Announcements for November 25th

Christmas Basket Program  https://www.saintjamescathedral.org/outreach/christmasbaskets.

This year’s deadline for dropping off your Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, December 5^th. If you are unable to shop and would like to be a part of this blessing, please give checks made out to St. John's, with "Revive Christmas Baskets" in the memo.  The youth of the congregation will be adopting/shopping and wrapping the presents for the family. Checks should get to the church by Friday, November 30^th.

Only 5 Spots Left to Help Feed the World! 

Join other St. John volunteers on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2:00 - 4:00 pm, as we pack nutritious meals for the world's malnourished children.  We will caravan from church (approx 1:00 pm) to the packing facility for Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) in Aurora, IL, where we--along with over 200 other volunteers--will assemble and pack meals for shipment to the hungry.  It's fun fellowship with like-minded folks, it's perfect for chalking up service hours, and it is quite literally life-saving, soulful work.  Can't join us?  PLEASE consider donating money to cover the cost of the meals we will pack!  Each volunteer will pack $50 worth of food which translates to 216 meals!  Our goal is to raise $750...that's 3,240 meals. Make checks payable to Church of St. John with FMSC on the memo line.  Want to know more about FMSC?  Check out this amazing Christian organization at http://www.fmsc.org . For more information, please contact Dee McManamy. There are jobs for everyone and for every ability from age 5 yrs upward. Need to sit while working? We've got those jobs, too!  If you signed up for this project during St. J's Ministry Fair in September, look for info emails soon with more details.  

Alternative Christmas Gift Market

Are you thinking about Christmas shopping? The Alternative Christmas Gift Market enables you to contribute to a charitable organization. An alternative Christmas gift to friends and family will benefit those in need. Your alternative gift to another will extend the true meaning of Christmas and ensure spiritual action after Christmas has passed and other gifts are forgotten or discarded. For each donation made, you will receive a decorative card indicating the name of the organization to which you have donated. This card can then be given as your alternative Christmas gift.

The following organizations will be included this year:

* Cancer Support Group                                    * Bakery Dos Corazones

* Christian Peace Makers                                  * ReVive

* The Night Ministry                                         * Respond Now

* Episcopal Relief and Development                 * Holistic Riding Equestrian Therapy

You will be able to purchase donations in the amounts of $5, $10, $15 or $25. Payment will be made to Transfiguration. Order forms will be distributed on November 11th, November 18th, and November 25th. On the back of the order forms there will be a brief description of each organization. Order form will be collected along with payment in cash or checks made out to Transfiguration on November 18th and November 25th. Cards with a copy of the order form will be distributed to participants on November 25th and December 2nd.

Dinner Groups

This is your last chance to sign up for St. John’s Dinner Groups. Reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Groups of six to eight will meet at each other’s homes at least three times. This is an interesting way to get to know other parishioners better. Sign up by November 25 with Gale Michael before or after mass. For more information contact Gale Michael.

Announcements for November 18th

Christmas Basket Program  https://www.saintjamescathedral.org/outreach/christmasbaskets.

We have one family left that needs sponsoring, so anyone who is able, please contact Fr. Jeremy to receive their Family Packet. This year’s deadline for dropping off your Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, December 5^th. If you are unable to shop and would like to be a part of this blessing, please give checks made out to St. John's, with "Revive Christmas Baskets" in the memo.  The youth of the congregation will be adopting/shopping and wrapping the presents for the family. Checks should get to the church by Friday, November 30^th.

Fleece Blanket Donations

The Will County Children’s Advocacy Center provides fleece blankets to all children with whom they conduct sensitive interviews.  At this time they are running out of blankets.  We will be putting together blankets on Tuesday 11-13-2018 at 6:30pm.  If you are planning to help assemble the blankets please bring sharp scissors, a ruler and a marker.  If you would like to donate towards supplies, please contact Shirley Reilly.  Thank you!

Only 5 Spots Left to Help Feed the World! 

Join other St. John volunteers on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2:00 - 4:00 pm, as we pack nutritious meals for the world's malnourished children.  We will caravan from church (approx 1:00 pm) to the packing facility for Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) in Aurora, IL, where we--along with over 200 other volunteers--will assemble and pack meals for shipment to the hungry.  It's fun fellowship with like-minded folks, it's perfect for chalking up service hours, and it is quite literally life-saving, soulful work.  Can't join us?  PLEASE consider donating money to cover the cost of the meals we will pack!  Each volunteer will pack $50 worth of food which translates to 216 meals!  Our goal is to raise $750...that's 3,240 meals. Make checks payable to Church of St. John with FMSC on the memo line.  Want to know more about FMSC?  Check out this amazing Christian organization at http://www.fmsc.org  If you want to go with us and help pack meals, please email Dee McManamy. There are jobs for everyone and for every ability from age 5 yrs upward. Need to sit while working? We've got those jobs, too!  If you signed up for this project during St. J's Ministry Fair in September, look for info emails soon with more details.  

Ping-Pong Table

The church has a ping-pong table that could be yours for the taking! It folds in half for moving and storage and is on wheels. You probably would have to buy a new net for it. If you or an organization you know of would like to have it, speak with Fr. Jeremy or Susan Marquis.

Interfaith Dinner, November 18^th

The South West Interfaith Team (SWIFT) will be having its annual interfaith dinner at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Homewood on Sunday, November 18 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. There will be lots of food and great conversation. Tickets are $20 and must be bought ahead of time. If you are interested please talk to Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke. 

Alternative Christmas Gift Market

Are you thinking about Christmas shopping? The Alternative Christmas Gift Market enables you to contribute to a charitable organization. An alternative Christmas gift to friends and family will benefit those in need. Your alternative gift to another will extend the true meaning of Christmas and ensure spiritual action after Christmas has passed and other gifts are forgotten or discarded. For each donation made, you will receive a decorative card indicating the name of the organization to which you have donated. This card can then be given as your alternative Christmas gift.

The following organizations will be included this year:

* Cancer Support Group                                              * Bakery Dos Corazones

* Christian Peace Makers                                 * ReVive

* The Night Ministry                                        * Respond Now

* Episcopal Relief and Development               * Holistic Riding Equestrian Therapy

You will be able to purchase donations in the amounts of $5, $10, $15 or $25. Payment will be made to Transfiguration. Order forms will be distributed on November 11th and November 18th. One the back of the order forms there will be a brief description of each organization. Order form will be collected along with payment in cash or checks made out to Transfiguration on November 18th and November 25th. Cards with a copy of the order form will be distributed to participants on November 25th and December 2nd.

Dinner Groups

Make new friends and reconnect with old ones ant St. John’s Dinner Groups. Groups of six to eight will meet at each other’s homes at least three times. You don’t have to host to participate. Conversation will flow, and it doesn’t even have to be religious! Sign up by November 25^th with Gale Michael, before or after mass. For more information, contact Gale Michael.

Announcements for November 12th

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

This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Everything That Rises Must Converge by Flannery O'Connor, a collection of short stories written in the final decade of her life. The book club will meet on Thursday, November 16 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.

Halloween Candy

Please donate your individually wrapped leftover Halloween candy for residents of the Manteno Veterans’ Home. There is a collection box between the staircases, and the collection will continue through Wednesday, November 15^th.

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.

NOV. 12 - Annual SWIFT Inter-Faith Mixer/Dinner in Orland Park

Meet, greet and break bread with open-hearted members of other faiths next month at the annual SouthWest InterFaith Team (SWIFT) dinner, Sunday, November 12, at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park. The traditional format of this fun event is to seat fellow SWIFT members at each table from all three Abrahamic faiths. The simple idea is to help promote dialogue and fellowship in a casual and communal setting ("Mohammed, please pass the butter?"). The Church is located at 151^st St & 80^th Ave., and doors open at 5:30 pm. The dinner runs from 6 pm—8 pm and tickets are $20 apiece. Please make checks payable to St. John's, and reserve your seat by Nov. 3. For more information, please contact our SWIFT ambassadors, Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke.

Parish Dinner Groups

Sign up for the 2018 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 12, 2017. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael.

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.

Announcements for November 5th

United Thank Offering

The collection for the United Thank Offering (UTO) will be this Sunday, November 5, 2017. Please bring your UTO boxes, or you may save your box and transfer your gift to an envelope marked UTO. If you prefer to write a check, make the check payable to St. John’s and reference UTO on the MEMO line. Thank you all for supporting this wonderful outreach ministry

Respond Now

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

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Everything That Rises Must Converge by Flannery O'Connor, a collection of short stories written in the final decade of her life. The book club will meet on Thursday, November 16 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Blue Jean Yard Clean Up – Will meet Sunday, November 12^th.

Yarn Ministry – Will meet Monday, November 6th in the Guild room at 7 PM.

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 are available in the undercroft, so please start selecting the families you wish to sponsor. If you’ve selected a family, packets can be picked up in the church office. This year’s deadline for dropping off the Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, November 29, 2017.

NOV. 12 - Annual SWIFT Inter-Faith Mixer/Dinner in Orland Park

Meet, greet and break bread with open-hearted members of other faiths next month at the annual SouthWest InterFaith Team (SWIFT) dinner, Sunday, November 12, at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park. The traditional format of this fun event is to seat fellow SWIFT members at each table from all three Abrahamic faiths. The simple idea is to help promote dialogue and fellowship in a casual and communal setting ("Mohammed, please pass the butter?"). The Church is located at 151^st St & 80^th Ave., and doors open at 5:30 pm. The dinner runs from 6 pm—8 pm and tickets are $20 apiece. Please make checks payable to St. John's, and reserve your seat by Nov. 3. For more information, please contact our SWIFT ambassadors, Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke.

Parish Dinner Groups

Sign up for the 2018 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 12, 2017. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael.

Thanks to everyone who took the Church Assessment Tool, or CAT survey. This Sunday (Nov 5), at 9:00 am in the adult education wing, the search committee will present the top level findings from the survey. Please come join the conversation and hear about what's next - the small group discussions. Sign up will begin on the 5th for the small groups, which take what we learned from the CAT and add greater detail to it. 

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.

Halloween Candy

Please donate your individually wrapped leftover Halloween candy for residents of the Manteno Veterans’ Home. There is a collection box between the staircases, and the collection will continue through Wednesday, November 15^th.

Wednesday Update

The Wednesday Eucharists will begin this coming week, November 8^th, at 9 am. Then, at 10 am, 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.

Announcements for October 29th

United Thank Offering – IT’S EASY!

Notice the good things that happen each day? Give thanks to God for your Blessings and make an offering for each Blessing. Every penny, nickel, dime, quarter, and dollar offered in thanks through the United Thank Offering (UTO) is given to God’s mission in the world.  Every coin and bill transforms Lives in the United States and around the world. Turn your gratitude for your blessings into blessings for others.

Respond Now

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

Blue Jean Yard Clean Up – Will meet Sunday, November 12^th.

Yarn Ministry – Will meet Monday, November 6th in the Guild room at 7 PM.

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 are available in the undercroft, so please start selecting the families you wish to sponsor. This year’s deadline for dropping off the Christmas Baskets at St. John’s will be no later than Wednesday, November 29, 2017.

NOV. 12 - Annual SWIFT Inter-Faith Mixer/Dinner in Orland Park

Meet, greet and break bread with open-hearted members of other faiths next month at the annual SouthWest InterFaith Team (SWIFT) dinner, Sunday, November 12, at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park. The traditional format of this fun event is to seat fellow SWIFT members at each table from all three Abrahamic faiths. The simple idea is to help promote dialogue and fellowship in a casual and communal setting ("Mohammed, please pass the butter?"). The Church is located at 151^st St & 80^th Ave., and doors open at 5:30 pm. The dinner runs from 6 pm—8 pm and tickets are $20 apiece. Please make checks payable to St. John's, and reserve your seat by Nov. 3. For more information, please contact our SWIFT ambassadors, Rob McManamy or Bryan Burke.

Fr. Jim Caldwell’s last Sunday with us will be October 29.

There will be a celebration of his ministry among us in the undercroft after the 10 am service. In gratitude for his service here, the Vestry would like to present him with a purse. If you wish to contribute to this, please place your check or cash (labeled “purse”) in the collection plate at next Sunday’s service.

Practicing Our Faith Book Club

This month the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is reading Everything That Rises Must Converge by Flannery O'Connor, a collection of short stories written in the final decade of her life. The book club will meet on Thursday, November 16 at 7:00pm in the Guild Room to discuss the book. New members are always welcome!

Parish Dinner Groups

Sign up for the 2018 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 12, 2017. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael.

Thanks to everyone who took the Church Assessment Tool, or CAT survey. Next Sunday (Nov 5), at 9:00 am in the adult education wing, the search committee will present the top level findings from the survey. Please come join the conversation and hear about what's next - the small group discussions. Sign up will begin on the 5th for the small groups, which take what we learned from the CAT and add greater detail to it

Announcements for November 6

Annual Pledge Campaign
Please seriously and prayerfully consider your annual pledge of time, talent and treasure. You may return your pledge card to the parish office, place it in the offering plate on Sunday, or place it on the altar on pledge Sunday, November 13.

Set Your Clocks Back
Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend. Remember to set your clocks back one hour Saturday night.

All Saints Open House
Pastor Orr will host her annual All Saints Open House at the Rectory this Sunday, November 6, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Parishioners, guests and friends of all ages are welcome.

ReVive (Cathedral Shelter) Christmas Baskets
Information is available in the undercroft on adopting a senior or family for Christmas through the ReVive Christmas Basket program. If you prefer, you may also make a cash contribution and children of the parish will shop and wrap presents for a family. Wrapped and packaged gifts need to be dropped at the parish office by November 30.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2017 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 13. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

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

Daughters of the King
Daughters of the King will meet this Saturday, November 5th, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. All women of the parish are welcome to join us in prayer and meditation. We will be practicing Centering Prayer this week.

Blue Jeans Sunday: November 20
Mark your calendars for the fall landscape clean up day. Wear blue jeans and stay a little while after church to help clean up the church grounds for the winter.

Looking Ahead to the Cookie Walk
This year’s cookie walk will be December 3. Parishioners will be contacted soon with a request to bake. Please say “Yes.” It takes everyone’s participation to make this event a success. Contact Alison Deniston for more information.

Announcements for October 23

Annual Pledge Campaign
Fall stewardship materials have been mailed. Please give them careful and prayerful attention. Pledge Sunday is November 13 or you may return your pledge cards any time before then.

Vestry Update
The Vestry met on Monday, October 17. The Columbarium project is ongoing, however construction will not begin until spring. This is due in part by a delay in getting drawings from the landscape architect, and partly due to the fact that many masonry contractors' schedules fill up quickly in the summer and fall. However, we are awaiting bids from a number of companies, and expect the project to go quickly in the spring. The Vestry approved moving the celebration of the Feast of St. John the Evangelist to one week later than it has been in the past. Please mark your calendars for Saturday, January 14, 2017. We hope that the change in date will allow more people to come who might have missed due to travel right after the Holidays.

All Souls Day Remembrance
If you have names of the faithful departed that you wish to have remembered in the service, please submit them to the parish office.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2017 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 13, 2016. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Happy Socktober! 
(Yes, it's a real thing--a wonderful thing). Come on, St. John's, let's get involved in this easy and great service project! What started in Tennessee five years ago with just a few dozen people has grown to an effort of more than a million people worldwide, all helping to ease the suffering of homelessness at their local level. How can we help? By donating new socks (tube socks are always a good choice but any type is great) and toiletry items (travel size is perfect). We'll collect items at St. John's through the month of October before delivering our collection to South Suburban PADS. Encourage friends, family and neighbors to get involved. Please contact Dee McManamy or Margi Strombeck with any questions or service project ideas.

Practicing our Faith Book Club
Calling all animal lovers! The November book for the Practicing Our Faith Book Club is Two Dogs and a Parrot: What Our Animal Friends Can Teach Us About Life by Sister Joan Chittister, O.S.B. Read the book, and then join us on Nov. 17 at 7pm in the Guild Room for our next meeting. New members are always welcome.

Vegetable Abundance
This week:  Kale, Sweet Potatoes, Leeks, Butternut Squash.

Announcements for November 8

Annual Pledge Campaign
Please seriously and prayerfully consider your annual pledge of time, talent and treasure. You may return your pledge card to the parish office, place it in the offering plate on Sunday, or place it on the altar on pledge Sunday, November 22.

Looking Ahead to the Holiday Cookie Walk
Save the date. The annual cookie walk is December 5th. We need bakers and helpers. Questions? Call Alison Deniston.

Loaves & Fishes Next Sunday
Our annual Thanksgiving-themed Sunday brunch will be next Sunday, November 15, following the 10:00 AM service. Side dishes or desserts to share are always welcome, but most importantly, come!

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. We would like to have the items by November 15th. Collections bins will be located in the undercroft and at the office entrance.

ReVive (Cathedral Shelter) Christmas Baskets 
Information is available in the undercroft on adopting a senior or family for Christmas through the ReVive Christmas Basket program. If you prefer, you may also make a cash contribution and children of the parish will shop and wrap presents for a family. Wrapped and packaged gifts need to be dropped at the parish office before 9:00 AM, Friday, December 4.

Parish Dinner Groups 
Today is the last day to sign up for Parish Dinner Groups. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr. Please turn in your forms to Gale, Pastor Orr or the Parish office.

Episcopal Men's Group 2.0 renaissance continues! 
Building on its inspiring comeback last month, St. John's reborn Episcopal Men's Group will meet again this Saturday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 a.m. in the church undercroft. Once again, after morning prayer and a hearty, marginally healthy breakfast, our own Deacon John Whennen will lead reflections on the week's Gospel and its practical application to current events and our daily lives. This week, we will also discuss community service and the group's role in helping to fill a large ReVive Christmas Basket. As promised, these meetings end promptly at 9 a.m., so you can return to families, recreation and/or duties refreshed and spiritually renewed.

Announcement for November 1

Annual Pledge Campaign
Please seriously and prayerfully consider your annual pledge of time, talent and treasure. You may return your pledge card to the parish office, place it in the offering plate on Sunday, or place it on the altar on pledge Sunday, November 22.

All Saints Open House
Pastor Orr will host her annual All Saints Open House at the Rectory Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Parishioners, guests and friends of all ages are welcome.

All Souls Day Service: Remembering the Faithful Departed
The Holy Eucharist will be celebrated on All Souls Day, Monday, November 2, at 7:00 PM. This is a peaceful, moving service at which we remember and give thanks for the saints of God whom we have been blessed to know. If you have names you would like added to the prayers, please call the parish office. You are also encouraged to bring a memento or ofrenda of someone whose memory you cherish to the service.

ReVive (Cathedral Shelter) Christmas Baskets 
Information is available in the undercroft on adopting a senior or family for Christmas through the ReVive Christmas Basket program. If you prefer, you may also make a cash contribution and children of the parish will shop and wrap presents for a family. Wrapped and packaged gifts need to be dropped at the parish office before 9:00 AM, Friday, December 4.

Christmas Shopping Spree for Youth Group This Sunday 
What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to shop for our Christmas basket family? Meet at St. John’s a little early Sunday afternoon for a 4pm departure. Bring your friends to help us gather gifts for a 5yr old, an 8yr old and their mother. Nothing says “Good Times” better than “Good Works”.

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. We would like to have the items by November 15th. 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.

Parish Dinner Groups 
Sign up for the 2015-2016 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 8. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Announcements for October 25

Parish Photograph for the Flossmoor Yearbook: This Sunday, 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!

Daylight Saving Time Ends Next Weekend
Next Saturday, October 31, remember to set your clocks BACK one hour before you go to bed.

All Souls Day Service: Remembering the Faithful Departed
The Holy Eucharist will be celebrated on All Souls Day, Monday, November 2, at 7:00 PM. This is a peaceful, moving service at which we remember and give thanks for the saints of God whom we have been blessed to know. We will pray for all those known to the parish who have died in the last year. If you have additional names you would like added to the prayers, please call the parish office. You are also encouraged to bring a memento or ofrenda of someone whose memory you cherish to the service.

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.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up or the 2015-2016 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 8. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

All Saints Open House
Pastor Orr will host her annual All Saints Open House at the Rectory Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Parishioners, guests and friends of all ages are welcome.

Announcements for November 2

All Saints Open House
Everyone is invited to the traditional All Saints Open House at the Rectory this Sunday, November 2, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. All ages are welcome. Feel free to bring guests or friends. Come share conversation, beverages and hors d’oeuvres with old and new parish friends.

All Souls Day Service
This year we will commemorate All Souls Day on Monday, November 3. Please come for a special memorial celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 7:00 PM. If you wish to submit names of loved ones to be remembered among the faithful departed, please pass those names along to the parish office. You may also bring an “ofrenda” to the service, some small memento of someone who has died. Along with candles, these will be placed on a special altar during the service.

High School Youth Group Joins Blue Jean Sunday
Instead of our regular meeting this week, let’s meet right after services and help ready our church grounds for winter. This is a service hour opportunity. Bring service hour sheets (NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, etc.) for sponsors to sign. One hour of service and fellowship rolled into one! Next Youth Group meeting: November 16.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2014-2015 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 9. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
Once again this year we have the opportunity to provide gifts and meet needs at Christmas time for families and seniors with limited income. Look for information in the undercroft.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will meet this month on Monday, November 17, not on their regular “first Monday.”

Ground Floor Opportunity
Ice Cream Social. Cookie Walk. Don’t miss out on what could be St. John’s next signature outreach event: Caroling for Canned Goods on Sunday, December 7th. Join our high school youth in strolling St. John’s immediate neighborhood that afternoon, singing Christmas carol favorites while collecting food donations for the Rich Township Food Pantry, which serves 1,000 needy families. Can’t sing, you say? We also need folks of all ages who can hum, chortle, ring jingle bells, pull wagons or who are simply willing to keep us company. Bring your friends. The best homemade cocoa will be served. Come do your part!

Announcements for October 19

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets this Monday, October 20, beginning with Evening Prayer in the church.

High School Youth Group
Show us your shirts! High School youth, be sure to bring your finished tie-dye to this Sunday's meeting (Oct 19th) to show off your creativity. Back to regular meeting time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2014-2015 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 9, 2014. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

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 Chicago Diocese. 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 check and gift cards to Iris Bestow by December 7.

Blue Jeans Sunday
Dress casually and plan to stay after church on Sunday, November 2, to help with landscape work.

All Saints Open House
Everyone is invited to the traditional All Saints Open House at the Rectory. Sunday, November 2, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. All ages are welcome. Feel free to bring guests or friends. Come share conversation, beverages and hors d’oeuvres.

Announcements for November 10

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Campaign
This year you received three pledge cards: one for your pledge of financial support, one to pledge time and talent to programs and ministries at St. John’s, and one to pledge your efforts to outreach ministries. Please prayerfully consider what you can offer. Pledge Sunday is November 24. You may offer your pledge cards during worship on that day or return them to the parish office at any time before November 24.

Loaves & Fishes This Sunday
Following the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, November 10, Loaves and Fishes is offering the traditional turkey and dressing brunch. Everyone is invited! If you can, bring a side or dessert to share. If it is not convenient to bring a dish, you are still welcome to share the feast and fellowship.

Parish Dinner Groups Sign Up Ends This Sunday
Sunday, November 10, is the last day to sign up for Parish Dinner Groups. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr. Please turn in your forms to Gale, Pastor Orr or the Parish office.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
Cathedral Shelter is one of the Episcopal Charities of the Diocese of Chicago. It provides a wide range of services to homeless individuals and families and to people struggling with addiction. The Christmas Basket program provides gifts to families and seniors who otherwise would not be able to afford them. Information is available in the undercroft on how you can help by adopting a senior or a family.

Coffee Hour Contributions
Thank you to all who have contributed over the last two weeks to support coffee hour expenses. In the weeks and months ahead please continue to be mindful of the need to support this ministry.

Holiday Cookie Walk
St. John’s annual Holiday Cookie Walk is December 7. Most of the money raised at the Cookie Walk goes to benefit local outreach and service agencies. Please say “yes” when we ask you to bake.

Blue Jeans Sunday – November 24
Help out with fall clean up of our parish grounds. Wear your gardening clothes to church Sunday, November 24, and stay a little while after church to do landscape work.

Announcements for October 27

All Souls Day Service – Saturday, November 2
The Commemoration of All Faithful Departed (also known as All Souls Day) developed—as sort of an extension of All Saints Day—as a day on which the Church remembers that vast body of the faithful who may be unknown in the wider fellowship of the church but are no less members of the company of the redeemed, particularly family members and friends. This year St. John’s will offer a service on All Souls Day, November 2, beginning at 5:00 p.m. You are invited to bring a small photo or memento of any individual you wish to remember at this service. These will be displayed during the service. You may also still submit names to be remembered in the prayers of the All Souls Day service by calling or e-mailing the parish office.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2013-2014 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 10. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

All Saints Open House at the Rectory
Everyone is invited to the annual All Saints Open House at the Rectory next Sunday, November 3, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

New Acolyte Photos on Display
A new compilation of photos of acolytes is now on display in the hallway outside the Guild Room.

Coffee Hour Contributions
A nudge from the vestry: Coffee hour contributions are running considerably less than costs. If you are a regular participant in coffee hour, please remember to toss a dollar or two in the basket.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will meet Monday, November 4, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room. All knitters and crocheters are welcome.

Blue Jeans Sunday – November 24
Help out with fall clean up of our parish grounds. Wear your gardening clothes to church Sunday, November 24, and stay a little while after church to do landscape work.

New Rector at Church of the Holy Family
The Episcopal Church of the Holy Family in Park Forest has called a new Rector. The Rev. Rachael Gregory begins her tenure on November 1. Welcome, and God bless her in her new ministry.

Announcements for October 20

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, October 21, beginning at 7:00 p.m. with Evening Prayer in the church.

ECW Potluck
The Episcopal Church Women will hold a potluck luncheon Wednesday, October 23, beginning around 11:15. All women of the church are welcome.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2013-2014 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 10. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. Please join us even if you are not a “couple” or you can’t host a dinner in your home. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

All Souls Day Service – Saturday, November 2
The Commemoration of All Faithful Departed (also known as All Souls Day) developed—as sort of an extension of All Saints Day—as a day on which the Church remembers that vast body of the faithful who may be unknown in the wider fellowship of the church but are no less members of the company of the redeemed, particularly family members and friends. This year St. John’s will offer a service on All Souls Day, November 2, beginning at 5:00 p.m. You are invited to bring a photo or memento of any individual you wish to remember at this service. You may also still submit names to be remembered in the All Saints/All Souls Day services by calling or e-mailing the parish office.

All Saints Open House at the Rectory
Everyone is invited to the annual All Saints Open House at the Rectory Sunday, November 3, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Blue Jeans Sunday – November 24
Help out with fall clean up of our parish grounds. Wear your gardening clothes to church Sunday, November 24, and stay a little while after church to do landscape work.

Announcements for November 11

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive
Pledge Sunday is November 18. On that Sunday you will have the opportunity to offer your pledge during worship. Or they may be returned to the parish office at any time.

Responding to Hurricane Sandy
Episcopal Relief and Development is one way you can help with recovery and relief efforts following this devastating storm. You can donate online here. Flyers with information on donating are also available on the information tables.

Loaves and Fishes This Sunday, November 11
Loaves and Fishes (formerly known as Brunch Bunch) will present their annual Thanksgiving parish brunch following the 10:00 a.m. service this Sunday, November 11. Turkey and dressing will be provided. Last names A-R, please bring a side dish; S-Z a dessert. Whether or not you are able to bring a dish, you are welcome; please plan to come!

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Every holiday season they care for nearly 1,000 children and families. Gift cards from Target, grocery stores, book or music stores, clothing stores or cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Parish Dinner Groups
This Sunday is your last chance to sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 18 and 25, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. NOTE DATE CHANGE.

Wonderful Holiday Concert December 9
The Grande Prairie Singers open their 2012-13 concert season at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, Faith UP Church in Park Forest, with “Winterlude.” It features Pergolesi's Magnificat, “Ave Maria” by both Bruckner and Rachmaninoff, and holiday favorites such as “Let It Snow” and “White Christmas.” Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door; and $10 for students. Season subscriptions, including the March and May concerts, are $40. Contact Bob or Betsy Burgwald.

Announcements for November 4

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive 
As you consider your pledge for 2013, reflect upon: How does St. John’s help you connect to God, to your faith, to a caring community, and to the needs of the world? Pledge cards can be returned to the parish office at any time or you will have the opportunity to offer them within worship on Sunday, November 18.

Responding to Hurricane Sandy 
Episcopal Relief and Development is one way you can help with recovery and relief efforts following this devastating storm. You can donate online here. Flyers with information on donating are also available on the information tables.

Guest Preacher This Sunday: The Rev. Jim Steen
The Rev. Jim Steen, Director of Ministries on Bishop Lee’s leadership team, will preach at both services Sunday, November 4.

Adult Forum with Jim Steen
Everyone is invited to a forum with Jim Steen, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Classroom 4 in the Education Wing. Come hear about new initiatives in the Diocese of Chicago to enhance congregational vitality. Ask questions about programs and activities in the Diocese.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, this Sunday afternoon, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Loaves and Fishes Next Sunday, November 11
Loaves and Fishes (formerly known as Brunch Bunch) will present their annual Thanksgiving parish brunch following the 10:00 a.m. service next Sunday, November 11. Plan to come!

Remembering the Faithful Departed on All Saints’ Day
We will offer special prayers for the faithful departed at the Wednesday morning celebration of the Holy Eucharist on November 7. Please phone or e-mail the parish office if you have individuals you would like included in these prayers.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

Daughters of the King Help Lawrence Hall
Once again the Daughters of the King will be coordinating the St. John the Evangelist Church Wish List Drive for the children, youth and families at Lawrence Hall Youth Services. Every holiday season they care for nearly 1,000 children and families. Gift cards from Target, grocery stores, book or music stores, clothing stores or cash or checks (made out to Lawrence Hall Youth Services) would all be appreciated. December 14 is the deadline. You may give your donation to Iris Bestow or any Daughter of the King.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting on Monday, November 5, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room

Parish Dinner Groups Sign up for the 2012-2013
Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 18 and 25, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. NOTE DATE CHANGE.

Central Standard Time Resumes This Sunday, November 4
Remember to set your clocks back one hour.

Announcements for October 28

Stewardship: Annual Pledge Drive
You should soon be receiving the mailing with information about St. John’s annual pledge drive. Please take the time to read and consider the enclosed information. Please also reflect on the words on the back of the pledge card. St. John’s is a “place to connect.” How does St. John’s help you connect to God, to your faith, to a caring community, and to the needs of the world? Pledge cards can be returned to the parish office at any time or you will have the opportunity to offer them within worship on Sunday, November 18.

Guest Preacher November 4: The Rev. Jim Steen
The Rev. Jim Steen, Director of Ministries on Bishop Lee’s leadership team, will preach at both services Sunday, November 4. He will also present a forum and be available for questions during the 9:00 a.m. hour in the adult Sunday School class in the Education Wing.

Cathedral Shelter Christmas Baskets
The youth of Little Hands are spearheading St. John’s participation in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas basket program this year. Look for their table during coffee hour. Or you can stop by the parish office anytime to adopt a family.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, Sunday, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Remembering the Faithful Departed on All Saints’ Day
We will offer special prayers for the faithful departed at the Wednesday morning celebration of the Holy Eucharist on November 7. Please phone or e-mail the parish office if you have individuals you would like included in these prayers.

Yarn Ministry
The yarn ministry will be meeting on Monday, November 5, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Guild Room

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 11 and 24, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Central Standard Time Resumes November 4
Remember to set your clocks back one hour.

Announcements for October 21

Vestry Town Hall Meeting This Sunday: Update on the Accessibility Project
During coffee hour this 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. Please read reflections by Steve Hofer and Mark Moxley, posted here. A summary fact sheet on the accessibility project is available here.

Youth Worship This Sunday
Youth Worship resumes this Sunday, October 21, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Youth Chapel in the education wing. Children of all ages are always welcome in church throughout the service, but grade school-aged children are invited to participate in youth worship if they wish. It is offered as an engaging age-appropriate worship experience for the liturgy of the Word of God, or the first portion of the Eucharist. Youth worship participants join their families and the parish family at the peace and all share Holy Communion together.

Little Hands Meets Sunday
St. John’s children’s outreach group, Little Hands, meets this Sunday, from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. in the undercroft.

All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory
All parishioners and guests are invited to the Rector’s annual All Saints’ Open House at the Rectory, Sunday, November 4, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.

Blue Jeans Sundays in November
Mark your calendars. Wear blue jeans to church on Sunday and plan to stay after for an hour or so and help with outside fall landscaping clean up work. November 11 and 24, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Announcements for October 14

Jackie Campbell Memorial Blood Drive: This Sunday, October 14 
St. John’s annual fall blood drive is this Sunday, October 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the classrooms in the education wing. You may still sign up online at www.lifesource.org or walk-ins will be welcome.

Vestry Meeting
The vestry meets Monday, October 15, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the church.

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. Reflections by Frank So and Anne Edwards are here. Please give them your attention.

Parish Dinner Groups
Sign up for the 2012-2013 Parish Dinner Groups continues through Sunday, November 11. Information and forms for signing up will be found on a table in the undercroft. If you have any questions regarding this unique opportunity to get to know your fellow parishioners a little bit better, please talk to Gale Michael or Pastor Orr.