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.

An in-depth Bible study on the book of Philippians will begin Monday, Oct. 13. Word Among Us' newest Bible study is a five-week class to be held at Harris Bank in Palatine at 6 a.m., St Matthew Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods at 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Instructor will be Tim Hetzner, president of Lutheran Church Charities and founder and author of Word Among Us Bible Studies, a national Bible Study Curriculum. To enroll, call (866) 455-6466 or enroll online by going to lutheranchurchcharities.org.

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.

Adult Hebrew classes are going to begin on Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. for Hebrew 101 and 8 to 9 p.m. for Hebrew 201 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.

Christian Life Church, 400 E. Gregory St., Mount Prospect is hosting a Special Parenting Seminar with Phil Phillips at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15. No matter your family situation or the age of your child, this seminar will be a tremendous help to you. A freewill offering will be taken. For more information, call the church office at (847) 259-3090 or visit christianlifechurch.org.

"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.

"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.

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

"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 at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Subsequent sessions in the four-part series will be at 4 p.m., Sundays, Oct. 26 and Nov. 9, and 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 16. For details, visit CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650.

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.

The Chai Center for Enrichment & Renewal offers "Snack Attack: Healthy or Not?" Explore the world of healthy snacks for Sukkot and beyond for ages K-5, with Perri Kramer, Michelle Perl and Dana Friedman, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Free to Temple Chai members, nonmembers, $10. R.S.V.P., (847) 537-1771, ext. 234 or thechaicenter@templechai.org.

Beth Judea's USY (United Synagogue Youth) will meet in the USY Youth Lounge for a Sukkah Hop from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14. Youths are asked to bring a jacket because they will be traveling outside. Cost: free for members; $10 for Jewish nonmembers. Bring money for the HA-HA Box. Dinner and desserts will be provided. Beth Judea (Conservative) is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. For information, contact Youth Director Aaron Polansky at (847) 634-0777, ext. 114, or e-mail him at YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

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.

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

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

Come celebrate fall with the entire family at Kingswood United Methodist Church's third annual Harvest Fest- Family Carnival and Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11. It's free and open to the community.

Activities include: petting zoo, games, food, pumpkin sale, bake sale and music. A craft show featuring a variety of local crafters will be held inside the church activity center. The Glory Fingers Puppet Team will put on a special performance of "Made to Love" in the sanctuary at 3 p.m. In addition, check out information on acupuncture, chiropractic services, depression screenings, free massages and more in our mini-health fair. Admission is free. Kingswood United Methodist Church is at 401 W. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove.

For more information, contact the church office at (847) 398-0770 or kingswoodumc.com.

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. 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.

The Presbyterian Women in the Church of the Cross will have its annual Fall Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the church, 475 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. For details, call (847) 885-1199.

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.

St. Theresa Women's Club will host a flower show, "Holiday Blooms," at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Dolan Center, 455 N. Benton St., Palatine. Floral demonstrations will be presented by Patti's Pretties Flower Shoppe of Palatine, Jewel-Osco on Dundee Road, Sylvia's Flowers of Arlington Heights and B.J. Florist of Roselle. Daniel Stober, horticulturist and award-winning floral designer, will narrate the show. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. For tickets and information, call Kathy at (847) 776-5176 or (312) 914-4290.

Volunteers unloaded nearly 1,700 pumpkins weighing 25,000 pounds on the front lawn of Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove, on Saturday, Sept. 27. The much-anticipated pumpkin patch 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. Kingswood is located at 401 W. Dundee Rd. in Buffalo Grove. 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. John Couples Club invites all artisans and crafters to exhibit at the Arts and Craft Festival from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in the recreation hall, 1101 Linneman Road, Mount Prospect. Call (847) 824-2603 daytime or (847) 299-2721 evenings after 5 p.m.

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.

The Northwest Community CROP Hunger Walk will step off Sunday, Oct. 12, for a walk around Mount Prospect neighborhoods. Rain or shine, many area residents are gearing up to join in the 10K walk to help stop hunger. The walk will begin and end at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 200 South Wille St., Mount Prospect. Registration starts at 1 p.m., with step-off at 1:30 p.m. For details, call Cindy Ashton at (847) 253-0631

Searching for a perfect pumpkin? Visit the Youth Pumpkin Patch at Park Ridge Community Church Oct. 11-31 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.

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.

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

The 2008 Chicago Catechetical Conference, "Called by Name: Transformed by the Word," will explore new ways to use sacred Scripture to teach the Word of God to Catholics of all ages on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 and 18, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont.

Designed for archdiocesan school principals, directors of religious education, catechists and youth, young adult and adult ministers, the conference is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Chicago's Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry and Office of Catholic Schools.

Friday's keynote address, "We are Called: The Word Can Transform Us," will be delivered at 9 a.m. by the Rev. Richard Fragomeni, director of the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, and associate professor of liturgy and preaching at Catholic Theological Union (CTU). A Spanish-language keynote address, "Living the Gospel Requires a Conversion," will be presented at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday by the Rev. Gary Riebe-Estrella, S.V.D. of CTU. Kenneth Doran, a national religion consultant with W.H. Sadlier Publishing Company, will address participants on Saturday morning on finding time to reflect with the Word with "May I Have a Word With You?"

Each day, attendees can take part in three enrichment sessions of their choice from among 55 topics in English, Spanish and Polish. Four English-only Catechist Certification Courses will also be offered over the two days. Mass will be celebrated each morning at 7:15 a.m., and the conference will close with Mass, celebrated by the Most Rev. Francis J. Kane, auxiliary bishop of Chicago, on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

To register, and for more information, visit www.catechesis-chicago.org.

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.

Dr. John Neafsey will speak on the topic "Transition: From Pain to New Life" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. This evening will offer an opportunity to explore potentials for new life in painful experiences of change and transition. John Neafsey is a practicing clinical psychologist who teaches in the areas of interdisciplinary studies and human rights in the department of theology at Loyola University Chicago. His book, "A Sacred Voice is Calling: Personal Vocation and Social Conscience," won two awards from the Catholic Press Association for the year 2006.

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.

Be our guest and "Meet Martin Luther" at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Des Plaines. The Rev. Norman Timmermann portrays the Reformer in costume, speaking in the first person to "focus the listener's attention as Luther appears to speak." Timmermann, pastor at Prince of Peace, Menomonee Falls, WI, has been portraying biblical characters for more than 20 years. The program is sponsored the Women's Guild who will provide refreshments. For more information, contact Bernice at (847) 825-4833.

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.

Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, will have an overview of the requirements to become a Licensed Unity Teacher from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. The overview will be co-presented by Rev. Diane Venzera, LUT Peggy Dhont, and LUT Jo Ann Ballard. They will review the requirements to graduate from the Spiritual Development Program, Leadership Development Program, and the testing and certification process. In addition, they will cover the four study programs which you can major in for your graduation. Call the church office at (847) 297-0997 to confirm your attendance.

The Rev. Russ Sorensen will present the program Background of New Thought at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14 at Unity Northwest Church. The fabric of New Thought will be examined.

Class can be taken for SDP credit, and are offered on a freewill offering basis. The books "Spirits in Rebellion" (Charles Braden) and "Friends in High Places: Third Edition" (Thomas Shepherd) are the course books but are not mandatory. (847) 297-0997, unityprospers.com. Unity Northwest Church is at 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines.

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.

Changing Attitudes, Saving Lives is a one-hour suicide prevention program presented by Dr. Cheryl Hazek of Interfaith Parish Support Services of Alexian Brothers. The program will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. It is open to everyone (support teams, high school youth, confirmation students, older adults, and the community). It is hosted by our Stephen Ministers. The QPR program offers an interactive presentation geared toward "gatekeepers" such as caregivers, youth ministers, teachers and others, those who are in a position to intervene to save the lives of older adults, or young people, or others who may considering suicide. For more information, call (847) 255-8700.

St. Simon's Episcopal Church will host a team from Protestants for the Common Good in a roundtable discussion on "Christianity and the Polling Booth" at 9 and 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. Discussion will include how our Christianity influences our secular role as voters. Registration is not necessary and all are welcome. St. Simon's is located at 717 Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights, adjacent to Northwest Community Hospital. For more information, visit the Web site at saintsimons.org or call (847) 259-2930.

Men's fellowship

Rinkey Dinks Christian Men will meet at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, at the Palm Court Restaurant, 1912 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights for lunch. Visitors are always welcome. Matt McDermott is the speaker. He is a senior organizer for United Power for Action & Justice, a broad-based organization in metropolitan Chicago. McDermott joined the organizing staff of United Power in 2002. For more information, contact Don Van Cleave, president Rinkey Dinks Christian Men, at (847) 934-3679.

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 Silver Jubilee Celebration Event" hosted by the Zoroastrian Center of Metropolitan Chicago will take place from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Zoroastrian Center of Metropolitan Chicago, Arbab Rustom Guiv Darbe Mehr, 8615 Meadowbrook Drive, Burr Ridge. All are welcome. This is a free event, which includes a forum, Living in Harmony with the Earth. A lunch will be provided and a pre-event ceremony is open for your observance. To R.S.V.P. or for more information, contact: RSVP@parliamentofreligions.org or Emily Chou (312) 629-2990, ext. 244.

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.

Festival of Nativities will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, and 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. View or purchase dozens of unique, handmade Nativities from over 25 developing countries. Also ornaments, angels, and unique gifts. (847) 895-3676.

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.

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 Monday-Friday, 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.

Holy Family Catholic Community will host Homecoming Weekend, Friday-Sunday, Oct. 17-19, with special Masses and a variety of events for all ages, including a Cabaret Night, 5K race to benefit WINGS, homecoming dinner dance and teen band concerts. Holy Family Homecoming is an opportunity for parishioners to encourage someone they know who might be looking for a faith home to come to Mass with them that weekend. It is also a time for people who have been away from the church to reconnect. The events will be held at the Holy Family campus, located at 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. The concerts and dinner-dance will make use of the 425-seat Multitorium in the new Brennan Center for Children, Youth and Families. Events include:

• Cabaret Night - Adult music ministers will sing show tunes and favorite contemporary songs, complimentary hospitality, a bake sale, and a cash beer and wine bar. Friday, Oct. 17; 7 p.m., Brennan Center Multitorium.

• 5K Home Run Race/Walk - The race benefits WINGS, a local organization that offers services to homeless and abused women and children. Saturday, Oct. 18; registration 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., race starts at 9 a.m. Online registration at www.wingsprogram.com.

• Homecoming Dinner Dance - An autumn-inspired catered dinner followed by an evening of rock 'n' roll music from the '60s and '70s. Tickets are $45 a person and may be purchased at the church or by calling Dee Selesky at (847) 907-3441. Saturday, Oct. 18; 6 p.m. cocktails, 7 p. m. dinner, Brennan Center Multitorium.

• Homecoming Family Festival - Mass followed by a family gathering and the Saint Scarecrow Festival in the church courtyard. Sunday, Oct. 19; 9 a.m.

•Teen Homecoming Night - Mass followed by a barbecue cookout in the courtyard and live band performances in the Multitorium. Sunday, Oct. 19; 4 p.m.

• Additional Homecoming Masses will be celebrated at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 7:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Sunday.

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. 12, 10:30 a.m.: Sermon "Loving Hearts, Helping Hands, Open Minds, Growing Spirits" which discusses making religious education a lifelong journey, the Rev. Krivchenia and Colleen Vahey (director of Countryside's religious education)

• Monday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m.: Christianity in Colonial America (discussion group)

• Wednesday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m.: Managing Your Money - teaching Palatine food pantry recipients helpful information

• 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. Oct 12, Nov. 9 and Dec 14 at the Catholic Charities Northwest Office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines; Wednesdays from 7 -9 p.m. Oct 15, 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.

The Chai Center for Enrichment & Renewal offers "Using the Body to Break Free: Yoga with Bruce Symonds," 7-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Using hatha yoga poses, chant and music, new and experienced yoga students will quiet the cognitive mind. Free to Temple Chai members, nonmembers, $10. R.S.V.P. (847) 537-1771, ext. 234 or thechaicenter@templechai.org.

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.

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 Chai Center for Enrichment & Renewal offers Weight Loss with Hypnosis with Katherine Anderson, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Temple Chai, 1670 Checker Road, Long Grove. Hypnosis is the perfect tool for re-educating one's unconscious mind, the part that creates cravings and impulses, to give you back a choice in what you eat. Free to Temple Chai members, nonmembers $10. R.S.V.P. to (847) 537-1771, ext. 234 or thechaicenter@templechai.org.

A Flu Clinic will be held at St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, from 9:15-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. The flu shots cost $22 and pneumonia shots cost $45. Check with your doctor before getting the pneumonia shot. Not for anyone younger than 18 or pregnant women. Cash, check or Medicare accepted. For more information, call the church office at (847) 272-2246.

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.

St. Martins Episcopal Church invites all pet lovers in the community to attend its annual Pet Blessing. The event will take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, in the gazebo garden. In addition to the blessing of the animals, there will be a demo of pet first aid and CPR by Shaggy Dog Enterprises, and a demo of pet massage by a pet massage therapist. A professional photographer will be on hand to record the event. St. Martins is located at 1095 Thacker St. in Des Plaines. (847) 824-2043

Twenty-one volunteers from eight Northwest suburbs gathered in Faith Hall, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Des Plaines, at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, to join forces, answering an e-mail plea put out by Dianna Bonfield, director of volunteers & disaster response, Lutheran Church Charities in Addison. Their purpose of the day was to give relief to five Immanuel families who were overwhelmed by flood woes. In the church parking lot was a LCC trailer loaded with supplies for tackling the job. Volunteers brought additional tools, such as wheelbarrows and a power washer.

After a breakfast served by Immanuel's Jackie Wynter, Liesel Schroeder, and Darlene Parkhurst, the volunteers donned masks and Tyvek protective clothing and fanned out to their various targets, all on or near the Des Plaines River. Their tasks ranged from hauling out saturated furnishings and removing wet wallboard, to pumping out water and sanitizing affected areas.

Taking a break only for lunch back at Immanuel, the workers put in a full day at their labors. Then a smaller crew returned the following Monday to finish work at two homes. Workers taking part came from Lutheran churches Lord of Life, LaFox; Good Shepherd, Elgin; Immanuel, Palatine; Immanuel, Freeport; St. John, Wheaton; Immanuel, Des Plaines; Living Christ, Arlington Heights; and Armitage Baptist, Chicago

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.

"Trashed," a movie examining the American waste stream, will be screened on Thursday, Oct. 16, at St. Raymond de Penafort Catholic Church as part of their ongoing environmental mission. The movie will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room with doors opening at 7 p.m. An open discussion will follow. St. Raymonds is located at 301 S. Ioka Ave, Mount Prospect. The Community Room can be accessed through the church's main entrance at Elmhurst and Lincoln avenues.

"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.

A Columbus Day-Fatima Day Celebration will be held Monday, 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 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

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.

Creation Festival-The Tour will be presented at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Life Changers International Church, 2500 Beverly Road, Hoffman Estates. Tickets cost $22.50 in advance; $20.50 for groups of 10 or more, plus one free; $27.50 day of event. Charge by phone at 800-965-9324 or look online at itickets.com.

"Good Vibrations! The Seven Metal Instruments of Tibet and Nepal" led by Rita Lopienski, licensed musical therapist, will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Gifts of the World, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Enjoy the sounds of gongs, chimes, cymbals, bells and singing bowls and handle and play these instruments. (847) 895-3676.

A concert with Lindsey Kane will be presented at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Saint Paul Lutheran Church, Mount Prospect, 100 S. School St., (847) 255-0332, saint-paul.org. Visiting from Austin, Texas, Lindsey Kane's music is a mixture of soft intimate vocals on the piano and gritty raw vocals on the guitar with an acoustic pop/rock feel.

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.

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 Sukkot Family service will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17; a Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor service 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.

Everyone is invited to join us as we decorate our sukkah at 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. Sukkot services will take place at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14. On Friday, Oct. 17, we will have Kabbalat Shabbat services followed by Pizza in the Hut. RSVP for the best kosher pizza in town at $6 per person.

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.

Willow Creek Community Church, with locations in South Barrington, DuPage County, McHenry County, the North Shore, and Chicago's Auditorium Theatre, turns 33 in October. One of the people who had an impact on Willow Creek was Chuck Girard. In the early 1970s, contemporary Christian music was brand new, and Chuck was one of a handful of people who helped lead the way. He will join Willow Creek on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12 for weekend services.

In honor of Willow's 33rd anniversary, a new guided experience, Discover Willow, will also open this weekend on the church's South Barrington campus. Discover Willow takes people through defining moments in Willow Creek's history and then assists people, if needed, in determining what the next step in their own spiritual journey might be.

Willow Creek Community Church is located at the corner of Barrington and Algonquin roads in South Barrington. Willow Creek holds three identical services each weekend. Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 9 and 11:15 a.m. For information, visit willowcreek.org or call (847) 765-5000.

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.

A special Shabbat dinner and service in honor of those families and individuals who have recently affiliated with Congregation Beth Judea will be held at the synagogue Friday, Oct. 17. Dinner will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. Cost: free for new members; $25 forages 12 and older; $12 for ages 6 to 11; $7 for ages 5 and younger. Vegetarian meals are available. Beth Judea is on Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0777 or BethJudea.org.

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.

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.

Christian Life Church, 400 E. Gregory, Mount Prospect is having Prophetic Services Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11 and 12. The Rev. Steve Sampson will be ministering at regular services at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, and at 8:30 and 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. Also, Sampson will minister at the Randall Road Campus in Elgin at 11:30 a.m. A free will offering will be taken. For further information, call the church office at (847) 259-3090 or go to the Web site at www.christianlifechurch.org.

"Hear the Voice of God" is the sermon topic for the 10:30 a.m. worship service, Sunday, Oct. 12, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The topic is part of a six-week sermon series, "Be Delivered," exploring lessons of deliverance found in the book of Exodus. Visitors are invited and welcome to attend. Children will attend Church School classes during adult worship. Nursery and child care are available for infants and toddlers. For more information, visit the Web site www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650.

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.

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.

Moms on the Run presents an event for young moms on from 7-9 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20 at the Orchard Evangelical Free Church at Douglas and Olive streets in Arlington Heights. A $5 fee includes a dessert extravaganza as the group listens to a nationally known speaker address the topic of "Romance Reenergized." You will learn new ideas to "date" your mate, the fun element of surprise, and the value of true love. Come and bring a friend. RSVP by Monday, Oct. 13 to Betsy Haraf at (847) 797-0511 or at bharaf@sbcglobal.net.

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.

Women of all ages are welcome to join us at the "well" for life-application discussions, socializing and, of course, coffee or tea. The discussion will take place from 8 to 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, in Room 8. We will be studying the book of Romans to discover new insights in Christian living. At the first gathering, Oct. 11, we'll review the first half of Romans and take a new look at chapters 8 and 9. On Nov. 8, we'll look at chapters 11 and 12. For details, call Patricia McClean at (847) 359-8544.