This April, a new zoom book study led by Sean, Love Wins by Rob Bell - sign up begins in a few weeks (see below)
Sean's April Zoom Book Group
Join Sean Miller for a four week adventure with Rob Bell and his most famous and controversial book, Love Wins—A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived.
Sean's April Zoom Book Group
Join Sean Miller for a four week adventure with Rob Bell and his most famous and controversial book, Love Wins—A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived.
Sean's Zoom Book Studies Continue
…with Rob Bell's Everything is Spiritual
Sign up today
* * * *
Since January 19 Sean Miller has hosted a five-week conversation about Rob Bell’s brand new book, Everything Is Spiritual: Who We Are and What We’re Doing Here.
You may remember Rob Bell’s book Love Wins, which was the subject of a preaching series by Tom a number of years ago. Rob Bell is an acclaimed author of over a dozen books and has toured the country as a beloved preacher and public speaker for years.
Everything Is Spiritual is a bold look at the meaning of life and the history of the universe (yes both at once!) in a format that is fun, funny, approachable, and accessible.
Classes will be held over ZOOM from 7-8:15 pm and study questions and a ZOOM link will be sent out the day before.
Email Sean if you’re interested, and we'll send you information.
…with Rob Bell's Everything is Spiritual
Sign up today
* * * *
Since January 19 Sean Miller has hosted a five-week conversation about Rob Bell’s brand new book, Everything Is Spiritual: Who We Are and What We’re Doing Here.
You may remember Rob Bell’s book Love Wins, which was the subject of a preaching series by Tom a number of years ago. Rob Bell is an acclaimed author of over a dozen books and has toured the country as a beloved preacher and public speaker for years.
Everything Is Spiritual is a bold look at the meaning of life and the history of the universe (yes both at once!) in a format that is fun, funny, approachable, and accessible.
Classes will be held over ZOOM from 7-8:15 pm and study questions and a ZOOM link will be sent out the day before.
Email Sean if you’re interested, and we'll send you information.
The Hopeful Times
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Restaurant of the Week
As you all know, restaurants are among the most hard hit businesses due to Covid - 19.
Until things change, we'll be featuring a different Lake Forest or Lake Bluff area restaurant each week. Our hope is that once during the week our "Restaurant of the Week" blurb will remind you that they're likely struggling right now, and that you'll consider ordering take out from the restaurant.
* * * * *
Our first restaurant is the "Market House" in Lake Forest just off Market Square. Carla Westcott is the proprietor and a friend to many in our congregation - not to mention the generous visionary behind the Beacon Place meals program we are honored to participate in. To see their menu and to order online, click Market House..
(Finally, thanks to Toby Jones for the great idea!)
As you all know, restaurants are among the most hard hit businesses due to Covid - 19.
Until things change, we'll be featuring a different Lake Forest or Lake Bluff area restaurant each week. Our hope is that once during the week our "Restaurant of the Week" blurb will remind you that they're likely struggling right now, and that you'll consider ordering take out from the restaurant.
* * * * *
Our first restaurant is the "Market House" in Lake Forest just off Market Square. Carla Westcott is the proprietor and a friend to many in our congregation - not to mention the generous visionary behind the Beacon Place meals program we are honored to participate in. To see their menu and to order online, click Market House..
(Finally, thanks to Toby Jones for the great idea!)
Help Beacon House Shine a Light of Hope!
On Sunday, December 6, Beacon Place will spread light and love throughout the community with their first annual Luminaria event. Volunteers, families, kids, people of all ages are invited to come and help spread over 1000 luminaria throughout the neighborhood surrounding Beacon Place
as a show of hope in these difficult times.
Volunteers will meet at Beacon Place to receive their luminaria supplies at Beacon Place, and then proceed to a designated Beacon Place neighborhood street to set up and light the lanterns.
Email Sean HERE if you are interested in joining Sean on this important, fun, and safe holiday event!
On Sunday, December 6, Beacon Place will spread light and love throughout the community with their first annual Luminaria event. Volunteers, families, kids, people of all ages are invited to come and help spread over 1000 luminaria throughout the neighborhood surrounding Beacon Place
as a show of hope in these difficult times.
Volunteers will meet at Beacon Place to receive their luminaria supplies at Beacon Place, and then proceed to a designated Beacon Place neighborhood street to set up and light the lanterns.
Email Sean HERE if you are interested in joining Sean on this important, fun, and safe holiday event!
Join Us in Beacon Place's Innovative 2020
Christmas Gift Program
This year, because of Covid - 19, Beacon has come up with a way for their families to receive gifts - without shoppers having to risk being in public. Beacon has created an online Amazon registry as a safe shopping alternative during this unusual Christmas season. (Of course, those who wish to do in-person shopping are encouraged to use the Lake Forest Book Store, where books and board games are in good supply!) So, how to help?
If you wish to shop online, simply click on the link HERE to find a huge assortment of gifts for children, teens, and parents.
Purchase a gift or two (or more!) and they will be sent directly to Beacon Place. When you are asked to fill the Gift Message prior to check out on Amazon, be sure to put your name AND “The Community Church,” so that Beacon Place can account for who provided the gifts. If you choose to purchase gifts on your own, please contact Pam Campbell HERE to arrange drop off or pick up.
With your generous support, we can help Beacon Place kids and families celebrate this holiday season with a little extra under the tree. Questions? Contact Sean HERE. (deadline for gifts - Dec. 6)
Christmas Gift Program
This year, because of Covid - 19, Beacon has come up with a way for their families to receive gifts - without shoppers having to risk being in public. Beacon has created an online Amazon registry as a safe shopping alternative during this unusual Christmas season. (Of course, those who wish to do in-person shopping are encouraged to use the Lake Forest Book Store, where books and board games are in good supply!) So, how to help?
If you wish to shop online, simply click on the link HERE to find a huge assortment of gifts for children, teens, and parents.
Purchase a gift or two (or more!) and they will be sent directly to Beacon Place. When you are asked to fill the Gift Message prior to check out on Amazon, be sure to put your name AND “The Community Church,” so that Beacon Place can account for who provided the gifts. If you choose to purchase gifts on your own, please contact Pam Campbell HERE to arrange drop off or pick up.
With your generous support, we can help Beacon Place kids and families celebrate this holiday season with a little extra under the tree. Questions? Contact Sean HERE. (deadline for gifts - Dec. 6)
Perfect for 2020, Right?
The Community Church
ZOOM Christmas Pageant!!!
It may sound a little crazy—or, it may sound like the perfect thing. Either way, we want to create a memorable - and virtual Christmas Pageant that the whole community can enjoy! We've had a few families sign up so far, but we need plenty more to help this beloved tradition continue!
This year’s pageant is available to all ages 4 and up and promises to be memorable, 2020 style! If you are interested in joining our pageant please Sue Gale Beck. Here are a few details:
Other Questions? Want to sign up? Email Sean!
The Community Church
ZOOM Christmas Pageant!!!
It may sound a little crazy—or, it may sound like the perfect thing. Either way, we want to create a memorable - and virtual Christmas Pageant that the whole community can enjoy! We've had a few families sign up so far, but we need plenty more to help this beloved tradition continue!
This year’s pageant is available to all ages 4 and up and promises to be memorable, 2020 style! If you are interested in joining our pageant please Sue Gale Beck. Here are a few details:
- Pageant will be pre-recorded on ZOOM and included in the service on Sunday, December 20.
- Costumes and scripts will be delivered to the homes of participants and left on doorsteps to be COVID friendly.
- The ZOOM rehearsal will take place on Saturday, December 19 and will be recorded that same day.
Other Questions? Want to sign up? Email Sean!
Last Call for Sean's New Zoom Book Study
The study will feature Barbara Brown Taylor's critically acclaimed Leaving Church,
which is available at the Lake Forest Bookstore, the library and other book outlets.
Gatherings will meet on Nov. 10, 17, Dec. 1 & 8 via Zoom from 7:00 to 8:15 pm.
Email Sean to sign up.
"Barbara Brown Taylor, once hailed as one of America’s most effective and beloved preachers, eloquently tells the moving and delightful story of her search to find an authentic way of being Christian—even when it meant giving up her pulpit."
The study will feature Barbara Brown Taylor's critically acclaimed Leaving Church,
which is available at the Lake Forest Bookstore, the library and other book outlets.
Gatherings will meet on Nov. 10, 17, Dec. 1 & 8 via Zoom from 7:00 to 8:15 pm.
Email Sean to sign up.
"Barbara Brown Taylor, once hailed as one of America’s most effective and beloved preachers, eloquently tells the moving and delightful story of her search to find an authentic way of being Christian—even when it meant giving up her pulpit."
Beacon Place Creates a Wonderfully Unique
Gift Program for Christmas 2020
For 20 years the Community Church has provided Christmas gifts to families in need in northern Lake County.
In recent years, we've partnered with Beacon Place, with families from our church purchasing gifts for the Beacon Christmas Boutique. Frankly, it has been a spectacularly run program.
This year, because of Covid - 19, Beacon has come up with a way for their families to receive gifts - without shoppers having to risk being in public. Beacon has created an online Amazon registry as a safe shopping alternative during this unusual Christmas season. (Of course, those who wish to do in-person shopping are encouraged to use the Lake Forest Book Store, where books and board games are in good supply!) So, how to help?
If you wish to shop online, simply click on the link HERE to find a huge assortment of gifts for children, teens, and parents.
Purchase a gift or two (or more!) and they will be sent directly to Beacon Place. When you are asked to fill the Gift Message prior to check out on Amazon, be sure to put your name AND “The Community Church,” so that Beacon Place can account for who provided the gifts. If you choose to purchase gifts on your own, please contact Pam Campbell HERE to arrange drop off or pick up.
With your generous support, we can help Beacon Place kids and families celebrate this holiday season with a little extra under the tree. Questions? Contact Sean HERE. (deadline for gifts - Dec. 6)
Gift Program for Christmas 2020
For 20 years the Community Church has provided Christmas gifts to families in need in northern Lake County.
In recent years, we've partnered with Beacon Place, with families from our church purchasing gifts for the Beacon Christmas Boutique. Frankly, it has been a spectacularly run program.
This year, because of Covid - 19, Beacon has come up with a way for their families to receive gifts - without shoppers having to risk being in public. Beacon has created an online Amazon registry as a safe shopping alternative during this unusual Christmas season. (Of course, those who wish to do in-person shopping are encouraged to use the Lake Forest Book Store, where books and board games are in good supply!) So, how to help?
If you wish to shop online, simply click on the link HERE to find a huge assortment of gifts for children, teens, and parents.
Purchase a gift or two (or more!) and they will be sent directly to Beacon Place. When you are asked to fill the Gift Message prior to check out on Amazon, be sure to put your name AND “The Community Church,” so that Beacon Place can account for who provided the gifts. If you choose to purchase gifts on your own, please contact Pam Campbell HERE to arrange drop off or pick up.
With your generous support, we can help Beacon Place kids and families celebrate this holiday season with a little extra under the tree. Questions? Contact Sean HERE. (deadline for gifts - Dec. 6)
Tom Dickelman tom@thecommunitychurch.us
Sean Miller sean@thecommunitychurch.us
Ken Hall ken@thecommunitychurch.us
Darrell Bloom darrell@thecommunitychurch.us
Pam Campbell pam@thecommunitychurch.us
Mary Jo Stevenson mmjas3@aol.com
Teddi Koch teddikoch@comcast.net
Lorry Gorski lorry@thecommunitychurch.us
John Corrigan john@thecommunitychurch.us
Peter Wolff peter@thecommunitychurch.us
Matt Dewar mattddewar@yahoo.com
Elliott Delman elliott@thecommunitychurch.us
Sean Miller sean@thecommunitychurch.us
Ken Hall ken@thecommunitychurch.us
Darrell Bloom darrell@thecommunitychurch.us
Pam Campbell pam@thecommunitychurch.us
Mary Jo Stevenson mmjas3@aol.com
Teddi Koch teddikoch@comcast.net
Lorry Gorski lorry@thecommunitychurch.us
John Corrigan john@thecommunitychurch.us
Peter Wolff peter@thecommunitychurch.us
Matt Dewar mattddewar@yahoo.com
Elliott Delman elliott@thecommunitychurch.us
Current worship services will be live streamed at 10 AM every Sunday morning
from our production studio at the Gorton Community Center.
Links to the services will posted on this page as well as on the Home Page.
from our production studio at the Gorton Community Center.
Links to the services will posted on this page as well as on the Home Page.
Book Club Archives
7:00-8:15 CST PM Barbara Brown Taylor's Holy Envy with Sean
Meeting ID: 854 7580 7031
Passcode: 963957
Via the url
7:00-8:15 CST PM Barbara Brown Taylor's Holy Envy with Sean
Meeting ID: 854 7580 7031
Passcode: 963957
Via the url
Current worship services will be live streamed from our production studio at the Gorton Community Center.
Our worship home through the month of October is the Village Green / Gazebo in downtown Lake Bluff (see map),
where services are held each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. You are encouraged to bring your own chair or blanket,
though we have a limited number of chairs available. Masks are required and social distancing practices will be implemented.
We will announce the location of our November and December services prior to Halloween.
Please call 847 234 8191 with questions regarding our worship services, or email tom@thecommunitychurch.us
Our worship home through the month of October is the Village Green / Gazebo in downtown Lake Bluff (see map),
where services are held each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. You are encouraged to bring your own chair or blanket,
though we have a limited number of chairs available. Masks are required and social distancing practices will be implemented.
We will announce the location of our November and December services prior to Halloween.
Please call 847 234 8191 with questions regarding our worship services, or email tom@thecommunitychurch.us
Community Church Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, October 18 @ 4:00 pm
Meet @ Church Office
117 Scranton Ave., Lake Bluff
Plan on arriving a little early so we will have time to hand out clue sheets and give a few instructions.
There are 10 clues that will lead you to 10 locations in Lake Bluff and Lake Forest.
When you find the locations, you'll write down the address on the CLUE sheet and take a picture.
You have up to 90 minutes to find the answers to the questions and return to the start point no later than 5:30 p.m.
We will tally the correct answers and hand out prizes.
Call John Corrigan @ 847.344.6829 or email John Corrigan with questions or to sign up - or just show up.
It's gonna be a great way to spend a bit of time on an autumn afternoon!
Sunday, October 18 @ 4:00 pm
Meet @ Church Office
117 Scranton Ave., Lake Bluff
Plan on arriving a little early so we will have time to hand out clue sheets and give a few instructions.
There are 10 clues that will lead you to 10 locations in Lake Bluff and Lake Forest.
When you find the locations, you'll write down the address on the CLUE sheet and take a picture.
You have up to 90 minutes to find the answers to the questions and return to the start point no later than 5:30 p.m.
We will tally the correct answers and hand out prizes.
Call John Corrigan @ 847.344.6829 or email John Corrigan with questions or to sign up - or just show up.
It's gonna be a great way to spend a bit of time on an autumn afternoon!
Why Not Join Sean Miller & Others For His Next Zoom Book Study?
* * * * *
The study will feature Barbara Brown Taylor's critically-acclaimed Leaving Church, which is available at the Lake Forest bookstore, the library, and other book outlets. Gatherings will meet on Nov. 10, 17, Dec. 1 & 8 via Zoom from 7:00 to 8:15 pm. Email Sean to
sign up.
* * * * *
"Barbara Brown Taylor, once hailed as one of America’s most effective and beloved preachers, eloquently tells the moving and delightful story of her search to find an authentic way of being Christian—even when it meant giving up her pulpit."
* * * * *
The study will feature Barbara Brown Taylor's critically-acclaimed Leaving Church, which is available at the Lake Forest bookstore, the library, and other book outlets. Gatherings will meet on Nov. 10, 17, Dec. 1 & 8 via Zoom from 7:00 to 8:15 pm. Email Sean to
sign up.
* * * * *
"Barbara Brown Taylor, once hailed as one of America’s most effective and beloved preachers, eloquently tells the moving and delightful story of her search to find an authentic way of being Christian—even when it meant giving up her pulpit."
The Community Church Garden Project
The Community Church has not one, but two vegetable gardens!
The big garden is in cooperation with Lake Forest College, located behind The Glen Rowan House (500 Sheridan, Lake Forest—across the street from the chapel).
The office garden is located at the Jessen Office Building (117 E. Scranton, Lake Bluff) in the alley behind the building. Dylan Burns built the terraced garden for his Eagle Scout project.
All of the produce (organic) from the gardens will be donated to Beacon Place for distribution to those who don't typically have the opportunity to buy healthy produce.
The Community Church has not one, but two vegetable gardens!
The big garden is in cooperation with Lake Forest College, located behind The Glen Rowan House (500 Sheridan, Lake Forest—across the street from the chapel).
The office garden is located at the Jessen Office Building (117 E. Scranton, Lake Bluff) in the alley behind the building. Dylan Burns built the terraced garden for his Eagle Scout project.
All of the produce (organic) from the gardens will be donated to Beacon Place for distribution to those who don't typically have the opportunity to buy healthy produce.
March 7
Please send me pictures of you or others doing unique, interesting, curious, loving, or whacky things during your coronavirus downtime - email Tom
South Africa
Worship on the Screen Watch Party
A big piece of what the Church is all about is gathering together and seeing the people we love
as we share in the moments of a Sunday morning service.
Social Distancing has put an end to church as usual for the time being but it doesn’t mean we can’t still see each other
and enjoy the service with one another!
Every Sunday the The Community Church sends out a link for the week’s Worship on the Screen—so why not have a Worship on the Screen Watch Party—virtually together on Zoom or Google Hangouts or FaceTime. It’s not quite the same as in person, but hey, neither is anything about the virtual life we’re in right now.
A group of Community Church folks took part in a Worship on the Screen Watch Party together and had a blast doing it.
Nine families gathered together on Zoom—kids and all.
Here’s how they did it:
If you’d like to try a Worship on the Screen Watch Party but have questions about how to do so
from a technical standpoint email Zach.
If you’d like to be placed into a Watch Party group email Pam.
A big piece of what the Church is all about is gathering together and seeing the people we love
as we share in the moments of a Sunday morning service.
Social Distancing has put an end to church as usual for the time being but it doesn’t mean we can’t still see each other
and enjoy the service with one another!
Every Sunday the The Community Church sends out a link for the week’s Worship on the Screen—so why not have a Worship on the Screen Watch Party—virtually together on Zoom or Google Hangouts or FaceTime. It’s not quite the same as in person, but hey, neither is anything about the virtual life we’re in right now.
A group of Community Church folks took part in a Worship on the Screen Watch Party together and had a blast doing it.
Nine families gathered together on Zoom—kids and all.
Here’s how they did it:
- One person hosted the party and sent out an invite by email and/or text—this group chose to use Zoom but you could use Google Hangouts or any other platform that works for you and your group.
- Arrive at the party on your computer or phone. Spend the first few minutes chatting and comparing brunch items.
- Start the Service on the Screen on a different device (a second computer or TV). A smart TV works really well for a Watch Party. Keep your friends on the computer and the service on the TV or vice-versa. Go to the web browser, visit the church website www.communitychurch.us, click on Sunday and go down to Worship on the Screen and click, find the fresh new service delivered that morning and click. Bob’s your uncle.
- Muting the Watching Party participants while watching the service is probably a sensible idea (and what the Watch Party of nine families on Sunday chose to do). Texting or chatting on Zoom is a fun way to communicate and also hear the service (sort of like whispering during the service to the people you’re sitting near).
- At the end of the service unmute the group, chat for a bit, say goodbye.
If you’d like to try a Worship on the Screen Watch Party but have questions about how to do so
from a technical standpoint email Zach.
If you’d like to be placed into a Watch Party group email Pam.
Gardens Bring Life Project
Hi All,
This summer our plan was to reach out to all the families in the church to see who might be interested in participating in the Community Garden (on the Lake Forest College campus) behind the Glen Rowan House.
Last summer was the Community Church's first season gardening at the Community Garden and it was a great success! We contributed hundreds of pounds of organic produce to the Beacon Place Community in South Waukegan.
This year we're hoping for more participation—and then the pandemic hit the world's populations and shelter-in-place became a new reality for us all (hopefully a relatively short-lived reality).
And so, we're adjusting.
The thought came to us: why not invite our folks to plant gardens at home, for themselves and maybe for others too for whom fresh produce is a rarity.
Today as I was mulling over these possibilities I received an email from Erika Vernon (Elawa staff member and regular attender of CCLFLB with her husband Chris). With the uptick in gardening she thought maybe we'd have some way to make use of her newly created "guide to gardening" website full of information about the Vernon's experience and a step-by-step guide to getting started on a vegetable garden.
www.erikavernon.com
If you like this idea and are intrigued to plant a garden, expand a garden you already have, or want to know more—please let me know! I'd like to follow and connect with those using Erika's website and those who are doing it on their own. Maybe you'd like to contribute a portion of your harvest to underprivileged, maybe not. Either way, stay in touch. Send me a picture, drop me a line, let me know what you're doing and how you'd like to be involved in our Summer of 2020 Gardens Bring Life project.
Better together,
Zach Hancock
This summer our plan was to reach out to all the families in the church to see who might be interested in participating in the Community Garden (on the Lake Forest College campus) behind the Glen Rowan House.
Last summer was the Community Church's first season gardening at the Community Garden and it was a great success! We contributed hundreds of pounds of organic produce to the Beacon Place Community in South Waukegan.
This year we're hoping for more participation—and then the pandemic hit the world's populations and shelter-in-place became a new reality for us all (hopefully a relatively short-lived reality).
And so, we're adjusting.
The thought came to us: why not invite our folks to plant gardens at home, for themselves and maybe for others too for whom fresh produce is a rarity.
Today as I was mulling over these possibilities I received an email from Erika Vernon (Elawa staff member and regular attender of CCLFLB with her husband Chris). With the uptick in gardening she thought maybe we'd have some way to make use of her newly created "guide to gardening" website full of information about the Vernon's experience and a step-by-step guide to getting started on a vegetable garden.
www.erikavernon.com
If you like this idea and are intrigued to plant a garden, expand a garden you already have, or want to know more—please let me know! I'd like to follow and connect with those using Erika's website and those who are doing it on their own. Maybe you'd like to contribute a portion of your harvest to underprivileged, maybe not. Either way, stay in touch. Send me a picture, drop me a line, let me know what you're doing and how you'd like to be involved in our Summer of 2020 Gardens Bring Life project.
Better together,
Zach Hancock
If it's easier for you to drop off food at the Gorton Community Center,
their Food Drive is going on RIGHT NOW!
The Hopeful TimesHopeful Times hopes to capture the lighter side of and find positive elements to the challenges we are facing. When appropriate, I'll share other kinds of news that I believe important for readers. I recently received word that a friend in Lake Bluff has tested positive for COVID 19 and is quarantined at home.
This is serious. Please be judicious in your decisions and actions, and stay home if you can.
And, let me know how we can help. -TD
This is serious. Please be judicious in your decisions and actions, and stay home if you can.
And, let me know how we can help. -TD
"Worship on the Screen"
We had "Worship on the Beach" and now we have "Worship on the Screen." If you receive these Hopeful Times updates you'll get the week's service online featuring a message by Tom, plus music by a variety of contributors. The service will arrive promptly on Sunday morning in your email inbox at 10:05 a.m., which will allow many of you the opportunity to continue your practice of arriving a few minutes late to church. Like late night TV, it will be "live on tape" from various locations.
Please send your Joys & Concerns to me by the end of the day on Wednesday, as we will be taping on Thursday. - TD
We had "Worship on the Beach" and now we have "Worship on the Screen." If you receive these Hopeful Times updates you'll get the week's service online featuring a message by Tom, plus music by a variety of contributors. The service will arrive promptly on Sunday morning in your email inbox at 10:05 a.m., which will allow many of you the opportunity to continue your practice of arriving a few minutes late to church. Like late night TV, it will be "live on tape" from various locations.
Please send your Joys & Concerns to me by the end of the day on Wednesday, as we will be taping on Thursday. - TD
2020 Gazebo Music Lineup
June 7 Don Stiernberg
June 14 Terry Moran
June 21 Fred and Matthew Koch
June 28 Nic Barnum
2020 Chapel Music Lineup
January 5 Terry Moran
January 12 Broken Cup Luminations and Twisted Hymns
January 19 Jazz Goodbye to Kurt Yost
January 26 Daniela Sloan
February 2 Lowdown Brass Band
February 9 Don Julin
February 16 Blues All-Stars
February 23 David Hawkins
March 1 Jim Seidel and Karen Shook
March 8 Steve Rashid and Don Stiernberg
June 7 Don Stiernberg
June 14 Terry Moran
June 21 Fred and Matthew Koch
June 28 Nic Barnum
2020 Chapel Music Lineup
January 5 Terry Moran
January 12 Broken Cup Luminations and Twisted Hymns
January 19 Jazz Goodbye to Kurt Yost
January 26 Daniela Sloan
February 2 Lowdown Brass Band
February 9 Don Julin
February 16 Blues All-Stars
February 23 David Hawkins
March 1 Jim Seidel and Karen Shook
March 8 Steve Rashid and Don Stiernberg
March 2
MSG Monday Night
Pictured from left to right @ the Burns
Samantha Richmond, Charlotte Matson, Gavin Burns, Kashyup Prasad, Nick Nyland, Scout the Springer Spaniel, Cooper Hender
MSG Monday Night
Pictured from left to right @ the Burns
Samantha Richmond, Charlotte Matson, Gavin Burns, Kashyup Prasad, Nick Nyland, Scout the Springer Spaniel, Cooper Hender
“It was a really inspiring R&W and I know it doesn't stand alone. What a talented duo in MJ and Teddi and to add Fred... so good. Henry loved it. Our kids are so fortunate to have such amazing ‘Sunday School.’ My favorite song was definitely Pizza.
The plein-air orchestra film and the present film are treasures. Thank you for those.
Tonight Henry mentioned his Joys and Concerns of the day...”
-Zach
‘“Our final session of Roots and Wings was a hit, thanks to Fred and Teddi! Their film and song fest was fun for everyone, and Allie and Eloise were each featured as a vocalist! We had 9 children attend: Bennett & Cole T., Owen & Maddie Hill, Emily & Grace G., Charlie & Eloise L., and Allie S. It was a treat to have Pastor Zach and Henry join us, too! It was truly a joyful experience, and I am blown away by Fred & Teddi’s work to put it all together so seamlessly.
Eloise and Maddie asked for prayers for a little girl at LBES, who is undergoing cancer treatments. I don’t know her last name or any details, but extra prayers would be wonderful!”
-Mary Jo
The plein-air orchestra film and the present film are treasures. Thank you for those.
Tonight Henry mentioned his Joys and Concerns of the day...”
-Zach
‘“Our final session of Roots and Wings was a hit, thanks to Fred and Teddi! Their film and song fest was fun for everyone, and Allie and Eloise were each featured as a vocalist! We had 9 children attend: Bennett & Cole T., Owen & Maddie Hill, Emily & Grace G., Charlie & Eloise L., and Allie S. It was a treat to have Pastor Zach and Henry join us, too! It was truly a joyful experience, and I am blown away by Fred & Teddi’s work to put it all together so seamlessly.
Eloise and Maddie asked for prayers for a little girl at LBES, who is undergoing cancer treatments. I don’t know her last name or any details, but extra prayers would be wonderful!”
-Mary Jo
Film and Song Fest
MSG – Middle School Group is for students in 6, 7, & 8 grades and is led by Tom, with Zach assisting. It meets monthly during the Chapel season in students' homes and features a meal, fellowship, and a time focused on spiritual growth.
Questions can be addressed to:
Zach Hancock zach@thecommunitychurch.us
Questions can be addressed to:
Zach Hancock zach@thecommunitychurch.us
SUNDAY SERVICES – Currently held at 10:00 a.m. on the Lake Bluff gazebo. Services are a time when we gather to be in community,
pray, and be inspired by Word and song.
pray, and be inspired by Word and song.
Worship at the Gazebo—Live
A big piece of what the Church is all about is gathering together and seeing the people we love as we share in the moments of a Sunday morning service.
Social Distancing has put an end to church as usual for the time being but it doesn’t mean we can’t still see each other and enjoy the service with one another!
Every Sunday the The Community Church sends out a link for the week’s Worship on the Screen—so why not have a Worship on the Screen Watch Party—virtually together on Zoom or Google Hangouts or FaceTime. It’s not quite the same as in person, but hey, neither is anything about the virtual life we’re in right now.
A group of Community Church folks took part in a Worship on the Screen Watch Party together and had a blast doing it. Nine families gathered together on Zoom—kids and all. Here’s how they did it:
* * * * *
• One person hosted the party and sent out an invite by email and/or text—this group chose to use Zoom but you could use Google Hangouts or any other platform that works for you and your group.
• Arrive at the party on your computer or phone. Spend the first few minutes chatting and comparing brunch items.
• Start the Service on the Screen on a different device (a second computer or TV). A smart TV works really well for a Watch Party.
• Keep your friends on the computer and the service on the TV or vice-versa.
• Go to the web browser, visit the church website and HERE on Sunday and go down to Worship on the Screen and click, find the fresh new service delivered that morning and click.
• Muting the Watching Party participants while watching the service is probably a sensible idea (and what the Watch Party of nine families on Sunday chose to do).
• Texting or chatting on Zoom is a fun way to communicate and also hear the service (sort of like whispering during the service to the people you’re sitting near).
• At the end of the service unmute the group, chat for a bit, say goodbye.
If you’d like to be placed into a Watch Party group email PAM
Social Distancing has put an end to church as usual for the time being but it doesn’t mean we can’t still see each other and enjoy the service with one another!
Every Sunday the The Community Church sends out a link for the week’s Worship on the Screen—so why not have a Worship on the Screen Watch Party—virtually together on Zoom or Google Hangouts or FaceTime. It’s not quite the same as in person, but hey, neither is anything about the virtual life we’re in right now.
A group of Community Church folks took part in a Worship on the Screen Watch Party together and had a blast doing it. Nine families gathered together on Zoom—kids and all. Here’s how they did it:
* * * * *
• One person hosted the party and sent out an invite by email and/or text—this group chose to use Zoom but you could use Google Hangouts or any other platform that works for you and your group.
• Arrive at the party on your computer or phone. Spend the first few minutes chatting and comparing brunch items.
• Start the Service on the Screen on a different device (a second computer or TV). A smart TV works really well for a Watch Party.
• Keep your friends on the computer and the service on the TV or vice-versa.
• Go to the web browser, visit the church website and HERE on Sunday and go down to Worship on the Screen and click, find the fresh new service delivered that morning and click.
• Muting the Watching Party participants while watching the service is probably a sensible idea (and what the Watch Party of nine families on Sunday chose to do).
• Texting or chatting on Zoom is a fun way to communicate and also hear the service (sort of like whispering during the service to the people you’re sitting near).
• At the end of the service unmute the group, chat for a bit, say goodbye.
If you’d like to be placed into a Watch Party group email PAM
Worship on the Screen Watch Party
2020 Beach Season
??? through September 20
Sunrise Beach, Lake Bluff
8:15 AM Meditation, between Center & Prospect on the Bluff
—In the event of rain, meditation meets at the North Shelter--
8:45 AM Communion, South shelter
9:00 AM Service
Park on the street near the bluff
Walk down the hill to the South shelter
Come as you are!
Contact the church office (847) 234-8191 with questions or comments
??? through September 20
Sunrise Beach, Lake Bluff
8:15 AM Meditation, between Center & Prospect on the Bluff
—In the event of rain, meditation meets at the North Shelter--
8:45 AM Communion, South shelter
9:00 AM Service
Park on the street near the bluff
Walk down the hill to the South shelter
Come as you are!
Contact the church office (847) 234-8191 with questions or comments
Due to the current health crisis, Sunday services normally held in the chapel
are now available for viewing here. We call it Worship on the Screen.
Parking at the beach is simple – park wherever you find a spot.
Also, both the Chapel and the beach are handicap accessible. Call the church for more information at 847 234 8191.
And, if you’d like a better sense of Sunday at the Community Church, check out a recent service.
Additionally, you can view all services here.
The Community Church has two worship homes – the Lily Reid Holt Chapel on the campus of Lake Forest College and
Sunrise Beach in Lake Bluff on the shores of Lake Michigan.
However, due to safety restrictions related to Covid-19, our temporary summer home is
The Gazebo on the Lake Bluff Village Green
Our Sunday at the Beach season begins the third Sunday in May, and runs through the third Sunday of September.
Beach services begin at 8:30 & 9:30 a.m.
Sunrise Beach in Lake Bluff on the shores of Lake Michigan.
However, due to safety restrictions related to Covid-19, our temporary summer home is
The Gazebo on the Lake Bluff Village Green
Our Sunday at the Beach season begins the third Sunday in May, and runs through the third Sunday of September.
Beach services begin at 8:30 & 9:30 a.m.
June 27—Save the Date!!!
Farewell Parade for
Zach, Lydia, Henry, Frances & Bela
Drive by & offer your best wishes!
219 Prospect Ave, Lake Bluff
Saturday, 6/27 from 1 pm - 2 pm
Rev. Zachary Hancock, Minister
zach@thecommunitychurch.us
Zachary Hancock has been described as a Renaissance man. This description is a little much, but he’ll agree to Zach-of-many trades. From gardening and carpentry to literature, philosophy, brewing beer (Belgians are a favorite), raising chickens, and restoring an old airstream, Zach has insatiable curiosity for all that life holds and believes that ministry is an ideal profession for him, where the full spectrum of life is the subject at hand.
A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder (B.A. ’97), Zach also holds a Master of Divinity (’05) from Regent College in Vancouver, British Columbia. Zach is rejuvenated by spending time in nature and enjoying friends and family. His favorite things to do are: hike, run, bicycle, ski, camp, fly-fish, travel, and hopefully sail, now that he lives near Lake Michigan. Most important to Zach are his
wife Lydia, their four-year old son Henry and two year-old girl Frances, and twelve-year-old dog Béla.
zach@thecommunitychurch.us
Zachary Hancock has been described as a Renaissance man. This description is a little much, but he’ll agree to Zach-of-many trades. From gardening and carpentry to literature, philosophy, brewing beer (Belgians are a favorite), raising chickens, and restoring an old airstream, Zach has insatiable curiosity for all that life holds and believes that ministry is an ideal profession for him, where the full spectrum of life is the subject at hand.
A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder (B.A. ’97), Zach also holds a Master of Divinity (’05) from Regent College in Vancouver, British Columbia. Zach is rejuvenated by spending time in nature and enjoying friends and family. His favorite things to do are: hike, run, bicycle, ski, camp, fly-fish, travel, and hopefully sail, now that he lives near Lake Michigan. Most important to Zach are his
wife Lydia, their four-year old son Henry and two year-old girl Frances, and twelve-year-old dog Béla.
Tuesday, May 12 @7 PM—Book Group: A Return to Love
2020 Beach Season
June 7 through September 20
Sunrise Beach, Lake Bluff
8:15 AM Meditation, between Center & Prospect on the Bluff
—In the event of rain, meditation meets at the North Shelter--
8:45 AM Communion, South shelter
9:00 AM Service
Park on the street near the bluff
Walk or take the shuttle down the hill to the South shelter
Come as you are!
Contact the church office (847) 234-8191 for special needs parking at the beach.
June 7 through September 20
Sunrise Beach, Lake Bluff
8:15 AM Meditation, between Center & Prospect on the Bluff
—In the event of rain, meditation meets at the North Shelter--
8:45 AM Communion, South shelter
9:00 AM Service
Park on the street near the bluff
Walk or take the shuttle down the hill to the South shelter
Come as you are!
Contact the church office (847) 234-8191 for special needs parking at the beach.
We Are Hopeful You Will
Help Us Create a Mother's Day Video!!!
* * * * *
Kraig Moreland has kindly offered to create a Mother's Day video for our service next week. To do it, we need your help!
First, create a video of 15 seconds of less sharing: what your mother taught you - or - what's the best advice she gave you. Second, if you have a photo of your mom, send it along with the video (phone videos are perfect) to Kraig at coachkraig@aol.com. He'll take the first 25 entries so act swiftly to honor your Mom a week from Sunday! Questions? Email Coach Kraig
Help Us Create a Mother's Day Video!!!
* * * * *
Kraig Moreland has kindly offered to create a Mother's Day video for our service next week. To do it, we need your help!
First, create a video of 15 seconds of less sharing: what your mother taught you - or - what's the best advice she gave you. Second, if you have a photo of your mom, send it along with the video (phone videos are perfect) to Kraig at coachkraig@aol.com. He'll take the first 25 entries so act swiftly to honor your Mom a week from Sunday! Questions? Email Coach Kraig
Return to Love Study Offered
Darrell Bloom and Dave Andersen will lead a discussion of Marianne Williamson’s book, A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles, next week, Tuesday, May 12th at 7:00 PM. We will begin by reading the first 50 pages. It will be a soft beginning, so invite anyone to attend, even if they have not had a chance to get the book and read it.
Here is the new Zoom number. There will not be a password and you should be able to access the meeting even if I am not there to start it. So no hanging out in the waiting. Just click on the zoom link in below, or go to zoom and enter the meeting ID listed in below.
See you next week and prayers for everyone throughout the world in these challenging times.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83061593592
Meeting ID: 830 6159 3592
Darrell Bloom and Dave Andersen will lead a discussion of Marianne Williamson’s book, A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles, next week, Tuesday, May 12th at 7:00 PM. We will begin by reading the first 50 pages. It will be a soft beginning, so invite anyone to attend, even if they have not had a chance to get the book and read it.
Here is the new Zoom number. There will not be a password and you should be able to access the meeting even if I am not there to start it. So no hanging out in the waiting. Just click on the zoom link in below, or go to zoom and enter the meeting ID listed in below.
See you next week and prayers for everyone throughout the world in these challenging times.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83061593592
Meeting ID: 830 6159 3592
Tom Speaks @
An Upcoming Program Which May Be Of Interest!
Join Us Tuesday, May 12 From 7 to 8 pm
as Tom Speaks to Art Impact Project
as Part of 2020 Speaker Series
* * * * *
(Here's what AIP wrote about the zoom event on their Facebook Page)
Quarantining yourself at home can play an important role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases but this doesn’t mean that coping with this disruption in our normal routine is easy. Isolation can cause us to feel cut off from the rest of the world
and feel as if we have no control over this situation.
Taking care of our mental health is essential, even if our time in quarantine is temporary.
Even brief periods of isolation can have negative effects on both our mental and physical well-being.
Art Impact Project is dedicated to providing mental health support to communities through our speaker series
which allows us to shed light on ways we can cope through these challenging times.
Please continue to spread the word to friends and family - and don’t forget to RSVP for the zoom event Tuesday, May 12
HERE
An Upcoming Program Which May Be Of Interest!
Join Us Tuesday, May 12 From 7 to 8 pm
as Tom Speaks to Art Impact Project
as Part of 2020 Speaker Series
* * * * *
(Here's what AIP wrote about the zoom event on their Facebook Page)
Quarantining yourself at home can play an important role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases but this doesn’t mean that coping with this disruption in our normal routine is easy. Isolation can cause us to feel cut off from the rest of the world
and feel as if we have no control over this situation.
Taking care of our mental health is essential, even if our time in quarantine is temporary.
Even brief periods of isolation can have negative effects on both our mental and physical well-being.
Art Impact Project is dedicated to providing mental health support to communities through our speaker series
which allows us to shed light on ways we can cope through these challenging times.
Please continue to spread the word to friends and family - and don’t forget to RSVP for the zoom event Tuesday, May 12
HERE
Tomorrow! Saturday @ 10:00 a.m.!
The Community Church Proudly Presents
The Lake Bluff Food Parade!!!
***********
Join us at the Lake Bluff Middle School Parking lot Saturday at 10:00 a.m. Dance music blaring out the back of my truck! We'll line up as many cars as we can in a parade. The church step van - with banners on each side - will announce our Food Drive and be positioned in the middle of the parade. We'll have an old Jeep playing more music at the end. And, we'll drive slowly using the music to gather attention as we go, kinda like the Good Humor truck.
***********
When people realize what's going on, and come out of their house with a donation to place in the truck, we stop the parade. And you can cheer, scream, honk...or best of all, dance. Or, maybe you join us, smile, and laugh. For about 15 seconds. And then it is on to the next house. We'll go up and down the streets of east Lake Bluff. You can join us for however long you please! For those who'd like, we'll head over to west Lake Bluff after we tackle the main, east & west streets of east Lake Bluff.
***********
Here's how it's a multi-level win. (1) We get food for hungry people in northern Lake County. (2) We raise awareness. (3) We have fun. Hello! Get away from your computer screen! And, we will have prizes for *** the youngest participant *** the best dance moves *** and, the oldest participant (you need to be older than Howard Sipe!)
***********
Can you imagine how fun it will be to have a zillion cars?
Tell everyone you know! 10 am this Saturday!
The Community Church Proudly Presents
The Lake Bluff Food Parade!!!
***********
Join us at the Lake Bluff Middle School Parking lot Saturday at 10:00 a.m. Dance music blaring out the back of my truck! We'll line up as many cars as we can in a parade. The church step van - with banners on each side - will announce our Food Drive and be positioned in the middle of the parade. We'll have an old Jeep playing more music at the end. And, we'll drive slowly using the music to gather attention as we go, kinda like the Good Humor truck.
***********
When people realize what's going on, and come out of their house with a donation to place in the truck, we stop the parade. And you can cheer, scream, honk...or best of all, dance. Or, maybe you join us, smile, and laugh. For about 15 seconds. And then it is on to the next house. We'll go up and down the streets of east Lake Bluff. You can join us for however long you please! For those who'd like, we'll head over to west Lake Bluff after we tackle the main, east & west streets of east Lake Bluff.
***********
Here's how it's a multi-level win. (1) We get food for hungry people in northern Lake County. (2) We raise awareness. (3) We have fun. Hello! Get away from your computer screen! And, we will have prizes for *** the youngest participant *** the best dance moves *** and, the oldest participant (you need to be older than Howard Sipe!)
***********
Can you imagine how fun it will be to have a zillion cars?
Tell everyone you know! 10 am this Saturday!
MUSICIANS: I regularly check out Facebook and your home pages to see where you all are playing, but often I miss or don’t get the information in time for the newsletter. If you’d like me to advertise your gigs, please let me know when and where you're playing.
We've been given $2000 for the Food DRIVE—if it is matched by the Community by May 1.
Hats are the Collectors Edition "Single Bo" style. Quantities are limited and available to the first 25 donors.
Donations can be made HERE, or by sending a check to: Community Church Charities, P.O. Box 26, Lake Bluff, IL 60044.
Hats are the Collectors Edition "Single Bo" style. Quantities are limited and available to the first 25 donors.
Donations can be made HERE, or by sending a check to: Community Church Charities, P.O. Box 26, Lake Bluff, IL 60044.
Two Course in Miracles Study Groups
Two Community Church A Course in Miracles (ACIM) Study Groups meet each week in Room 215 at the Gorton Community Center. We gather on Thursday mornings at 9 a.m.and Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m., and are facilitated by Darrel Bloom and Dave Andersen. All are welcome to join at any time! Alan Cohen's description: "ACIM is a self-study system of spiritual awakening that teaches the way to inner peace and healing through the power of love and forgiveness." For more information and sign up: Study Group - ACIM
A Course in Miracles, (ACIM) is a self-study spiritual-thought system that teaches the way of love and forgiveness. It has captivated the minds and captured the hearts of millions of people who no longer want to frame their life around fear. It seeks to provide an inner peace where fear and pain once, prevailed. Cohen takes the big-picture ideas of the Course and brings them down to earth in 22 concise, easy-to-read chapters.
Please contact Dave or Darrell if you have questions.
Two Community Church A Course in Miracles (ACIM) Study Groups meet each week in Room 215 at the Gorton Community Center. We gather on Thursday mornings at 9 a.m.and Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m., and are facilitated by Darrel Bloom and Dave Andersen. All are welcome to join at any time! Alan Cohen's description: "ACIM is a self-study system of spiritual awakening that teaches the way to inner peace and healing through the power of love and forgiveness." For more information and sign up: Study Group - ACIM
A Course in Miracles, (ACIM) is a self-study spiritual-thought system that teaches the way of love and forgiveness. It has captivated the minds and captured the hearts of millions of people who no longer want to frame their life around fear. It seeks to provide an inner peace where fear and pain once, prevailed. Cohen takes the big-picture ideas of the Course and brings them down to earth in 22 concise, easy-to-read chapters.
Please contact Dave or Darrell if you have questions.
May 2 & 3
Haiku Workshop and Retreat
Here and Now More Than Ever
organized by Zach Hancock
facilitated by Steve Kennedy
Joseph & Mary Retreat House, Mundelein
This is a special opportunity to learn about and experience writing haiku—one of the great contemplative Zen art-forms.
Steve Kennedy is the founder of the Rocky Mountain Here and Now Society, a haiku practice group in Colorado. He is author/editor of three books of haiku, essays, and photos by his late uncle and Central Park naturalist, Charles Kennedy. Steve is a retired K-12 and university-level educator. He is an experienced retreat leader and a practicing student of Christian mysticism and wilderness theology. He brings a reverent seeker’s mind to his haiku/haibun practice and his retreat facilitation. Zen tradition meets Christian mysticism meets real people, here and now, seeking meaning and means of seeing and healing in a fractured world.
Enter Haiku, Haibun, Senryu, and Renga as individual and communal spiritual practice. Expect some history and framing and weaving of spiritual traditions; some examples and instruction; lots of individual practice time and time for sharing; and a dash of spirited group haiku fun. And what better time for this than in the wild, blossoming belly of Spring?
So, now a taste…
Slow down. Breathe. Wander outdoors. Be present.
And practice: Be here, immersed in all that surrounds you. Expect an invitation into kinship from each particular other, each element, each scene you behold. Note the sublime brevity, the fleeting nature of each startling moment, of time, of life. Be enthralled with an insight, a feeling, an intuition of something sweet or humorous or sad or reassuring or poignant or…? Capture its essence in the elegant manner of the masters of the haiku tradition. Share what you’ve captured and know that you are new in this moment, permanently enriched, and more lovingly adept at moving forward.
You need not be familiar with haiku to attend Here and Now More Than Ever. In fact, if you are familiar with haiku, try to forget all you know and come with a Beginner’s Mind! If you make the time and prioritize attending this retreat with Steve Kennedy, you will not be disappointed. Steve is an inspired person, a gifted teacher, and will open a door of spiritual practice that you probably never knew existed.
We have reserved 20 rooms at Joseph & Mary Retreat House for Here and Now More Than Ever, the retreat begins Saturday March 2nd at 10:30 AM and concludes Sunday March 3rd following breakfast at 9 AM.
If you have never lodged at Joseph & Mary Retreat House, the accommodations are well appointed (beds are comfy according to most if not all) and the food is full of options for every diet, accommodations can be made for food allergies.
Cost of the retreat is $120 for lodging, meals, and haiku workshop.
Please contact Zach with questions and to reserve a spot.
Haiku Workshop and Retreat
Here and Now More Than Ever
organized by Zach Hancock
facilitated by Steve Kennedy
Joseph & Mary Retreat House, Mundelein
This is a special opportunity to learn about and experience writing haiku—one of the great contemplative Zen art-forms.
Steve Kennedy is the founder of the Rocky Mountain Here and Now Society, a haiku practice group in Colorado. He is author/editor of three books of haiku, essays, and photos by his late uncle and Central Park naturalist, Charles Kennedy. Steve is a retired K-12 and university-level educator. He is an experienced retreat leader and a practicing student of Christian mysticism and wilderness theology. He brings a reverent seeker’s mind to his haiku/haibun practice and his retreat facilitation. Zen tradition meets Christian mysticism meets real people, here and now, seeking meaning and means of seeing and healing in a fractured world.
Enter Haiku, Haibun, Senryu, and Renga as individual and communal spiritual practice. Expect some history and framing and weaving of spiritual traditions; some examples and instruction; lots of individual practice time and time for sharing; and a dash of spirited group haiku fun. And what better time for this than in the wild, blossoming belly of Spring?
So, now a taste…
Slow down. Breathe. Wander outdoors. Be present.
And practice: Be here, immersed in all that surrounds you. Expect an invitation into kinship from each particular other, each element, each scene you behold. Note the sublime brevity, the fleeting nature of each startling moment, of time, of life. Be enthralled with an insight, a feeling, an intuition of something sweet or humorous or sad or reassuring or poignant or…? Capture its essence in the elegant manner of the masters of the haiku tradition. Share what you’ve captured and know that you are new in this moment, permanently enriched, and more lovingly adept at moving forward.
You need not be familiar with haiku to attend Here and Now More Than Ever. In fact, if you are familiar with haiku, try to forget all you know and come with a Beginner’s Mind! If you make the time and prioritize attending this retreat with Steve Kennedy, you will not be disappointed. Steve is an inspired person, a gifted teacher, and will open a door of spiritual practice that you probably never knew existed.
We have reserved 20 rooms at Joseph & Mary Retreat House for Here and Now More Than Ever, the retreat begins Saturday March 2nd at 10:30 AM and concludes Sunday March 3rd following breakfast at 9 AM.
If you have never lodged at Joseph & Mary Retreat House, the accommodations are well appointed (beds are comfy according to most if not all) and the food is full of options for every diet, accommodations can be made for food allergies.
Cost of the retreat is $120 for lodging, meals, and haiku workshop.
Please contact Zach with questions and to reserve a spot.
The Community Church Garden Project
The Community Church has not one, but two vegetable gardens!
The big garden is in cooperation with Lake Forest College, located behind The Glen Rowan House (500 Sheridan, Lake Forest—across the street from the chapel).
The office garden is located at the Jessen Office Building (117 E. Scranton, Lake Bluff) in the alley behind the building. Dylan Burns built the terraced garden for his Eagle Scout project.
All of the produce (organic) from the gardens will be donated to Beacon Place for distribution to those who don't typically have the opportunity to buy healthy produce.
The Community Church has not one, but two vegetable gardens!
The big garden is in cooperation with Lake Forest College, located behind The Glen Rowan House (500 Sheridan, Lake Forest—across the street from the chapel).
The office garden is located at the Jessen Office Building (117 E. Scranton, Lake Bluff) in the alley behind the building. Dylan Burns built the terraced garden for his Eagle Scout project.
All of the produce (organic) from the gardens will be donated to Beacon Place for distribution to those who don't typically have the opportunity to buy healthy produce.
COMMUNITY MEALS at Christ Episcopal Church in Waukegan.
The Community Church of Lake Bluff & Lake Forest coordinates meal preparation and service for the Community Meal Program at Christ Episcopal Church in Waukegan.
• A meal is prepared and served to anyone in need. A different group coordinates the meal each week.
• The Community Church volunteers will meet at the church (410 Grand Avenue, Waukegan IL.) at 12:00 to prepare the meal.
Doors will open at 2:00 for service and then cleanup starts approximately 3:00.
• The number of people being served varies from 65-120.
• We are looking for 10 volunteers to help.
• All supplies will be in the kitchen when volunteers arrive. We only need your help in preparing, serving and cleanup.
• This may be used for Service Hours.
Contact John Corrigan at john@thecommunitychurch.us for more information or to sign up.
A signup sheet will also be at the back table at Sunday Service.
The Community Church of Lake Bluff & Lake Forest coordinates meal preparation and service for the Community Meal Program at Christ Episcopal Church in Waukegan.
• A meal is prepared and served to anyone in need. A different group coordinates the meal each week.
• The Community Church volunteers will meet at the church (410 Grand Avenue, Waukegan IL.) at 12:00 to prepare the meal.
Doors will open at 2:00 for service and then cleanup starts approximately 3:00.
• The number of people being served varies from 65-120.
• We are looking for 10 volunteers to help.
• All supplies will be in the kitchen when volunteers arrive. We only need your help in preparing, serving and cleanup.
• This may be used for Service Hours.
Contact John Corrigan at john@thecommunitychurch.us for more information or to sign up.
A signup sheet will also be at the back table at Sunday Service.
June 8-12
Summer Work Trip 2020...
Is Going to Be Awesome
We will build with Habitat for Humanity
We will camp at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
We will enjoy special-guest-Ken Hall-approved-musicians
at the campfire
We will take a sailing adventure on Lake Michigan
We will play an epic game of camp-fire charades
We will play disc golf with Ken Hall
We will relax on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan
Tom Dickelman will make a guest appearance or two
We will go to Wildwood Rush Zipline Canopy Tour
Many other things in the works TBA!
To sign-up or ask questions about the trip please contact ZACH
Summer Work Trip 2020...
Is Going to Be Awesome
We will build with Habitat for Humanity
We will camp at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
We will enjoy special-guest-Ken Hall-approved-musicians
at the campfire
We will take a sailing adventure on Lake Michigan
We will play an epic game of camp-fire charades
We will play disc golf with Ken Hall
We will relax on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan
Tom Dickelman will make a guest appearance or two
We will go to Wildwood Rush Zipline Canopy Tour
Many other things in the works TBA!
To sign-up or ask questions about the trip please contact ZACH
Community Contemplation Invites You To Meditate
If you’re a long-time meditator looking for a group or if you’re someone with curiosity about meditation
and would like to know more, we’ve got you covered.
Community Contemplation offers four opportunities per week for meditation:
Tuesday at Gorton room 215 at 5:30 PM with Venu Tummalapalli
Wednesday at Gorton room 215 at 9 AM with Zach Hancock
Friday at Gorton room 215 at 9 AM with Steve Stein
Sunday at Reid Hall room 100 at 9 AM with Zach Hancock
Every session runs 45 minutes start to finish.
Please contact Zach with any questions zach@thecommunitychurch.us
From September 29, 2019 through May 17, 2020 services will be held on Sundays at 10:00 AM
in the historic Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Lake Forest College.
in the historic Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Lake Forest College.
Late-start Thursday Breakfast w/Zach
Thursday, February 27th
Meet at Prairie Coffee at 8 am
Zach will provide a light breakfast in the form of bagels and such.
Please RSVP to Zach
Thursday, February 27th
Meet at Prairie Coffee at 8 am
Zach will provide a light breakfast in the form of bagels and such.
Please RSVP to Zach
A drum circle is a group of people playing drums together, usually hand drums such as
djembes, congas, bass drums and bongos.
They can have anything from a few to hundreds of participants. There is often an array of other percussion instruments, such as shakers and tambourines, and they are sometimes
accompanied by dancing.
The informal drum circle is a great place to listen, play or socialize. Many players of all levels and all ages usually turn up. Drummers bring their own instruments and jam along within a loose rhythmic structure. They're fun because newbies can blend in with the group while advanced players get a chance to practice more intricate patterns.
In informal drum circles, there is no leader, and whereas some might see this as a detriment, it often leads to a “communal groove” that builds and grows organically, transcending the individual.
djembes, congas, bass drums and bongos.
They can have anything from a few to hundreds of participants. There is often an array of other percussion instruments, such as shakers and tambourines, and they are sometimes
accompanied by dancing.
The informal drum circle is a great place to listen, play or socialize. Many players of all levels and all ages usually turn up. Drummers bring their own instruments and jam along within a loose rhythmic structure. They're fun because newbies can blend in with the group while advanced players get a chance to practice more intricate patterns.
In informal drum circles, there is no leader, and whereas some might see this as a detriment, it often leads to a “communal groove” that builds and grows organically, transcending the individual.
Drum Circle August 16 on the Beach
Women’s Meditation reconvenes this Monday Jan 27. Our group is open to all women in want need of an hour respite & restoration. We will be loosely looking at Pema Chodron’s book When Things Fall Apart - books will be available - just show up! 7:00 pm @ Gorton 215.
From the director of SCREENAGERS: Growing Up in the Digital Age comes SCREENAGERS NEXT CHAPTER: Uncovering Skills for Stress Resilience, a film about helping young people thrive in our screen and stress-filled world.
Filmmaker and physician Delaney Ruston uses a personal lens and professional eye to help us all flip the script on stress, anxiety, and depression. We follow Delaney as she finds herself at a loss on how to help her own teens as they struggle with their emotional wellbeing. Ruston sets out to understand these challenges in our current screen-filled society, and how we as parents and schools empower teens to overcome mental health challenges and build emotional agility, communication savvy, and stress resilience.
We witness Delaney as she finds her way from ineffective parenting to much-improved strategies. We follow other personal stories of families from an array of backgrounds with a spectrum of emotional challenges. We also observe approaches in schools that provide strategies relevant beyond the classroom setting. Interwoven into the stories are surprising insights from brain researchers, psychologists, and thought leaders that reveal evidence-based ways to support mental wellness among our youth. The impact of social media and other screen time is incorporated in all the topics raised Screenagers NEXT CHAPTER,
how it may be impacting our teen’s mental health, and what we can do to help foster youth in the face of struggles.
A panel discussion will follow the film compiled of community experts. This film is being co-presented with LEAD.
The Community Film Forum is generously supported by the Jannotta Family through the Gorton Producer Program.
Filmmaker and physician Delaney Ruston uses a personal lens and professional eye to help us all flip the script on stress, anxiety, and depression. We follow Delaney as she finds herself at a loss on how to help her own teens as they struggle with their emotional wellbeing. Ruston sets out to understand these challenges in our current screen-filled society, and how we as parents and schools empower teens to overcome mental health challenges and build emotional agility, communication savvy, and stress resilience.
We witness Delaney as she finds her way from ineffective parenting to much-improved strategies. We follow other personal stories of families from an array of backgrounds with a spectrum of emotional challenges. We also observe approaches in schools that provide strategies relevant beyond the classroom setting. Interwoven into the stories are surprising insights from brain researchers, psychologists, and thought leaders that reveal evidence-based ways to support mental wellness among our youth. The impact of social media and other screen time is incorporated in all the topics raised Screenagers NEXT CHAPTER,
how it may be impacting our teen’s mental health, and what we can do to help foster youth in the face of struggles.
A panel discussion will follow the film compiled of community experts. This film is being co-presented with LEAD.
The Community Film Forum is generously supported by the Jannotta Family through the Gorton Producer Program.
This Weekend!
Dr. Matt Dewar’s Winter Wellness Retreat
(A Few Spots Still Available!)
Due to a relatively quiet weekend at Joseph and Mary Retreat House they will allow us last minute reservations. Let Zach know if you’d like to join.
Saturday, January 18 - 10:30 AM
to Sunday, January 19 - 12 Noon
$100 covers accommodations and fare
The gist of the retreat in Matt’s own words:
“Begin the new year with a weekend of personal reflection and renewal. This retreat will focus on how to cultivate and maintain your well-being in the midst of day-to-day demands and stress. Specifically, we’ll explore how increased self-awareness can interrupt the often-unconscious internal states that lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices. By learning simple techniques to increase self-awareness and improve self-care, you'll start the new year off with healthier habits, clearer purpose, and improved well-being.”,#1 Matt Dewar
To reserve your spot or to inquire about the event email Zach
Just 20 spots available - first come, first served,
$100 includes the retreat program, lunch-dinner-breakfast, and accommodations.
If you’ve never been before to a retreat with Matt, it is worth your time and resources to do so!
If you have been on retreat with Matt before, you have the opportunity to go that much deeper into your personal work.
The retreat will be held at the beautiful Joseph and Mary Retreat House:
1300 Stritch Drive. Mundelein, IL 60060 www.josephandmaryretreat.org
Dr. Matt Dewar’s Winter Wellness Retreat
(A Few Spots Still Available!)
Due to a relatively quiet weekend at Joseph and Mary Retreat House they will allow us last minute reservations. Let Zach know if you’d like to join.
Saturday, January 18 - 10:30 AM
to Sunday, January 19 - 12 Noon
$100 covers accommodations and fare
The gist of the retreat in Matt’s own words:
“Begin the new year with a weekend of personal reflection and renewal. This retreat will focus on how to cultivate and maintain your well-being in the midst of day-to-day demands and stress. Specifically, we’ll explore how increased self-awareness can interrupt the often-unconscious internal states that lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices. By learning simple techniques to increase self-awareness and improve self-care, you'll start the new year off with healthier habits, clearer purpose, and improved well-being.”,#1 Matt Dewar
To reserve your spot or to inquire about the event email Zach
Just 20 spots available - first come, first served,
$100 includes the retreat program, lunch-dinner-breakfast, and accommodations.
If you’ve never been before to a retreat with Matt, it is worth your time and resources to do so!
If you have been on retreat with Matt before, you have the opportunity to go that much deeper into your personal work.
The retreat will be held at the beautiful Joseph and Mary Retreat House:
1300 Stritch Drive. Mundelein, IL 60060 www.josephandmaryretreat.org
Hi Folks,
Kurt Yost, who has graced us with his saxophone playing many times over the years, will be retiring from the wine business and moving to a
warmer climate.
I met Kurt in the early 1980's, fresh out of college, when I joined the Last Dance Band led by Tom Goetz in Lake Bluff, and I’ve been playing in various bands with Kurt ever since. Kurt played for my wedding reception in 1981 and 38 years later played for my daughter Jen’s wedding reception in 2019!
I’m going to miss Kurt deeply, but wish him well in his retirement!
Come join fellow longtime bandmates Jeff Lackie, Jim Seidel, Eric VanDuyne and myself as we play one last jazz service with Kurt at The Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel in Lake Forest this Sunday, January 19th at 10 am.
-Ken
Kurt Yost, who has graced us with his saxophone playing many times over the years, will be retiring from the wine business and moving to a
warmer climate.
I met Kurt in the early 1980's, fresh out of college, when I joined the Last Dance Band led by Tom Goetz in Lake Bluff, and I’ve been playing in various bands with Kurt ever since. Kurt played for my wedding reception in 1981 and 38 years later played for my daughter Jen’s wedding reception in 2019!
I’m going to miss Kurt deeply, but wish him well in his retirement!
Come join fellow longtime bandmates Jeff Lackie, Jim Seidel, Eric VanDuyne and myself as we play one last jazz service with Kurt at The Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel in Lake Forest this Sunday, January 19th at 10 am.
-Ken
Monday, January 20, 12:45 PM Market Square, Lake Forest
The MLK Day ecumenical celebration (co-sponsored by The Community Church LF & LB) will begin, in the spirit of MLK, with a march from Market Square to the sanctuary at Church of the Holy Spirit for a not-to-be-missed MLK inspired service, including: liturgy, film clips from MLK’s greatest sermons and speeches.
“Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be.
This is the interrelated structure of reality.”
-The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Questions? Contact Zach
The MLK Day ecumenical celebration (co-sponsored by The Community Church LF & LB) will begin, in the spirit of MLK, with a march from Market Square to the sanctuary at Church of the Holy Spirit for a not-to-be-missed MLK inspired service, including: liturgy, film clips from MLK’s greatest sermons and speeches.
“Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be.
This is the interrelated structure of reality.”
-The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Questions? Contact Zach
This Weekend!
Dr. Matt Dewar’s Winter Wellness Retreat
(A Few Spots Still Available!)
Due to a relatively quiet weekend at Joseph and Mary Retreat House they will allow us last minute reservations. Let Zach know if you’d like to join.
Saturday, January 18 - 10:30 AM
to Sunday, January 19 - 12 Noon
$100 covers accommodations and fare
The gist of the retreat in Matt’s own words:
“Begin the new year with a weekend of personal reflection and renewal. This retreat will focus on how to cultivate and maintain your well-being in the midst of day-to-day demands and stress. Specifically, we’ll explore how increased self-awareness can interrupt the often-unconscious internal states that lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices. By learning simple techniques to increase self-awareness and improve self-care, you'll start the new year off with healthier habits, clearer purpose, and improved well-being.”,#1 Matt Dewar
To reserve your spot or to inquire about the event email Zach
Just 20 spots available - first come, first served,
$100 includes the retreat program, lunch-dinner-breakfast, and accommodations.
If you’ve never been before to a retreat with Matt, it is worth your time and resources to do so!
If you have been on retreat with Matt before, you have the opportunity to go that much deeper into your personal work.
The retreat will be held at the beautiful Joseph and Mary Retreat House:
1300 Stritch Drive. Mundelein, IL 60060 www.josephandmaryretreat.org
Dr. Matt Dewar’s Winter Wellness Retreat
(A Few Spots Still Available!)
Due to a relatively quiet weekend at Joseph and Mary Retreat House they will allow us last minute reservations. Let Zach know if you’d like to join.
Saturday, January 18 - 10:30 AM
to Sunday, January 19 - 12 Noon
$100 covers accommodations and fare
The gist of the retreat in Matt’s own words:
“Begin the new year with a weekend of personal reflection and renewal. This retreat will focus on how to cultivate and maintain your well-being in the midst of day-to-day demands and stress. Specifically, we’ll explore how increased self-awareness can interrupt the often-unconscious internal states that lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices. By learning simple techniques to increase self-awareness and improve self-care, you'll start the new year off with healthier habits, clearer purpose, and improved well-being.”,#1 Matt Dewar
To reserve your spot or to inquire about the event email Zach
Just 20 spots available - first come, first served,
$100 includes the retreat program, lunch-dinner-breakfast, and accommodations.
If you’ve never been before to a retreat with Matt, it is worth your time and resources to do so!
If you have been on retreat with Matt before, you have the opportunity to go that much deeper into your personal work.
The retreat will be held at the beautiful Joseph and Mary Retreat House:
1300 Stritch Drive. Mundelein, IL 60060 www.josephandmaryretreat.org
November 16, 2019
Dinners for 8 (give or take) Hosted by Lynda and Jim O'Connor
Matt Dewar—Installment 2
All's well, even when it's not.
Keeping it real with Matt Dewar in this second installment
On The Brink of Everything (Penguin 2018)
by Parker Palmer
Why we chose to read this book:
Parker Palmer is one of the beloved writers about spirituality and wisdom, and now, on the cusp of his eighth decade Parker has written a beautiful book of reflections and wisdom gleaned from 80 years of life as he catches glimpses of “the brink of everything” not too far out in the distance of his long life.
This book is not for elders only. It was written to encourage adults of all ages to explore the way their lives are unfolding. It’s not a how-to-do-it book on aging, but a set of meditations in prose and poetry that turn the prism on the meaning(s) of one’s life, refracting new light at every turn.
At 215 pages On The Brink is right in the sweet spot of length—very manageable to read in a relatively short amount of time.
On the Brink will meet twice, once for a pre-reading discussion and once after all have read the book.
There will be an evening session and morning session to choose from.
Attendees are welcome to attend either time that works, no stipulation on choosing an AM or PM group. Come to the session that works for you.
October 14th 9 AM & 7 PM Gorton Center room 215
October 28th 9 AM & 7 PM Gorton Center room 215
Contact Zach with any questions.
by Parker Palmer
Why we chose to read this book:
Parker Palmer is one of the beloved writers about spirituality and wisdom, and now, on the cusp of his eighth decade Parker has written a beautiful book of reflections and wisdom gleaned from 80 years of life as he catches glimpses of “the brink of everything” not too far out in the distance of his long life.
This book is not for elders only. It was written to encourage adults of all ages to explore the way their lives are unfolding. It’s not a how-to-do-it book on aging, but a set of meditations in prose and poetry that turn the prism on the meaning(s) of one’s life, refracting new light at every turn.
At 215 pages On The Brink is right in the sweet spot of length—very manageable to read in a relatively short amount of time.
On the Brink will meet twice, once for a pre-reading discussion and once after all have read the book.
There will be an evening session and morning session to choose from.
Attendees are welcome to attend either time that works, no stipulation on choosing an AM or PM group. Come to the session that works for you.
October 14th 9 AM & 7 PM Gorton Center room 215
October 28th 9 AM & 7 PM Gorton Center room 215
Contact Zach with any questions.
Hi folks.
Recently, after hearing Eva B Ross and company rehearsing, Christine, who is involved in the music business for a living and has been worshiping with us asked me, “Where do you find all these wonderful musicians”? I’ve often thought about that and I would like to highlight a couple reasons. Number one is Fred Koch! He is kind of like the Tree that all the branches have grown from. I met Fred when my kids were toddlers attending
“Lil’ Cow Band” concerts and since then he has introduced me to a countless number of amazing musicians. Those musicians introduced me to more amazing musicians, and so on. If you see Fred, please say thank you for what he has done. I couldn’t be more grateful for his unselfish support through the years. Number two is all of you! When any musician plays for people that, as Eva put it, is “a good listening crowd” and ever so appreciative, that not only affects the performance, but naturally makes them want to come back. So thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown the musicians who have come to share their talents! The beauty is that the branches of the tree are still growing and you all nurture that.
May19 Terry Moran
May 26 Pred
June 2 Elliott and Phil Goldman
June 9 Bobby Newman
June 16 Eva B. Ross
June 23 Hanna Swoyer/Austin
June 30 (picnic) Joe Sonnefeldt and friends
July 7 Christina Trulio
July 14 Don Stiernberg
July 21 Blues Dudes
July 28 DBUTs
August 4 Nic Barnum
August 11 Blues Dudes
August 18 Hall/Koch/Delman/Hasty Families
August 25 Warren Beck
Sept. 1 Dana and Clara Gillis
Sept. 8 Don Stiernberg
Sept. 15 Bobby Newman
Sept. 22 Amy Sue Heard
May 26 Pred
June 2 Elliott and Phil Goldman
June 9 Bobby Newman
June 16 Eva B. Ross
June 23 Hanna Swoyer/Austin
June 30 (picnic) Joe Sonnefeldt and friends
July 7 Christina Trulio
July 14 Don Stiernberg
July 21 Blues Dudes
July 28 DBUTs
August 4 Nic Barnum
August 11 Blues Dudes
August 18 Hall/Koch/Delman/Hasty Families
August 25 Warren Beck
Sept. 1 Dana and Clara Gillis
Sept. 8 Don Stiernberg
Sept. 15 Bobby Newman
Sept. 22 Amy Sue Heard
Work Trip 2019
Have you ever wondered about
A Course in Miracles--what it is and sorta wanted to check it out? If so, this is a terrific opportunity.
Darrell Bloom is facilitating a group that will use Alan Cohen's book,
A Course in Miracles Made Easy
Oct. 3 at 9 AM
Gorton Community Center room 215
This group expects to meet for 6 weeks and could possibly go longer.
Contact Darrell Bloom with questions or for more details.
A Course in Miracles--what it is and sorta wanted to check it out? If so, this is a terrific opportunity.
Darrell Bloom is facilitating a group that will use Alan Cohen's book,
A Course in Miracles Made Easy
Oct. 3 at 9 AM
Gorton Community Center room 215
This group expects to meet for 6 weeks and could possibly go longer.
Contact Darrell Bloom with questions or for more details.