Elgin's First Congregational to host forums on faith and social issues

Beginning Sunday, Jan. 13, First Congregational Church of Elgin, 256 E. Chicago St., will host "Faith and …," a six-part series on the intersection of faith and key social issues.

In addition to the care of the environment being the focus of this weekend's two services, a Community Forum will be held at 9 a.m. in the church's fellowship hall with more detailed input and discussion.

The forum on Sunday, Jan. 13, will include a panel discussion featuring Bill Jones of the Elgin Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America; Erik Anderson, a commissioner on the Elgin Sustainability Commission; and Sandra Kaptain, a member of the Valley of the Fox Sierra Club.

Each week, panels representing local nonprofit organizations, government officials and advocacy groups will discuss the issue at hand with an emphasis on local action.

On Jan. 20, the panel on "Income Inequality and Anti-Poverty" will feature Sheila Jackson of Food for Greater Elgin; Deb Dempsey of the Kane County Regional Office of Education's Equal Chance Program; and John Steffen, a church member and Elgin City Councilman.

Other Sunday topics will include "Race and Racism," "Women in Church and Society," "GLBTQ Issues," and "Mental Health, Suicide and Bullying."

Worship is at 8:15 and 10:15 a.m. More information can be found on the church's Facebook page or website at www.fcc-elgin.org or by calling the church at (847) 741-4045. Child care is provided. The church is accessible to people with disabilities.