kenneth Young Senior Center in Elk Grove to assist those who cannot afford the Meals on Wheels program. The remainder of the funds will go toward helping with many needs around the world. If you would like to participate by walking, volunteering or by supporting one of the walkers, call Carolyn Meneely, (847) 882-6116, ext. 107, or go online at www.cropwalk.org and look for the Greater Woodfield Area CROP Walk.

Creative seasonal decor in three Barrington-Inverness area residences and the Honquest Althrop Dream Home is the focus of the Friday, Nov. 7, Homes for the Holidays, Holy Family Catholic Academy's fourth annual holiday Housewalk. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Included are an 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. box lunch and 5-7 p.m. wine and cheese event at Honquest "furniture for living," 1455 S. Barrington Road, Barrington. Tickets cost $30. The Housewalk has joined with Holy Family Catholic Community to present a Thursday, Nov. 6, Trim the Home Floral Expo/ Show at the Academy, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness. Exhibits open at 4 p.m.; autumn and holiday decorating demonstrations begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. A 5- 7 p.m. optional catered dinner is $12. Combined Trim the Home/Floral Show/Housewalk tickets (including the box lunch and wine and cheese event) are $40. Proceeds benefit the academy, which provides faith-based education from 2-year-old preschool through eighth grade and Holy Family Catholic Community's enrichment programs. Register for events by calling (847) 846-7683 or (847) 382-1700. www.holyfamilyparish.org or www.honquest.com

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The Holy Family Lutheran School Benefit dinner and auction will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at The Meadows Club, located at 2950 W. Golf Road in Rolling Meadows. The dinner and auction raises essential tuition assistance funds for 190 of Chicago's Westside students who are enrolled at the Holy Family Lutheran School. The event is sponsored by Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights. For more information, call (847) 255-8700.

The Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk Committee announces that Kirk Murdock and David Kelsch have been named Grand Marshals for the 26th anniversary of this event that raises funds for people in need. The Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk will be Sunday, Oct. 19. The walk begins with registration at 12:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of the Atonement, 909 E. Main St. at Eastern Avenue, Barrington. For additional information, call 2008 chair, Barbara Schwartz, (847) 487-2513.

The pumpkin patch at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove is now open for business, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily until Halloween. The annual church fundraiser helps provide support for Kingswood's ongoing mission projects. For details, visit kingswoodumc.com.

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 entertainment.com/e-mail (Account #10520). Beth Judea is at Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777.

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

St. Zachary Women's Club in Des Plaines is selling Entertainment Books for $20. For more information, call Joan at (847) 824-5613.

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.

Searching for a perfect pumpkin? Visit the Youth Pumpkin Patch at Park Ridge Community Church through Oct. 31 on the church lawn at Prospect and Crescent avenues, Park Ridge. The Youth Pumpkin Patch will be open from 3 to 7 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays. On Saturdays, Oct. 18 and 25, the Halloween classic movie "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" will be shown outdoors at dusk, weather permitting. Local musicians will play music in the patch on weekends as well. (847) 823-3164 or prccyouth.org.

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

First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. (between Rand and Arlington Heights roads), Arlington Heights, will hold its 29th annual Holly-Day Fair Craft show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Every item is handcrafted. Take a shopping break and enjoy a hot lunch in the Holly-Day Cafe (lower level). Shop at the Holly-Day Bake Shop - where everything is homemade and packaged in festive holiday wrap and containers. Also returning this year is our popular "Recycled Christmas" room. You will find special Christmas decor that others have grown tired of but are still in perfect (or almost perfect) condition. This one-day event is a $2 donation at the door, $1 for senior citizens. No strollers please, wheelchair accessible. Call the church office, (847) 255-5112, if you would like to set up a booth. For details, call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org. Proceeds to benefit the missions and ministries of United Methodist Women.

Church of the Incarnation United Methodist, 330 W. Golf Road, Arlington Heights, will hold its 30th annual Creative Hands Boutique Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4, 5 and 6. This juried arts and crafts boutique features unique handcrafted items made by local crafters. In addition, the "Soup Kitchen" featuring homemade soups and refreshments will be open daily. All Soup Kitchen proceeds support local missions like PADS. Also, the Christmas tree lot, with many varieties of trees and wreaths, will be open daily beginning the last week of November. Boutique hours are: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. A donation of $2 will be collected at the door. These donations will be sent to Habitat for Humanity, Spring of Life Partnership. (847) 956-1510.

Harvest Moon Happening, a dinner, silent auction and live auction event, will be offered from 5:05-9:09 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Advance Tickets: $15 adult, $7 children under 12 (at the door: pay $2 more, space permitting). Enjoy an evening of fun, food, and fellowship. Doors open at 5:05 p.m. for an early start on the silent auction items. A catered dinner buffet begins at 6:15 p.m. in Fellowship Hall (lower level) followed by a lively, live auction at 8:15 p.m. (847) 255-5112, www.ahfumc.org. All proceeds for the Harvest Moon Happening charity event will benefit our Church Capital Building and Renovation Campaign.

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. Sunday, 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 beth-tikvah.org.

The next series of New Member Classes for Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Schaumburg will be held Sundays Oct. 19, Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 at 11 a.m. at the church. Anyone interested in membership at Prince of Peace should contact the church office at (847) 885-7010 to confirm your attendance. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is at 930 W Higgins Road, Schaumburg. princeofpeace.net.

The Chai Center for Enrichment & Renewal presents East Meets West with Dr. Gregg Stern, D.C., from 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19 at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Learn why chiropractic, acupuncture, yoga, meditation and other forms of natural approaches can help you to strengthen your body, mind and spirit.

Author Michael Dowd will speak on his book "Thank God for Evolution: How the Marriage of Science and Religion Will Transform Your Life and Our World: at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. Rev. Dowd, an ordained Christian minister, and his wife, an acclaimed science writer, tour the country speaking of how evolution and religion cannot only exist together, but restore realistic hope for people of any religion or belief system. Countryside Church is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. cuu@ccuu.org, (847) 359-8440, ext. 7.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host Skeletons in the Closet at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. Join us in learning how to handle research minefields. What to do when you uncover sensitive or confidential family information. The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth Israel will open at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate members/guests who want to use the library materials, get help with genealogical Web sites on the Internet, or ask genealogical-related questions before the main program begins at 2 p.m. www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or (312) 666-0100.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host Jewish Lawndale presented by Amanda Friedeman of Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth Israel will open at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate members/guests who want to use library materials, get help with genealogical Web sites on the Internet, or ask genealogical-related questions before the main program begins at 2 p.m. jewishgen.org/jgsi or (312) 666-0100.

A weekly class studying Jewish Law will meet from 8-9 a.m. Sundays at Congregation Beth Judea. The group will meet from October through May. The Jewish Law Study Group, led by Rabbi Robert Gamer, will be looking in-depth at some of the recent decisions of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards of the Conservative Movement. No previous knowledge is required and all texts will be in English or have translations. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For information, call Rabbi Gamer at the synagogue office (847) 634-0777.

Dr. Alice Rothchild, an obstetrician-gynecologist living in Boston who since 1997 has focused much of her energy on understanding the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, will tell of her experiences and sign copies of her recent book, "Broken Promises, Broken Dreams" from 12:30-2 p.m. at Oakton College in Des Plaines. For details, rstacewi@oakton.edu.

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). (847) 259-3018.

Reiki Master Teacher Katherine Anderson will teach the hands-on touch that will revitalize you on a mind-body-spirit level promoting relaxation and bringing balance and healing to the three levels of being from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Level I is focused on self-healing and you will learn several hands-on techniques to direct this energy for yourself. Hand positions, meditation, and an introduction to the chakra system and Universal Laws will be taught. Students will receive a Reiki attunement and certificate of completion. Cost is $125. Call (630) 289-9258 to register.

A lecture on "Words Can Heal or Destroy" will be presented at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Ezra-Habonim, the Niles Township Jewish Congregation, 4500 Dempster St., Skokie. www.ehnt.org.

Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines offers a Drum Circle at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. Bring your own drum or percussive instrument or they will be provided, and experience an amazing change in consciousness and personal vibration. The drum circle includes people of all ages. The main objective is to share rhythm and get in tune with self and with each other. We form a group consciousness. We entrain and resonate. A new voice, a collective voice, emerges from the group as we drum together. All are welcome.

Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, will hold a workshop on Living Beyond Stress from 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008. The economy these days may make it easy to forget that we already have all that we need. Come and discover or rediscover how to let go of fear and anxiety and live by love and choice. Cynthia Hosman, licensed counselor and Unity Northwest chaplain, will conduct this workshop for coping with stress in body, mind and spirit. Suggested freewill is $20. For information or to register, call (847) 297-0997.

St. Emily Adult Formation and Women's Club are hosting a presentation by Maryrose Peters from the National Alliance for Mental Health at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, at St. Emily Parish Center, 1400 E. Central Road, Mount Prospect. For information, call church office at (847) 824-5049.

Adventures in Prophecy Conference will be presented Saturday, Oct. 25; Sunday, Oct. 26; Monday, Oct. 27; and Tuesday, Oct. 28. On Saturday there are three sessions with the first one at 10 a.m., second at 11 a.m., lunch at noon and final session at 12:45 p.m. On Sunday there are p.m. and Tuesday, there is one session at 7 p.m. The conference will address the theme of future events as presented in the Bible. If you've been wondering about the future of the world, this series will provide answers from Scripture. Guest Speaker is the Rev. Gary Candlish. This free Bible conference will be at First Baptist Church of Arlington Heights, 1211 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Registration for the Saturday lunch would be appreciated. To register or for information, call (847) 392-1712 or check the Web site, www.fbcah.org.

St. Simon's Episcopal Church will hold a forum on the power of community in effective Healing Prayer at 9 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. Elizabeth Roser, a leader in the parish's Healing Prayer Ministry, will lead the discussion. Registration is not necessary and all are welcome. St. Simon's is at 717 Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights, adjacent to Northwest Community Hospital. Visit www.saintsimons.org or call (847) 259-2930 for further information.

Men's fellowship

Congregation Beth Judea, a Conservative synagogue, announces another class in its Fall Semester Adult Academy: the Men's Hebrew Literacy Class. In this beginner's class, instructors Howie Goodman and Sandy Victor will teach you how to read Hebrew regardless of your level of previous instruction, through a 12-week program from the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs. The class is open to any adult. Classes will be held on Tuesday nights from 8-9 p.m. The dates are: Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, and 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27. "Graduation" will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30. The cost is $30, which includes the "Shalom Aleichem" textbook, payable to the Beth Judea Men's Club. To register, call the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

59 Minutes for Men begins a new year of discussion, fellowship and light breakfast refreshments. The group meets from 8 to 8:59 a.m. the third Saturday of each month in the Youth Center (lower level) of First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Books for the fall study dates of Oct. 18 and Nov. 15 are available in the church office by calling (847) 255-5112.

Miscellaneous

A series of events this fall will again be co-sponsored by Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, the Islamic Society of the Northwest Suburbs (ISNS) in Rolling Meadows and Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Schaumburg."The Role of the Prophets and Scripture in Christian Faith" will be the first in a series of fall Abraham Salons. The event will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at Beth Tikvah Congregation, 300 Hillcrest Blvd. in Hoffman Estates. The series will continue with an exploration of the role of prophets and scripture in the Jewish faith at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at ISNS Mosque, 3950 Industrial Ave., Rolling Meadows; and the series will conclude at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Prince of Peace, 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, with an exploration of the role of prophets and scripture in Muslim faith. In addition to presentations by clergy from respective faiths, there will be a time for questions from the audience, and the evenings will conclude with dessert fellowship and a time for more informal discussion. There is no charge for admission and the public is invited to all events.

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.

Waterfront Community Church will open its doors Sunday, Oct. 19. Contemporary services will meet at Schaumburg High School located at 1100 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Services are held at 10 a.m. The congregation is committed to giving away all the money collected in offerings to the community. The church is financially supported by a core of 10 families. Salaries, like those of that of the pastor and other staff members, are accounted for individually, allowing monies collected on Sundays to be used to meet the needs of the community the church calls home. Jim Semradek, senior pastor, said Waterfront is committed to providing for those in need, whether it goes to a single mother in the community or to children in Africa orphaned by AIDS. The first week offering will go to a single mother in Schaumburg with a special-needs child through a local organization called Fellowship Housing.

Spend an "Evening with George and Kathy," Fr. George Kane, pastor emeritus, and the founder of Church of the Holy Spirit, and Kathy Drennan, former director of the religious education program, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Church of the Holy Spirit. On this special evening, you will be able to hear these two prominent, well-versed, and gifted people discuss a variety of topics. No reservations, or advance ticket sales are required. All are invited, parishioners, former parishioners, adults, teens, children. A donation of $5 per person is requested toward the CHS Dept. Reduction Program.

The First St. Hubert Parish alumni event will begin with Mass celebrated by St. Hubert Pastor Father Robert Rizzo at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, in the newly renovated St Hubert Church, due to open in November, 2008, followed by a reception with refreshments in the Parish Ministry Center Multipurpose Room and an Open House Walk of the School. E-mail your attendance response to St. Hubert Development Core Team-Alumni Relations Arm Chairperson Denise Herrmann at dherrmann@sthubertschool.com.

The Rev. Gordon Straw has been chosen as the interim minister at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Schaumburg. Straw will serve as pastor while the church chooses a permanent minister. Straw, a resident of Chicago, was ordained in The American Lutheran Church in 1986 and is an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He is an enrolled member of the Brothertown Indian Nation. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is at 930 W. Higgins Road, Schaumburg. (847) 885-7010 or princeofpeace.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. .

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church, as a special celebration to welcome its new settled minister, the Rev. Hilary Krivchenia, will offer Month of Sundays. The events stretch through Oct. 19. Most of the events are free. Upcoming events include:

• Sunday, Oct. 19, 10:30 a.m.: Sermon "Shake Your Paradigms: A Question of Integrity - The Integrity of Question" which discusses the eternal question: What is truth and when do you capitalize the T?; 2 p.m.: Crop Walk to help underprivileged; 5 p.m.: Peter Mayer, nationally known folk musician - adults $10, children free.

Countryside Church, 1025 N. Smith Road, Palatine, is between Northwest Highway and Dundee Road and is handicap-accessible. (847) 359-8440 or ccuu.org.

The Living Rosary will be at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22 at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 1202 E. Anderson Drive, Palatine. All may gather in semidarkness to recite the mysteries of the rosary. As each bead is recited a candle will be lit until the formation of the rosary is illuminated, surrounding the congregation. Other languages beside English will be represented. Worship aids and "How to Pray the Rosary" pamphlets will be handed out. We will close with benediction. Mission rosaries blessed with holy water from Lourdes will be available to everyone. Hospitality following in the Gathering Area. For more information, contact Elayne Maruska, (847) 358-0089 or bemaruska@earthlink.net.

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago invites those who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide to participate in its Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide Program, meeting Sundays from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9 and Dec 14 at the Catholic Charities Northwest Office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines; Wednesdays from 7 -9 p.m. Nov 19 and Dec 17 at Holy Family Church Counseling Center, 2515 Palatine Road, Inverness; and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. Oct 23, Nov 13 and Dec 18 at Carmel High School, One Carmel Parkway, Mundelein.

To learn more about Des Plaines-based Catholic Charities North/Northwest Suburban Services phone (847) 376-2118.

Congregation Beth Judea, located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove, will hold its annual Simchat Torah Flag Procession and Taffy Apple Party at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, in the synagogue's main sanctuary, directly after a 6:30 p.m. Minyan Prayer Service. Rabbi Howard Lifshitz, Rabbi Robert Gamer and Hazzan Roger Weisberg will conduct the evening's activities by completing the reading of the Torah with the last verses from the Book of D'varim (Deuteronomy), followed by the first verses from B'reishit (Genesis). Those present will then be able to participate in the "Hakafot" (processions) with the Torah scrolls and join in the singing and dancing, and, of course, the taffy apples. Traditional Simchat Torah Services will be held in the main sanctuary of Beth Judea at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22. Nonmembers are always welcome at Beth Judea's services. Call the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 for further information.

Jewish Yoga is offered 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Wednesdays through Dec. 17 (no class Nov. 26) at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Join us for this beginner's yoga class co-lead by Jayne Alenier, certified yoga teacher, and Rabbi Lisa Bellows. This class of traditional yoga and relaxation is infused with Jewish teachings and spirituality. Everyone is welcome, drop-in rates are available. congregation-betham.org

Cantor Dale Lind, a renowned cantor will be at Congregation Beth Am, 225 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove, at 11:45 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, signing copies of his new book titled "Applaudience!" Cantor Lind will be holding a Q&A session as well. All are welcome. For details, visit congregation-betham.org.

The Chai Center for Enrichment & Renewal presents Yoga with a Jewish Twist with Jayne Alenier, 9:30-10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. New and experienced students can explore the mind, body and spirit within a Jewish framework, focusing on the classical yoga poses, breathing techniques Hebrew chanting and individual attention to alignment.

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.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will offer a free meal and fellowship from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the church. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

People looking for an environmentally responsible way to dispose of light electronic equipment now have a place to do so at a new location in Northbrook. Cell phones, iPods, laptop computers, laser printer toner cartridges and ink jet cartridges may be left at the office of North Northfield United Methodist Church, located at the corner of Sanders and Dundee roads. (Please call for the church hours before making a special trip. Please also note that this recycling program is unable to accept heavy electronic items such as desktop computers and televisions.) Donated items will be recycled through the eScrip recycling program. Proceeds will benefit the church. For information, call (847) 272-2250 or visit www.northnorthfield.org.

The Trinity United Methodist Quilt Group is sponsoring a quilt show on Friday-Saturday, Oct. 24 and 25. Antique, as well as new quilts, will be on display. Admission is free. Hours for the show are: 2-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 605 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect. The Quilt Group meets on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 9 p.m., at Trinity and beginners, as well as experienced quilters are invited to join the group. For more information, contact Carmen, at (847) 390-6143, the Trinity church office at (847) 439-0950, or visit the Web site www.trinitymp.org.

Flu shots will be available from 9-11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19 at St. Martins Episcopal Church, 1095 Thacker St. in Des Plaines. The shots are free to qualified Medicare Part B participants, and $20 for cash customers. Shots will be given by qualified immunizing pharmacists, and pneumonia shots will also be available. Call (847) 297-8085 for more information or to register.

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.

The Rev. Linnea B. Wilson will be installed as senior pastor at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille St., Mount Prospect, during the 10 a.m. worship service on Sunday, Oct. 19. The Rev. Cynthia Heilman, assistant to the bishop of the ELCA Metropolitan Chicago Synod, will be preaching and officiating. The community is welcome to attend. (847) 253-0631

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.

"The Movement for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Equality in Christianity: An Historical Journey" is the topic for a presentation by Mark Bowman, Project Coordinator for the LGBT Religious Archives Network, at 7:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 20, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff, Arlington Heights. Special focus will be given to the development of LGBT movements within the United Church of Christ. For additional information, check the church Web site www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650.

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.

Holy Wanderers is an excursion ministry of First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. (847) 255-5112, www.ahfumc.org. Upcoming events are:

• The Art of Democracy: Tuesday, Oct. 28, Loyola University Museum of Art, 820 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago; 8:30 a.m. departure from church parking lot; admission free; van transportation $16 or seniors can use your free Metra ride; lunch on your own tab at Foodlife - Water Tower Place.

• The Symphony Center presents Chanticleer Monday, Dec. 1, at Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St.; tickets $40; van transportation $15; balcony general seating; 6 p.m. departure from church parking lot; 8 p.m. concert. Sign up for van transportation or meet us there after work or by using your free senior pass on public transportation.

A flu shot clinic will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Oct. 19, at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. The event is open to the public and is co-sponsored by Faith Lutheran Church and Advocate Parish Nursing. Flu shots are free for those who bring and show their Medicare cards and cost $30 for all others. For more information, contact Faith Parish Nurse Margie Mayfield at (847) 253-4919 or call the church office at (847) 253-4839.

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 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.

Performances

Knights of Columbus Mary's Millennium Council No. 12801 of Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Streamwood are presenting the new show from the creator of Late Nite Catechism, titled "Sisters Christmas Catechism" Friday, Nov. 14. Sister tackles the question, "Whatever happened to the Magi's gold?" It's CSI: Bethlehem when Sister invites her audience to be characters in a living Nativity/crime scene. Tickets cost $30 each. For tickets, call the parish office at (630) 837-6500 and leave a message for the Knights of Columbus. If you leave your e-mail address, a ticket order form can be e-mailed back to you to print and mail in with your payment.

Trinity Lutheran Church, Roselle welcomes Jason Paul Peterson in concert on the Petrof grand piano at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. Come hear Peterson perform a variety of classical piano compositions. The program is sponsored by the Music & Arts Ministry of Trinity. The church is at 405 S. Rush St. For more information, contact Karen Mueller or Gary Lichthardt at (630) 894-3263. www.trinityroselle.com.

The David Crowder Band will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at Life Changers International Church, 2500 Beverly Road, Hoffman Estates. Tickets cost $25 in advance; $23 for groups of 10 or more, plus one free; $30 day of event. Charge by phone at 800-965-9324 or look online at itickets.com.

The Gospel Messengers Choir from Carthage College in Kenosha, WI, will perform at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S Rohlwing Road, Palatine A freewill offering will be taken. (847) 358-4600.

Minnesota-based singer/songwriter Peter Mayer will perform a live concert on at 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. This is the final event for the church's Month of Sundays celebration of the arrival of their new settled minister, the Rev. Hilary Krevchenia. Tickets will be available at the door for a suggested donation of $10 for adults, children free, and there will be a freewill offering to benefit Palatine's Food Pantry. Countryside Church is handicap-accessible and is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine. ccuu@ccuu.org, (847) 359-8440.

Benjamin Britten's Abraham and Isaac will be sung by tenor David Portillo and Mezzo-soprano Katherine Calcamuggio, with Wayland Rogers at the piano Sunday, Nov. 2, at North Shore Unitarian Church, 2100 Half Day Road (Route 22) in Deerfield. The performance is part of a service on the controversial topic, offered twice at 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. The singers act out the ancient story: the father taking his son to Mount Moriah, building an altar where Abraham binds Isaac and after heartbreaking farewells raises his knife to slay him before God intervenes at the moment of sacrifice. Britten's pacifism echoes that of World War I poet and soldier, Wilfred Owen, and American sculptor, George Segal, all of whose striking comments on the parable brings the ancient into the present. Admission is free. (847) 234-2460.

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, call (630) 213-0100.

• Tuesday, Oct. 21, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: In honor of National Pastoral Care Week and Clergy Appreciation Month, area clergy and pastorale staff are invited to a complimentary soup and sandwich lunch.

• Wednesday, Oct. 29, 10:30 a.m.: In honor of Illinois Arts and Humanities Month and Celebrating Ethnic Heritage Month, Registered Music Therapist Rita Lopienski presents a program 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. Experience firsthand how they are played and the therapeutic benefits of vibration instruments.

The Hummers and Strummers ukele group of the Deerfield Senior Center returns for another performance at noon Thursday, Oct. 23, in Northbrook for a Senior Fellowship potluck lunch. The group will make its annual appearance at North Northfield United Methodist Church, at the corner of Sanders and Dundee roads. The public is invited to attend, and to bring a friend and a dish to pass. The "senior" group is all-inclusive, so persons attending don't need to qualify as a "senior" to participate. For information, call (847) 272-2250 or visit www.northnorthfield.org.

A Desserts and Discussion program will take place at 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Join us for a presentation on the programs and resources available to you at the Arlington Heights Senior Center. Becky Hume, volunteer coordinator, will show a short video celebrating the 25-year history of the center. To register for this free event, call Carrie Hill at (847) 255-8700, ext. 315.

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, will offer a a Learn @ Lunch program at noon Wednesday, Nov. 5. The cost for this catered lunch and educational program is $6. The presentation is "Moving a Lifetime" with Mary Jo Zeller from Gero Solutions, senior relocation specialists. You will learn about trends influencing downsizing, how this move is different from other moves, right sizing, minimizing the stress of moving and simplifying. Call Carrie Hill at (847) 255-8700, ext. 315 to register by Saturday, Nov. 1.

Special services

Ha Mishkan David, The Tabernacle Of David, will celebrate The Feast Of Shavu'ot/Tabernacles at 3 p.m. Saturday, 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.

A Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor service will be at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21; and a Simchat Torah service with ice cream social at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21. In addition to services, social activities are planned by the award-winning youth group, 50+ club, men's club and sisterhood. (847) 741-5656 or ckielgin.org.

Congregation Shirat Shalom in Elgin 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.

At 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, come and celebrate Simchat Torah, one of the most joyous holidays of the year. (847) 695-6246, e-mail hazzansarah@gmail.com, or visit CongregationShiratShalom.org.

The Lord of Life Lutheran Church Mission Quilters will dedicate quilts during the Sunday services Oct. 19. The quilts will be displayed over all the pews during the dedication service. These quilts will be shipped by Lutheran World Relief to people in need in the United States and Third World countries. Church services are held at 8 and 10:30 a.m. The church is at 119 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg. lord-of-life.org.

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church in Schaumburg will continue its 50th anniversary celebration on both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19 by welcoming back Pastor Nina Nichols, who served as associate pastor from 1997-2000. During her years of service, she was very active with the youth ministry program an it was during this time that the youth of Our Saviour's took their first international mission trip. Nina and her family now live in Troy, New York, where she serves as the senior pastor at Christ United Methodist Church. A potluck will be shared immediately after the second service Sunday, Oct. 19.

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. kolchaverim.org.

Grace Lutheran Church, Mount Prospect, will host a festive worship service celebrating the life-giving message of the Bible at 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26. Noted author, teacher and speaker Dr. Craig Satterlee will be the guest preacher. The service will feature a blessing of Bibles and each visitor will receive a free Bible. Grace Lutheran Church (ELCA) is located at 1624 E. Euclid at Wolf Road in Mount Prospect. Call (847) 824-7408 or see www.grace-mtprospect.org

A traditional Silent Unity Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Enjoy an evening of prayer, meditation, silence and music. Freewill offering. (847) 297-0997.

All are invited to join in the celebration of the ministries at 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Church of the Incarnation, United Methodist located at 330 W. Golf Road, one block west of Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. "Love Out Loud" will celebrate children, youths and adult missions. There will be uplifting praise music and a message of serving others in social justice and healing.

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, is changing the format and location of the Monday night worship service. This will be a traditional service in the sanctuary and Communion will be celebrated on the first and third weekend of the month.

Congregational United Church of Christ celebrates Children's Sabbath, Sunday, Oct. 19, with worship services at 10:30 a.m. exploring the topic "When we will put our faith into action and seek justice for children." Children will attend church school while adults study the church's commitment to children. Nursery and child care are available for infants and toddlers. The church is located at 1001 Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

The Kingdom Life House of Prayer Chapel at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows. 2720 Kirchoff, Rolling Meadows, offers worship from 7-9 p.m. Wednesdays. (847) 506-1511, KingdomLifeHouseOfPrayer.org.

Women's programs

CWU of the Barrington Area will celebrate World Community Day on Friday, Nov. 7, at Faith Community United Church of Christ, 2023 Route 176 in Prairie Grove, beginning at 10:45 a.m., The guest speaker is Nancy McCarty, executive director of Music Theatre Workshop (MTW); she also serves as production manager and art director for all MTW productions. MTW is a nonprofit company dedicated to positive youth development through the arts.

CWU of the Barrington Area continues its prison ministry by inviting attendees to bring a gift/donation of new large-size panties, new or clean gently-used bras in all sizes, and white socks. Ten Thousand Villages will be displaying handmade, fairly-traded crafts available for purchase. There will also be an agape luncheon after the service; attendees are asked to bring a sandwich and piece of fruit to share. For more information, call (847) 540-5634.

Christian Life Church 400 E. Gregory St., Mount Prospect, Women's Ministry is hosting its Annual Campfire Night, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22. Join the women of CLC as we gather around the campfire (in the CLC gym). There will be a great time of fellowship, singing and good food. Two women will share about the miracles God performed in their lives. Invite a friend. A freewill offering will be taken. Call the church office at (847) 259-3090, ext. 10.

The fall session of the Ladies Bible class will be on Wednesday mornings, at 9:30 a.m. in Bartz Hall at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights, studying the book of Acts.

Also, a Women's Bible Sharing will continue Tuesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the sanctuary in the LifeLight series with the book of Joshua.

In addition, at 8:15 a.m. Friday mornings, women will meet in the Board Room to start up with the book "Revolutionary Generosity" in conjunction with the other small groups in the church. This group is open to women of all ages.

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.

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. acchurch.org.

Piecemakers Quilting Ministry holds monthly "bees" at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. They are starting the season stitching "bell pulls." These narrow quilts can be done by hand or machine. No bell is required. Piecemakers welcomes people who sew, quilt or wish they could. Call the church office for more details, (847) 255-5112.