Dundee Crown - Christmas Store 09

Music obtained at: www.freeplaymusic.com
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Developing a Family Mission Statement - The Boldt Creed

Just as Willow Creek Church has a mission statement of "Turning Irreligious People into Fully Devoted Followers of Christ," so to we thought our family should have statement or saying that communicates what is means to be a "Boldt". Something we can focus on and help communicate values to our children.

Our first pass at this is something like: we as a family are to "Love God and Love People through the Love of Christ to Transform World".

We have used Romans chapter 12 as kind of a base verse. We love the ideas of being living sacrifice, not conforming to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The chapter continues:

Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written:

"It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

I would love for us to live in this chapter and be intentional about it's implications for our lives.
~

Henry Cloud Satellite Event - Boundaries Class

We will be hosting Henry Cloud, live via satellite! We have been huge fan's of Henry Cloud's teaching and books. This will be a great class!

Date: Saturday, January 30
Time: 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Location: Willow Creek Lakeside Auditorium
Cost: $20 per person (includes lunch, snacks, and downloadable handout)
Registration: Registration is required, and is limited to the first 1500 guests.

Click here to Register

Beckoning Hands - Grief Ministry for Women

We wanted to inform you of the start of our third session of Beckoning Hands, a group for women, couples, and families who have lost an unborn child, newly born child or suffer from infertility.

The start date for our 2010 session is Feb 2nd and continues through March 16th! We meet on Tuesday nights with our sessions outlined by a topic appropriate message followed by focused discussion time. Please go to www.beckoninghands.org for detailed information on location as well as other resources.

For those of you who have not joined us, it is our hope to serve you as best we can through your grief. If you have attended in the past, we encourage you to join us again as we will be addressing some new topics.

Warm Regards,Molly Quinn, Joyce Ndoria, and Heidi Buckman

Area Christmas Store - Support Local Families

New Toys & Clothes needed for a special one day "Christmas Store".

At this unique store, will help over 100 families in need from Sunny Hill and Golfview Elementary Schools. Under resourced parents will be able to purchase toys and clothes for their children (ages 0-12) at a nominal price.

We really need some new toys, we are doing okay on clothing donations:
NEW items, priced under $40.

• Toy Suggestions are: Games, books, action figures, sports equipment, building toys (like LEGOs)

Donation Drop Off is Nov. 30-Dec. 17, hours (8:30a - 4pm) at:

Golfview Elementary School,
124 Golfview Ln.

Carpentersville, IL 60110

~

To donate your time volunteering at the Christmas Store Dec. 19th - search on "Carpentersville" at: http://community.willowcreek.org/justchristmas.aspx.

~

For more information or any questions contact:

Tammy Massey, 847-836-2347 or godskd2@yahoo.com.

View Larger Map

Christmas Cookie Wrap - Follow up 1100+

Wow!! Way to go neighborhood folks! You all really pulled through on this serving opportunity. A big thanks to Saray Rodiguez-Noverini for leading this initative and hosting it at her house.

We had lots of cookies donated from our area to help suppliment some cookies that were donated by the church. In all the team at Saray's house wrapped over.... drum roll please...

1110 Dozen Cookies!!

These cookies will be given to inmates at correctional institutions around the county and area. Imagine wrapping 1100 dozen cookies, that is just mind blowing! A BIG "Yea God" and "Yea Dundee Crown Neighbors" - as all who participated in anyway were being the hands and feet of Jesus to the "least of these".

Thanks for baking and wrapping and really delievering!

Joyful Noise - Nursing Home Christmas Sing-a-long

We had a great day last Sunday at Eastgate Manor in Algonquin where we sang some Christmas Carols, had some Christmas cookies and cheer, read the Christmas story and played some fun games with the residents living there. A number of residents are members or attenders of our church. It was so good to share an afternoon with them.

Thanks to Tanya Hill for organizing the event and her uncle Art who played the keyboard. It was a blessing.

Contact Tanya Hill tnthill@comcast.net to particpate in future gatherings to minister to the elders in our community.

Weekend Service - Dec. 12-13

As we continue the Just Christmas series, Guest Teacher Harvey Carey packs a powerful vision for how we can impact our community here in the Chicago area, with specific focus on Willow’s local ministries.

Find Christmas Serving at:
http://community.willowcreek.org/justchristmas.aspx

Christmas Cookie Wrap - Dec. 6th

This Sunday Dec. 6th we could really use your help baking & wrapping cookies for prisoners in Kane County.

Just search on "Carpentersville" at the link below and choose the cookie wrap option!


http://community.willowcreek.org/justchristmas.aspx

If you have any questions contact Saray at: saray@noverini.com

Willow Creek Christmas Serving - Local and On Campus

Remember to take advantage of all the great serving opportunities at Church and in your neighborhood!!

http://community.willowcreek.org/justchristmas.aspx

Willow Creek - Christmas Service 09 - God With Us

---- Note from Executive Pastor Greg Hawkins (I edited it down, RB)

In a couple days, Thanksgiving will be a memory and our thoughts will turn to Christmas. At this time of year, as Christ followers, we celebrate the most significant event that ever happened-God sent His only Son to live among us-Immanuel. God with Us.

Theme: The title of our services this year at South Barrington is God With Us. If you were here last year for Light, you may remember that we traveled to several different countries to observe God in other cultures. This year, we're staying at home with a warm, story-driven service that reveals God's presence with us. It's a service we know you'll want to attend and bring friends and family with you. Note: Tuesday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m service is presented entirely in Spanish!! English translation available.

Tickets: Equal access ticketing for God With Us opens on November 28. From then until noon on Thursday, December 4, you can request tickets that will be put into a pool and, at the close of the equal access period, the computer will randomly assign seats, giving everyone equal access to great seats. Here's the deal. The only bad seat is an empty one. As a member, we know you're committed to bringing the message of Christ to people who don't yet know Him. So we're asking you to help us make sure every seat is filled and no opportunity is lost.

Every year, 20 percent of the assigned tickets are no-shows. In Willow Creek's auditorium, that translates to more than 1,400 seats! We understand that many of you are ordering tickets, hoping and praying a friend or family member will come with you. We join you in that prayer! But please return any tickets you will not be using. You can return them online, in person at Ticket Central, or by phone to "Ticket Central" in the Main Lobby following any weekend service or call the ticket line at (847) 765-7100 from 10 a.m.-noon or 7-9 p.m. daily.

Time: We need the gift of your time. It takes 3,500 volunteer opportunities to welcome guests, care for children, serve coffee, direct traffic, and a whole list of other things that, when pulled together, translates into a memorable experience for everyone. So we're asking you to consider giving the gift of your time to be a volunteer at one service. You can serve with your small group or your friends; and there are family-friendly opportunities, so you and your family can serve together. Learn about the opportunities and sign up at willowcreek.org/volunteer.

Finally, we ask that you join us in prayer that hearts will be open to hearing about the hope that can only come through Jesus Christ. And that God will bless all of our efforts to make this

Christmas about experiencing the reality that God is with us!
Blessings,

Greg Hawkins

Executive Pastor

GOD WITH US - Twelve services will be presented at our South Barrington campus.
Friday, December 18 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 19 at 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 20 at 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Monday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m. (NOTE: Presented entirely in Spanish)

Wednesday, December 23 at 5 and 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 24 at 1, 3:30, and 6 p.m.

Seeds Bookstore - Fair Trade

Seeds Bookstore branches out, adding Fair Trade products like food, accessories, and gift items. Sue Carter, who is overseeing the expansion, says the most popular items from Celebration of Hope are available in a special section of the bookstore—including food items such as olive oil, chocolate, coffee and tea, rice, and sugar. The apparel and accessories area features scarves, handmade jewelry, eco-friendly handbags, and some items, like baskets, made from recycled material.

Bring your shopping list to Seeds and leave with great products and the knowledge you are providing a fair wage that will sustain a microenterprise family in an under-resourced part of the world.

This Weekends Service - Ken Davis

For more than 30 years, Ken Davis has been hailed as one of the top motivational and inspirational speakers in North America. Calling his message, “Comedy with Content,” Ken has appeared on television and stages around the world and is the host of the popular daily radio show Lighten Up.

A frequent guest at Willow Creek services and conferences, Ken’s messages are always memorable.

Ernesto D’Alessio at Casa de Luz

Ernesto D’Alessio is a Spanish television star and the winner of Mexico’s version of American Idol. But did you know he is a Christ follower? Ernesto will appear at Casa’s 11 a.m. service on November 29 in the Lakeside Auditorium. Representatives from Casa de Luz will be available in the Main Lobby this weekend if you’d like to pick up information to give to Spanish-speaking friends

Small Group - Tips of the Week - Facilitate a Happy Ending

1. Get clarity on your desire for the group. Before discussing options with your group, prayerfully ponder where you sense God is leading you, as their leader. Do you want to continue leading? In what capacity? Be settled in your own heart before you talk with the group.

2. Celebrate! You have fulfilled your commitment to G4S. This is worth celebrating! Affirm everyone's commitment, the work God has done in each person over the past weeks, and the contributions each individual made to the group. Thank them for the privilege of facilitating your group's time together.

3. Discuss your options. Groups for a Season is a purposeful, short-term group experience. This format gives people a chance to sample small groups and meet people with whom they might connect, without the risk of making a long-term commitment. As the curriculum draws to a close, discuss these four possible Happy Endings:

• Conclude as planned. The plan for your G4S group was to complete the eight-week run of G4S. Mission accomplished! There is no hidden expectation that you continue to meet past this original commitment. As you discuss the end of your run together, make sure that you don't inadvertently put expectations on people, leaving them to feel like this was a bait and switch to get them into a long-term commitment to small group.


• Regroup for the February 2010 session of Groups for a Season. If your group enjoyed the G4S format, invite them to sign up for the next G4S run. In the interim, plan a few social gatherings to stay connected.


• Stay connected, but in another format. If your group would like to stay connected but with a different time commitment, consider attending a midweek class together, gathering between services on the weekend, sitting together in an agreed-upon section at the same service, or serving together this holiday season. To see a list of great holiday serving opportunities, please visit http://community.willowcreek.org/justchristmas.aspx.


• Form a regular small group. If your group has bonded well and desires to continue to meet, you are welcome to choose your own curriculum and become a regular small group. Discuss who would like to be part of this new group (some may want to opt out, which is perfectly acceptable), how often you would like to meet, and who will lead the group.

4. Never pressure anyone. Some members may want to continue meeting, while others-for a variety of legitimate reasons-don't. Assure your group that it is okay to opt out of future gatherings. The commitment they made was for eight weeks, and they fulfilled that commitment.

5. Contact Me. Let me know what your group plans to do. This helps me assess Groups for a Season, plan for the future, and provide ongoing support and training for the future, if needed.

Hear our thanks. Without your leadership, your group of people would not have experienced the rich truths found in 1 John. Relationships would not have been formed, and lives would not have been challenged. Your investment has-and will continue to-bring rewards.

How You can collect coats for "Just Christmas"

Consider one of these fun options to help get your small group, neighbors, workplace and community involved in helping us provide coats to the kids of Chicagoland this Christmas.

Throw a Coat Party
Do you have a holiday party every year for friends, neighbors or small group? Instead of having people bring a dessert this year, consider asking them to bring a coat. Collect them in a large box and put one person in charge of dropping them off at church on the designated weekend. Be sure to let your guests know how many coats you end up collecting at the end of the party!

Group-Shop for Coats
In these economic times, it may be a stretch for some people to purchase a coat on their own. Consider having a “Group-Shop” Party. Each person brings as much cash as they wish to donate ($1 on up!) and places it anonymously in an envelope, box or can. Once everyone arrives, count up the cash and divide it up among groups of people. Send them out in teams to buy as many coats as they can with their allotment of cash. You may want to assign each team an age/gender of a child so they can shop specifically for that child. It might even be fun to make this a contest or a race if you are so inclined!

Kids for Kids Coats
Include the whole family when buying coats by encouraging younger children to do chores or sell toys (E-bay is a great option!) to contribute towards buying a new coat. Keep a large jar on the kitchen table and let everyone throw in their contributions until there is enough money for a coat. Children can also help scour the ads for good deals on coats – involve them in helping to pick out the coats as well – especially if the coat is for a kid their same age and gender!

Working for Coats
Talk to your coworkers or HR department about how they can help contribute coats to the cause. Perhaps you can put out a donation box in the break room or put up a flyer. What a great first step in opening the door to faith conversations at work.

Reverse Garage Sale
Open up your garage and hold a reverse garage sale. Encourage neighbors to bring new coats. Break out the fire pit and make it a fun festive occasion with hot apple cider and roasted marshmallows. What a great way to connect with neighbors over the long winter months. (One couple put up some signs in the neighborhood and had dozens of people they never met come and drop off new coats – you may be surprised at who wants to participate!)

Willow Creek Baptism Nov. 14/15 and 21/22

If your next step toward membership is Baptism, sign up online. Baptism will take place at weekend services on November 14/15 and 21/22

FYI... I will be in the baptism tank baptizing folks at the Saturday Nov. 21st service. I'll be happy to baptize you! Just sign up at the link above and then get in my line.

Ryan

Small Group - Tips of the Week - Prayer

Facilitate Meaningful Prayer
No pressure. . . Praying aloud can be intimidating for those who have never done it. Never pressure "everyone" to participate. Rather, invite. Create simple, doable opportunities that most people would feel safe in trying.


Location, location, location.
Change where your prayer time is placed during your group meeting. Traditionally, groups pray at the end of their meeting, when time is running short or people need to leave early. Try beginning your group time with a time of prayer. Or pray in the middle-after sharing, but before discussing the lesson.

Get what you ask for.
Be proactive in guiding the prayer request portion of your sharing time.
Ask each member to share two requests: one for someone else in their lives (easy and safe) and one for themselves (a little riskier). This brings depth to what is shared and prayed for, keeps people from focusing on Aunt Millie (or her sick cat), and invites them to be self-reflective about how God might meet their own needs.

Start small.
Try one-word prayers, in which members offer up single words that fit a theme you've suggested (see below). Or try one-sentence prayers, which feel safer (more doable) to those not accustomed to praying aloud.

Mix it up.
Try some of these ideas to give your group's prayer time new meaning.

· Popcorn prayers. Suggest an overall group theme, such as "I thank God for..." "Characteristics of God that I appreciate..." or "Names of God." Then encourage the group to offer up one-word prayers that fits this theme.
· One-sentence prayers. Similar to popcorn prayers, but a little longer. Invite members to pray one-sentence prayers around a theme, or for one person at a time in the group (see Hot Seat, below).
· Hot Seat. This takes a little longer, but can really add significance and value to each group member. Place a chair in the middle of your group; each member takes turns sitting in the 'hot seat' while the other group members lift them in prayer. Make sure every member has a turn in the hot seat.
· Silent prayer. Begin your prayer time with a few moments of silent reflection, giving your members time to quiet their hearts and minds before God.
· Partner Prayer. Invite your group to divide into pairs or 3's. Take turns praying for one another in these smaller settings.

Prayer Patterns. Here are a couple simple templates that can help members pray during their personal prayer time at home.

· ACTS:
o A = Adoration (Praise God for who He is)
o C = Confession (Confess sins, ask for forgiveness)
o T = Thanksgiving (Thank God for the blessings in your life)
o S = Supplication (Ask Him for your needs)

Neighborhood to Neighborhood - Algonquin to Africa

This is so awesome. One of our neighborhood groups in the Eastview area is supporting a village in Kenya for the next 3 years. They are partnering with Global Hope Network International. Check out this video, shot via skype, as the group signs their committment pledge. They hope to raise 10,000K over the next 3 years!

Learn more at http://gambella.end-injustice.org

Groups for a Season - G4S - Tips of the Week

Helping the Needy Member

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Neediness
Groups exist to do life together, which includes helping one another during times of need. When members can lean into one another during seasons of need-engaging in the giving and receiving of care-the group is growing healthily. But sometimes, individuals exhibit unhealthy patterns of neediness.

Signs of Unhealthy Neediness
§ Taking up too much group time
§ Constant crises that never get resolved
§ Emotional dependency that the group can't meet
§ Inability to be comforted
§ Not taking group advice
§ Seeing the group as "not enough"

Tips for Helping the Needy Member
§ Encourage next steps. If a needy member is able to affirm the help your group is offering, but fails to follow through with suggestions, challenge her to set small goals of action, to be reported to the group the following week.

§ Provide a time limit. Sometimes a person in need cannot set aside their own pain to allow other group members to engage in group time. If a needy member is monopolizing your group, make a process statement ahead of time, to set expectations: "Gail, so that everyone will have an opportunity to both give and receive from group tonight, do I have your permission to let you know when it is time to let someone else share?"

§ When the need is too great. . . If you have a member whose life patterns or circumstances require more help than a group can provide, talk with your Community Leader or AP about how to best help this person without sacrificing the health of your group.

§ Warm up the cold group. Some people don't have a wealth of natural care-giving skills, making any needs-even reasonable ones-feel "needy" to them. When a legitimate need is expressed, affirm the validity of the need, then coach the other members to stretch their care-giving muscles by suggesting practical ways they can help meet that need.

Biblical Israel and the Church

The final module of 2009 Midweek Classes begins November 4. If you’re looking for a challenging class to finish off the year, join Dr. Bilezikian for Israel 101: Biblical Israel and the Church. Dr. B will present a biblical analysis of the call and mission of ancient Israel, the fulfillment of Israel’s destiny in Christ, and His new covenant community. Sign up for this and other Midweek Classes.

NOTE: Midweek Classes take a study break this Wednesday, October 28.

Mike Dierking - Algonquin - Passed Away

Mike Dierking of Algonquin passed away Thursday, October 22nd. Mike suffered from an aneurysm a couple months ago. Please continue to pray for his wife Linda, sons Brian and Adam.

Mike Dierking's Memorial Service and Celebration of Life:
Saturday Nov. 7th - 4pm
Willow Creek Church Chapel (Entrance B)
67 E. Algonquin Rd
Barrington, IL 60010
Reception to follow.

Cards to:
The Dierking Family
730 Timberwood Ln
Algonquin, IL 60102

No Midweek Classes this week.

Just Remember - No Classes Wednesday Oct. 28th as the Week Midweek classes take a study break.

The final module of Classes begins November 4

This Weekend's Service - Beyond Belief

This weekend, Senior Pastor Bill Hybels launches Beyond Belief, a new seven-week series on the book of Ephesians. Ephesians explores themes of predestination, salvation, love, family, and spiritual warfare. Throughout the series, each weekend message explores a vital section from a chapter of this “crown jewel” in the writings of the apostle Paul.

Group Life Conference

If you are a Community Leader, Group or Team Leader, or just want to learn more about leading! I would like to invite you to an exciting opportunity coming this fall. Get it on your calendar now. On Oct. 24 we will be partnering with the WCA and the CCN broadcast network to host a 1-day Group Life Conference. The theme is “This Changes Everything” and focuses on spiritual transformation in groups. This interactive conference experience will be hosted via satellite all over North America – but will be live here in our Lakeside Auditorium exclusively for our Willow leaders. You’ll hear from Henry Cloud, Andy Stanley, Heather Zempel, and others who will help you guide people toward greater growth in Christ. You’ll leave inspired and equipped to lead your group more effectively.

This FREE live experience is only available to Willow leaders – so sign up now and join leaders church wide for this can’t miss event!
Register Here:
http://community.willowcreek.org/event.aspx?eventid=967

A Wedding Story - Jim Korlesky & Pat Gile

Congrats to Jim and Pat of Carpentersville! What a great day of celebration. We wish them all the best in their marriage and life together. It was so great to see Richard Hirst, a neighbor and small group member, officate the wedding!




Way to go Pat & Jim!
Way to go Richard!

God blessed the whole day and event.

Chicago Marathon & World Vision - Dundee Crown Runners

Congrats to area runners in their participation in the Chicago Marathon.
We had a number of people raising support for World Vision.




Way to go team!!
Paul JVR
Doug Yonamine
Larry & Denise Stilwell
Rhonda Jenkins
Chris Mote

Shelby Bohlin

Follow updates for Shelby Bohlin at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/shelbygrace

Thank you so much!
In His Love,
The family.

Baby Dedication - Devin John "Maxx" Posecion

Congrats to Rudy & Adona Posecion of Algonquin, on the dedication of their son Maxx, Sunday Oct. 4th 2009, at the "Wellington of Arlington" in Arlington Hts. It was a great celebration there was time to focus on what is really important in our lives, faith, friends, and family. There was wonderful food, singing, dancing and kid's games!

The Posecions are an extremely fun and talented family!

Blessings to them all!

All In - Weekend 34th Anniversary Willow Creek

Don't miss a chance to share in our 34th Annivesary as a church. Come and have some free food and fellowship with the entire Willow Creek family. Enjoy pizza after the 5:30 p.m. and 11:30 a.m. service or come early before the 9 a.m. for warm waffles, toppings, and sausage. You'll want to be All In! for this.

Shoji and I will be here Sunday at the 11:30am Service - hope to see you here.

Update on Mike Dierking - Algonquin

Mike Dierking (husband of Linda Dierking) was stricken with an aneurysm that caused a stroke just over a month ago. Following emergency surgery to remove the clot, Mike remained in ICU for weeks. He has been moved to Holy Family Hospital in Des Plaines - on the intersection of Rt 45 & Golf Rd. (847) 297-1800

He has had limited responses, but has shown improvement. Linda and Mike have lots of friends from church praying for Mike and the family.

Cards to:
Linda & Mike Dierking
730 Timberwood Drive
Algonquin, IL 60102
lindrking@sbcglobal.net

Note from Greg Hawkins - 34th Celebration

Our 34th Anniversary Weekend is 9 days away! I want to give you an update and ask for your help with at least one serving opportunity. First, the planning for the service itself is going well. It will have a very forward looking feel, versus being a trip down memory lane. We will feature the worship leaders and drummers from each campus in a cool opening number that will lead into an extended time of worship. We will show a video featuring all the campus pastors including Hector, highlighting the ministry done throughout our five campuses.

Bill will give a vision talk, providing a fresh way to think about our mission and inspiring us all to dream about what God has in store for our future. We will end the service with a powerful experience that I will keep secret for a bit longer.

Second, we will enjoy a time of fellowship around food. Throughout the Old Testament, the people of God gathered several times a year to celebrate together. Some of those festivals lasted for days and included lots of food. In Acts 2:46 it says of the first church, “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” When a family gathers, food is served. When people celebrate, food is served. We have a big family and we have a lot to celebrate. Our great God has been very good to us.

(edited down)
We will have Lou Malnati’s pizza and pasta (for the over 400 marathoners who plan on attending) for Saturday night; waffles, fruit, sausages, donuts for breakfast Sunday; and Lou’s pizza for Sunday afternoon. We have been blessed by a donation for the food. So we are able to offer this for free. Harvest will be open throughout if people want to purchase additional items like salad or dessert.

Third, in order to make it easier for the regional congregations to come all the way to South Barrington, we will be hosting a pre-party on Saturday afternoon for regional families. It is being themed as a fall festival with games for kids and light snacks. If it is a nice day, it will be held in the Fast Track Parking Lot. Our rain plan is to use the Lakeside Auditorium.

Ryan's note:
We are always in need of volunteers so if you'd like to volunteer just click on the link below to sign up. Feel free to sign up any family members or friends that might want to serve with you. This site will be open to all attenders who want to help out.

http://www2.willowcreek.org/volunteer/details.asp?F=1&S=4&Event=597&MinistrySum=WLINK

Thanks for all that you are doing.
Greg Hawkins for the 34th Anniversary Planning Team

Feed My Starving Children & Bright Hope Event

"Hope 4 Haiti - Food Packing Event", is a great, family-friendly event that will not only educate participants about poverty, but provide an opportunity for them to actively participate in a solution by packing rice-based meals for the kids in Haiti. As you know, it is truly one of the best serving events for families, small groups, Bible studies, etc. that there is.
You can learn more by visiting our website http://www.brighthope.org/group_resources/hope4haiti.php

Here are a few of the event details:

What: Packing 270,000 meals for 2,550 kids attending 17 schools in Haiti
When: Thursday, Oct 22 - Sunday, Oct 25 (There will be 14 two-hour serving shifts. Details on the website)
Where: Bright Hope International located at 2060 Stonington Ave, Hoffman Estates
How: Each two-hour serving shift will host approx 100 volunteer that will serve together in teams of 15 - 20 people. Each serving team will work together in an assembly-line format to pack the meals.

We would love for you to help!

Thanks,
Mike Rutter
Bright Hope International
224-520-6115

Passings - Lauretta Rodriquez (Bruce Rod's Mother)

Lauretta Rodriquez, 98, Dundee, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 29, 2009.

Lauretta was the mother of Bruce (Yudi) Rod, Willow Creek members, from East Dundee.

Born on February 21, 1911 in Stanley, WS to Henry and Christine Heiting. Married Dr. Jack Rodriquez a dermatologist from Elgin in Chicago 1937. Survived by Children, Jack Rodriquez, M.D., Lynne (David) Knight, Bunni (Salem) Markos, Bruce (Yudi) Rod; 8 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. Predeceased by parents and husband.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2009 in Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park. Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Before service. Entombment will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, make donations payable to:
Thalassemia Donation Fund c/o Donna Edwards
Dept. of Hematology/Oncology
Children’s Memorial Hospital Oakland,
744 52’nd Street, Oakland, CA 94609.

Condolences to the family at www.MEM.com

Mike Dierking - Algonquin - Brain Aneurysm

Mike Dierking was stricken with an aneurysm that caused a stroke two weeks ago. Following emergency surgery to remove the clot, Mike remains in ICU without yet having regained consciousness, though he has shown sporadic signs of response to stimuli. Thanks to everyone that has included Mike and the family in your prayers, and please keep them coming.

In the meantime, Linda his wife and others are still maintaining vigil at the hospital and trying to manage day-to-day life, which all continues at a cost, and the status of any long-term disability that might keep some portion of his income is unknown. Whether it's $30 / day for parking at the hospital, or a few dollars here and there for food at the hospital or making sure the lights stay on at home while there's only minimal income, this will soon cause another very trying, emotional issue.

There have been questions from many asking how they can help, what is needed. One thing that really helps is gift cards to grocery stores, resturants, and department stores like Wal-Mart or Target. Feel free to send it to:

Linda & Mike Dierking
730 Timberwood Drive
Algonquin, IL 60102

Some may not be able to help financially, but please don't think this is the only way to help out. As someone else has pointed out already, blood donations can help greatly! Mike is type O+, but if you're a different type - please don't let that stop you. The pint you donate for someone else's benefit may just come back around and help. If you're donating at UI Medical Center, they will even pay for your parking.

The Dierking family has attended Willow Creek for years and at this point, Mike and family need both your prayers and support.

With Love, Hope and Thanks

PADS Ministry - On Campus Serving

Most of you are aware that we, Willow Creek, have been serving the homeless on campus as part of Journeys from PADS to HOPE's 18 church network for the past 10 years. (http://www.padstohope.org/)

The season is about to begin once again: Oct 2009 thru April 2010 and we are looking for additional volunteers to add to the 150 or so who are continuing to serve the homeless at Willow. Enclosed is a description of the volunteer opportunity.

The information contained in the attachment will provide you with specific on-ramps for people to want to engage with our work with PADS here at Willow.

To sign up on-line folks can go to: http://www2.willowcreek.org/volunteer/details.asp?F=1&Page=0&RegID=None&C=590

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Beckoning Hands - Grief Ministry for Women

Greater than 9.3 million women experience reproductive difficulty or the death of a child during pregnancy in a given year. Whether you have experienced a miscarriage, a stillbirth, the loss of a newly born child during pregnancy, primary or secondary infertility, you are NOT alone.

Beckoning Hands is a safe place to mourn and find consolation.
Beckoning Hands is a non-profit Christian organization which offers a place of community, healing, and hope for those who have suffered either or both:
· The Death of a Child During Pregnancy
· Infertility

Contact:
Molly Quinn & Joyce Ndoria
Molly@beckoninghands.org
Joyce@beckoninghands.org

http://www.beckoninghands.org/

FOCUS - Group Life Gathering - "Unplugged"

Leaders play a vital role in God’s plan to bring forth growth and transformation in His people. As a church, our desire is to equip, encourage, and empower our group leaders to lead their groups in creative ways to bring people closer to the living God.

If you lead a small group or team or want to learn more about it, you are invited to FOCUS unplugged, where we will gather as group leaders to be inspired and equipped by Bill Donahue and our Community Life team.

Come gather to hear “insider info” on what’s coming this fall, to receive some great resources to equip you to lead, and to rally together as leaders for the sake of His kingdom.

Date: September 2nd @ 7-8:30pm
Location: Lakeside Auditorium
Food: Light snacks & drinks will be provided

Register at: http://community.willowcreek.org/event.aspx?eventid=958

Groups for a Season - G4S - Fall 2009

G4S Fall Study: “Love Each Other” 1 John
New Community Series, by John Ortberg

As Christians, our deepest desire is to see the truth of God’s Word as it influences our relationship with others. We long for a dynamic encounter with God’s Word, intimate closeness with His people, and radical transformation of our lives… The New Community Bible Study Series creates a place for all of this to happen. In-depth Bible study, community-building opportunities, and life-changing applications are all built into every session of this small group study guide

This fall starting the week of Sept. 21st we will have area Men's, Women's and Mixed groups available for you.

Session 1: It’s a Sin Thing (1 John 1:5 - 2:2)
Session 2: Experiencing God’s Forgiveness (1 John 1:8 - 2:6)
Session 3: Overcoming the Sin Thing (1 John 3:4-10)
Session 4: Love One Another (1 John 2:7-17; 4:7-12)
Session 5: Living as Children of God (1 John 2:29 - 3:10; 5:18-21)
Session 6: Free to Love (1 John 3:11-18; 5:1-5)

The study guide is available in Seeds Bookstore

Weds. September 2nd - Community Life all Leader's Gathering

If you are a current leader (Community Leader, Small Group or Table Leader) or are interested in learning about leading, join us in the Lakeside auditorium at 7-8:30pm.

Hold the date, program and topics will be coming out soon.

Perpetuum Jazzile - Africa

With all the church is doing in Africa this video really spoke to me. I just love this.... It gives me chills! May God truely bless the rains down in Africa!

LEADER'S EDGE Class

This Wed, Aug 12, we will begin a new class with a new format that we're calling Leader's Edge. To continue the leadership development following last week, we will be featuring top rated Summit sessions from previous years with a live interaction/discussion to follow each week.

This week we will be featuring Erwin McManus' session, "The Character Matrix". Leanne Mellado will be interviewing her husband, Jim Mellado, after the message to work in some practical applications and dig deeper into the topic.

The next two weeks will feature Andy Stanley ("Making Vision Stick") and Wayne Cordeiro ("Dead Leader Running"). Mark your calendars.

Register online at www.willowcreek.org/classes

KIVA - are you a "Binder" or a "Do-er"?

When I got home tonight I was reflecting on the Summit today, I was so impress with Jessica Jackley from http://www.kiva.org/ that I came home and opened a kiva account and made a couple of loans. It was so easy and fast! This is one of those moments where you look at the technology we have and just go "WOW!"

I just loaned some farmers in Asia some startup capital in like 10min! How crazy is that? Kiva and their use of the internet is truely changing the world we live in, right before our eyes.

This also tied into Harvey Carey's are you a "binder" Christian or a "do-er" Christian. Kiva makes it so easy to do something, like in 5 minutes!!

Be a "do-er"

`

Summit Registration Packet - Pick up

Just a Reminder you can pick up your Summit registration packet & badge tonight 7:15-8:30pm!

That'll save you a lot of waiting in the morning when the pick starts at 7:30am.

Summit Lunch and sit together

A few of us are planning to sit together at the Summit we are planning to sit in section 103, Row Q on the main floor. Then we are having lunch together at the church during the Summit. I have a nice room reserved for lunch on both Thurs and Fri. 12:30-2pm.

LUNCH:

On Thurs we are in Rm 3013 of the Staff Center Building A (this room is on the 3rd floor near the bathrooms)

On Friday we are in Rm 3018 of the Staff Center Building A (this room is near my cube, Lakeside, 3rd floor)

I know some folks may have signed up for an existing lunch option that was emailed and some folks are bring their own lunch. But I will be ordering some sandwiches & drinks from Costco, if you would like one just let me know by Today, Weds 3pm.

~

Either way you can join us. We'll have discussion and talk about the sessions. Feel free to invite a friend if they are attending with you.

~

Just RSVP me as soon as you can with your details so we get an idea for numbers and food. Email Ryan
~

Thanks,

Ryan.

Summit Discussion & Firepit

Hey to all you Summit Fans and Attenders,

We'd like to invite you to a Post-Summit Discussion and Fire-pit at Chris & Karen Blair's house in East Dundee. We'll just be sharing and discussing what aspects of the Summit were most impactful to us.

When: Sunday Aug. 9th, 6-9pm-ish
Where: Blair's House - 500 Springcrest Rd, East Dundee IL

Bring something to drink and anything you want to roast on the open fire.

email me if you want to come: Ryan


View Larger Map

Neighbors at area Dahlia Walk - Tues. Night

Wow was this was a cool event, it was great to see some friends and neighbors there.

Hosted by Steve Meggos in Carpentersville it was amazing, this is just a few, he had hundreds of these giant flowers. You haven't seen dahlias until you see his.

Cameo appearance was made by Dundee Crown Community Leader Saray Rodriguez-Noverini along with Pat Tauchert. Saray leads an area women's group and helps with group leader development in the area.

Parkview/East Dundee Picnic in the Park

It was a beautiful day and as friends and neighbors showed up from the Parkview area (East Dundee and Carpentersville). Thanks to Community Leader Karen Blair for organizing this! And thanks to everyone who came out. There was Basketball, Bags, a parachute and the Selep's big moonwalk was a total hit.

Love Thy Neighbor Serve - Sat. Aug. 1st, 9am

Just a reminder that we have our next LTN serve in Carpentersville this Saturday.

We need at least 4-5 more people to fill out the serve crew (2 or 3 painters and a small team to attack some of the paint prep and repair items). If you would like to help us out, please reply to Bill or give him a call (847/637-7257).
We hope to finish off the roof work, flashing, gutters and downspouts; make final repairs and painting prep for the front and backyard elevations; paint the white house trim in the backyard; paint the entire front elevation; and take care of a few other miscellaneous repairs. There is plenty to do!

I will bring all the tools we should need (or your can bring your own, if you prefer). Look for my white Tahoe with a brown and tan trailer attached in the driveway. We will meet at 9:15 AM. There will be a lunch provided. Clean-up will start around 3:30 and we should be done by 4:00.

Serve Location:

2048 Berkshire Circle, Unit G

Carpentersville, IL 60110

847/428-0591

FYI - Parking can be a bit sparse on her street but there is on-street parking (where you can find it). Please be sure you don't block someone's driveway - the police will have you towed. :-) We should have excellent weather for our serve.

Contact Bill for questions or involvement: Bill's email or 847/637-7257

Artist in Action

Are you interested in being involved with a creative group of compassionate writers, photographers, painters, illustrators, musicians, sculptors, actors, poets, graphic artists, community organizers etc. in order to serve our communities as artists.

How: Through creative expression and gentle service.
Where: Food Pantries, Shelters, Neighborhood Organizations, Schools, Churches, Clinics etc.

If you are interested in hearing more, contact Marg Rehnberg at: Marg Rehnberg

be sure to include your contact information - including your address, phone and email.

Please let Marg know what community involvement you've had in the past or what needs you are aware of in your neighborhood or favorite charity.

~

Contact Marg if you'd like more info.
Marg Rehnberg 847-854-1098, cell: 630-781-3731

Baby Dedication - The Iovinelli Family

Congratuations to the Iovinelli family on the dedication of little Gianna! Blessings to Nick & Vanessa and the whole family. God has truly given them a gift in baby Gianna.

Founder's Day - Boat Race

The competition was stiff but thank goodness the boats were stiffer! We had a number of Willow neighbors competing in the Algonquin Founder's Day Cardboard boat race. Contestants got 2 hours to build their boat out of cardboard and duct-tape.

Lydia Auch (left) and Kelsy Moss were quite a team, their sleek, light-weight design got them to the finish line.

But it was not enough to hold off Joe Schneider (below) and his first mate Wilson in his
"castaway" single hulled racer.

Joe is a architect by day and cardboard boat designer by night. Despite a weight disadvantage, Joe placed an amazing 3rd place overall and claimed a handsome cash prize to which he can treat all his neighborhood friends (or Area Pastor).














It was also nice to see Matt and Casey Sundstedt, the Yonamines, and the Rossinis. Illaria Rossini’s team and boat didn’t quite make it to the finish. Better luck next year! See more photos at: http://ssm.nwherald.com/northwest-herald/photos/20090723Regatta/cardboard-box-regatta/

This week at the Creek - David Nasser

Iranian-born David Nasser, author of A Call to Grace, speaks to more than half a million people every year on grace. Growing up in a Muslim household so he understands why those who practice Islam have an objection to grace; they see it as a cop-out. And his ministry began as a way to reach the Muslim community. Joining Bill Hybels for weekend services on July 25/26, David shares his compelling story. We will celebrate Communion at weekend services

Prayer and Care Team

Did you know that we have an Area Prayer and Care Team that can talk with you and pray for any needs you have. Life has lots of challenges and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. But God cares and knows our struggles.

If you need some prayer for life's challenges and what to talk with someone email me at: Ryan Boldt

Algonquin Ultimate Frisbee

If you would like to play Ultimate Frisbee

Where: Parking at the Algonquin Middle School field or on Sunshine Court, then walk to the field behind the school. The soccer field has goals that are really good for Frisbee also

When: Friday nights throughout the summer, 7pm until dusk
We will be here this Friday (holiday weekend) but will not be here the weekend of Sandblast Friday July 10th. If anyone else wants to keep the game going, that would be great.

I wanted to invite folks from Student Impact, Dundee Crown Willow neighborhood and misc. neighbors that people want to invite.

If people want to come back to our house after the game for drinks, they are welcome to. Otherwise, people should bring drinks to the field.

Any unclear information? Just ask Michele at:
timmichele.auch@gmail.com

Willow Creek Weekend Service - John Maxwell, Andy Stanley

John Maxwell, scheduled to speak at Willow Creek on July 18/19, is unable to be here. His mother, Laura, passed away on the morning of July 14. Please join us in supporting John and his family with your prayers.


Instead we will hear from Andy Stanley about: "Staying in Love" With more than 1500 matchmaker organizations in the US, finding someone is easier than ever, but staying together seems to get more difficult every day.

Is it possible for two people to fall in love—and actually stay there? Absolutely, according to Andy Stanley, Senior Pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Teaming up this weekend with Bill Hybels, Stanley will present the message, "Staying in Love."

Administer Justice - Fun Fair Volunteering - July 18, 10am-4pm

If you would like to help out with this great event this weekend that would be awesome. They may need some setup and tear-down help.

To volunteer contact:

Saray Rodrigeuz-Noverini at: Saray

Administer Justice - Fun Fair

This fun fair is FREE and open to the public. We are planning a day of fun and activities for all ages, including 5-cent children's games, bouncy house, huge inflated slide, and Bingo tent. Food will be available at a low cost.

Free activities include puppet shows, face-painting, and story time.

Our event is designed to allow low-income families like those served by AJ to enjoy an affordable day out as well as inform the public of the services we offer.

July 18th - Randall Oaks (Randall Rd. & Rt 72) - 10am-4pm
Call: 847-844-1100 for more info.

Learn about Administer Justice: http://www.administerjustice.org/

Passings - Reva Fern Dresdow (Lurline Kover's Mom)

Lu Korver's mom, Reva, passed away last Saturday. Lu and George live in the Sleepy Hollow area and are members at Willow Creek.

Thursday, July 16, 2009 - 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Memorial Service at 7:30 p.m.)
Williams-Woodward Funeral Home
820 Pine Street (Pine and Route 59)
West Chicago, IL 60185
630-231-1300
http://www.williams-woodward.com/

Burial will be Friday, July 17, 2009 at Clarendon Hills Cemetery
Thank you all so much for your love and support.

George and Lurline (Lu) Korver - Korver's email
1312 Acorn Dr
Sleepy Hollow, IL 60118

East Dundee - Neighborhood Picnic - Aug. 2nd

Believe it or not, July 4th has passed us by and before you know it, SUMMER will be passing us by! We would love to have a good, ol’ fashioned Picnic in the Park this August for the East Dundee Neighborhood.

We’re thinking of Sunday, August 2nd, from 4-7pm at Triangle Park in East Dundee. It would be a casual outing, where we could all just meet each other and hang out with our friends and neighbors from area. Everyone could bring a dish to pass, games, etc. and stay as long as they have time for.

We’ve got an authentic Baggo set and sports equipment, does someone have a Bingo set? Bucket toss? Music?

I'd love to have your help and participation - please contact me if you can help or want to attend!

Karen Blair - Karen's email
Community Leader for the Parkview/East Dundee Area

Next Steps for Baptism Walkups

If you were a walkup for Baptism last weekend and are looking for next steps to continue growing in your Christian faith please feel free to contact me: Ryan Boldt

Salvation Army - Serving Opportunities

I wanted to let you know about the Salvation Army Golden Diners program. They have a need for drivers to deliver meals to homebound seniors in the area. Meals are delivered in the mornings Monday through Friday and volunteers can serve weekly, monthly, or as available. Before a volunteer becomes a driver they do need to fill out an application that takes about 6 weeks to process.

I have copies of their brochure and the application for anyone interested. There is also a need for drivers in the Elgin and Crystal Lake areas. The website for information on the Golden Diners program is http://www.salarmychicago.org/services/goldenDiners.htm.

Contact Tammy at: Tammy Massey to get involved.

Dundee Crown Area - Baptism Weekend

Congrats to all the folks in the area who were baptized! Here I just some that I know of. There area probably many more!! What a beautiful day for a beautiful expression of our faith.

Congrats to:
Philippe Sartori Algonquin
Alyssa Kasala Algonquin
Brandan Jensen Algonquin
Rich Comeaux Algonquin
Nathan Auch Algonquin
Lydia Auch Algonquin
Kelley Berlin Algonquin
Edward Berlin Algonquin
Connie Williams Algonquin
Todd Williams Algonquin
Sienna Moriarty Algonquin
Brittany Acquaviva Algonquin
Kelsey Moss Algonquin
Donald Erickson Sleepy Hollow
Felicia Erickson Sleepy Hollow
Keri Pearson Sleepy Hollow
Eric Martin Sleepy Hollow
Kevin Hagan Sleepy Hollow
Kimberly Erickson West Dundee
Ronald Erickson West Dundee
Maria Storm West Dundee
Louonna Erickson West Dundee
Ronald Erickson II West Dundee
Christopher Gorman East Dundee

Willow Creek Church's Mission Statement

"To turn irreligious people into fully devoted followers of Christ"

Baptism Sit together area - June 28th -1:30pm

We have a number of adults and students getting baptized this Sunday. What a great day it will be. If you would like to sit with others from the Dundee Crown Area and cheer on those from our community please join us at the lake for Baptism. You can bring, chairs, coolers, food, drinks and make it a fun day!! See the map below for where we will be sitting. We will mark the area with some Red and Blue Dundee Crown balloons - you might want to come early to get a spot. I hope to see you there.

A Wedding Story - Richardson & Hatteberg

Congratulations to Janene Richardson & Cary Hatteberg of West Dundee on their beautiful wedding last Saturday at Willow Creek Church! Many blessings on the new bride and groom.

Congrats on a new baby for the Schneiders in Algonquin!

Jenna Claire Schneider was born at 12:52pm on Sunday (Father’s Day!) June 21, 2009. She weighs 8 lbs, 3 oz, and is 20-1/2” long.

Mandy and baby are doing great, although both are understandably tired… Her sister, Ally, hasn’t even had a chance to meet her yet, but will do so later today (we’re very interested to see how that works out!)

Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes!
Joe, Mandy, Ally & new baby Jenna

Administer Justice - Needs

Adminster Justice, in East Dundee, is in need of 7 plastic chairmats. Our current mats are so cracked and broken we can barely roll our chairs on them!

Size: 45"W x 53"L would work best. If you can help supply these, it would be greatly appreciated! email AJ

http://www.administerjustice.org/

Willow Creek Summit - Lead where you are

August 6-7 tens of thousands of leaders in 140 locations across North America will join together at the Leadership Summit 2009. See incredible speakers including Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of Great Britian!

The is a special early-bird registration code that gets you in for the whole conference for just $89.

Register at: www.willowcreek.com/summitwccc
Priority code: SUMWCCC

I hope to see you there!