Flower Fundraiser

A wonderful opportunity awaits you as flowers (annuals only), vegetables, and herbs are for sale at St. John’s!  Make your gardens beautiful while helping our Parish.  The plants will be sold by the flats only and cost $15.00 each (money due upon pick-up). You must order by Sunday, April 29th. The pick-up will be Saturday May 12, between 9am and noon at St. John’s.  When you complete your order form, please give it to Bev Keene or Shirley Reilly.  Proceeds from the flower sale will be used towards the rectory renovations. If you have any questions please contact Shirley Reilly. 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles, and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly or Gale Michael.

Save the Date

On April 22nd, there will be an open house at the rectory after the 8:00 AM service AND after the 10:00 AM service. The last updates were made before Fr. Vanderslice moved in. Come and see the rectory now and learn about the updates we plan before our new rector moves in. Yes, there will be snacks!

A Note from Stewart Scott

Many of you remember Bob and Marty Christopher, dedicated members of St. John’s from the early 80s through the late 90s.  In his retirement, Bob wrote eight books, seven novels and his autobiography.  All the books reflect Bob’s strong faith. These books are now in the St. John’s library.  I have read all of his books.  Bob has been a brother in Christ, a business client, and a good friend since we first met on the steps of St. John’s in 1981.

Please check out one of his books. They are in the undercroft on the library bookshelves.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

BLUEGRASS CONCERT MAY 20!

Grande Prairie Singers present a bluegrass concert at 4 pm, Sunday, May 20, at Freedom Hall in Park Forest. Down-home music complete with terrific bluegrass musicians. For info or tickets, see Michael Soto or Betsy Elliot.

Bible Study

The evening Bible Study and dinner group will meet Sunday, April 29 at 5 pm at the VanSwol residence. Contact Mary if you plan to attend.

Announcements for April 15th

Flower Fundraiser

A wonderful opportunity awaits you as flowers (annuals only), vegetables, and herbs are for sale at St. John’s!  Make your gardens beautiful while helping our Parish.  The plants will be sold by the flats only and cost $15.00 each (money due upon pick-up). You must order by Sunday, April 29th. The pick-up will be Saturday May 12, between 9am and noon at St. John’s.  When you complete your order form, please give it to Bev Keene or Shirley Reilly.  Proceeds from the flower sale will be used towards the rectory renovations. If you have any questions please contact Shirley Reilly 708-305-2540. 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly or Gale Michael.

Save the Date

On April 22nd, there will be an open house at the rectory after the 8:00 AM service AND after the 10:00 AM service. The last updates were made before Fr. Vanderslice moved in. Come and see the rectory now and learn about the updates we plan before our new rector moves in. Yes, there will be snacks!

A Note from Stewart Scott

Many of you remember Bob and Marty Christopher, dedicated members of St. John’s from the early 80s through the late 90s.  In his retirement, Bob wrote eight books, seven novels and his autobiography.  All the books reflect Bob’s strong faith. These books are now in the St. John’s library.  I have read all of his books.  Bob has been a brother in Christ, a business client, and a good friend since we first met on the steps of St. John’s in 1981.

Please check out one of his books. They are in the undercroft on the library bookshelves.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

BLUEGRASS CONCERT MAY 20!

Grande Prairie Singers present a bluegrass concert at 4 pm, Sunday, May 20, at Freedom Hall in Park Forest. Down-home music complete with terrific bluegrass musicians. For info or tickets, see Michael Soto or Betsy Elliot.

Announcements for April 8th

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome! 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly or Gale Michael.

Center for Independence Update

St. John and the Center for Independence have mutually agreed to move forward with our space usage agreement. It will begin with their Summer Program, which will run from April thru July 2018. We felt this would serve as a good first step towards a possible long term agreement. We will keep the parish informed of future developments.

Save the Date

On April 22nd, there will be an open house at the rectory after the 8:00 AM service AND after the 10:00 AM service. The last updates were made before Fr. Vanderslice moved in. Come and see the rectory now and learn about the updates we plan before our new rector moves in. Yes, there will be snacks!

A Note from Stewart Scott

Many of you remember Bob and Marty Christopher, dedicated members of St. John’s from the early 80s through the late 90s.  In his retirement, Bob wrote eight books, seven novels and his autobiography.  All the books reflect Bob’s strong faith. These books are now in the St. John’s library.  I have read all of his books.  Bob has been a brother in Christ, a business client, and a good friend since we first met on the steps of St. John’s in 1981.

Please check out one of his books. They are in the undercroft on the library bookshelves.

Announcements for April 1st (Easter Sunday)

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome! 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly or Gale Michael.

Yarn Ministry – Meeting will be April 2, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Center for Independence Update

St. John and the Center for Independence have mutually agreed to move forward with our space usage agreement. It will begin with their Summer Program, which will run from April thru July 2018. We felt this would serve as a good first step towards a possible long term agreement. We will keep the parish informed of future developments.

Announcements for March 25th

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome! 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly  or Gale Michael .

Yarn Ministry – Meeting will be April 2, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Center for Independence Update

St. John and the Center for Independence have mutually agreed to move forward with our space usage agreement. It will begin with their Summer Program, which will run from April thru July 2018. We felt this would serve as a good first step towards a possible long term agreement. We will keep the parish informed of future developments.

Announcements for March 18th

A Few Reminders

v  EMERGENCY PRAYER LIST — If you or a loved one is in need of immediate prayer, please contact the church office or Ginny McCollum to activate the Emergency Prayer List.

v  INTERCESSORY PRAYER LIST — If you would like to add someone to St. John’s Intercessory Prayer list printed in the church bulletin, please contact the church office. It is just as important to notify the church when a name can be removed from the list.

v  ANY PASTORAL EMERGENCY — In all emergencies, please contact Fr. Mike on his cell phone no matter the time or day.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In April the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy by Anne Lamott, "a powerful exploration of mercy, its limitless (if sometimes hidden) presence, why we ignore it, and how we can embrace it." The book club will meet on Thursday, April 19 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome! 

Bowling Benefit

St. John’s is sponsoring a bowling benefit fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Lynwood Bowl, 2581 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lynwood, Illinois. Check-in is at 4:00 pm and bowling starts at 4:30 pm. The fee is $25.00 per person, which includes bowling, shoes and food. There will be raffles and a non-perishable donation for the Rich Township Food Pantry will be appreciated. Reservations required. Money due by April 29, 2018. Get your teams together. Round up your family, friends and neighbors. For more information contact Shirley Reilly  or Gale Michael .

Loaves & Fishes

Sunday, March 18^th following 10:00 a.m. worship service. Ham and scalloped potatoes will be served. Please bring sides and deserts.

Daughters of the King

The Daughters of the King diocesan meeting will be held this Saturday, March 17^th, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. here at St. John’s. All women of the parish are invited. There will be a Eucharist, followed by a program presented by Sue O’Brien. A light breakfast and lunch will be served.

Announcements for February 25th

FUNDRAISER!

We are selling coupon books for Carson’s Community days to raise funds for the rectory redecorating!  The dates for the Community event are March 1-3 (Thursday-Saturday). The booklets have lots of coupons including a $10.00 off coupon.  We are selling the books for $5.00 and we get to keep all the money raised!  Please see Donna Blackburn to get your books!! 

A Few Reminders

v  EMERGENCY PRAYER LIST — If you or a loved one is in need of immediate prayer, please contact the church office or Ginny McCollum to activate the Emergency Prayer List.

v  INTERCESSORY PRAYER LIST — If you would like to add someone to St. John’s Intercessory Prayer list printed in the church bulletin, please contact the church office. It is just as important to notify the church when a name can be removed from the list.

v  ANY PASTORAL EMERGENCY — In all emergencies,  please contact Fr. Mike on his cell phone no matter the time or day.

Bible Study

The next Bible study/fellowship group will meet at the VanSwol residence on March 3 at 5 pm.  Contact Mary for details.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Yarn Ministry — Meeting will be March 5^th  at 7:00 PM in the Guild Room. 

Grande Prairie Singers Cabaret

On Sunday, March 11^th  at 4:00 p.m., the Grande Prairie Singers will perform a cabaret-style concert at Freedom Hall in Park Forest. The theme is jazz and you’ll enjoy the whole chorus, ensembles, and solos of “I Got Rhythm,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and more. Plus Michael Soto’s piano stylings. See him or Betsy Elliot for tickets ($15 in advance, $20 at the door, $10 for students)

Announcements for February 18th

FUNDRAISER!

We are selling coupon books for Carson’s Community days to raise funds for the rectory redecorating!  The dates for the Community event are March 1-3 (Thursday-Saturday). The booklets have lots of coupons including a $10.00 off coupon.  We are selling the books for $5.00 and we get to keep all the money raised!  Please see Donna Blackburn to get your books!! 

A Few Reminders

v  EMERGENCY PRAYER LIST — If you or a loved one is in need of immediate prayer, please contact the church office or Ginny McCollum to activate the Emergency Prayer List.

v  INTERCESSORY PRAYER LIST — If you would like to add someone to St. John’s Intercessory Prayer list printed in the church bulletin, please contact the church office. It is just as important to notify the church when a name can be removed from the list.

v  ANY PASTORAL EMERGENCY — In all emergencies,  please contact Fr. Mike on his cell phone no matter the time or day.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Announcements for February 11th

Have a Heart! Show the Love!

Please take time to stop by the valentine table in the undercroft during the next two weeks to write a short message to our college freshmen.  By now, the shiny has probably worn off the gee-whiz-I’m-at-college feeling, and with these kids all at Midwestern schools, they might be feeling the soul-sapping effects of scarce sunlight and gracious plenty wind and snow.  Let’s lift them up with some goofy mail!  You’ll find all you need to write a simple message in the spirit of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of young people.  Many thanks to Nichole Dailor for this great idea!  If you know a college freshman who would enjoy this, please contact Dee McManamy, and we’ll happily add him/her to the mailing list!

FUNDRAISER!

We are selling coupon books for Carson’s Community days to raise funds for the rectory redecorating!  The dates for the Community event are March 1-3 (Thursday-Saturday). The booklets have lots of coupons including a $10.00 off coupon.  We are selling the books for $5.00 and we get to keep all the money raised!  Please see Donna Blackburn to get your books!! 

A Few Reminders

v  EMERGENCY PRAYER LIST — If you or a loved one is in need of immediate prayer, please contact the church office or Ginny McCollum to activate the Emergency Prayer List.

v  INTERCESSORY PRAYER LIST — If you would like to add someone to St. John’s Intercessory Prayer list printed in the church bulletin, please contact the church office. It is just as important to notify the church when a name can be removed from the list.

v  ANY PASTORAL EMERGENCY — In all emergencies,  please contact Fr. Mike on his cell phone no matter the time or day.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Yarn Ministry – will meet February 12^th instead of February 5^th at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Announcements for February 4th

Have a Heart! Show the Love!

Please take time to stop by the valentine table in the undercroft during the next two weeks to write a short message to our college freshmen.  By now, the shiny has probably worn off the gee-whiz-I’m-at-college feeling, and with these kids all at Midwestern schools, they might be feeling the soul-sapping effects of scarce sunlight and gracious plenty wind and snow.  Let’s lift them up with some goofy mail!  You’ll find all you need to write a simple message in the spirit of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of young people.  Many thanks to Nichole Dailor for this great idea!  If you know a college freshman who would enjoy this, please contact Dee McManamy, and we’ll happily add him/her to the mailing list!

FUNDRAISER!

We are selling coupon books for Carsons Community days to raise funds for the rectory redecorating!  The dates for the Community event are March 1-3 (Thursday-Saturday). The booklets have lots of coupons including a $10.00 off coupon.  We are selling the books for $5.00 and we get to keep all the money raised!  Please see Donna Blackburn to get your books!! 

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet onThursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Contribution Envelopes

2018 Contribution envelopes will be available in the undercroft.

Yarn Ministry – will meet February 12^th instead of February 5^th at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Announcements for January 28th

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will take place Saturday, January 20^th at 5 p.m. at the VanSwol residence. Contact Mary VanSwol if you are interested in attending.

Contribution Envelopes

2018 Contribution envelopes will be available in the undercroft.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet onThursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Yarn Ministry – will meet February 12^th instead of February 5^th at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room.

Have a Heart! Show the Love!

Please take time to stop by the valentine table in the undercroft during the next two weeks to write a short message to our college freshmen.  By now, the shiny has probably worn off the gee-whiz-I’m-at-college feeling, and with these kids all at Midwestern schools, they might be feeling the soul-sapping effects of scarce sunlight and gracious plenty wind and snow.  Let’s lift them up with some goofy mail!  You’ll find all you need to write a simple message in the spirit of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of young people.  Many thanks to Nichole Dailor for this great idea!  If you know a college freshman who would enjoy this, please contact Dee McManamy, and we’ll happily add him/her to the mailing list!

Honor Roll!

Several students from St. John’s made the honor roll at HF. In order to achieve High Honors, the student must take at least five classes and receive all A’s; Honors is achieved through taking at least five classes and receiving at least two A’s, but no less than a B for all classes. Congratulations to Benjamin Turnquest and Madeline Moxley for achieving High Honors, and to Alex Barrera, Ethan Eisenberg, John Pohrte, and Alexandra VanVoorhees for achieving Honors! Keep up the good work, everyone!

Announcements for January 21st

Center for Independence Meeting Dates

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 2018, FOLLOWING THE 10:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICE:

St. John’s annual meeting, which will include as an agenda item a vote on space utilization by the Center for Independence through Conductive Education.

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will take place Saturday, January 20^th at 5 p.m. at the VanSwol residence. Contact Mary VanSwol if you are interested in attending.

Contribution Envelopes

2018 Contribution envelopes will be available in the undercroft.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In February, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Silence by Shusaku Endo, a novel about the persecution of Christians in 17th century Japan, told from the point-of-view of a Jesuit missionary. The book club will meet onThursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

2018 Annual Meeting

Well, it almost that “Favorite Time of the Year” for Episcopalians---THE ANNUAL MEETING. This year our Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday January 21, 2018, after the 10 am Eucharist. As we prepare, there will be a couple of changes that we want to make you aware of. It has been my custom, on the day of the Annual Meeting, to replace the Sermon with the Rector’s Address. In addition, this year we will not print all the various reports from committees and ministries. The reason for this is to save trees; we are trying to be good Stewards of God’s Creation. We will publish and post them. If any of the heads of committees and ministries wish to, they can deliver a verbal report. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at any time.

Peace and All Good,

Fr. Mike

Announcements for December 24th

Center for Independence Update

On Monday night members of the vestry attended the Flossmoor Village Trustees meeting. The purpose of our attendance was to ask the village to reinstate the “Special Use” Zoning exception that had expired a couple of years ago. The Trustees agreed to grant the exception unanimously.  Also, the Trustees thanked the church for being such a good institution for the village. They were very appreciative of our efforts to help the people of Flossmoor and the surrounding area. Now that we have the “Special Use Exception” in place the vestry can begin our exploratory conversations with The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education. For more information please contact the vestry, or go to The Center’s web site at: http://www.center-for-independence.org

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Outdoor Altar Tiles

Parishioners or visitors can still donate and receive an original outdoor altar tile from around the Columbarium. For more information, feel free to contact Steve Hofer if you are interested. Available tiles are still on display down in the undercroft.

Vestry Nominating Committee

The Vestry has approved Cynthia Turnquest, Alice Creason , and Shirley Reilly to serve as the nominating committee for our new 2018 Vestry members.

St. John’s Christmas Eve Pageant

Our Christmas Eve Mass will have a pageant! We will be using the book by Nikki Grimes, “Voices of Christmas” as our guide. There is still time to join the fun; we will meet after the 9:00 service this Sunday (12/24) to pick out/organize our props in the Adult Formation room. We will then meet back in that room at 4:40 pm to check in before the start of the service. Children of all ages are welcome; this is an opportunity for anyone who ever wanted to be in the pageant but never was brave enough to raise their hand or did not have a Christmas Pageant at their home church when they were younger.

From Alison Deniston

A very heartfelt thank you to all who participated in this year’s cookie walk. We would not have been successful without you baking, working, and shopping. Our profits were over $2,800 this year!

Announcements for December 17th

Center for Independence Update

On Monday night members of the vestry attended the Flossmoor Village Trustees meeting. The purpose of our attendance was to ask the village to reinstate the “Special Use” Zoning exception that had expired a couple of years ago. The Trustees agreed to grant the exception unanimously.  Also, the Trustees thanked the church for being such a good institution for the village. They were very appreciative of our efforts to help the people of Flossmoor and the surrounding area. Now that we have the “Special Use Exception” in place the vestry can begin our exploratory conversations with The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education. For more information please contact the vestry, or go to The Center’s web site at: http://www.center-for-independence.org

St. John’s Christmas Eve Pageant

Our Christmas Eve Mass will have a pageant! We will be using the book by Nikki Grimes, “Voices of Christmas” as our guide. Children of all ages are welcome. This is an opportunity for anyone ever wanted to be in the pageant but never was brave enough to raise their hand or did not have a Christmas Pageant at their home church when they were younger. We will meet briefly this Sunday after church to get organized. Please let Pat Smith-Huntoon know if you are interested. You can just show up to the meeting this Sunday, call or text her, or email her. 

Pledge Sunday – December 17^th. Please remember to bring your completed pledge cards with you this Sunday.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Outdoor Altar Tiles

Parishioners or visitors can still donate and receive an original outdoor altar tile from around the Columbarium. For more information, feel free to contact Steve Hofer if you are interested. Available tiles are still on display down in the undercroft.

Vestry Nominating Committee

The Vestry has approved Cynthia Turnquest, Alice Creason , and Shirley Reilly to serve as the nominating committee for our new 2018 Vestry members.

Announcements for December 10th

A Note from Fr. Mike

My Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? In a few days we will begin a new Liturgical Year on the First Sunday of Advent—a time of preparing ourselves, not just with presents, trees, and food, but internally as we celebrate The Word of God made real in flesh and bone—God becomes one of us! A miracle, a gift, and the food of Eternal Life.

This year, December 24^th is not only Christmas Eve but also the Fourth Sunday of Advent, so we need to tweak things a bit. Liturgically, Christmas Eve begins at sundown on the 24th. So…this year we can gather at 9:00am for a Eucharist (without music) to celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent. At 5:00pm we will gather for a Family Eucharist with Choir and a Pageant (still working on details). On Christmas Day we will again gather at 10:00am in celebration with hymns. There will not be a 10:00 pm Eucharist.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at any time. Let us all prepare well for the coming of Jesus into our lives.
                                                                                                                     
Peace and All Good,

Fr. Mike

Center for Independence Update

On Monday night members of the vestry attended the Flossmoor Village Trustees meeting. The purpose of our attendance was to ask the village to reinstate the “Special Use” Zoning exception that had expired a couple of years ago. The Trustees agreed to grant the exception unanimously.  Also, the Trustees thanked the church for being such a good institution for the village. They were very appreciative of our efforts to help the people of Flossmoor and the surrounding area. Now that we have the “Special Use Exception” in place the vestry can begin our exploratory conversations with The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education. For more information please contact the vestry, or go to The Center’s web site at: http://www.center-for-independence.org

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Wednesday Update

The Wednesday Eucharists meet at 9 a.m. Then, at 10 a.m., Fr. Mike will lead a weekly bible study class. This is an all-parish class for both men and women. If you can, please bring your own NRSV bible, but don’t worry if you forget or don’t have one.

Outdoor Altar Tiles

Parishioners or visitors can still donate and receive an original outdoor altar tile from around the Columbarium. For more information, feel free to contact Steve Hofer if you are interested. Available tiles are still on display down in the undercroft.

Vestry Nominating Committee

The Vestry has approved Cynthia Turnquest, Alice Creason , and Shirley Reilly to serve as the nominating committee for our new 2018 Vestry members.

Announcements for December 3rd

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Wednesday Update

The Wednesday Eucharists meet at 9 a.m. Then, at 10 a.m., Fr. Mike will lead a weekly bible study class. This is an all-parish class for both men and women. If you can, please bring your own NRSV bible, but don’t worry if you forget or don’t have one.

Small Group Surveys

Please take a few minutes and fill out the small group availability form located in the Sunday leaflet.  Each small group will last for approximately 90 minutes. You can place the form in the offering plate or give it to a search committee member.

Cookie Walk – December 2^nd

Get out your baking supplies and whip up a few batches of homemade goodies because St. John’s will be having its annual Cookie Walk on December 2^nd from 9:00-11:30 a.m.! Please bring the cookies and candies to the undercroft on Friday, December 1^st between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and sign in so we know who to thank. If you aren’t baking this year, you can contact Alison Deniston to help out with set up or cleanup of the undercroft.

Outdoor Altar Tiles

During the cookie walk, there will be an opportunity for parishioners and visitors to donate and receive an original outdoor altar tile from around the Columbarium.

Announcements for November 26th

The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education

The Vestry of St. John’s has begun a preliminary conversation with The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education, a 501 C-3 non-profit corporation dedicated to helping people with motor disorders. This includes people of all ages with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and other motor dysfunction like stroke victims. This past summer the Center offered a 4 week “summer camp” for the first time in the Homewood / Flossmoor area. As a result, these preliminary conversations began after The Center for Independence approached St. John’s as they began looking for a location in the area that would best fit their needs. We would like our members to join us in exploring whether or not this program would be a good fit for St. John’s and our outreach within our greater community. We look forward to having more conversations about the Center for Independence Through Conductive Education in the coming months. If you would like more information about this conversation, please contact a vestry member and look for announcements regarding future meetings. Your input is anticipated and appreciated by the Vestry. They have a wonderful website where you can get more information on their program and services. www.center-for-independence.org.

  

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Christmas Basket Program

Just a reminder that this year’s deadline for dropping off the Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, November 29, 2017.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Wednesday Update

The Wednesday Eucharists meet at 9 a.m. Then, at 10 a.m., Fr. Mike will lead a weekly bible study class. This is an all-parish class for both men and women. If you can, please bring your own NRSV bible, but don’t worry if you forget or don’t have one.

Small Group Surveys

Please take a few minutes and fill out the small group availability form located in the Sunday leaflet.  Each small group will last for approximately 90 minutes. You can place the form in the offering plate or give it to a search committee member.

Cookie Walk – December 2^nd

Get out your baking supplies and whip up a few batches of homemade goodies because St. John’s will be having its annual Cookie Walk on December 2^nd from 9:00-11:30 a.m.! Please bring the cookies and candies to the undercroft on Friday, December 1^st between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and sign in so we know who to thank. If you aren’t baking this year, you can contact Alison Deniston to help out with set up or cleanup of the undercroft.

Announcements for November 19th

The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education

The Vestry of St. John’s has begun a preliminary conversation with The Center for Independence Through Conductive Education, a 501 C-3 non-profit corporation dedicated to helping people with motor disorders. This includes people of all ages with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and other motor dysfunction like stroke victims. This past summer the Center offered a 4 week “summer camp” for the first time in the Homewood / Flossmoor area. As a result, these preliminary conversations began after The Center for Independence approached St. John’s as they began looking for a location in the area that would best fit their needs. We would like our members to join us in exploring whether or not this program would be a good fit for St. John’s and our outreach within our greater community. We look forward to having more conversations about the Center for Independence Through Conductive Education in the coming months. If you would like more information about this conversation, please contact a vestry member and look for announcements regarding future meetings. Your input is anticipated and appreciated by the Vestry. They have a wonderful website where you can get more information on their program and services. www.center-for-independence.org.

Thanksgiving Day Service —November 23^rd at 10:00 am. Lector is Andrea Barrera. LEM is Kristy Petersen.

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Practicing Our Faith Book Club

In December, the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Between the Dark and the Daylight: Embracing the Contradictions of Life by Joan Chittister, a book that "explores the concerns of modern life, of the overworked mind and hurting heart." The book club will meet on Thursday, December 21 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Respond Now

The Daughters of the King are collecting personal items for the men and women that receive assistance through Respond Now. Suggestions: soap, shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, deodorant, etc. Both full and travel-size are needed.

Christmas Basket Program

St. John’s is once again participating in the ReVive Center for Housing and Healing’s Christmas Basket Program. We are asking parishioners and church organizations to please volunteer and sponsor a family to provide them with a merry and memorable Christmas. Sign-up sheets and family packets are available in the undercroft. This year’s deadline for dropping off the Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, November 29, 2017.

Bible Study/Fellowship Group

This Bible study group will meet at members' houses for a pot luck dinner and fellowship once a month. Kids are welcome! The first meeting will be in January. If you are interested in joining, please contact Mary VanSwol, and state whether you prefer Saturday or Sunday from 5-7 pm. An official time will be announced closer to the date.

Wednesday Update

The Wednesday Eucharists meet at 9 a.m. Then, at 10 a.m., Fr. Mike will lead a weekly bible study class. This is an all-parish class for both men and women. If you can, please bring your own NRSV bible, but don’t worry if you forget or don’t have one.

Small Group Surveys

Please take a few minutes and fill out the small group availability form located in the Sunday leaflet.  Each small group will last for approximately 90 minutes. You can place the form in the offering plate or give it to a search committee member.

Lynn Ruschhaupt would like to add a thank you to the landscaping crew that worked on the front and back yards of the Rectory. Their hard work is much appreciated in helping us keep our grounds looking their best!