Announcements for October 7th

A Note from Fr. Jeremy

Dear Friends,

Someone told me this week that she didn’t think this day would ever arrive.  I hope that she was exaggerating the way we all did as children when we thought Christmas would “never” get here.  But I realize that this has been a long road for you. Transitions are always difficult, even for the best prepared congregations.  I delight with you all that Brave and I have finally arrived. We are slowly getting settled in the Rectory and look forward to hosting an open house soon(ish).  Your parish leadership has done a commendable job, in the search process and in preparing St. John’s and the Rectory for our arrival.  I hope that you will join me in saying thank you, thank you, thank you!!  You all should be commended as well for the great care you have taken in maintaining the life and mission of St. John’s during this time of transition.  This is not always the case – and I would venture to say is most often not the case.  

We are looking forward to joining you in worship for the first time this Sunday and to beginning our common ministry together.  We have so many opportunities to impact our community and to make known the life-giving, life-affirming love of God in the person of Jesus Christ.  So let’s make this Sunday, “Bring a Friend to Church Sunday,” and begin this this next chapter in the life of St. John’s.  Again, thank you to everyone who was involved in making this day “finally arrive,” from the Search Committee and Vestry, to those who have worked so hard to renovate the Rectory, clean the church, purge the stuff that collects so quickly and easily, wear their nametags, and to all of you who kept praying and preparing all along and for your presence in this wonderful community.  I can’t wait to meet you all!

Grace and peace,

Fr. Jeremy

Nametags

This will be Fr. Jeremy’s first Sunday with us, so make sure you put on your nametag to help him start getting to know everyone’s names. Additionally, if anyone needs a replacement nametag or cannot find theirs, simply drop off the old one in the box outside the parish office (or a note if yours is missing). It will be replaced for you.

Got Freshmen?  We'll Send Care Packages!

If you know a college freshman who would enjoy a fun care package, please give us their name and mailing address. If your freshman attends school locally, they need a care package too! Everyone can help. Look for our collection area in the undercroft this Sunday; we'll collect items until Wednesday, Oct 24.  Keep it simple and inexpensive. Appreciated items are gum, pencils, ChapStick, individual packs of Kleenex, lotion, etc.  So far, we have seven young women and five young men on our list. Questions?  Contact Dee McManamy, Margi Strombeck, or Mike Madden.

SWIFT Event

SWIFT will be hosting an event called “Women in Faith” on Sunday, October 14^th at Faith United Methodist Church (15101 South 80^th Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462). This will be a speaker’s forum offering insight from Christian, Muslim, and Jewish perspectives. Registration for the event is at 2:30 pm, with the program taking place from 3:00-6:00 pm. SWIFT also encourages those attending to bring along a toiletry item to donate to Respond Now. If you have any questions, please contact Rob McManamy.

Care for Our Common Home: Interfaith Forest Clean-up at the Little Red Schoolhouse

The SouthWest InterFaith Team (SWIFT) will be spending a morning working to help protect the trees by clearing out invasive species around the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800 Willow Springs, IL on Saturday, October 13, 10:00am to 12:00pm. Light refreshments, gloves, and tools will be provided and a ranger will be on-site to help with identifying invasive plants. This is a great opportunity if you need community service hours for school as well as a great opportunity to work and talk with people of different faiths. Contact Bryan Burke by October 10 to sign-up

A Thank You from Fr. Mike

Dear Sisters and Brothers, thank you so much for your generous gift last Sunday. Jane and I very much appreciate your thoughtfulness. Thank you all for letting me be your priest these past 11 months; you have taught me much about being a child of God. Please keep Jane and me in your prayers. May God’s Spirit bless you and keep you, and may his face shine upon you and give you Peace.

Peace and All Good,

Fr. Mike & Jane

The Blessing of the Animals – Sunday, October 7^th at 4:30 pm.

Announcements for October 1st

We Need Your Feedback!  

The Search Committee is asking that everyone complete the Church Assessment Tool, or CAT.  This survey is designed to tell us who we are as a parish and who we want to be going forward as we search for our new rector.  If you are 16 and over and consider St. John's your church home, please go online and take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StJohnEvangelistIL.  Hard copies are also available if you'd prefer.  The next phase of research will be small group discussions and all ages are encouraged to participate.  More information to come.

Yarn Ministry – Will meet Monday, October 2^nd in the Guild room at 7:00 p.m.

College Care Packages

St. John’s Outreach Ministry is sending college freshmen surprise care packages this fall. We’re asking everyone to bring something to contribute to the now 6 young people we’re collecting for. Keep it simple (gum, pencils, Post-it notes)…use your imagination. Stumped? See, text or call Mike Madden or Dee McManamy for suggestions or if you, too, know a college freshman who would like a fun surprise. Boxes will be in the undercroft during coffee hour for the next several Sundays. Remember: Notes of encouragement are always a welcomed addition!

Blessing of the Animals – Sunday,  October 1^st at 4:30 p.m.

Announcements for October 9

Blessing of the Animals Recap
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Blessing of the Animals last Sunday. It was wonderful to share this celebration with pets and people from Faith Lutheran and First Presbyterian Churches in Homewood. A list of contest winners and photos are posted in the undercroft.

All Souls Day Remembrance
On November 2 the church remembers “that vast body of the faithful” who share in the company of the redeemed with the well-known saints, but are “unknown to the wider fellowship of the church.” It is a day to remember, in particular, family and friends who have died during the last year. St. John’s will commemorate All Souls Day with a service at 7:00 PM on November 2. We will name all of the faithful departed who have been buried from St. John’s during the last year or have been remembered  in the Prayers of the People. If you have additional names you would like added to the commemoration, please submit them to the parish office.

United Thank Offering Information
The United Thank Offering was begun in 1889 by the Women’s Auxiliary to the Board of Mission of the Episcopal Church. Every penny contributed goes to grants that support the mission and outreach projects of the church. Handouts with more information about UTO are located on the information tables. We will organize an “ingathering” of St. John’s contributions for sometime in early November so that our contributions can be offered and combined with others presented at Diocesan Convention.

Visit the Holy Land with Bishop Lee
Bishop Jeffrey Lee and the Very Rev. Dominic Barrington, Dean of St. James Cathedral, will lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land May 9-20, 2017. Participation in the trip is open; a deposit is due by October 31. Read more HERE.

Episcopal Men's Group BBQ set for Saturday, Oct. 15
The prayerful males of St. John's in Flossmoor and Church of the Holy Family in Park Forest gathered at SJE on Saturday, Oct. 1, for a kickoff fellowship breakfast to start their fall ministry season. (Our thanks to Deacon John Whennen for leading our discussion.) Those who missed missed out, though, are still in luck >> The E-Men's group will hold a 2nd, more casual, October event on Saturday, October 15, 7 pm, at Mike Madden's house. (The start time is a little later to accommodate those at Holy Family attending their weekly 5:30 pm Saturday service.) All men of both churches are encouraged to attend -- and to help us decide on a new name, among other charitable endeavors. Who said spirituality can't be fun? Or delicious? RSVP to Mike by Thursday, Oct. 13, and please plan to bring a side or dessert.

Vegetable Abundance
Sweet Potatoes, Cooking Pumpkin, Onions.

Announcements for October 2

Blessing of the Animals: This Sunday, October 2
All pets and their human companions are invited to the blessing of the animals this Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 PM at the outdoor altar. Bring a photo if you’d prefer a proxy blessing. Toy animals are also welcome. As usual, we will pray for dear pets who have died. The traditional contests, including the highly coveted Owner-Pet Look Alike Contest, will also be offered.

Best Buddies Pet Pantry Volunteer Day Rescheduled
Approximately every six weeks, volunteers from St. John’s gather to package dog food, dog treats, or cat food for distribution through the Best Buddies Pet Pantry. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the work day scheduled for this Saturday, October 1, has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 15.

United Thank Offering Information
The United Thank Offering was begun in 1889 by the Women’s Auxiliary to the Board of Mission of the Episcopal Church. Every penny contributed goes to grants that support the mission and outreach projects of the church. Handouts with more information about UTO are located on the information tables. We will organize an “ingathering” of St. John’s contributions for sometime in early November so that our contributions can be offered and combined with others presented at Diocesan Convention.

Visit the Holy Land with Bishop Lee
Bishop Jeffrey Lee and the Very Rev. Dominic Barrington, Dean of St. James Cathedral, will lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land May 9-20, 2017. Participation in the trip is open; a deposit is due by October 31. Read more HERE.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet this Monday, October 3, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.

Vegetable Abundance
No delivery this week. Still a few jalapenos from last week. 

Announcements for September 25

Vestry Meeting Synopsis 
The Vestry met on Monday, Sept 19. We discussed the success of the Jubilation on Sept. 11th, and gave thanks for the hard work of all of the people involved. Work on the columbarium project continues. Vestry members and other parishioners have provided names of masonry contractors. Despite contacting quite a few companies, we have yet to find the right company for the project.

The Vestry approved delegates and alternates for the Diocesan convention to be held on Nov. 18 & 19 at the Westin Lombard hotel. Those who have been to the Convention before said that it was a beautiful experience; especially the Holy Eucharist on Saturday. The Holy Eucharist is open to all, so please consider attending. –Anne Edwards, Senior Warden

Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday, September 25 
Sunday School classes begin this Sunday. The PreK-Grade 1 class meets in the Atrium. The Grade 2-6 class meets in the Education wing; the Grades 7 & 8 class in the Small Conference Room. The Rector’s adult Bible study class meets in the Education wing. Classes begin at 9 AM.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting and crocheting group will meet Monday, October 3, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.

Run to Help Fight Homelessness
It's not too late to support the HUB 5k run/walk to benefit homelessness. Run/walk Saturday 9/24 at Bicentennial Park in Olympia Fields. Start time is 9 am with packet pickup opening at 7:30 am. Proceeds benefit four community organizations who serve the homeless: Ford Heights Community Center, Respond Now, South Suburban PADS and Together We Cope. For more information, to register or volunteer, go to http://bit.ly/2bnH64g.

PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) 
It's that time of the month... October is the first month of the PADS season, which runs through April. St. John's is committed to staffing a portion of the 4th Friday/Saturday of each month. I am looking for people willing to serve and be subs, especially around the holidays. If you did not sign up during the Jubilation, and would be interested in supporting this very important ministry, please contact Margi Strombeck. No experience required...A HUGE thank you to those who have signed up already!

Blessing of the Animals
This year St. John’s partners with Faith Lutheran and First Presbyterian in Homewood to bless the pets who bring such blessings into our lives. Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 PM at St. John’s Outdoor Altar.

Vegetable Abundance
This week: Green cabbage, beets, sweet potatoes, and jalapeno peppers.

Announcements for October 11

Parish Photograph for the Flossmoor Yearbook: October 25 
The Village of Flossmoor is creating a photographic yearbook. Residents, businesses, churches and other organizations are all participating. Our parish photograph will be taken Sunday morning, October 25, following the 10:00 AM service. We hope everyone can participate!

Yarn Ministry Needs the Congregation’s Assistance-
We will be collecting for various organizations hand or machine made (store bought) scarves, hats, gloves, and mittens for men, women and children for this winter. The first group we have been asked to contribute to is “SoulScarves,” a human warmth project from Grace Place Episcopal Church in Chicago. Grace Place serves breakfast to over 150 predominantly male guests each Saturday morning. We would like to have the items for them by November 15th. The other group will be PADS, for various people in need. We urgently request all the crocheters, knitters, and shoppers in the parish, please help the Yarn Ministry make this a very successful project. Collections bins will be located in the undercroft and at the office entrance.

Blessing of the Animals
Thanks to all people and pets who participated. Photos and a list of contest winners are posted in the undercroft.  Photos are also available on the parish Facebook page.

New Parking Regulations in Flossmoor
New parking regulations went into effect October 1 in Flossmoor. There is no change to parking regulations on Leavitt, Central and Park. (Parking is still permitted on both sides of Leavitt; regulations on Central and Park remain as they currently are.) If, however, you park on Bruce or Burns, note that parking is now allowed only on the non-hydrant side of the street (the west side). More information and a map are available HERE.

Episcopal Men’s Group 2.0 Reboots, Ready for More! 
Back by popular demand, the St. John's Episcopal Men's Group held its inaugural breakfast meeting on Saturday, Oct. 3, and nearly a dozen thoughtful adult Christian males participated. Led in prayerful study and discussion by Deacon John Whennen, attendees uniformly agreed afterward that a bond had formed and something worth cultivating had been created. Come, see for yourself what that "something" is, at the group's next meeting, Saturday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 a.m. in the undercroft. As promised, the meeting ends promptly at 9 a.m., so you all will be able to return your many weekend responsibilities, refreshed and spiritually renewed.

Adult Sunday School
The Living Faithfully adult Sunday School class continues a course on “Lost Christianities,” a look at the diversity within the early Christian movement and the evolution of what is now known as orthodox Christianity. All are welcome; you may join the class at any time. Sundays at 9:00 AM in Classroom 4 in the education wing.

Announcements for October 4

Blessing of the Animals: This Sunday, October 4
This year we again join with the people of Faith Lutheran Church to offer the blessing of the pets. Pets of any size or species are invited to receive individual blessings within the context of a brief service of prayer and praise. Sunday, October 4, 4:30 PM at the Outdoor Altar. The “traditional” contests will also be offered.

New Parking Regulations in Flossmoor
New parking regulations went into effect October 1 in Flossmoor. There is no change to parking regulations on Leavitt, Central and Park. (Parking is still permitted on both sides of Leavitt; regulations on Central and Park remain as they currently are.) If, however, you park on Bruce or Burns, note that parking is now allowed only on the non-hydrant side of the street (the west side). More information and a map are available HERE.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting group will meet Monday, October 5, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.

Adult Sunday School
The Living Faithfully adult Sunday School class continues a course on “Lost Christianities,” a look at the diversity within the early Christian movement and the evolution of what is now known as orthodox Christianity. All are welcome; you may join the class at any time. Sundays at 9:00 AM in Classroom 4 in the education wing.

Sing Handel’s Messiah 
The Illiana Oratorio Society will begin rehearsals for Handel's Messiah on Monday, October 19, from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM. These rehearsals will be held at First Christian Reformed Church, 16248 South Park Ave, South Holland, IL. There will be seven rehearsals and the concert will be presented on Sunday, December 6 at 2 PM. All are welcome to join! Questions? Check with Gale Michael.

Announcements for September 27

Sunday School Begins
Regular Sunday School classes for all ages begin this Sunday, September 27, during the 9:00 AM hour. The class for grades 4-6 meets in classroom 5 in the education wing. The Confirmation class (grades 7-8) meets in the small classroom near the parish office. The adult class meets in classroom 4 in the education wing. Coffee and the Chicago Tribune continue to be available in the undercroft.

Delegates for Diocesan Convention
Thank you to Sue O’Brien, Shirley Reilly, Gale Michael, Dorris Sheffer and Don Rubins for volunteering to represent St. John’s as delegates and alternates to Diocesan Convention.

Blessing of the Animals: October 4
This year we again join with the people of Faith Lutheran Church to offer the blessing of the pets. Pets of any size or species are invited to receive individual blessings within the context of a brief service of prayer and praise. Sunday, October 4, 4:30 PM at the Outdoor Altar. The “traditional” contests will also be offered.

Yarn Ministry
The knitting group will meet Monday, October 5, beginning at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room.

Sing Handel’s Messiah
The Illiana Oratorio Society will begin rehearsals for Handel's Messiah on Monday, October 19, from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM. These rehearsals will be held at First Christian Reformed Church, 16248 South Park Ave, South Holland, IL. There will be seven rehearsals and the concert will be presented on Sunday, December 6 at 2 PM. All are welcome to join! Questions? Check with Gale Michael.

Announcements for October 12

Pet Blessing Photos and Winners on Facebook
Thanks to all who attended the pet blessing! Photos from the event, including all contest winners, are posted on the parish Facebook page. And, if you are on Facebook and haven’t “liked” the parish page, please consider it. The more “likes” we have, the broader our reach in the community.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club
Next Thursday, October 16th, we’ll meet at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room to discuss Elaine Pagel’s Adam, Eve, and the Serpent, and everyone is welcome to join us. Our November book selection is A New Kind of Christianity: Ten Questions that Are Transforming the Faith by Brian D. McLaren. We are in the midst of a sea change in organized religion. McLaren, a leader in the Emergent Church movement, describes the hope of where this change may lead us.

Last Call For Winter Clothes for Respond Now
The Daughters of the King are wrapping up their winter clothes drive. Please bring clean, lightly used coats, mittens, hats or other winter clothing. The clothes will be donated to Respond Now to be given to folks trying to keep warm this coming winter. Please bring items to the small conference room in the undercroft.

Give to the Youth of Lawrence Hall
Once again we have the opportunity to bring joy to the kids and youth of Lawrence Hall Youth Services, a ministry of the Diocese of Chicago. Daughters of the King encourages you to give checks or gift cards (suggested amount is $50 from places such as Best Buy, Target, Jewel-Osco, iTunes, movie theaters, restaurants, and Chicago attractions). Please give the checks and gift cards to Iris Bestow by December 7.

Uplifting Update
Demolition and construction are in full swing. It is exciting to see progress being made, but please be very careful in the “Construction Zone.” The hallway from the Atrium to the church is closed. Please go through the Guild Room to access the church from the parish office or education wing.

Announcements for October 5

Pet Blessing This Sunday, October 5
The annual Blessing of the Animals service will be this Sunday, October 5, beginning at 4:30 PM at the outdoor altar. Companion animals of all sizes and species are invited. The service also offers an opportunity to pray for pets who have died. The usual contests will also be held. Come root for your favorite to win the Rector Look Alike Contest or the Owner-Pet Look Alike Contest!

Daughters of the King Collecting Winter Clothes for Respond Now
Throughout the fall the Daughters of the King will be collecting winter clothes. Please bring clean, lightly used coats, mittens, hats or other winter clothing. The clothes will be donated to Respond Now to be given to folks trying to keep warm this coming winter. Look for the collection table in the undercroft. Clothing will be collected through early November.

Uplifting Update
Much of the preliminary work necessary for the installation of the lift has been completed. Next week the construction of the shaft itself and access doorways will begin. Photos of the ongoing work are posted in the undercroft.

Announcements for September 28

Children’s Sunday School: Regular Classes Continue This Sunday
The Sunday School year has begun! Children ages Kindergarten through Grade 3 meet in the Atrium; Grades 4-6 meet in their classroom in the Education Wing; and Grades 7 and up meet in the Small Conference Room near the parish office.

Adult Sunday School: Sustainable Faith
This fall the curriculum will be “Sustainable Faith: God, the Environment and Human Responsibility,” with material drawn from the public radio series Krista Tippett On Being. You may join the class at any time.

Daughters of the King Collecting Winter Clothes for Respond Now
Throughout the fall the Daughters of the King will be collecting winter clothes. Please bring clean, lightly used coats, mittens, hats or other winter clothing. The clothes will be donated to Respond Now to be given to folks trying to keep warm this coming winter. Look for the collection table in the undercroft. Clothing will be collected through early November.

Pet Blessing October 5 
The annual Blessing of the Animals service will be Sunday, October 5, beginning at 4:30 PM at the outdoor altar. Companion animals of all sizes and species are invited.

Announcements for September 21

Children’s Sunday School: Regular Classes Begin This Sunday
Children ages Kindergarten through Grade 3 meet in the Atrium; Grades 4-6 meet in their classroom in the Education Wing; and Grades 7 and up meet in the Small Conference Room.

2014 Window Mural
Thank you to St. John’s children and young people for painting this year’s window mural in the Atrium. The photo is from the outside, looking in. Crosses, crosses, and more crosses.

It’s On! High School Youth Group Kicks Off a New Season This Sunday, September 21
Bring friends, a camera and your favorite ideas for fun and service this year. Starting promptly at 4:00 PM in the youth room, ending at 5:30.

Adult Sunday School: Sustainable Faith
The Living Faithfully adult Sunday School class begins this Sunday, September 21. The curriculum will be “Sustainable Faith: God, the Environment and Human Responsibility,” with material drawn from the public radio series Krista Tippett On Being.

Daughters of the King Collecting Winter Clothes for Respond Now
Throughout the fall the Daughters of the King will be collecting winter clothes. Please bring clean, lightly used coats, mittens, hats or other winter clothing. The clothes will be donated to Respond Now to be given to folks trying to keep warm this coming winter.

Pet Blessing October 5
The annual Blessing of the Animals service will be Sunday, October 5, beginning at 4:30 PM at the outdoor altar. Companion animals of all sizes and species are invited.

Announcements for October 13

Fun at the Blessing of the Animals
Thanks to all pets and people who participated in the Blessing of the Animals. Photos of the event and the prize winners are posted here on the parish Facebook page. You don’t have to be “on” Facebook to view the photos, but if you do use Facebook, why not “like” St. John’s? It’s a good way to keep in touch and see photos from parish activities.

Youth Worship Continues This Sunday
Youth worship, an alternative, age-appropriate worship experience for children and young people, meets most Sundays during the school year. Children gather in the Youth Worship chapel at 10:00 a.m. for music, prayers, Scripture and a reflection. They join their families in church at the peace. On the last Sunday of the month children participate in the regular church service with their families and are, of course, always welcome in church any Sunday if they, or their parents, prefer.

High School Youth Group Needs Paint Brushes
The high school youth group is painting their youth room and they could use a few more paintbrushes. If you have brushes you could lend them, it would be helpful. At least two inches wide (it’s a big room). The brushes will be returned. If you have questions or can help, be in touch with Shirley Reilly or Dee McManamy.

Clergy Conference
The Rector will be participating in clergy conference this year Monday and Tuesday, October 14-15. Bishop Lee is the conference leader.

Announcements for October 6

Blessing of the Animals – October 6
The annual celebration and blessing of all of our companion animals will take place this Sunday, October 6, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Outdoor Altar. Animals of all sorts and sizes are welcome for a brief service of thanksgiving and blessing. The usual and unusual prizes will be awarded (Rector Look Alike, Owner-Pet Look Alike). We will also remember in prayer those companion animals who have died but live on in our hearts.

Regular Sunday School Classes Resume this Week
Sunday School classes for all ages resume this week during the 9:00 a.m. hour on Sunday morning.

Youth Worship Begins This Sunday, October 6
Youth worship, an alternative, age-appropriate worship experience for children and young people, begins this Sunday, October 6. Children gather in the Youth Worship chapel at 10:00 a.m. for music, prayers, Scripture and a reflection. They join their families in church at the peace. Children are also always welcome in church for the entire service if they, or their parents, prefer.

High School Youth Group Meets This Sunday
The new high school youth group meets this Sunday, October 6, from 5:30 – 7:00 for pizza and painting. Everyone in grades 9 – 12 is welcome. Bring a friend! Wear your painting clothes.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will meet Monday, October 7, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room. All knitters and crocheters are welcome.

Announcements for September 29

Bishop Lee Visits St. John’s This Sunday, September 29 
The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey D. Lee, Bishop of Chicago, will visit St. John’s this Sunday. He will preside and preach at both services, meet with the children of the parish during the 9:00 hour, and meet with the vestry following the 10:00 a.m. service.

Children and Youth of the Parish Meet with Bishop Lee at 9:00 a.m.
Bishop Lee will meet with the children and young people of the parish during the 9:00 a.m. “Sunday School hour.” Gather in the Youth Worship chapel in the education wing.

No Regular Sunday School Classes This Week
Because of the Bishop’s visit, regular Sunday School classes for children and adults will not meet this week. During the regular Sunday School hour, the children will be meeting with the Bishop. Regular classes for all ages will resume next Sunday.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will meet Monday, October 7, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room. All knitters and crocheters are welcome.

Youth Worship Begins Next Sunday, October 6
Youth worship, an alternative, age-appropriate worship experience for children and young people, begins next Sunday, October 6. Children gather in the Youth Worship chapel at 10:00 a.m. for music, prayers, Scripture and a reflection. They join their families in church at the peace. Children are also always welcome in church for the entire service if they, or their parents, prefer.

Blessing of the Animals – October 6
The annual celebration and blessing of all of our companion animals will take place next Sunday, October 6, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Outdoor Altar.

Congratulations to St. Paul’s, Kankakee
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Kankakee is celebrating 150 years of mission and ministry. Bishop Lee and Pastor Orr (as Dean of the Joliet Deanery) will participate in the festivities this Sunday afternoon, September 29.

Announcements for September 22

Children’s Sunday School Classes Begin This Sunday at 9:00 a.m.
The Primary class (grades K-3) meets in the Atrium; the Intermediate class (grades 4-6) meets in the education wing. Classes begin at 9:00 a.m.

Youth Confirmation Classes Begin This Sunday
The seventh and eighth grade Sunday School class, taught by Cyndie Knoll, will spend this year preparing for Confirmation. Any seventh or eighth grader interested in confirmation should participate in this class. The first class is this Sunday at 9:00 a.m., meeting in the Small Conference Room near the parish office.

High School Students: St. John’s Needs You!
(And maybe you need St. John’s.) Come be a part of and help create a new high school youth group at St. John’s. Come this Sunday evening, September 22, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Dinner and fun will be served. Questions or ideas? Talk to Dee McManamy or Shirley Reilly.

Adult Education on Sunday Morning
For much of this year, the adult class will use the adult curriculum, Confirm not Conform. It covers the breadth of the Christian tradition, encouraging and prodding adults to explore an authentic faith. The class should be helpful and interesting to all adults, no matter where they are in their faith journey. Parents of young people pursuing confirmation are particularly urged to participate. Classes begin this Sunday, September 22, at 9:00 a.m. in the Education wing.

What Did You Do This Summer?
It’s not too late to post some memento of your summer on the bulletin board in the undercroft.

Bishop Lee Visits St. John’s Next Sunday, September 29
The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey Lee, Bishop of Chicago, will visit St. John’s on Sunday, September 29. He will preach and preside at both services and will meet with the children and young people of the parish during the 9:00 hour.

Blessing of the Animals – October 6
The annual celebration and blessing of all of our companion animals will take place Sunday, October 6, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Outdoor Altar.

Announcements for October 7

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: Next Sunday, October 14
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is scheduled for Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. Please sign up to donate. A sign up sheet is located on the table in the west foyer or you may sign up online at www.lifesource.org.

The Blessing of the Animals: This Sunday, October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m. All beloved pets and their human companions are welcome. Every pet receives an individual blessing. Also, a prayer will be offered for pets who have died. Another round of fun contests will also be held. Come see which pet wins the Rector Look-Alike Contest this year.

Vestry Town Hall Meeting: Update on the Accessibility Project 
During coffee hour on Sunday, October 21, the vestry will present an update on efforts to improve overall accessibility at St. John’s. All parishioners are urged to come hear about what has been done thus far, to ask questions, and join in the conversation about this important initiative. Over the next few weeks, several vestry members will be sharing their reflections about the need for this work. A reflection by R.J. VanSwol is posted on this blog here.

Announcements for September 30

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: October 14 
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is scheduled for Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. Please sign up to donate. A sign up sheet is located on the table in the west foyer or you may sign up online.

The Blessing of the Animals: Next Sunday, October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m. All beloved pets and their human companions are welcome.

Things are Happening at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday Mornings
Christian Education classes for all ages are underway this fall during the 9:00 hour on Sunday mornings. Adults have the opportunity to explore the intersection of faith and science in the Living Faithfully class. Children learn about the Scripture readings of the day. Fellowship, coffee and the Sunday Chicago Tribune are also offered in the undercroft.

Ministry Schedules Mailed
The fourth quarter schedule for Sunday ministries has been mailed. Please note that virtually all Sunday morning ministries have been combined into a single schedule. If you would like to receive your schedule via e-mail in the future, please call or e-mail the parish office and request electronic delivery.

Daughters of the King Meet October 6 
The next meeting of the Daughters of the King will be Saturday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Daughters will resume their study and discussion of The Four Acts of Prayer by Walter Wangerin, Jr.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting for the start of the fall season on Monday, October 1, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Announcements for September 23

Mustard Seed Mural
Created by the children of St. John’s in the Atrium, this mural depicts the parable of the mustard seed. “The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches” (Luke 13:18).

Sunday School Classes for Children
Children’s Sunday School classes are in full swing this Sunday. The Primary Class (grades K-3) meets in the Atrium. The Intermediate Class (grades 4-6) meets in the Education Wing. The Middle School class meets with Mrs. Knoll in the small classroom near the parish office. All classes begin at 9:00 a.m.

New Music Director: Michael Soto
We welcome Michael Soto as the new Director of Music at St. John’s. He has served in various church music ministries most of his life. He has degrees in Organ Performance, Linguistics and French, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. He will be at the 10:00 service this Sunday and will formally begin as Director of Music next Sunday, September 30.

Adult Class on Sundays: Einstein’s God – Science, Faith and the Life of Wonder
The Living Faithfully adult class continues this Sunday, September 23, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Classroom 4 in the Education Wing. This fall the class will draw upon small group discussion materials based upon the public radio program Krista Tippett on Being. The program explores ethics, spirituality and basic questions of meaning and purpose within the context of our daily lives. This fall’s discussions will center on science, faith and the life of wonder.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting for the start of the fall season on Monday, October 1, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Vestry Minutes Online
The minutes of the August meeting of the vestry are now available online on this blog.  Click the "Vestry Minutes" label. Minutes are posted after they are approved by the vestry.

The Blessing of the Animals: October 7
The annual blessing of the animals will take place Sunday, October 7, at the outdoor altar, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Announcements for October 2

• Blessing of the Animals This Sunday
  Pets of all species (suitably restrained or contained) are invited to the Blessing of the Animal this Sunday, October 2, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the outdoor altar. Humans can come, too.
  
  
• Children’s Participation in the Offertory
  Remember, children are invited to participate directly in the offertory in Sunday services by bringing their own offerings to the altar. Non-perishable food items or items for the Humane Society are possible offerings, but God cherishes all offerings. Don’t forget to bring yours.
  
  
• Yarn Ministry
  Yarn Ministry will meet this Monday, October 3, at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room at the church. If you are unable to attend the gatherings, we also welcome items you create at home. Our handy work is donated to a number of charities. All levels of experience are welcome. If you would like to learn to knit, Sue O’Brien is willing to instruct. Yarn Ministry is not limited to just knitters, crocheters are also welcome. Hope to see you there.
  
  
• Sunday School Classes are Underway
  Christian Formation classes for children and adults are offered on Sundays beginning at 9:00 a.m.
  
  
• Sing Handel’s Messiah
  The Illiana Oratorio Society begins the first of seven rehearsals for Handel’s Messiah on Monday, October 17, at the First Christian Reformed Church, 16248 South Park Ave, South Holland, from 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. Performance dates are Sunday, December 4, in South Holland and Saturday, December 10, at Trinity Christian College. For further information, contact Gale Michael.
  
  
• Benefit for Young Musicians
  A chamber music concert featuring the music of Robert Schuman, performed by Lisa Kristina and other musicians, will take place on Sunday, October 9, at 4:00 p.m. at Flossmoor Community Church. The admission price of $25 will benefit the Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra’s “Incredible Opportunity” program, which provides inexpensive group string lessons, including free loan of an instrument, to elementary school children in the south suburbs. Tickets are available at the door or on-line here. The Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit organization, and is also seeking donations of used string instruments, especially smaller-sized instruments for children.
  
  
• Caregiving and Spirituality: A Quiet Day for Those Who Care for Others
  Offered by the Spirituality Network of Chicago, this quiet day will be led by St. John’s parishioner Dr. Anne Edwards, psychologist and director of the Gerontology Institute at Purdue University, Calumet. Saturday, October 22, 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palos Hills. For more information or to register, call (708) 497-9699 or e-mail info@SpiritChicago.org.