Cook County faith

Deadline for submissions is noon Tuesday. Due to space limitations, not all "Your Faith" items are listed here. The complete column appears on the Daily Herald Web site. Visit dailyherald.com, go to "7-day search," top right, and type "your faith."

Adult education

The Ministry of New Beginnings, part of the Phoenix Group, is a 31-year-old, Catholic-oriented, nondenominational social support organization for separated, divorced, widowed and single persons. Meetings are 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. For details, call (847) 891-1220.

St. Hubert Job and Networking Ministry, 729 Grand Canyon Blvd., Hoffman Estates, offers a Job & Networking Ministry which is nondenominational, free and open to all occupations. Learn the fundamentals of careering and get an in-depth knowledge from the seminars and meetings and career topic events offered. For a calendar or more information, call Bob Podgorski at (847) 925-6005.

Holy Family Catholic Community, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness, will host a speaker series called Theology on Tap. This educational series will be presented by inspiring and challenging speakers who will lead discussions to explore young adult issues and questions. Gather on Mondays at 7 p.m. for food and conversation. The topics are: July 21, "Spirituality in Action: Are We Walking the Talk?" present by Ms. Keara Coughlin; July 28, "Sin, Evil and Grace" presented by Fr. Steve Newton; Aug. 4, "Who Was Oscar Romero?" For information, call the parish office at (847) 359-0042.

Weekly, moderated current events discussions are held at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church on Sunday mornings from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. in Room 5 at the north end of the building. New participants may request future e-mail information on suggested readings. The following topics are scheduled for July:

• July 20: Topic to be determined by participants during the prior week.

• July 27: The Politics of Natural Disasters

Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee. Directions may be obtained at www.ccuu.org under "visitors" or by phoning (847) 359-8440.

Adult VBS will meet Aug. 4-7 at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., the same time as the children's VBS program. Dinner will be available from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The adult class will be led by Robb Micek and will reflect the overall theme but with a more in-depth look. How much time do you spend looking over your backyard fence? For information and to register call the church office at (847) 398-0770 or visit www.kingswoodumc.com.

Have you ever resolved to read the entire Bible cover to cover only to find yourself bogged down after a couple of days? St. Stephen Protomartyr Catholic Parish, 1280 Prospect Ave., Des Plaines, will host the 24-week Great Adventure Bible Timeline Story developed by Jeff Cavins.

The program will be covered in three, seven to eight session "semesters" from mid- September through mid-May. Sessions will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays led by Deacon Tony Towey. The same program will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. The two-hour sessions will begin Sept. 16 and 17. The program begins with Genesis continues with Exodus and the historical books of the Old Testament and finishes with the Gospel of Luke and The Acts of the Apostles. The total cost of materials for the three semesters is $40.

A 30-minute preview of this program will be at 4 p.m. Sept. 6 and 9 a.m. Sept. 7 in the school library. Samples of the DVD contents and workbooks will be available for review and purchase. For details, contact Deacon Tony at (847) 699-8268 or ajtowey@juno.com.

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

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

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

"Doubting Thomas" Conversation consisting of stimulating discussion of spiritual questions will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. July 20 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. Weather and mosquitoes permitting, the conversations will be held outdoors around the camp fire.

The question "Why does religion cause so many problems?" will be explored. In case of inclement weather or voracious insects, the conversations will be moved indoors. For information, check www.CongUCC.org or call (847) 392-6650 for additional information.

"A New Earth": Awakening to Your Life's Purposes" by Eckhart Tolle will be discussed at 9:45 a.m. Sundays beginning July 20 at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Discussions will include "What is Truth?" "Who Is God?" "Evil: Is It Real?" "The Real Jesus," and "How Do I Know the Bible is the Book?" For details, call (847) 253-4839.

The Adult Bible Fellowships at First Baptist Church of Arlington Heights are offering four practical Bible studies this summer. One of the series is a verse-by-verse study of the Old Testament books of Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon called "Under the Sun." Another of the Adult Bible Fellowships is taking a look at the biblical reasons behind the Baptist Distinctives. A third group of adults are discussing the topic of "hospitality" from Scriptures and the last of the four options is a continuation of lessons from the New Testament book of II Peter.

These studies meet at 9 a.m. Sunday mornings at the church, 1211 W. Campbell St., a few blocks west of downtown Arlington Heights. For information, contact the church at fbc.ah@juno.com or (847) 392-1712, www.fbcah.org. The public is invited. No reservations necessary.

Faith and Fiction, a book club for the religious and irreligious alike, meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Sundays at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. Readers should obtain their own copies of the book to be discussed. Call the church office, (847) 255-5112, for registration and location. Upcoming books are:

• July 20: "Change of Heart" by Jodi Picoult

• Aug. 17: "A Prayer for Owen Meany" by John Irving

First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, offers Coffee Klatsch, a friendly casual gathering for coffee and conversation, at 7:15 p.m. Wednesdays: July 23 and 30 at Biggby Coffee (formerly "Beaners"), 21 S. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights; and Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27 - call the church office for location, (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org.

Children, teens

Living Lord Lutheran Preschool will offer three separate summer camps. All camps are open to children age 3-5 years (entering kindergarten in the fall) and will be held from 9-11:30 a.m. Mondays-Thursdays. Remaining camp week is Aug. 11-14. For more information or to register, contact Nancy Collins at (630) 830-7158 or send an e-mail to nancy.collins@livinglordlutheran.org. A minimum of 10 children per week are required to run each camp. For more preschool information, visit the preschool page at www.livinglordlutheran.org. Living Lord Preschool is located at 1044 Congress Drive, just south of Stearns Road on Route 59.

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.

St. Hubert Catholic School, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates, continues registration for new students for the upcoming 2008-09 school year for preschool, kindergarten, first- through sixth-grade elementary, and seventh- and eighth-grade junior high. New to the 2008-09 school year will be a five-day, full-day combined 3- and 4-year-old preschool program, in addition to the current half-day early childhood program offerings. (847) 885-7702.

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

The Big Barn Preschool, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, has openings for its special summer program and 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. Call Mary Fisher, director, at (847) 895-3257.

The Community Church of Barrington welcomes area youth to participate in its Kids Who Rock Christ group. Led by Youth Pastor Ashley Barlow, kids can experience a lot of fun, fellowship, and food on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For information, contact Youth Pastor Ashley Barlow at Ashley.barlow@garrett.edu or (847) 381-1294. The Community Church of Barrington is at 407 S Grove Ave., Barrington.

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 to request information or a tour.

Christ the King Lutheran Church, 100 W. Michigan Ave., Palatine, offers summer camp for kids ages 3 to 6 in August. The theme is "B.O.O.T. Camp 2008: Bible stories, Outdoor fun, Open play, and Time with friends." The staff includes Valerie Schultz, Christ the King preschool director. The next camp is Aug. 11-15 from 9:30 a.m.-noon. The fee is $75/week. Register by calling (847) 358-0230 or visit www.ByFaithAlone.org.

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; send e-mail to preschool@ByFaithAlone.org or visit ByFaithAlone.org.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1190 N. Hicks Road, Palatine, is having a SportsLife Camp from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 11-14 for 6- to 11-year-olds. The theme is "Just Jump." Cost for the camp is $70. For the main focus, you can choose from basketball/street hockey, dance/cheerleading, soccer/ultimate Frisbee or arts extravaganza. Stop by the church or call (847) 359-3451 for information.

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

"Undefeated" Sports Camp 2008 will meet at Our Saviour Evangelical Free Church, 300 S. Schoenbeck Road in Wheeling, from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. July 28 to Aug. 1 for kids ages 4 to 12 (must be 4 by Jan. 1, 2008). Kids choose from coed soccer, basketball or girls' cheerleading. The 4- and 5-year-olds will work on basic sports skills. Kids will also learn how to meet the challenges of life through a relationship with Jesus Christ. High-energy music, excellent Bible teaching and lots of fun. Call church office at (847) 459-4440, ext. 224, to register.

Registration for the 20082-09 school year for the Kingswood Parent's Day Out program has begun. Children must be 2 or 3 years of age by September 1, 2008 to enroll. If space permits, children will be accepted during the school year as they reach the age of 2 and 3.

Class time is from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Children attend either a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday class. Parent's may enroll their child/children for one day per week. Class size is limited to 16 children. The first day of class starts the week of Sept. 2.

Participants in the class pay a monthly tuition fee along with a $25 nonrefundable registration fee which is due at time of registration. The monthly tuition fee is as follows: Tuesday-$95, Wednesday-$100, Thursday-$95, Friday-$95.

Questions and applications will be received by Barb Symonds, minister of children and family life at (847) 398-0770, ext. 16. Kingswood United Methodist Church is at 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, has started the 2009 Confirmation Class. If you have children between the age of 12 to 14 who would like to be enrolled in the class, call the church office. (847) 272-2246. The confirmation class is held on Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. starting Aug. 24. St. Peter is affiliated with the United Church of Christ.

Chabad Community Hebrew School (CCHS) of Northbrook is offering "Aleph Champ," a cutting-edge Hebrew reading program. Modeled after the karate/martial arts motivational system, it works by dividing different reading skills into levels defined by color. Students understand that their teacher is a black aleph champion and their goal is to reach that level. Private tutoring for bar/bat mitzvah prep available upon request. For more information, visit Northbrook

HebrewSchool.com or call (847) 564-8770

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

Applications for SportsLife Summer Camp are now available for the July 28-31 program at First United Methodist Church in Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. Children entering first through fifth grades in fall 2008 are invited to participate. Events for the week include soccer, basketball, street hockey, cheerleading and dance, arts extravaganza and more. Children may also participate in all the sideshow events such as the obstacle course, Hacky Sack, break dancing lessons and tennis ball mania.

This camp is filled with physical activity, Bible-based learning, singing, friendships, sports, arts and fun. The camp will meet from 5:15-8:30 p.m. Registration includes a T-shirt and costs $40 per person. (847) 255-5112, www.ahfumc.org

First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights will offer the following junior high and senior high summer activities:

• Silly Olympics Competition: 6-8 p.m. Aug. 17.

For more information, call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org. First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights is at 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights.

SportsLife Camp applications are available for the July 21-24 program at Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Children first to fifth grade in fall 2008 are invited to an innovative, faith-based sports and arts program that runs from 9 a.m. to noon each day. Registration, which includes a T-shirt, costs $25. For more information or to register, visit sportslifecamps.com or call Jim Harbke at (847) 253-4839.

A Summer Music Camp, featuring selections from "Godspell" will be offered from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 4-8 at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. Performance will be Aug. 10 during the 9:30 a.m. worship celebration. Open to those who have completed kindergarten through senior high school. Cost: $45.00 per person. Led by the Alex DeTogne and the staff of Setting the Stage Children's Theatre. Call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org.

Family

A coalition of churches, organizations, and businesses are organizing a free Neighborhood Fest featuring live entertainment, games and prizes, food, blood drive, pet rescue and more from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 26 at Living Christ Lutheran Church lot, 1402 Arlington Drive, Hanover Park.

The purpose is to bring together a very diverse community for an afternoon of wholesome family fun and to bring a greater awareness of the resources available to them.

St. Andrew U.M.C. hosts its Annual Cornfest from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 2. Brats or barbecued pork, hot dogs, soda and "all the sweetest Illinois corn you can eat" will be served. There also will be music, bake sale, children's games, fire trucks, paramedic squad, and more. St. Andrew United Methodist Church is at 250 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream. (630) 653-6117.

Potluck and Fellowship is from 6 to 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month at the Community Church of Barrington, 407 S Grove Ave., Barrington. Due to the kitchen remodel, bring your own plate/fork/drink. For details, call (847) 381-1294.

Congregation Beth Judea invites the community to welcome Shabbat with other families who have young children in a relaxed, fun and child-friendly atmosphere at the synagogue at Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. The Families with Young Children Committee will hold its regular services at 6:30 p.m. on the second Friday of the month for a 30-minute Tot Shabbat session with. Debbie Frager, a teacher in the Board of Jewish Education Early Childhood Centers, who is also a Beth Judea congregant. The group will then enjoy their own Oneg Shabbat. For further information, call the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 and leave a message for Debbie Frager You need not be a member of Beth Judea to join the many activities of the Families With Young Children group.

A trip to Magic Waters near Rockford is offered to families July 19 by St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview. The trip leave St. Philip at 9 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Cost is $15 per person. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

• Another trip, to "Ignite Chicago," an all-day Christian rock concert at the Schaumburg Flyers baseball Stadium is offered July 20, leaving St. Philip at 11:30 a.m. Cost is about $25-$30, depending on the number of people.

Congregation Beth Judea will host its 10th Annual BBQ/Picnic and Shabbat Under the Stars Service Aug. 22 on the grounds of the synagogue, at Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

Join the congregation at 6 p.m. for an outdoor BBQ/picnic, to be followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat Service Under the Stars at 7 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blankets if you wish; dress comfortably. In case of inclement weather, the picnic will move indoors.

Kosher BBQ cost: $10/adult; $7/child (3-12); under 3/free; family (household)/$30. Vegetarian meals are available upon request.

Come to the outdoor service even if you cannot attend the dinner. Prospective members are welcome. RSVP to the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777 for dinner reservations by Aug. 15. Visit the Beth Judea Web site at www.BethJudea.org for membership information about Beth Judea, a Conservative synagogue.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a Family Movie Night, showing "Shrek" from 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 27. The free event includes pizza, snacks and refreshments. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, offers a free meal and fellowship from 5:30-6:30 p.m. July 29 in Fellowship Hall. There will be a play area/nursery for the children, goody bags to take home, clothes closet access and blood pressure checks. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info

People are invited to stop by for a free ice cream sundae July 20 at North Northfield United Methodist Church, at Sanders and Dundee in Northbrook. The event will begin at about 11:10 a.m. following the Sunday morning church service. The ice cream and other baked goods will be served outside, or in the church's fellowship hall if the weather is inclement. The public is also invited to attend the church service, which begins at 10 a.m. For more information, call (847) 272-2250 or visit the church's Web site at www.northnorthfield.org.

Fundraisers

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

St. Peter Lutheran School in Schaumburg, invites everyone to purchase Market Day products for its summer sale. It will run throughout July, and August. Look online to order at wwww.marketday.com. Questions, call Lorri Retzer at (847) 312-5334.

Living Faith Church in Barrington will hold its third annual golf outing, "Tee Up for Victory," Aug. 9 at Highland Woods Golf Course, 2775 N. Ela Road, Hoffman Estates. Check-in is from 11-11:45 a.m. Shotgun starts at 12:30 p.m. Golf tickets cost $125 and include golf, cart, range pass, dinner, beverage and prizes. Deadline for registration is July 26. For tickets and information, call (847) 382-1830.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will have a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 25-26. Drop-off times are 6-9 p.m. July 21-24. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

The Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Judea will host its annual rummage sale from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 3 in the Beth Judea Social Hall. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

The Sisterhood will be accepting gently used clothing and household goods beginning July 27 through Aug. 1. No items will be accepted during the day of the rummage sale. Tax receipts will be available.

They will be accepting clean clothing, jewelry, belts, hats and scarves, small household goods, small appliances, small furniture, books and toys. They will not accept bathing suits, socks, underwear, computer hardware, or large furniture and appliances.

Proceeds from the rummage sale will help fund many of the synagogue and youth activities. For further information and directions, call the synagogue office at (847) 634-0777.

The Men's Club of Congregation Beth Judea of Long Grove will host its 13th annual golf outing Aug. 24 at the Buffalo Grove Golf Club, 48 Raupp Boulevard, Buffalo Grove. First tee off will be at 11:30 a.m. New this year will be a Handicap Scramble (come as a foursome or the Men's Club will arrange one). Handicap: adjusting the scores by an amount that will even out the scores of the groups. Scramble: golfer takes the best shot and everyone in the group plays from that spot and the same with the following shots.

In addition to 18 holes of golf with an electric cart, there will be a 7 p.m. dinner at Lou Malnati's. Golfers, nongolfers and businesses can sponsor a hole for $100. The cost for golf and dinner is $95 per person; if you pay by July 24, the cost is only $90. Dinner only for adults is $20 and $5 for kids.

The proceeds from the Memorial Golf Outing go directly to the Jack Rizman Memorial Fund, which is used to provide Jewish musical concerts and programs for Beth Judea and the local community.

To register or for more information, leave a message for Men's Club Golf Outing Chairperson Chuck Walcer, at the Beth Judea office at (847) 634-0777. Or you can send a check to Congregation Beth Judea Men's Club at 5304 RFD, Long Grove, IL 60047 - Attention: Chuck Walcer.

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

Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, will be sending 19 youths and four adults to Toronto, Canada, this summer to serve the urban poor. The group is in need of support. The youth are selling a stock share, which is also a ticket to the Stockholders Banquet on Sept. 14 in fellowship hall. The students will share their experiences from the trip with everyone in attendance at the banquet. The stock shares are $15 each. Children under 12 may attend the banquet for free. Everyone is welcome to participate in this program. For information, contact Pastor Leslie Williamson at (847) 827-6656 or send e-mail addressed to lesliewilliamson@ameritech.net.

Local residents are invited to sign up for a sales spot at a Community Garage Sale to be held July 19 at Congregational UCC, 1001 Kirchoff Road in Arlington Heights. No fee to participate; Sellers keep all proceeds from their sales booth. For information, call (847) 392-6650.

Lectures, seminars

Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will host "Mining the National Archives," at 2 p.m. July 27 at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. Ginger Frere, of Information Diggers and a reference librarian in local and family history, will answer the questions: What's in the archives that I can't find online? 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. Visit www.jewishgen.org/jgsi or phone (312) 666-0100.

With the high holidays around the corner, Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook presents a Hebrew Reading Crash Course.

The course for beginners with little or no knowledge of the Hebrew language, will give you the basic reading skills you have always wanted. Review class also available.

It is offered at 8 p.m. six Thursdays beginning Aug. 21. Preregistration required. Fee is $36. It is at Lubavitch Chabad of Northbrook 755 Huehl Road (corner Dundee), Northbrook. For information and registration, call (847) 564-8770 or www.ChabadNorthbrook.com

A guided meditation to connect with our guardian angel, healing angels, and beings from the angelic realm who support us will be at 7 p.m. July 23 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. This meditation time is a time of union with the angelic realm, requesting guidance and healing love in assisting each of us to release old pain, issues, and imbalance within ourselves and our lives. Call (847) 297-0997 to register or if you have questions.

Ever wonder what your nightly messages mean? "The Power of Dreams" class explores your dreams and what they mean. Join the class at 7 p.m. Aug. 6 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines, for this powerfully transformative class. Jennifer Childers of the School of Metaphysics facilitates. Call (847) 297-0997 to register or if you have questions.

Make your relationships better by using intuition. You can improve any relationship, be it a boss, co-worker, sibling, friend, and spouse if you know how to discipline your mind. "Intuitive Relationships" class will explore positive thinking, intuition, how to neutralize any experience and more. It meets at 7 p.m. Aug. 20 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Jennifer Childers of the School of Metaphysics facilitates. Call (847) 297-0997 to register or if you have questions.

Men's fellowship

Miscellaneous

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

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

A book review and discussion will be held at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 10 at Countryside Unitarian Universalist Church in Palatine. The book, "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver, is about local food and sustainable agriculture. People should use the north entrance. Countryside Church is handicap-accessible and is located at 1025 N. Smith Road in Palatine, between Northwest Highway and Dundee. A map can be found by going to the church's Web site ccuu@ccuu.org under "visitors."

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host AA Fourth Step Seminar from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 26 in the sanctuary. There is no cost. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

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 further information contact Executive Director Lisa Neiman, Education Director Anna Besser or Youth Director Aaron Polansky at the synagogue office (847) 634-0777 or check out Beth Judea's Web site at www.bethjudea.org.

The Rev. Dr. Margaret Gramley and Kingswood United Methodist Church are planning an 11-day spiritual and educational pilgrimage to Greece and Ephesus (Turkey) Nov. 5-15. The 11-day tour includes a three-day cruise. Cost is $2,799 per person in double occupancy (single add $699), round-trip cost out of Chicago. Not included are airport tax and fuel surcharges, tips, travel insurance and entrance visa to Turkey, cruise port charges and fuel surcharge. Brochures and registration information is available by contacting Gramley at (847) 398-0770 or margramley@sbcglobal.net.

St. Philip Lutheran Church, 1609 Pfingsten Road, Glenview, will host a blood drive from 8:30-11:30 a.m. July 29. Heartland Blood Center will have its mobile unit in the parking lot. (847) 998-1946, www.stphilip.info.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will have a Pickup Choir Aug. 3. Anyone is welcome to come at 9:20 a.m. to rehearse and join together to sing a familiar tune for the 10 o'clock worship service. You don't have to be a member of St. Peter to come to this service. (847) 272-2246.

A free yoga class will be offered from 9-10 a.m. Saturdays at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church, 1 W. Euclid Ave. (corner of Euclid and Route 83). This will be a beginning level class of hatha yoga. Bring your yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. (847) 259-3018.

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

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

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. For information, call the church at (847) 398-3362, ext. 318.

Holy Wanderers is an excursion ministry of First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave. Upcoming events are:

• Aug. 14: The Museum of Science and Industry. Depart church parking lot 8 a.m., return 3:30 p.m. Admission: seniors $22, adults $23. Van transportation $16 or use your free Metra ride if you're a senior. Lunch on your own tab. Stop by the church office to register or call and a form will be mailed to you. Call (847) 255-5112 or visit www.ahfumc.org.

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

Performances

Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, 1600 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, will offer a free Benefit Concert at 7 p.m. July 19. Come and hear the praise band, ember days, perform - as well as other local youth bands. Admission is free, but donations encouraged; all proceeds will benefit twloha, a nonprofit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, cutting and suicide. For information, call (847) 882-6116; or go www.orumc.org.

Come experience African and Korean traditional folk songs presented by the Jirani Children's Choir from Nairobi, Kenya during a special concert at 7 p.m. Aug. 3 at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove.

The choir is composed of 32 musically gifted children who have grown up in the Korogocho-Dandora slum in Nairobi, which is the poorest region in Kenya. Most of the children have nothing to eat and scour the nearby garbage dump for food. Many live in houses with no electricity and don't go to school because of a lack of money. Even the adults live on selling garbage collected from the dump. Jae Change Kim of Seouel Korea witnessed the desperate situation and began recruiting the children to start up a choir. Through music, these children are finding a way to help themselves and their community.

Ticket sales will be utilized to raise money for their tour and ongoing mission of bringing educational opportunities to children in poverty in Africa. The goal is to build a music school for the children of Korogorcho. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for children. For tickets to the performance at Kingswood, call the office at (847) 398-0770 or visit the Web site at www.kingswoodumc.com.

Congregation Beth Judea will have a barbecue at 6 p.m. Aug. 4 on the synagogue grounds, followed by a free concert by Israeli Scouts at 7 p.m.

The 2008 Tzofim Friendship Caravan, with Israeli Scouts will present a lively musical program with interactive activities. The concert is open to the public free of charge. Prospective members are welcome.

Barbecue cost: $10/adult; $7/ child (3-12); $30 family (household). Concert cost: Free. Please RSVP for the barbecue by July 31 to the synagogue office (847) 634-0777 or e-mail LNeiman@BethJudea.org. Beth Judea is located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove.

Cross & Crown Church at Hintz and Rand roads in Arlington Heights is having its 2nd annual WorshipFest 2008 from noon to 10 p.m. July 26 to celebrate what God is doing in its ministries and to raise funds to support them.

Bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the music. There will be various worship bands playing throughout the day as well as great food from area vendors and the C&C grill house. There will also be games and activities for children of all ages and great fellowship. Admittance is free. Donations and proceeds will be going to help the Ministry of Hope.

Cross & Crown began a ministry more than a year ago known as the Cross and Crown International Church Ministry of Hope, which seeks to help the under-resourced and homeless community in Arlington Heights and the surrounding area. On Saturdays they serve two full meals surrounding a service and fellowship beginning with set up at 8:30 a.m. and ending with fellowship after lunch until 2 p.m.

The ministry also supplies donated clothing, personal items and bicycles as well as financial assistance to individuals on a case-by-case basis.

Cross & Crown Church is at 1122 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. For details, call (847) 394-0362.

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.

• Aug. 5 at, 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy a Polish Program led by Daniela Kowalska and other members of the outreach team of St. John the Evangelist in Streamwood. Included will be Polish song, dance and worship.

• Aug. 22 at 2 p.m.: A Quarterly Memorial Service will be held honoring all those who have passed away. Vitas Hospice Chaplain Nicole Sassey will lead the service, and candle-lighting, special music and a time for sharing memories are included. Everyone is welcome from all faiths.

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

Upcoming special events include:

• July 20: After the 10:30 a.m. service, we will go out for lunch and a movie.

In addition, we will be joining St. Mark Lutheran Church for a mission trip late this fall to Mississippi to continue work on rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina. All ages and abilities are needed.

Please call ahead to reserve your spot for all events. Contact the church office at (847) 358-4600.

Special services

Congregation Kneseth Israel holds Shabbat service at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the synagogue, 330 Division St., Elgin. Religious school for prekindergarten to high school. Classes will resume in September. (847) 741-5656 or ckielgin.org.

The Tabernacle of David will hold Sabbath Worship Service at 11 a.m. July 19 at Comfort Suites, 2480 Bushwood Drive, Elgin For information, visit the Web site at www.hamishkandavid.org.

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

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

Our Saviour's United Methodist Church in Schaumburg will continue its 50th anniversary celebration at 9:30 a.m. July 20 when the congregation welcomes back the Rev. P. Devon Brown.

Brown was ordained in the African Methodist Episcopal Church during its bicentennial celebration of 1987 in Philadelphia, Penn. In that same year, Brown was appointed to Our Saviour's. While at Our Saviour's, he served as a very active, highly spirited associate pastor and youth coordinator. Brown is currently senior pastor at Faith Church in Chicago.

Please plan to stay after the service for appetizers and desserts and an opportunity for fellowship with Brown, his wife, Sharon, and their two children, Avery Rose and Lee Patrick.

Our Redeemer's United Methodist Church, 1600 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg, continues its 633 summer series, "Holy Spirit DNA," which examines the six names of God given in the Old Testament. 633 worship gatherings begin at 6:33 p.m. every Sunday evening through Aug. 10. For more information, call (847) 882-6116; or go www.orumc.org.

"God's Guaranteed Promises" will be the message by Dr. LeRoy Kennel at 10:30 a.m. July 20 at Christ Community Mennonite Church, 888 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. (847) 895-3676.

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

A Summer Sermon Series through Aug. 31 at the Community Church of Barrington, 407 S Grove Ave., are topics that were chosen by the congregation. Topics include "What is original sin and what does it have do with me?" "Is God keeping Score?" and "Is happiness overrated?"

The Rev. Patty Pipia, an ordained Unity minister, is starting a New Thought evening service at 5 p.m. July 20 at St. Paul United Church of Christ, 401 E. Main St. Barrington. The Sunday Lessons will begin with the metaphysical interpretation of the Parables of Jesus and how they relate to us in our everyday lives. There is also prayer meditation, and the silence as part of the service. Praise and worship music will be included. For more information, call (847) 845-8818 or go to www.RevPattyPipia.com.

Barrington United Methodist Church will have summer worship times through Labor Day. Summer Sunday worship services will be at 8 and 9:30 a.m. at 98 Algonquin Road (corner of Route 59) in Barrington. There will be children's church after the children's message at the 9:30 service for all preschoolers (age 3 and up) through fourth-graders. Professional nursery care for infants and toddlers is available at both services. (847) 836-5540 or www.BarringtonUMC.com.

St Paul United Church of Christ, Barrington, will begin its Sizzling Summer Sermon Series July 27. Services begin at 9:30 a.m. St Paul is at 401 E. Main St. If you miss one of the sermons on Sunday, you can still hear and see it online at stpauluccbarrington.org. For details, call (847) 381-0460.

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

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

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

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

Hope Lutheran Church, at Arlington Heights and Checker roads in Long Grove, announces its summer service times. Through Aug. 31, Hope Lutheran will offer a traditional worship service at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday and a contemporary worship service at 7 p.m. every Wednesday. The theme for all summer services will be "Today's Fruits of the Spirit." Everyone is welcome!

The Center for the New Humanity announces the move of its Sunday celebration services to the Spiritual Awakening Center at 1645 S. River Road, Suite No. 1 in Des Plaines. The service is at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (630) 532-1372 or visit www.thenewhumanity.org.

St. Peter Community Church, 2700 Willow Road, Northbrook, will hold Outdoor Services on the Patio (weather permitting) the second and fourth Sundays during the summer, at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend this casual service. All are also invited to food and fellowship time after the services July 27, Aug. 10 and 24.

Silent Unity Prayer Service will be held at 7 p.m. July 30 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Enjoy an evening of prayer, meditation, silence, music and singing. Freewill offering. Call (847) 297-0997 if you have questions.

The Lutheran Church of Martha and Mary announces its summer service schedule. A worship service will be held at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday through Labor Day weekend. Visitors are always welcome to attend. The church is located at 606 W. Golf Road. Call (847) 259-2568 for further information.

"The Gospel According To...," sermons addressing modern-day interpretations of Bible teachings, is the topic of a new series of messages to be presented by the Rev. Curt Hansen at Elk Grove Baptist Church. The series includes "The Gospel According to Hollywood (July 20), "The Gospel According to The Secret" (August 10), and "The Gospel According to Evolution" (August 17). Elk Grove Baptist's services are at 11 a.m. each Sunday at 801 Beisner Road, Elk Grove Village. For details, call (847) 593-8337 or visit elkgrovebaptistchurch.org.

Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S. Arlington Heights Road in Elk Grove Village, has added an 8 a.m. service on Sunday mornings through the summer. This casual service will be held outside in the courtyard on Sundays through Aug. 31. For information, call the church at (847) 437-2666 or visit www.christusvictoregv.org.

A traditional Silent Unity Prayer Service will be at 7 p.m. Aug. 27 at Unity Northwest Church, 259 E. Central Road, Des Plaines. Enjoy an evening of prayer, meditation, silence, and music. Give yourself the gift of this time for inner reflection and inner devotion to the Spirit of God within you. Freewill offering. Call (847) 297-0997 if you have questions.

The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights, announces the Summer Worship Schedule will be held through Sept. 7 with a single service at 9:30 a.m., using the liturgy "Now the Feast and Celebration." The services will be a blend of traditional and contemporary music. Outdoor services are planned for July 27 and Aug. 24. Everyone is invited to attend. For information, call (847) 870-8603.

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

Summer worship celebrations at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, will be at 9:30 a.m. Sundays through Aug. 31. One worship service only; Sunday school is also at 9:30 a.m. In addition, "Early Risers" informal outdoor worship service will be at 8 a.m. the fourth Sunday of each month during summer - July 27 and Aug. 24. Folding chairs will be provided, however, you are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. These Early Risers worship services are in addition to the regular 9:30 a.m. summer worship services. (847) 255-5112, www.ahfumc.org.

"God's Story, Our Story, My Story", a six-week series featuring stories of church life and member's faith, continues at 9:30 a.m. worship July 20 at Congregational United Church of Christ, 1001 Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights, with the commissioning of youth participating in a mission work trip to Zanesville, Ohio. www.CongUCC.org or (847) 392-6650.

Vacation Bible school

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church will offer Rainforest Adventure vacation Bible school for ages 2 to 12 July 28-Aug. 1. Sessions run from 9 to 11:30 a.m. each day. The church is located at 1800 S. Rodenburg Road, Schaumburg. For more information or to register for VBS, call (847) 524-9746 or register online at www.toolkit.thevbsplace.org/StJohnEvSchaumburg.

Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Hanover Park will host vacation Bible school for children in grades 1-6 July 21-25, with an evening program July 25. There is no charge. If interested, contact Karen Baldwin at karenbaldwin@wowway.com or Diane Galante at (630) 529-0780. For more information on the church, visit the Web site www.graceopchurch.org.

Vacation Bible School Rainforest Adventure will be hosted by St. Paul United Church of Christ, Community Church of Barrington, and Salem United Methodist Church in Barrington. All kids, 3 years through fifth grade, are welcome to participate. VBS will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 4-8 at St. Paul, 401 E. Main St. Cost is $25 per child with a maximum of $50 per family. Registration deadline is July 21, but classes are filling quickly, so sign up early to ensure a spot. For more information, call Lauri at (847) 526-4307 or Pastor Jana at (847) 381-0460.

Registration is underway for vacation Bible school, "God's Big Backyard," at Kingswood UMC, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove, for children age 4 through fifth grade. VBS is the week Aug. 4-7. The week wraps up Aug. 8 with an all-church ice cream social. Dinner is optional and will be offered Monday through Thursday evening.

The schedule for the week is: 5:45-6:30 p.m. dinner (Monday-Thursday-optional); 6:30-8:30 p.m. activity rotation (Monday-Thursday); 6:30-8:30 p.m. all-church ice cream social (Friday).

Price for VBS:$17 per child, $10 per adult or $55 for a family of four or more. Price for dinner: $2 per person per night. Price for ice cream social: $2 per person, attending and non-attending VBS participants. Registration forms are available through July 20.

Adult vacation Bible school will meet the same time the children's VBS program meets, Aug. 4-7. The adult class will be led by Robb Micek. The adult class will reflect the overall theme but with a more in-depth look.

For more information and to register, contact the church office at (847) 398-0770 or visit www.kingswoodumc.com.

Vacation Bible school will be held for children and adults of all ages at the Lutheran Church of Martha and Mary, 606 W. Golf Road. The theme is "God's Big Backyard" and classes will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. July 22-24. Bible study, crafts, song and more will be offered nightly. Call the church office at (847) 259-2568 to register.

Vacation Bible school will be held at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Mount Prospect the week of Aug. 3-8. The theme is "One" and will be led by college-aged counselors from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. The morning session (9-11:30 a.m.) is for children in preschool through fifth grade. In the afternoon, there will be service projects for junior high and high school students. Evening activities are planned for families and adults. Call the church office (847) 253-0631 for more information.

A Vacation Church School Beach Party, will be offered from 6-8:15 p.m. Aug. 4-7 at The South Church in Mount Prospect. Fun and faith for children preschool through fifth grade. $15 (cash or check) per child, which includes a T-shirt. Dinner will be served every night. For information, call The South Church at (847) 253-0501, or download a registration form at www.thesouthchurch.com. Mail registration form and fee to The South Church/VCS, 501 S. Emerson Street, Mount Prospect IL 60056 (must be received by July 25 to receive a T-shirt).

Women's programs

Join 11 other women Sept. 6-12 for a week of Christian fellowship, hikes, and gorgeous lodging in Minnesota's Sawtooth Mountains alongside Lake Superior's North Shore. Each day's trailside devotions and discussions are Bible-based and highlight aspects of God's creation. For details, contact TrailboundTrips@gmail.com, www.TrailboundTrips.com or (847) 381-9374.

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