October 1, 2026

Coffee and treats between services are always appreciated! Click the graphic above to sign up.👆

If you are able to help, please sign up using the graphic above. Training will be provided! Contact Amy Steenson with any questions.

The Message this Week

Preaching Text: Exodus 14:5-7, 10-14, 21-29

Have you ever felt trapped between a pillar of fire and a wet place? This is where the Israelite people found themselves soon after they were released from slavery in Egypt. For a moment, it seemed that the God who brought them out with a mighty hand and on outstretched arm had abandoned them. Yet, we hear in their story that even when all hope is gone, God makes a way. 

Powerful God, when the situations of this world lead us to despair, help us to put our hope in you. Amen. 

WONDERING...

Real questions from real people to learn more about faith.

The annual congregational meeting will take place THIS Sunday, October 4 immediately after the 10:30AM service in the Sanctuary. Child care will be available! Click HERE to view the annual report.

• Give us hope and then turn that hope into motivation to take whatever action is required to restore, protect, and preserve your beloved creation for generations to come.
• Draw from among us those best suited to lead and make them strong in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, that they might work tirelessly for your justice.
• Walk with all who journey with physical, mental, or spiritual illness. Give them peace and strength in the midst of their challenges.
• Stand with all who face oppression, injustice, poverty, or war. Stir up compassion in those whose decisions harm the lives of others.
• With all the saints, we praise you, O God, for delivering us time and again from our trials and challenges.

God who created all that is, we place all for whom we pray, both aloud and in the silence of our hearts, into your loving arms. Amen.

Results from last week:

It's officially FALL! 🍁 What's your favorite part of the season?

Join us THIS Saturday, October 3 at 9AM for a Pet Blessing on the front lawn! All pets are welcome. There will be music, contests, prizes and more! Fun for kids and adults. Contact Marianne Albertson if you have any questions.

At our last gathering we decided to open the group to include ALL older ladies of the congregation! Our purpose is to be a social group that also does service projects.

Our next meeting is Tuesday, October 6, at 10 AM in the chapel. WELCOME LADIES!

If you have questions, please call Barb Noble 630-292-0096 or Dotty Johnson 630-209-0843.

The women's group is meeting next Tuesday, October 6 at 8PM at Geneva Ale House. Contact Faith Sax for more information.

Join us on Sunday, October 11 in Fellowship Hall after the 9AM service as we prepare a meal for Lazarus House. Click HERE to donate ingredients. Contact Lisa Kanzler with any questions.

Volunteers are packing food at Northern Illinois Food Bank on Wednesday, October 21 at 9AM. If you'd like to join, please RSVP to Martha Sobie by next Wednesday, October 7.

New! Thursday Evening Book Study

Join Pastor Amber in having conversations about "life, death, and the moments in between" in this 4-week study of the book Now Departing. The book, written by funeral director Victor M. Sweeney, contains stories of the town where she previously served and offers reflections on how the common experience of death brings clarity to what matters in life. This study will take place Thursday evenings at 7pm, October 29 - November 19. Books can be purchased online wherever books are sold. Click HERE to see the reading schedule. 

Lost or broken name tag? If you need a new one, there is a sign up sheet in the Narthex, or you can email Lisa Kanzler by October 30.

What is a QCD?

A Qualified Charitable Distribution or “QCD” allows individuals age 70 ½ and older to donate up to $111,000 in 2026 directly from an IRA to a charity. A QCD can satisfy, in whole or in part, the Required Minimum Distribution (“RMD”) for 2026. It is important to note that while the current RMD age is age 73 or older, anyone age 70 ½ or older may use a QCD. Making a QCD does NOT require the donor to itemize on his/her/their tax return. Click HERE to learn more. If you have any questions, contact Kraig Mickelsen.

Click HERE to see pictures of the last week!

To see all weekly and special events please check our calendar.