Church Events in 2009

This page preserves links to church events that have already occurred in 2009 for reference purposes. Look at the News and Events page for future events and the sidebar for archives of previous years.

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23rd Annual Family Christmas Caroling Event

Sunday, December 20, 2:00pm

Gather at the church on December 20th at 2:00pm for a fun, spirit filled afternoon of Christmas Caroling to our FUMC homebound family. We will return to the Roose's for snacks, hot beverages, and fellowship at about 5:00 pm.

Bring family and friends.

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Christmas Through The Years

December 9, 2009

Young At Heart, a group of senior adults, are planning to have lunch and see a musical at White Fence Farm on Wednesday, December 9th. Lunch, the traditional chicken dinner, will be served at noon followed by the Mestas Family presenting a musical program, "Christmas Through the Years."

We will car pool to White Fence Farm and will meet in the Church Parking lot at 11:15am. The total cost for this event is $34.00 per person. You may sign up for this activity on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or call Marilou Welch at church.

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UMW Christmas Tea

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

All women of the church are invited to Fellowship Hall for a Christmas Tea on December 8 at 1:00pm. Join us for tea, cookies, and fellowship and see what the United Methodist Women is all about!

United Methodist Women

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Please mark your calendars and invite family and friends to attend the Chancel Choir cantata on Sunday, December 6th at the 9:30 and 11:00am services. The musical offerings will include the favorite A Ceremony of Carols by English composer Benjamin Britten and a delightful grouping Carols of Lullabies by Conrad Susa. The Susa work features familiar and new carols from throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

The 65 voice Chancel Choir is directed by Diane Hires and accompanied by Pattie Barnes. In preparation, Alexandra Driscoll has served as Spanish dialect coach. Featured instrumentalists will include Maragarite Lynn Williams on harp, Justin Kono on marimba and vibraphone, and Taylor Schobel on guitar.

Please plan to join this festive service to prepare your hearts and minds for the joys of the Advent season. With no admission charge, you can give neighbors and friends a gift they can take with them throughout the Christmas season.

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Care and Share

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Each year four area churches, including First United Methodist, provide 33 Head Start families with essential holiday items. (Head Start is a national school readiness program in the United States that provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families). Each family receives a Holiday Meal Box and a laundry basket filled with toiletries/cleaning supplies. In addition, parents receive a set of sheets or towels and each child receives clothing and toy.

If you are interested in helping to support a Head Start family or participate in any way (there are opportunities to provide cookies or juice for the party) please stop by the table in the Parlor on Sundays or contact Tiana Cigrand at through the church office. The party is scheduled for Saturday, December 5th, from 1 to 3pm.

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Operation: Basic Needs

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Operation: Basic Needs is the "Packing Party" sponsored by the 5th/6th Grade Sunday School Class. We are inviting all church members, family, and friends to come make fleece scarves and pack boxes in the Gym on Saturday, December 5th, from 3-5pm. The boxes will then go to an area agency to be distributed to children in need. You can also help the Operation by donating money for the purchase of fleece and school supplies. We will be accepting these items in the church office now through December 5th.

Please consider taking some time during this busy holiday season and help those in need! Any questions contact Leslie Ebersold through the church office (630-968-7120).

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Alternative Gift Fair

Sundays in Advent

What do you give the person with everything? Well, a gift from our Advent Alternative Gift Fair! Every Sunday until Christmas, the Missions work area will be in the Parlor offering a range of Christmas gifts to bring not just a smile to your loved one's face but also justice and hope to people far away.

Choose from Heifer International's catalog, from the Church World Service range, or buy products from our sisters in the UPAVIM co-operative, Guatemala City. These Christmas gifts change the world!

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It's our great privilege to be hosting Rev. Dr. Tony Campolo here, on the weekend of November 21st-22nd. Dr. Campolo is one of the country’s most respected Christian leaders, and enjoys an international ministry and reputation. He is a sociology professor, prolific author, President of the Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education, and a former adviser to President Bill Clinton.

On Saturday 21st, Dr. Campolo will speak on the theme Be Doers of the Word. In his writing and teaching, he challenges the contemporary Church to hold together both social justice and individual conversion, and to recall God's "bias to the poor." We can expect him to stir, inspire and challenge us too.

Dr. Campolo will also preach at the 9:30 and 11:00 services on Sunday November 22nd.

| Registration |

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Youth Ministries Fundraiser

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

The Youth Mission Team invite you to eat at Buona Beef in Darien on Tuesday, November 17. Download the coupon below and print it off or pick one up from the church office and 15-20% of your bill will go to support youth ministries at First United.

Thank You for your help! Bon Appetit!

|Buona Beef Coupon|

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The Giving Tree

The Giving Tree will be up in the Parlor beginning Sunday, November 15th. You have the opportunity to choose tags from several agencies in order to purchase gifts for both children and adults. The tags are marked with the name or initials of the agency.

The gifts for all the agencies other than PADS should be returned with the tags firmly attached NO LATER THAN NOON ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6th. Gifts for PADS will continue to be collected into December.

Over 300 gifts go to needy children, youth, and adults in our township and across the Northern Illinois Conference. We hope that you will be able to help.

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Native Americans

Tales and Treasures

November 11, 2009

The Young At Heart group for senior adults will meet on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 for lunch and program. We meet in Chapel Hall at noon for lunch and then look forward to hearing Peg Schultz speak to us on "Native Americans - Tales and Treasures. How the American Indian' culture has effected my life."

Cost is $10.00 per person. You may sign up for this activity on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or call Marilou Welch at church.

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Meet the Author

Servitude and Freedom

Rev. Jonathan Dean
Sunday, November 8, 2009

The Adult Education work area invites you to join us as we celebrate the recent publication of Rev. Jonathan Dean's first book. After each worship service on Sunday, November 8th, punch and cake will be served in the Parlor and you will have the opportunity to purchase a copy of Servitude and Freedom: Reading the Christian Tradition. Jonathan will be preaching at all three services and will be available for book signing at noon.

Servitude and Freedom shows how a study of Christian history and tradition can help us engage with the most important and divisive issues affecting us today, such as sexuality, environmentalism, religious violence, and ecumenism. Next year, during Lent, Jonathan will lead a four week class where you get the chance to challenge, grill and critique the author!

You can read Jonathan's reflections on a wide range of topics in his new blog, A Soul in Paraphrase.

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Visit of the UPAVIMa's

November 2-10, 2009

Five delegates from Unidas Para Vive Mejor (UPAVIM), our sister Christian organization in Guatemala, were finally granted visas, and will be visiting us from November 2 to 10. You have heard about the work they are doing to improve lives in their community. Now you have a chance to meet these strong, yet humble women. The Guatemala Connection committee is providing two opportunities for you to meet them. Please stop by to say hello. Though their native language is Spanish, a smile and a simple handshake will mean a lot. If you would like to talk with them about their work, families and what life is like in Guatemala, interpreters will be on hand.

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Sweet Repeat Resale

Friday, October 23rd, 9am-2pm & 5pm-8pm
Saturday, October 24th 10am-12pm: $3 Bag Sale

Come and shop for clothing, housewares, jewelry, books, etc. Drop into the Sweets 'n Such Café for coffee and homebaked treats. All proceeds benefit the UMW missions that help women and children around the world

Donations

Gently used items can be dropped off in Fellowship Hall Monday thru Wednesday, October 19th–21st from 9am to 2pm and 6pm to 8pm.

Anyone who works a 2-hour shift on Sunday October 18th thru Wednesday October 21st can stay and enjoy a homemade hot lunch. Women, men, please come and bring a friend!! Contact the church office for details.

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Wednesday Faith Forum

Starting October 14, 2009

Wednesday Faith Forum is a small group for faith-seekers and all wanting to explore their faith journey with honesty, mutual respect and openness to one another. Rev. Jonathan Dean leads two groups, at 10:00am and 6:30pm respectively, who meet in Room 213 (our newly-refurbished Adult Education center) for discussions on books that can guide our reflections and sharing.

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Starting October, 2009

In the event that you are looking for a "new" way to participate in church this fall, JustFaith is forming new groups at Downers Grove First United Methodist Church for the 2009-2010 year. What does it mean for us to take up the cross today and follow Jesus? JustFaith is a call to claim the traditions of our faith (really not new at all!): compassion and community. A thirty-week formation program using books, videos, guest speakers, discussion, prayer, retreat and immersion experiences is designed to bring you to a new state of awareness and relationship with all of God's people, with a preference to the poor. Consider growing with others starting this fall in a small covenant group and discover what it means for you to love God and love one another.

There are groups forming on Tuesday day time, weeknight evenings and Sunday morning. Sign up in the Parlor on Sunday mornings or contact Sharon at (630) 968-7120.

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Islam in America after 9/11

September 20, 2009

We are honored to welcome Rev. Prof. Martin Forward of Aurora University back to DGFUMC. On Sunday, September 20th, at 12:30pm, Martin will give a presentation on Islam in America after 9/11. There will be time for discussion and questions.

Since arriving in Aurora in 2001, and especially after the attacks of September that year, Martin has been in great demand as a scholar of Islam, appearing on radio and TV, and writing in newspapers to offer expert witness. Martin's deep friendships and careful research across the religious spectrum inform his work and commentary. He is the author of several books and a widely-respected pioneer, in the UK and US, of interfaith dialog. Martin is an elder in the British Methodist Church.

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Starting September 20, 2009

We are pleased to offer a new Sunday School experience for adults. Foundations will meet at 9:30am in Room 213. We are hoping that it will be "a place to share, explore and inspire." We shall begin by watching and discussing the NOOMA video series. Members of the Adult Education work area will facilitate our conversations, beginning with Pastor Jonathan on September 20th.

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Wednesday Faith Forum

Starting September 16, 2009

Wednesday Faith Forum is a small group for faith-seekers and all wanting to explore their faith journey with honesty, mutual respect and openness to one another. Rev. Jonathan Dean leads two groups, at 10:00am and 6:30pm respectively, who meet in Room 213 (our newly-refurbished Adult Education center) for discussions on books that can guide our reflections and sharing.

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Please plan to bring one or more non-perishable items to church with you on Sunday, September 13th. All goods will be donated to the Southeast DuPage People’s Resource Center on Blackhawk Drive in Westmont. Our church staffs the pantry 2 Thursday nights a month and has witnessed firsthand the increased need in our community. The PRC is serving 22% more families than last year at this time.

If you can help in any way that morning, helping to organize donations in the Tower Room, carrying bags to the parking lot after the services, or driving the goods to the PRC at noon (stay to tour the facility and for refreshments), please contact Barry Vinyard through the church office to volunteer. Below is a list of urgently needed items. Thanks!

List of Critical Needs

• Baby Food
• Baby Formula
• Baked beans
• Brown paper grocery bags
• Cake Mixes
• Canned Frosting
• Canned Fruit
• Canned Juice/Juice boxes
• Canned Pasta (Spaghettio’s)
• Canned Vegetables
• Cereal
• Cleaning products
• Coffee
• Crackers
• Dried Pasta
• Hamburger Helper
• Jelly
• Larger Diapers size 4, 5, 6
• Laundry Detergent
• Paper towels
• Peanut Butter
• Rice
• Rice-a-roni
• Salsa
• Soup
• Spaghetti sauce
• Toilet Paper
• Toiletries-shampoo, deodorant, etc
• Tuna
• Ziploc bags

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Seventh Anniversary Celebration

September 9, 2009

The Young at Heart group for senior adults will be recognizing their 7th Anniversary when they meet on Wednesday, Septmeber 9. They will begin at noon with a planned potluck with each one attending bringing either a casserole, salad or dessert. The program will be presented by Fred and Sharon Moore "Precious Memories: an Appalachian Journey." This program features the music, history and humor of the Appalachians. You will be transported to the mountain cabin of Abner and Sarah Ferguson as they milepost their life together with stories and songs.

Cost will be a dish to pass plus $5.00. You may sign up for this activity on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or call Marilou Welch at church.

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Urban Village Church

A New Church Plant in Chicago

In worship on August 30th, we heard about a bold, inclusive, relevant new congregation preparing to launch in the city of Chicago. Rev. Trey Hall and Rev. Christian Coon, the United Methodist pastors who are leading the launch of Urban Village UMC, seek your prayers, contacts, and financial support. If you have colleagues, friends, children or grandchildren who live in the city and you think they might be at all interested, please email hall.trey@gmail.com. If you'd like to make a donation, mail your check made payable to "Northern Illinois Conference" with "Urban Village Church" in the memo line to:

Christian Coon
1338 S. Federal St. Unit P
Chicago, IL 60605

For more information about the church, visit the Urban Village Church's website.

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Village Greens Golf Course

August 29, 2009

This year, the Steve Kerr Memorial Golf Fore PADS will take place at the Village Greens Golf Course, on August 29, 2009. Play 9 or 18 Holes and then celebrate with dinner. Make your reservation today by downloading the registration form and handing it in to the Church Office. All proceeds support our PADS ministry.

If you don't play golf, join us for dinner and celebration anyway at Nonnies Pizza!

We are looking for hole sponsorships and prize donations. Please contact Diane Kerr for more information.

Please join us for a day of fun, fellowship and giving hope to our communities' most needy people.

| Registration Form |

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New Office Staff

Nikki Manternach

Communications Administrator

We welcome to our church staff Nikki Manternach, who is the new Communications Administrator. She is responsible for producing the Tower Bell, the Sunday bulletin, and other publicity about church life and events. She brings to her position a background in graphic design and five years experience in marketing.

Please extend a warm welcome to her when you visit the church office.

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National Championships of Cycling

Sunday, August 16, 2009

On Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16, the Village of Downers Grove will be hosting the National Championships of Cycling. On Sunday, August 16th, ALL access to church parking will be through the Grove Street Driveway. The Maple Avenue driveways will be closed. Access to Grove Street will be strictly from Carpenter Street.

| PDF Map|

In order to aid the parking lot attendants in identifying church members, please obtain the brightly colored "Church Member" sign available as a bulletin insert on Sundays or in the Church Office. Please place the sign in your car window on the day of the race. There will be Parking Lot Attendants on duty to direct traffic to help you park. Please follow their directions.

Thank you!

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Isle à la Cache Museum

August 12, 2009

The Young at Heart group for senior adults will tour the Isle à la Cache Museum in the Des Plaines River in Romeoville on Wednesday, August 12. This "Island of the Hiding Place" is better known as Isle a la Cache. The Museum was recently renovated and we will have a revealing look at the 1800s when French fur traders roamed the area to make a living and the native Potowatomi lived off the land. Our tour will begin at 10:00 AM. Later we will have lunch at the Pancake Cafe in Lemont. Cost per person will be $15.00.

You may make a reservation on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or call Marilou Welch at church.

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Sandals for Sudan

August 9, 2009

The Missions Work Area and the Children and Family Work Area are working together to help the people in Sudan, Africa. The mission project is to collect sandals, such as flip flops, beachwear etc. The children who attend Vacation Bible School this year will have a chance to donate a pair of sandals to help with this mission. The congregation will also have an opportunity to participate in this mission by bringing a pair of new sandals to church on Sunday, August 9th. All of the sandals collected will be dedicated that day in worship.

Let's work together and help improve the lives of the children and adults in the Sudan area with this very simple mission!

| Jombo Primary School, Sudan |

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Vacation Bible School

August 4-6, 2009
9 till Noon

All children entering kindergarten through 6th grade are invited to participate in the annual Vacation Bible School. The cost is $10 per child or $25 per family with three or more children. Registration materials are from the link below. Youth and adults are needed to be counselors.

Please contact John Smoke 630.968.7120 if you have any questions or would like to volunteer.

| Registration Form |

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DGFUMC on Facebook

First United is now on Facebook! This is a new forum for members and friends of the church to share experiences, plan mission activities, prepare for upcoming events, and discuss ideas that can invigorate us as a community of faith.

All are welcome!

| Facebook Page |

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Servitude and Freedom

Reading the Christian Tradition

Rev. Jonathan Dean

On July 31, 2009, SCM Canterbury Press will be publishing "Servitude and Freedom: Reading the Christian Tradition" by our associate pastor, Jonathan Dean. It shows how a study of Christian history and tradition can help us engage with the most important and divisive issues affecting us today, such as sexuality, environmentalism, religious violence, and ecumenism. You will be able to purchase it online when it is published.

You can read Jonathan's reflections on a wide range of topics in his new blog, A Soul in Paraphrase.

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Blessing of the Animals

Sunday, July 19, 2009

"All creatures great and small…
the Lord God made them all"

Join us—and our pets—as we celebrate God's wonderful creation and the gift of life in all its forms! Weather permitting, we shall worship outside in Fishel Park. This is a perfect opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to come with you to church. All God’s creatures, human and animal, are very welcome.

• Bring your own lawn chair
• All animals must be on a leash or in a carrier
• Bags for waste clean up and water will be provided
• A collection of animal supplies (dog or cat food, kitty litter) will be taken and donated to the West Suburban Humane Society

IN CASE OF INCLEMENT WEATHER: Normal Worship Service (without our animals) will be held in the Sanctuary at 10:00am

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Mission Trips to Rogers Park

The United Church of Rogers Park is a United Methodist Church at Ashland and Morse in Chicago. The name of the church came years ago when it was a united church having both United Church of Christ and United Methodist pastors. Rogers Park is a diverse community with great need. UCRP serves not only as a church but as a community center for the neighborhood. You may remember former DGFUMC member, Catiana McKay, who is now the senior pastor at United Church!

This year, DGFUMC is organizing two mission trips to Rogers Park for Junior High youth and Senior High youth.

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Bridge Board Garden Walk

July 11, 2009

Hope Among the Flowers is the theme of the third annual Downers Grove Garden Walk sponsored by the Bridge Board of First United Methodist Church, Downers Grove. The Walk features six unique private gardens throughout Downers Grove. Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension DuPage County will be available at several gardens to answer your gardening questions.

| Garden Walk Page|

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Drury Lane, Oak Brook

July 8, 2009

On Wednesday, July 8 we plan to carpool to Drury Lane, Oak Brook, for lunch and to see Pump Boys and Dinettes. Lunch and play will cost $37.85 per person. Those attending need to make a choice of entrée - "Baked Lemon Sole" or "Roast Sirloin of Beef."

You may make a reservation on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or call Marilou Welch at church.

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Wash and Worship

8th Annual Youth Car Wash

July 5 & August 23, 2009

The 8th Annual Youth Car Wash will take place on Sundays, July 5 and August 23, 8am-11:30am.

Buy tickets in the Parlor or at the car wash.

Cost: ANY donation

Proceeds to support the Youth Mission and Chapel Choir.

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PHYG Mission Trip

Putney and Edinburgh, UK

July 5-16, 2009

All former high school students (including this year's seniors) are invited to participate in this unique mission trip to the UK. Working with the Cathedral Camps organization, young people gain a sense of great achievement and empowerment. Volunteering can provide the opportunity to learn new skills, discover new interests and build on existing ones. It is a way to make a direct and positive difference to the things you care about.

In this year's trip, the group will be visiting St. Mary's Parish Church in Putney, London, and St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh.

| Mission Trip Details | Mission Trip Diary |

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Father's Day

Ice Cream Sundae

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Join the Membership Development Work Area for our Annual Father's Day Ice Cream Social! Enjoy free ice cream with toppings on this special day! The Father's Day Ice Cream Social will be held on the breezeway (porch between the Sanctuary and Chapel).

Bring the entire family for ice cream on this special day!

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Blood Drive

3:00-7:00pm, Monday, June 15, 2009

Heartland Blood Centers will be visiting our church for a blood drive on Monday, June 15 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm in Fellowship Hall.

Patients in our community need our help, as the need for blood never goes away. Please consider giving blood as all blood types are needed and utilized. It is easy to sign-up: Call the church office (630) 968-7120 or come to the Parlor on Sunday to reserve your slot. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Thank you for your donation.

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Presidential Homes

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Young At Heart will gather in the Church Parlor on Wednesday, June 10 at noon for an indoor picnic. Following lunch we will have the pleasure of touring Presidential Homes with Amanda Ramsey as our tour guide. She, along with her family, has visited over 33 Presidential Homes.

You may sign up for this event by contacting Marilou Welch at church, 630.968.7120, or in the Parlor on Sunday mornings. Each one attending will be asked to bring a salad to serve 10 - 12 and pay a fee of $5.00.

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Rally for a Cure Golf Outing

Friday, June 5, 2009

First Methodist women and their friends are invited to participate in the Pine Hollow Women's Rally For a Cure Golf Outing. The outing will be held on Friday, June 5th at Ken Loch Golf course in Lombard. The outing wil be held to raise money for the Susan G. Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.

For more information, contact the church office where you can also pick up registration forms.

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Fiction Book Group

Through the course of the year, the Fiction Book Group meets every two months, to discuss works of fiction. We seek to find the intersections between our reading and our lives, between the characters we encounter and our own experience. Most of all, we ponder the big questions posed by the book, and the ways in which they inform, or are themselves addressed by, our Christian faith and understanding.

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Spring Ring XVII

A May Garden's Walk

7:00pm Sunday evening, May 17

The Chancel Ringers
The Westminster Handbell Ensemble
also featuring Julie Barnes Spring
Principal Harpist of the Toronto Symphony

The Ringers of First United Methodist Church lead us through a garden of beautiful bell sounds, exploring a wide range of repertoire and colors, from Handel's Passacaglia to William Payn's Crossroads, Don Allured's Concert Overture for Bells, Cathy Moklebust's Morningdance, and Margaret Tucker's Kumbaula Ubuhle (translated "Remember Goodness"). The concert will take an adventurous turn concluding with Linus and Lucy (Hart Morris), and Pirates of the Caribbean (Kevin McChesney).

The concert narrative gives a captivating vicarious tour of historic May celebrations from the maypoles to the Morris Dance, and from Hawaii to Scotland to France and beyond.

Tickets are $7 in advance; $9 at the door and are available in the Parlor between services or in the church office during the week. Child care is provided.

Will you join us for the festivities? Be sure to buy early. Please call the church 630-968-7120.

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Guatemala Sunday

8:15am, 9:30am & 11:00am Services
May 17, 2009

On May 17th, our morning worship will center on our relationship with the UPAVIM co-operative in Guatemala. Previous delegates will participate, lead worship and share their reflections. Over the last three years, we have been greatly enriched and blessed by this global dimension in our ministry, finding that there is at least as much need for us to receive as to give. This fall, some of the women will visit with us, and we’re eagerly anticipating their presence, and the opportunity for the wider church family to meet them.

Please join us for a morning of celebration, challenge and commitment.

| Mission to Guatemala |

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Tales of Mexico

Fred and Carol Conger

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Fred and Carol Conger will be our special guests at the Young At Heart gathering on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 in Chapel Hall. Fred and Carol took a three month vacation to Mexico and will be with us to tell about their adventures.

We will begin with lunch at noon using a Mexican theme. Each person attending will be asked to bring a dish to pass (either Mexican or otherwise). For dessert we will have Mexican Wedding Cookies provided by some of our members.

You may sign up for this event by contacting Marilou Welch at church, 630.968.7120, or in the Parlor on Sunday mornings.

We are planning to have a "Hobbies and Collectibles" event on Wednesday, October 14, 2009. We are seeking persons willing to share their hobby or collectible to display on this day. If you would like to share with us your special hobby or collectible, please contact Marilou Welch. The deadline for making a reservation to display your specialty is September 30, 2009.

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Bucket Sunday

May 10, 2009

Bucket Sunday/Paper Goods Drive to benefit Peoples Resource Center will be held on Sunday, May 10th. Buckets and flyers containing a list of items to be collected will be distributed on May 3rd. Please join us this year in supporting a very worthy cause!

Thank you!

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FUMC Chancel Choir & Guest Orchestra

May 3, 2009
9:30 and 11:00am Worship Services

• Gloria by Francis Poulenc
• Cantique de Jean Racine by Gabriel Fauré
• Agnus Dei by Steve Dobrogosz

The Chancel Choir and a guest orchestra of 20 players will present their spring cantata on Sunday, May 3 at the 9:30 and 11:00 services. Our 64-voice choir is led by Diane Hires, director, and Pattie Barnes, organ accompanist.

The Gloria by Francis Poulenc is a favorite of liturgical music because of its bright exuberance, sudden shifts of rhythms, dynamics, and harmonic structure. Francis Poulenc (1899-1963) had a surprising rise to musical prominence, as he had no formal training in music composition until the middle of his career. After the death of a close friend in 1936, this Parisian experienced a reawakening of his faith and steadily composed sacred choral music after that time. Gloria, first performed in 1961 in Boston, generated controversy because of its idiosyncratic rhythms and manipulation of the Latin mass text. Karen Owen and Susan Crowther will be the featured soprano soloists.

The offertory, Cantique de Jean Racine by Gabriel Fauré, remains a favorite of choral musicians because of its intimacy and impressionistic harmonies. Communion meditation will be enhanced by the beautiful and reflective Agnus Dei from the Mass of Swedish composer Steve Dobrogosz. Ray Osborn will solo on piano with the string orchestra in this jazz styling. The choir cantata provides a perfect opportunity to invite family and friends to share in a joyous morning of music and worship. Give them a call!

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Claire's Story

7:00pm, April 29, 2009

What's Wrong With You?

Does this question sound familiar? Do you find yourself frustrated by a teen who seems to have no energy or motivation, who sulks around the house or makes angry scenes when you try to get him or her to "just DO something?" Unfortunately, many times when parents see resistant, belligerent, or hostile behavior from a teenaged child, they automatically assume this is normal rebellion. Sometimes there is a deeper problem that can be treated and dealt with by mental health professionals. Depression in adolescents can express itself as irritability, hostility, and anger, which can often lead to missed diagnosis. Clinical depression may lead to suicide.

Claire's Story, a movie on adolescent depression, will be presented in Room 217 on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 7:00pm in an effort to help educate families about teen depression. Dr. Ken Potts, MS, D. Min and Shelly Zabielski, LPC of Samaritan Interfaith Counseling Center and Sue Piecieki from National Alliance for the Mentally Ill will moderate a Q&A session following the movie. Space is limited to 30 people. Please register using the form in the calendar entry. We will finish by 8:30pm.

| Register Online |

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Wednesday Faith Forum

Starting April 29, 2009

In his book Tokens of Trust, Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams engages the classic statements of the Nicene and Apostles' Creeds to guide readers through the central elements of the Christian faith.

What does it mean to believe in God? Can God possibly be almighty in the midst of so much evil and disaster? How am I to understand the meaning of Jesus Christ’s ministry and resurrection? To what purpose is the church called? And what does it really mean to follow Christ in today’s broken world?

Tying the answers to all these questions together and addressing perplexities such as the possibility of miracles and how to read the Bible, Williams demonstrates that each of the basic tenets of Christian faith flows from one fundamental belief: that God is completely worthy of our trust.

With vast knowledge of Christian history and theology and characteristically elegant prose, Rowan Williams is a superb and compassionate guide through the richness and depth of Christian faith.

Everyone is welcome to join us for a new session of Faith Forum beginning on Wednesday, April 29th at 10:00am in Room 202 or at 6:30pm in Room 16 when Rev. Jonathan Dean will lead our discussion. Books are available in the church office for $10.

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Exploring Passover

April 15, 2009

So, why is Easter always at Passover? What did it mean to Jesus, to celebrate it? What exactly are our Jewish sisters and brothers commemorating, while we focus on Jesus' last week? We're honored to welcome Marty Mechanick to FUMC to help us understand and appreciate this great holy season a little better. Marty is a member of Congregation Etz Chaim, Lombard, and has a wealth of teaching experience. He'll bring ritual objects, a deep Jewish faith and a heart for mutual understanding to share with us. Please join us at 6:30pm in the Chapel Hall.

Dinner will be served beforehand. If you wish to eat with us too, please register online. A donation of $4.00 would be appreciated. All are welcome.

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Friendship Sunday

Sunday, April 5, 2009

On Sunday, April 5th, Palm Sunday, we're offering an invitation and a challenge! As our children process waving their palm branches, reminding us of Jesus' entry to Jerusalem and the beginning of Holy Week and the Easter season, bring a friend with you to share the celebration. We'll provide cookies and donuts to entice them! Most of all, we want them to be captivated by the life, witness and energy of our church, and by the one whom we worship: Jesus, who calls all people to walk with him the road to faith and fulfilment.

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The Chapel Choir
38th Annual Spring Break Tour

March 28 to April 4, 2009

The Chapel Choir is travelling to New Orleans on the 38th Annual Spring Break Tour, with performances in Carbondale, IL, Hernando, MS, Pascagoula, MS, Greenwood, MS, and Cape Girardeau, MO. Follow their progress in their online diary and on Twitter.

You can hear them after they return when they perform two post-tour concerts in the Sanctuary on April 5 at 4:00pm and 7:00pm.

| Tour Details| Tour Diary |

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March Madness

Free Throw Shooting Contest

Sunday, March 22, 2009

10-10-1

$10 a Person-10 Free Throws-1 Life Saved

100% of your registration fee will go to buy a net to save a life by preventing malaria in Africa.

If you cannot participate, consider sponsoring someone for the contest. The mission event is planned and run by the 5th and 6th grade Sunday school class!

| Registration Form |

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Mother-Daughter Tea

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Spring is coming and so is the Mother Daughter Tea! Visions of flowers are dancing in our heads.

Please join us on Saturday, March 21st from 2 to 4pm in the Church Gym. We will enjoy tea and refreshments (including tea sandwiches and chocolate fountains!) as we learn about flower arranging and garden-related crafts. Everyone attending will receive something for their garden. Bring your mother, daughter, sister, cousin, grandmother, or good friend with you for an afternoon of fun and fellowship.

Tickets, which are $15 for adults and $8 for those 12 and under, will be available Sunday mornings in the Parlor. When you sign up, you can volunteer to be a table hostess to greet guests and help serve. If you have a teapot or two you would be willing to lend us, please let us know. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Nancy Bifulco through the church office.

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PBS Frontline: HEAT

March 15 & 22, 2009 – 11:00am Room 217

A recent Gallup poll reported that although most scientists and now global political leadership believe that global warming/climate change is caused by human activity, only 58% of those surveyed in a recent Gallup poll agree with scientists' conclusion. Why the lag in public opinion?

In the program HEAT, award-winning producer and correspondent Martin Smith investigates how the world's largest corporations and governments are responding to Earth's looming environmental disaster. "I have reported on the Cold War, the breakup of the Soviet Union, the rise of Al Qaeda, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan," says Smith. "But nothing matches climate change in scope and severity."

The video covers how global warming's impact is changing the world. It also documents renewable energy developments, alternative fuels, the carbon footprint of developing nations (India and China), and the political will needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the US and the world.

Have the conflicting opinions regarding global warming been confusing? Are you aware of scientists' predictions of global warming’s long term impact on our planet and its inhabitants? Recent measurements show that the world is changing at an even faster rate than predicted. Please attend the two week showing of HEAT from 11:00am to 12:15pm in Room 217 on Sunday, March 15 and 22. A short discussion will follow the video.

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Chapel Choir Spring Break Tour

Pretour Events

March 15 & 22, 2009

In preparation for the 38th Annual Spring Break Tour to New Orleans, "I Need You To Survive", the Chapel Choir will give two previews of their show at local churches. Everyone is invited to come and support them.

Special Performance

On Sunday, March 15th, our youth choir will be help lead worship at Woodridge UMC during both their 9:00am and 10:30am services. Woodridge UMC is at 2700 75th Street, Woodridge.

| Driving Directions |

Pretour Concert

The pre-tour concert will be held on Sunday, March 22 at 7:00pm at Community UMC, Naperville. Community UMC is at 20 North Center Street, Naperville.

| Driving Directions |

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Mission Sunday

The Year of the Refugee

March 15, 2009

Our congregation has an amazing heart for missions and mission giving. On March 15th, come and celebrate what your generosity in 2008 has achieved throughout the world. We will then continue to explore the plight of the world's refugees with a sermon given by guest pastor, Rev. Tony Asta, Missions and Outreach Minister at Gary UMC in Wheaton. Tony has done extensive work with refugees from Sudan and has worked in Palestine as well. Tony will be joined by Elders from the DuPage Sudanese Community.

Following the 11:00 o'clock service everyone is invited to a Missions Lunch in the gym. Learn about the building and opening of our own Jombo School in South Sudan, the product of Our Growing Together Campaign's Mission giving and hear from the Sudanese Elders about the Lost Boys and the afflictions facing the people of Sudan today.

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March 12, 2009 – 7:00pm Room 217

President Jimmy Carter provoked controversy recently with his book, Palestine: Peace not Apartheid, illustrating again the tensions the Middle East situation arouses. What are the issues in Israel/Palestine? Why is the problem so intractable? What solutions can the international community offer?

Award-winning journalist John Pilger reports in this documentary in the reality of life in Palestine, and interviews both Palestinians and Israelis.

All are welcome to attend this screening in the Church Movie Theater, Room 217. Please register to book your seat.

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March, 2009

As we prepare for Easter, open to God’s convicting and renewing voice, our clergy will offer a range of Lent classes. Come to one or several: all are welcome, but please register in advance using the links below.

Sunday Mornings at 11:00am: Room 212 (Register)

Claire Marich is focusing our thoughts on Ched Myers' powerful Say to this Mountain. A compelling guide to understanding how the gospel story intersects with ours, and calls us to action. Throughout the book, meditations and practical suggestions emphasize the connections between reflective prayer and concerted action.

Sunday Mornings at 12:30pm: Parlor (Register)

Jonathan Dean will lead a series discussing Amy-Jill Levine's book The Misunderstood Jew. How do we understand Jesus in his Jewish context? As we journey towards Easter, how does that picture of Jesus help us to interpret, not just his extraordinary life, but the manner of his death and the claims his first followers made that he had risen from the grave? This class includes lunch.

Thursday Mornings at 10:00am: Room 202 (Register)

Tom Ostrander is offering a class reflecting on Jesus' last week. We will begin in Bethany and find our way to the Saturday after the crucifixion. After the entry into the city on Palm Sunday, Jesus continued to do some very important work. We will look at the messages he delivered through his words and his actions. This study will be Bible-based and supplemented with other resources. Bring your Bible.

Friday Afternoons at 1:00pm: Room 217 (Register)

Nick Nicholas will introduce the Nooma video series of short films promoting spiritual prespectives on individual life experiences. The first series features storyteller Rob Bell. The name NOOMA comes from a phonetic spelling of the Greek word pneuma (πνευμα) meaning 'wind,' 'spirit,' or 'breath.' We will watch and discuss together, as we journey through Lent.

Courses begin on March 1. Sign up in the Parlor on Sunday mornings or in the church office.

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In a weekend of lectures, Amy-Jill Levine will help us to explore three familiar passages that reveal Jesus from a new angle:

• Entering Jerusalem
• Clearing the Temple
• Sharing the Last Supper

Dr. Levine is internationally renowned as a scholar of the highest caliber who infuses her presentations with wit, humor and great generosity of mind and heart.

Join us for an unforgettable weekend
of learning, insight and renewal.

| More Details |

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Soup & Sandwich Supper for the Soul

NIU Wesley Foundation Fund Raiser

February 25, 2009: 6:00pm

The NIU Wesley Foundation is hosting a Soup & Sandwich Supper for the Soul fundraiser on Ash Wednesday, February 25th. At 6:00pm, come to the gym for a simple supper and fellowship with NIU Wesley Foundation students.

Proceeds and donations will go towards their March mission trip to Guatemala. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door (children under 12 welcome for free).

Come to the supper and stay for the Ash Wednesday Service at 7:00pm.

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Variety Show

February 21, 2009

The Children & Family Work Area is planning a Variety Show for the entire church family. This event will be held on Saturday, February 21st from 6:30-8:30pm in the newly renovated gym. We are looking for a variety of talents (dance, music, juggling, poetry, underwater basket weaving, a skit, etc) from a variety of ages. The act can be individual or with a group.

If you would like to participate in the show, please fill out an entry form which you can pick up on Sunday mornings in the Parlor or in the church office during the week. Please register by January 28th.

Keep in mind this is a Variety Show, so extreme talent is not necessary. If you have any further questions, please contact John Smoke (630-968-7120x204). We hope to see you all there. It’s going to be a fun night of "talent" and fellowship!!!

Lunch will be served.

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Chocolate Tasting Party

Sunday, February 15, 2009

If you love eating chocolate and spending time with friends, this is the party for you! Join On The Town for a chocolate tasting party on Sunday, February 15th at 7:00 PM in the church Parlor. We will sample chocolates that come from single origins like Colombia, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Papua New Guinea.

There is no charge for the party, but please let us know if you can attend so that we have plenty of chocolate and desserts on hand!

To RSVP, contact the church office at (630) 968-7120, or email OnTheTown@dgfumc.org.

On the Town is a social group for adults of all ages. Our purpose is to simply spend time together, get to know each other, and have some fun! We meet for a social activity approximately every other month. Everyone is welcome!

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UMW General Meeting

Thursday, February 12, 2009

The United Methodist Women would like to extend an invitation to the congregation to attend their General Meeting on Thursday, February 12 in Chapel Hall at 9:30am. There will be a light breakfast served and babysitting is available.

Our speaker will be Maurlea Babb from the First United Church of Glen Ellyn and she will be speaking on Native American Indians. We look forward to seeing you there!

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Pizza and Bingo

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

On Wednesday, February 11, the Young at Heart group will meet for a pizza lunch and bingo. We had such fun last year that we have been asked to do it again. For prizes we would like to have white elephant gifts and so those attending will be encouraged to bring a wrapped white elephant gift marked for "man" or "woman".

We will begin with lunch at noon in Chapel Hall. Cost per person will be $5.00. Sign up in the Parlor on Sunday mornings or call Marilou Welch at church - (630) 968-7120.

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Fiction Book Group

Through the course of the year, the Fiction Book Group meets every two months, to discuss works of fiction. We seek to find the intersections between our reading and our lives, between the characters we encounter and our own experience. Most of all, we ponder the big questions posed by the book, and the ways in which they inform, or are themselves addressed by, our Christian faith and understanding.

February 5: Mariette in Ecstasy

by Ron Hansen

June 4: Fugitive Pieces

by Anne Michaels

Copies of the books will be available at Anderson's Bookstore at 10% discount (20% for Anderson's Book Club members).

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Career Transitions Event

Saturday, January 31, 2009
8am—12:30pm

We will begin the day promptly at 8am with continental breakfast and networking time. at 8:30am, there will be an opportunity to attend one of four breakout sessions. These will run concurrently, so you will be able to attend all four of them during the morning. These will center on:

• resume and cover letter preparation plus interview preparation & skills.
• financial planning during the job change process.
• emotional & spiritual support.
• networking and other resources.

These will all be lead by professionals in these specific areas.

If you are currently employed, but not certain about your future; unemployed; on reduced hours; your spouse is unemployed; or perhaps you are just seeking to learn how to make this transition to the next job, this program is for you. Maybe you simply want to learn how to support a family member or friend during their career transition.

Come join us. There is no cost associated with this for you to attend. Register online by clicking on the button below, so we can be certain to have enough food and handout brochures for everyone. If you have any questions, please call the church office at 630-968-7120.

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The Year of the Refugee

January 27, 2009

The Missions and Church and Society work areas are working together in 2009 to highlight one of the most pressing issues in our world today: the plight of the refugee.  Millions of people are displaced every year through poverty, injustice or persecution, and their stories are often untold.  Jesus, who was himself a refugee early in his life, asks that we remember them: the poor in spirit, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, people reviled and persecuted.

We begin the year with an extraordinary speaker.  Magda Brown is Hungarian and has lived in the Chicago area now for sixty years.  She came as a refugee, leaving her native Europe after experiencing the violence and cruelty of the Nazi regime.  Magda is Jewish, and was for a time imprisoned in one of Hitler's concentration camps, his 'final solution' to what he saw as the 'Jewish problem' in the 1930s.

Magda will be with us on Tuesday January 27th, which is UN Holocaust Memorial Day.  Her courage, hope and faith remind us of the words of Archbishop Tutu, that 'goodness is stronger than evil, and love is stronger than hate'.  She will speak at 7pm in the Sanctuary, and all are welcome.

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Wind Generation

January 25, 2009

Seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, Rockford Urban Ministries has installed a new wind turbine generator on top of one of their buildings. As leaders for renewable energy sources in the conference, they also plan to install a solar array for electrical generation. These two 3kW devices will produce energy without pollution or greenhouse gas emissions.

Lee Schreiner, RUM treasurer and project mastermind, will describe this leading edge, small-scale electrical production system on Sunday, January 25 at 12:15pm in Chapel Hall. Lee will describe installation and engineering challenges, fund raising, building ordinance change discussions with the City of Rockford.

Lunch will be served.

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Junior High Ski Trip

January 24, 2009

All Junior Highs are invited to come on a trip to Alpine Valley for fun, fellowship, and lots of skiing.

Location

• Alpine Valley Ski Resort, East Troy, WI.

Schedule

• Arrive at church at 7:00am .
• Return to church at 7:00pm.

| More Details |

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Administrative Council

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

There will be a meeting of the Administrative Council on Tuesday, January 20, at 7:00pm, in the Chapel Hall.

All are welcome to attend.

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Fundraiser for Chapel Choir Tour

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

The Youth Mission Team invite you to eat at Max & Erma's in Woodridge on Tuesday, January 20. Download the Coupon below and print it off or pick one up from the church office and 20% of your lunch, dinner or carry-out sales will go to support this year's Chapel Choir Tour.

|Max & Erma's Coupon|

At the same time, you can help raise money for the United Methodist Women's missions by paying for your meal with gift cards purchased through UMW's Purchase with a Purpose program. $25 gift cards are available for purchase in the Parlor on Sunday.

Thank You for your help! Bon Appetit!

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Midwest Missions Distribution Center

January 15-16, 2009

Make plans now to join Pastor Tom and Gayle Ostrander on this overnight trip to the Midwest Missions Distribution Center in Chatham, Illinois. Just outside Springfield, this mission destination prepares and ships health kits, school bags, flood buckets, layette and sewing kits, as well as sewing school bags and children's hospital gowns. Work there varies and, in addition to above preparation, can include office assistance and construction, maintenance and warehouse help. You will sleep and eat in a warm and relaxing dormitory, complete with kitchen.

Minimum age is 11 and the trip is ideal for seniors. If you are interested in making the trip, contact Cathy Mikes through the Church Office (630-968-7120).

Missions Work Area

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Movie: Young at Heart

January 14, 2009

The January program for the Young At Heart group for senior adults will be the movie "Young At Heart". Filmmaker Stephen Walker spent seven weeks with a New England senior citizens chorus who were preparing for a concert and an upcoming European tour.

The date is Wednesday, January 14th and we will begin at noon with lunch in Chapel Hall. Cost per person will be $10.00 and reservations may be made by stopping in the Parlor on Sunday morning or by calling the church office 630.968.7120.

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Wednesday Faith Forum

Starting January 14, 2009

This is a small group for faith-seekers and all wanting to explore their faith journey with honesty, mutual respect and openness to one another. This year, Rev. Jonathan Dean will lead discussions on two books that will guide our reflections and sharing.

January 14th – April 1st 2009

'A Place to Pray' by Roberta Bondi

April 29th – May 20th 2009

'Tokens of Trust', by Rowan Williams

There are two opportunities to meet; at 10am in Room 202 or 6:30pm in Room 16 (during Family Fellowship).

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Movie Series: Jesus Camp

January 8, 2009 – 7:00pm Room 217

But for Al Gore's Inconvenient Truth, this would have won the Best Documentary Oscar in 2007. Jesus Camp is an even-handed look at the edges of evangelical Christianity in the US, and at how we seek to pass onto our children the faith that inspires us: in ways both healthy and destructive. One reviewer described it as "frightening, infuriating and yet profoundly compassionate."

All are welcome to attend this screening in the Church Movie Theater, Room 217. Please call the church office to book your seat.

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The Huddle of Downers Grove

Tuesdays, January 6 to February 24

The second session of the Men's Huddle will start on Tuesday, January 6th. We will start at 6:15am in the Gym. The morning will conclude around 7:20am. Coffee and light refreshments will be served.

Optional workbooks for the year are available for $10 each. There are 8 sessions to go.

For more information please contact John Smoke.