Dearly Beloved,

IT ALL BEGINS AGAIN THIS SUNDAY! I AM SO EXCITED!

The Blessing of the Backpacks for Teachers and Students at the Nine O'Clock Service

Children's Church at 9:00 am

Multi-Media Presentation of our students' Summer Adventure Trip to northern Wisconsin and the Apostles' Islands at 10:10 am in Founders Hall

The first day of Church School for all ages at 10:10 am

Regular Youth Group begins:

Middle School 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.;

High School 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.; and

Joint Youth Group on the first Sunday of each month, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with dinner.

Point of Pentecost: We introduced the Blessing of the Backpacks when Twyla Zittle was our seminarian several years ago. She thought it was so meaningful that she carried it to St. Raphael's in Colorado Springs where she is the Assistant Rector. Last week one of Twyla's friends introduced the Blessing in his small Methodist parish in Texas― and it made the front page of his local newspaper! Another friend in Denver called to ask Twyla about it, and now it's been a great success in her parish! 

OUR FIFTH ANNUAL PRESCHOOL AUCTION AND SECOND ANNUAL PIG ROAST IS ALMOST HERE!

Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

In addition to our Live Auction items we have a growing list of incredible Silent Auction items, including:

Our first completed Basket― thanks to the Altar Guild for its southwestern-Mexican theme basket overflowing with amazing items, including a good bottle of tequila for Margaritas!

Three Hours of Tennis Lessons, donated by Mike Hill.

Preaching Experience― Have you ever wanted to preach a sermon at St. Gregory's? Choose a Sunday with readings that intrigue or interest you; explore the meaning of the readings; develop your ideas about what you'd like to say; and then write, rehearse, and deliver your sermon at all three services! (Donated by Bill Roberts)

Four Seasons of Feasts and Refections― Prepared by Ingrid and Bill Roberts for you and three of your guests a Feast for each Season (silently-auctioned separately!)

For example, this Autumnal Equinox Dinner: Hors d'œuvres: Lime Southside Cocktails; Salmon Rillettes with toast points. First Course: Crème of Carrot Soup. Entrée: Duck Salad with raspberries and oranges on a bed of arugula; Limpa Bread. Pink Champagne. Dessert: Frozen Grand Marnier Soufflés; Coffee, Tea. {Next week: Winter Solstice Dinner menu}

WINE DONORS WANTED!

Do you have an excellent bottle of wine to donate to our Wine Pull? The Preschool Auction Committee would like to find a new home for it! Please bring it (or them!) to the Parish Office.

BASKET DONORS WANTED!

Do you or your St. Gregory's group have an idea for a themed basket? perhaps electronics? movies? exercise? reading? tea time? Call the Parish Office or Barbara Schaper.

OUT-OF-TOWNERS AUCTION OPPORTUNITY

Is a cruel boss sending you off on a business trip? Does a distant relative require your company? Select a designated bidder, or let the Auction Committee know which items you're interested in, and your maximum bids.

WE'RE ON TARGET!

Thank you to everyone who is participating in Target's Take Charge of Education program. Our Preschool just received a check for $194.37. In the past 4 years, we have earned $646.53. If you want to participate in this "painless" fundraiser, identify St. Gregory's Preschool and KG as the school you wish to support when using your Target Red Card. Target donates up to 1% of your purchases using the card to the Preschool!

Faithfully yours,

173rd ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE DIOCESE OF CHICAGO
Friday November 19 and Saturday November 20, 2010
Westin Yorktown Center, 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard, IL

RELATE―RENEW―RESTORE: Caring for God's Creation

NOTE from the TREASURER on PLEDGE CONTRIBUTIONS

We have discovered Prepaid Pledges from 4th quarter 2009 were not appropriately reflected in recent pledge letters. Please accept my apology for the confusion and will correct with October's letters.  Thank you to those who brought this to my attention.   

BIBLE STUDY NEWS

Thursday morning Bible Study resumes on Thursday, September 16th at 9:30 a.m. in the Library. All are welcome, women and men! There is no lesson assignment for our first session, but a time for prayer and catching up on life's happenings since last we met. We would also like to take this time to discuss what the group would be interested in studying next. Newcomers are welcome to join us as we review and study the final chapters up to Paul's letter to the Galatians. From the New Revised Standard Version [NRSV] introduction to Galatians: "The declaration of the principles reiterated in these six chapters made Christianity a world religion instead of a Jewish sect." For more information and if you have any questions, please call Dori Carlson at 847-998-0182.

EVENING COUPLES BRIDGE

If you are interested in Evening Couples Bridge, please contact Barb Schaper at bschaper7@aol.com or 847-948-8989. We meet the 2nd Friday of the month from October through June at member's homes and play 18 hands. If you would like to play but do not have a partner, please let Barbara know as we have one person who is looking for a partner.

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB

October 20th is the date for the next book club meeting when we will discuss Loving Frank by Nancy Horan. Frank Lloyd Wright is a famously important architect, one whose life and work has received due scholarly attention. Nancy Horan decided to turn her focus to Wright's companion, Mamah Borthwick Cheney -- the result is Loving Frank, a fictional account of Cheney's life and relationship with the famous architect.

Want to read ahead? Our selection for November 17th is The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman.

REGULAR PARISH OFFICE HOURS HAVE RESUMED: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

RECTOR'S OPEN OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

PARISH OFFICE DEADLINES

Newsletter announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

Bulletin announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday.

To publish your announcements, please call the office or E-mail office@stgregoryschurch.org.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Bethany Storro, Estelle Carnahan, Hayden John Mayer, Sarah Flanders, John Aberson, Bob O'Donnell, Carrie MacIntosh, Gertrude Knight, Danny Cannon, Marge, Hailey Susan Simon, Susan Porter, Dana Barron, Sheri, Cissy Singleton, Margo Ramtin, Kristine Narovec, Andrew Zint, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;

our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; and

the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

Dearly Beloved,

How wonderful to return from vacation in time for the first annual Youth Commission Carnival!

Here's Erica's report on the festivities: St. Gregory's wrapped up the summer with a wonderful Mass on the Grass and Carnival.  The Youth Commission dreamed up the Carnival to provide fun and fellowship for our younger children and their families, but people of all ages joined in the fun.  

In addition to several games, we also had face painting, balloon animals, a cupcake walk, a sack race, and water balloons.  

Our heartfelt thanks goes to: Annette Baez and Gail Bozzano who co-chaired the event, rented the games, and organized our helpers: Emma Martin, Dorthea White, Bonnie Travis, Chris & Andy Boutros, Sara & David Lemrise, Michelle & Allison Appelbaum, Catherine Martin, Stuart & Ashley Babcock, Kelsey Travis, Mike, Derek, Brian & Kristin Hill, Janet Foltz, Barb Schaper, Cherie Thompson, Kathy Seghers, Karen Dahl, Blanche Esgar, and the entire Youth Commission folks: Tracy Webster-Babcock, Judy McCann, Erica Jeglum, Bill Foltz, Lauren Hill, Gretchen Bayer. 

Thanks to Matthew, Scott, David, and Barb Schaper who hauled food, supplies and grills and took charge of the cooking for our Mass on the Grass, and to Dan Aberson who was also a "griller."

The Youth Commission is already thinking about next year!

LABYRINTH

Thanks to Dori Carlson for extending hospitality and serving as docent for the youth group from the Community Protestant Church of Mundelein who came to St. Gregory's on Sunday afternoon to experience our labyrinth. And to Meredith who welcomed them and walked the labyrinth with them. Afterward, Dori and Meredith enjoyed refreshments with them.

ST. GREGORY'S PRESCHOOL AUCTION ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The 5th Annual Auction for St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool and second annual Pig Roast will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Admission tickets are $20.00 for adults. Tickets are available in Founders Hall following Sunday services or at the Parish Office. Child care will be available with advance registration and payment of $8.00 per child (includes pizza dinner). Tickets for the "50/50" Raffle are also available for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00.

Some of the live auction items we have so far are:

• A weekend in Chicago at a loft apartment OR a weekend on Lake Michigan at a lake house (Indiana), donated by Nancy and Dale Nichols.
• The two-week use of a flat in Tunbridge Wells, England OR a week at a beach-front apartment in Nassau, Bahamas, donated by Tina and David Reynolds.
• A lobster feast group dinner donated by LoriLee and Art Bielski.
• A day of sailing on Lake Michigan in a 34' sailboat including lunch and a dockside dinner for 4 donated by Kathy and Kevin Christenson.
• Two nights at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, including two dinners and two breakfasts.

Please be sure to purchase your tickets soon so you won't miss these great opportunities!

We are also looking for groups or individuals to contribute baskets. These were a huge hit last year. Some suggestions for baskets include electronics, movies, exercise, reading, tea time, etc. Check the sign-up sheet outside the Parish Office. Other silent auction ideas include putting up holiday lights, cleaning a garage, raking leaves, planting flowers, babysitting, etc.

We will also have our popular wine pull again, so we are looking for donations of wine.

Marty Esgar and Catherine Martin have been busy selling both auction tickets and raffle tickets every Sunday. Keep them busy!

If you have any questions, please contact anyone on the auction committee. Thanks, Barb and David Schaper (bschaper7@aol.com).

Faithfully yours,

ALTAR GUILD

One of the most important ministries of the church is the Altar Guild. Two dozen women (we could use some men!) prepare the sanctuary for Sunday morning services, take care of the vestments, and serve at funerals and weddings. Saturday morning altar guild members who are on duty for the next day vacuum, dust, polish silver, fill the oil candles, and do general church neatness. Our worship is made beautiful by the dedication of our altar guild members. New members are being sought to participate in this ministry. If you feel this calling, please contact Sybil Ten Eyck (847-945-5367) or Cissy Singleton (847-831-2649).

UPCOMING YOUTH MINISTRY DATES

September 12― Regular Youth Group begins for the school year.

We will meet every Sunday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. for Middle School and 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. for High School. The exception is the first Sunday of each month, which is a Joint Youth Group meeting from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with dinner.

September 25-26― Second Annual Youth Retreat

ITEM WANTED

Do you have an extra baby swing at your house? If you no longer have a need for it, the nursery would love to give it a good home. Please talk to Jaine or Erica, or bring it to the church.

CAPTAIN MOLLY CAHILL RETURN HOME FOLLOW-UP EMAILS

From: [her dad] Bill Price Sent: Mon, Aug 9, 2010 3:29 pm
Subject: On safe turf

Capt. Molly Cahill arrived safe and sound after a 48 hour trek from Afghanistan about two hours ago. As usual, the military found new, inventive ways to "hurry up and wait," making the trip too long. I think most of us know that drill. While she admitted (and never told us until today) on most missions― over a 100― she was fired on and her aircraft was hit seven times on a recent one. She never crashed. She got some major award. Right now, we are sitting on her couch drinking a beer― her first in seven months. I admit, too, I've said some strong prayers. Thanks to all of you for your prayers and support. You are the best!!!!

Then his good friend Dick Hobbs, forwarded Mr. Price's email with this comment:

WOW! This just goes to show how dangerous it is! Can you imagine 100+ missions? The govt sent people home after 25 missions in WWII and I can't remember what it was in Vietnam. Obviously she was safer than our bomber pilots in WWII but 100+ is still a lot. Best, Dick

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB: Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m.

REGULAR PARISH OFFICE HOURS HAVE RESUMED: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

RECTOR'S OPEN OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

PARISH OFFICE DEADLINES

• Newsletter announcements are due to the office by 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday. Newsletters are published on Wednesday.
• Bulletin announcements are due to the office by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. Bulletins are published on Friday.

To publish your announcements, please call the office or E-mail office@stgregoryschurch.org.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Estelle Carnahan, Hayden John Mayer, Sarah Flanders, John Aberson, Bob O'Donnell, Carrie MacIntosh, Gertrude Knight, Danny Cannon, Marge, Hailey Susan Simon, Susan Porter, Dana Barron, Sheri, Cissy Singleton, Margo Ramtin, Kristine Narovec, Andrew Zint, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;

our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy;

the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and

the faithful departed, remembering especially Walter Eggert.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

MASS ON THE GRASS and KIDS' CARNIVAL

IN MITCHELL PARK

THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 29TH

MASS AT 9:00 AM s CARNIVAL AT 10:00 AM

THE VICAR'S CORNER: GATHER TO WORSHIP – SENT TO SERVE

Each Sunday morning we gather for prayer, praise, and to be strengthened, nourished, and renewed in our commitment to Christ through the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. And then at the conclusion of the service we are sent forth to do Christ's work in the world. No one is exempt from being "sent forth." And so the only question that remains is: sent forth to do what? There are many needs in the world and in our community, but ministry needs also abound right here at St. Gregory's. In a recent newsletter, Marsh LeSueur highlighted our ministry in the Community Meals program in Waukegan. Janet and Bill Foltz, 847-548-2772, wfoltz@comcast.net, can tell you more about this ministry. As we approach the school year, I'd like to bring to your attention and discernment several other service opportunities.

As we prepare for another Church School Year, additional adult volunteers are needed for our nursery and Children's Church. You can serve one Sunday a month or even less frequently. If this is a ministry to which you feel called, please contact Gretchen Bayer, 847-267-1660, gretchen.bayer@yahoo.com. She'll show you how to sign up to volunteer online! Or contact me to help out in Children's Church at 847-383-5576, vicar@stgregoryschurch.org.

We all enjoy our fellowship hour after the 9 o'clock service. Would you be willing to "host" coffee hour once a year? We even furnish the coffee and baked goods! All we need are people to "host. There's a sign-up sheet waiting for your name to be added!

On Sunday, our Director of Music Ministries, Jim Collins, 773-286-4311, pfingers@sbcglobal.net, put out a call for people willing to sing in the choir. Are you interested in making a joyful noise unto the Lord on Sunday mornings?

And also on Sunday, I asked for volunteers willing to provide a meal, a ride to the doctor, or other assistance to church members in need of temporary help during an illness or after a hospitalization. If you are willing to be "on call" for such occasional service, please contact our Family Support Ministry coordinators: Ishani Sinnaduray, 847-634-9106, ishanis@aol.com; Brooke Fogt, 847-945-1871, brookefogt@discover.com, or Sharon Moceri, 847-392-6433, sharmo1@aol.com.

Come see me if you need help in discerning how God is calling you to serve right here at St. Gregory's Church.

UPCOMING YOUTH MINISTRY DATES

August 29

Youth Commission's FIRST ANNUAL KIDS' CARNIVAL

Have you heard about the Youth Commission Carnival on August 29th? It is right after the 9:00 a.m. Mass on the Grass. We will have several games for children, a cupcake walk, balloon making and face painting! Lunch will be served. We will also have some prizes for adults!

We could also use some helpers. We need adults and students to run simple games and paint faces. The time commitment is minimal, and you will be given all your needed supplies. We will be running in shifts, so you don't have to work the entire time. If you are able to help from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on August 29th, please let Gail Bozzano or Annette Baez know.

September 12 - Regular Youth Group begins for the school year. We will meet every Sunday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. for Middle School and 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. for High School. The exception is the first Sunday of each month, which is a Joint Youth Group meeting from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with dinner.

September 25-26 - Second Annual Youth Retreat

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR ANN HALLET

The memorial service for Ann Hallet will be held here at St. Gregory's Church on Saturday, August 28th. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 a.m. A reception with light lunch will follow the service in Founders Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Home of the Sparrow, 6213 Factory Road, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014 or to St. Gregory's Church.

PRESCHOOL NEWS

St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool will begin its 5th school year on September 1st and we are so excited to get this year going! We have refreshed our rooms with paint and new equipment and are embarking on a new 5 day per week program! As part of our licensing requirements, parishioners and visitors are asked to be aware of a few things:

• During the week, the gate will be up at the south entrance off of Deerfield Road. This is to control traffic flow for the elementary students at Wilmot Elementary and for the safety of our preschool students. Please use the entrance off of Wilmot Road and watch your speed in the parking lot.

• From 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., adults are asked to please use the accessible restrooms off of the Sanctuary. Not only are they much nicer, but they prevent any adult from being in the restroom alone with a child unknowingly. There will be signs on the restrooms doors to remind us to use the other restrooms.

• For safety, the door to the preschool room is locked. Please come to the Parish Office if you need to contact the preschool.

• Founders Hall is used for preschool activities when weather does not permit us to go outside. If you need to schedule a meeting in Founders Hall, please contact the Parish Office for availability.

• Please also continue to support the preschool ministry with your prayers and referrals. Our five-day program is off to a great start, due much to the loving support of our parish! Thank you to everyone for your cooperation in helping keep our program safe and secure. This year promises to be our best yet!

MARIAN HOUSE UPDATES AS OF 08/22/2010

Project continues to move ahead and remains on target for expected occupancy during the weekend of September 11th;

• Insulation work is scheduled for this week and will require a subsequent building inspection before drywall;
• Other work continues forward in preparation for installing drywall that's scheduled to begin this Friday;
• Upstairs bathroom framing, installed shower pan and all other plumbing has been completed;
• Additional leaks and cracked pipes have been found in both the downstairs and crawl space plumbing requiring the Work Group to repair and replace. Significant cost overruns have been incurred by the Work Group to mitigate continued damage and prevent larger repairs if left unattended.

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB NEWS

St. Gregory's Book Club will meet again on Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein.

ST. GREGORY'S PRESCHOOL AUCTION ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The 5th Annual Pig Roast and Auction for St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Join us for an exciting evening of delicious food, live entertainment, and fantastic prizes offered in our live and silent auctions. A cash bar will be available. Special features include gift baskets, wine pull, and a "50/50" Raffle. Admission tickets are $20.00 for adults and are available in Founders Hall following Sunday services or at the Parish Office. Child care will be available with advance registration and payment of $8.00 per child (includes pizza dinner). Tickets for the "50/50" Raffle are also available for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. Purchase your admission tickets early so that we can plan appropriately for this spectacular event!

SUMMER PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Bob O'Donnell, Carrie MacIntosh, Gertrude Knight, Danny Cannon, Marge, Hailey Susan Simon, Susan Porter, Dana Barron, Sheri, Cissy Singleton, Margo Ramtin, Kristine Narovec, Andrew Zint, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani; our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and the faithful departed, remembering especially Steve Johnson. Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

YOUTH MINISTRY CORNER

What an amazing trip it was in Northern Wisconsin!  All of the students and adults returned home safely after biking, kayaking, and camping for eight days.  We enjoyed one another's company, experienced the presence of God in the outdoors, and learned by challenging ourselves physically.  Thank you to our many, many supporters that buy pumpkins and pancakes.  Without these fundraisers, our annual trip would not be possible.  Come listen to our presentation on September 12th, right after the 9:00 am service.  We will have stories and pictures to share.

It’s not too early to be thinking about Pumpkins! We have confirmation that our delivery will be on Saturday, October 9th at noon. We will receive 75% of the semi load this year. Again, more than ever! Please mark your calendars to help us unload the pumpkins and to support our student ministry. 

UPCOMING YOUTH MINISTRY DATES

August 29

Youth Commission's FIRST ANNUAL KIDS' CARNIVAL

Have you heard about the Youth Commission Carnival on August 29th?  It is right after the 9:00 a.m. Mass on the Grass. We will have several games for children, a cupcake walk, balloon making and face painting! Lunch will be served. We will also have some prizes for adults!

We could also use some helpers. We need adults and students to run simple games and paint faces. The time commitment is minimal, and you will be given all your needed supplies. We will be running in shifts, so you don't have to work the entire time. If you are able to help from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on August 29th, please let Gail Bozzano or Annette Baez know.

September 12 - Regular Youth Group begins for the school year. We will meet every Sunday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. for Middle School and 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. for High School. The exception is the first Sunday of each month, which is a Joint Youth Group meeting from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with dinner. 

September 25-26 - Second Annual Youth Retreat

Memorial Service for Ann Hallet

The memorial service for Ann Hallet will be held here at St. Gregory's Church on Saturday, August 28th.  Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 a.m. A reception with light lunch will follow the service in Founders Hall.   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Home of the Sparrow, 6213 Factory Road, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014 or to St. Gregory's Church.

Change in 2010 Budget Line Item

When the 2010 budget was approved, the rector's reimbursable expense line item was decreased and the equivalent amount was added to his salary. This resulted in no total increase, but rather a shift in how the monies were allocated. Given feedback from the parish, the rector has asked that the line items be reversed to their original allocations beginning July 1st. The Vestry has accepted this request and the line items have been adjusted to their original allocations effective July 1st.

COMMUNITY MEALS REPORT

The St. Gregory’s Community Meals team served dinner to 86 guests at Christ Church, Waukegan, on August 15th. Our menu included submarine sandwiches made to order (choice of ham or turkey), corn, garden salad with dressing, ice cream, assorted fresh fruits, homemade desserts and a bevy of beverages. The kitchen crew included Alison Cioffi-Brown, Anne Clark, Karen Dahl, Bill & Janet Foltz, Diane Jones, Sue Koy, Marsh LeSueur, Mary & Paul Maraist, and Lin & Ruth Reichenbach.  Our guests loved the wonderful desserts provided by Phoebe Caldwell, Dori Carlson, Alison Cioffi-Brown, Janet Foltz, Lisa Halpin, and Pat & Tim Miller.  Mark your calendar to join the team when we serve again on Halloween (October 31st).

COFFEE HOSTS FOR AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER

August 22                  Marilyn Knilans; Kathy and Jim Swager

August 29                  Lisa Halpin; Diane and Glenn Woo

September 5             Sara and David Lemrise

September 12           Cathy and Woody Lovacheff; Pat and Tim Miller

September 19           Sue Koy; Yvonne and George Masurat

September 26           Sharon and Dan Moceri; Anne and David Neumann

Marian House Updates as of 08/15/10

Completed rough-in framing, electrical and ductwork for building inspection;

Received Village’s approval on rough-ins and go ahead to install insulation for next inspection;

Passed Village’s plumbing inspection and installed new subfloor in upstairs’ bathroom;

Installed new supply pipes in downstairs bathroom upon finding disintegrated galvanized pipes in wall that identified during removal of old furnace;

Expect to begin installing drywall the week of 23rd and begin trim and finishing;

Removed shrubbery at S/E corner in preparation of installing exterior stairs for south door to facilitate final occupancy permit.

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB NEWS

St. Gregory's Book Club will meet again on Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. It's a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life as only a dog could tell it!

Selections for the October 20 and November 17 meetings will be determined in September. Join us for an interesting discussion and a fun evening!

ST. GREGORY'S PRESCHOOL AUCTION ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The 5th Annual Pig Roast and Auction for St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Join us for an exciting evening of delicious food, live entertainment, and fantastic prizes offered in our live and silent auctions. A cash bar will be available. Special features include gift baskets, wine pull, and a "50/50" Raffle. Admission tickets are $20.00 for adults and are available in Founders Hall following Sunday services or at the Parish Office. Child care will be available with advance registration and payment of $8.00 per child (includes pizza dinner). Tickets for the "50/50" Raffle are also available for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. Purchase your admission tickets early so that we can plan appropriately for this spectacular event!

SUMMER PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Hailey Susan Simon, Susan Porter, Dana Barron, Cissy Singleton, Sheri, Margo Ramtin, Kristine Narovec,  Andrew Zint, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani; our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and the faithful departed, remembering especially Wil Meister and Robin Richmond. Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

“We are ambassadors for Christ, God appealing to the world through us.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

Emmanuel Moment: God-with-us and ministering TO us

Point of Pentecost: The Holy Spirit ministering THROUGH us

COMMUNITY MEALS PROGRAM POINT OF PENTECOST

In 1945, I was the First Sergeant of a company of soldiers stationed in Manila. The Japanese had just been driven out of the City and the people were on the verge of starvation. We ate our meals from mess kits in an old building at Nichols Air Field and then went outside to throw away the leftovers and clean our mess kits in caldrons of hot water. Children from the neighborhood started gathering outside the mess hall begging for the scraps in our kits. The men began to take food out of the mess hall for these hungry children. More children gathered and more food left the mess. One day when the company had fallen in for morning report, the commanding officer took the report and then instructed me to convey his order that there had been a substantial increase in the rations drawn from the Quartermaster and that no more food was to leave the mess. I turned around and conveyed the order. I could see from their eyes that those soldiers, who had seen a great deal of misery, had no intention of obeying the order and they did not. More children appeared and our ration draw kept increasing. The officer gave up. We all gained a great deal of satisfaction from that experience.

One of the most needed and effective ministries in which St. Gregory’s is, and for more than twenty years has been, engaged is the Community Meals Program at Christ Church, Waukegan. As you may be aware, the Waukegan area is one of the most severely economically depressed areas in the country. The economic situation is aggravated by recent government curtailment of unemployment compensation, food stamps, etc. Every sixth or seventh Sunday, including this coming Sunday, August 15th at 12:00 p.m., we will gather at the undercroft at Christ Church, Waukegan to prepare and serve a fine meal for 90-115 hungry men, women and children. We need your help! Come, join us and walk away with that deep sense of personal satisfaction that those soldiers received from disobeying orders some sixty-five years ago! Marsh LeSueur

FARMERS MARKET EMMANUEL MOMENT

As Karen Dahl was unable to set up our tent, vendors, Darren and Cris of Steve Owens of St. Anne, IL, saw her plight.  They immediately offered one of their spare tents! When Karen told me about it, I went over to thank them. I also said I'd recognize their kindness in our Parish Newsletter, and encourage our parishioners to visit their stall at the market. Please thank them for lending us their tent.

If you are reading this online, you can read about them here: http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/hillside/features/x1070015688/La-Grange-farmers-market-rolls-with-the-changes

Once again, many thanks to all who participated, including booth attendants Alison Cioffi-Brown; Ida Butler and Wayne Peterson; Dorothy Collins; Karen Dahl and Phil, Matt, and Jocelyn York; Sue Koy; Nuala Kurokawa; Bill and Ingrid Roberts; and Barbara Schaper; and also our bakers: Michele Appelbaum, Alison Cioffi-Brown, Dorothy Collins, Elouise Friedberg, Ingrid Roberts, and Jean Schwarz; and special thanks to Karen Dahl who organized it all! Father Bill

Troop Support Care Packaging Night Cancelled

The Troop Support Care Packaging Night originally scheduled for Tuesday, August 24, has been cancelled.  We hope to be able to reschedule a care packaging night in September.

Special Forum to Welcome Kermit Titrud and his family

Next Sunday, August 15, there will be a special forum at 10:00 a.m. to welcome our missionary friend, Kermit Titrud, and his family.  Kermit began his translation work in the Philippines with Wycliffe Biblical Translators in the late 1980s, supervising translations of the Bible into many dialects and languages throughout the Philippine Islands and Asia.  He most recently has been affiliated with SIL International and the International Bible Society, where since 1996 he has been their Director of Translations for East Asia. St. Gregory's has supported his efforts for many years through our Missions Board outreach.  Kermit and his wife Rachel will share their experiences with us at this special forum. 

PRESCHOOL THANK YOU  

Thank you to Dana Barron, Ida Butler, Marty Esgar, Janet and Bill Foltz, Erika Hernandez, Sue Koy, Helen Lietz, Barbara Schaper, and Eushelia Wilson for helping place labels (3000!) on postcards advertising St. Gregory’s Episcopal Preschool and the auction. We were able to complete the job in a little more than an hour. Many hands make light work indeed!

PARISH APPRECIATION THANK YOU

Dear Church Members: Thank you very much for allowing my Leukemia Research Foundation JSM “Chai” Chapter the use of your parking lot for our 7/11 Car Wash for a Cure. Several members came, too, and donated to our cause and then left with clean, shiny cars! Our mutual goal in life is that we live each day to its fullest. Eradicating all forms of cancer is a goal we share. Your generosity will benefit our research. May we all “enjoy the day” and help one another. Thank you. Sincerely, Rochelle Magid.

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday August 11

Whole Foods Cooking Class from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Sunday August 29

Youth Commission's FIRST ANNUAL KIDS' CARNIVAL

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB NEWS

St. Gregory's Book Club will meet again on Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. It's a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life as only a dog could tell it!

Selections for the October 20 and November 17 meetings will be determined in September. Join us for an interesting discussion and a fun evening!

ST. GREGORY'S PRESCHOOL AUCTION ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The 5th Annual Pig Roast and Auction for St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Join us for an exciting evening of delicious food, live entertainment, and fantastic prizes offered in our live and silent auctions. A cash bar will be available. Special features include gift baskets, wine pull, and a "50/50" Raffle. Admission tickets are $20.00 for adults and are available in Founders Hall following Sunday services or at the Parish Office. Child care will be available with advance registration and payment of $8.00 per child (includes pizza dinner). Tickets for the "50/50" Raffle are also available for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. Purchase your admission tickets early so that we can plan appropriately for this spectacular event!

SUMMER PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Sheri, Hazel Aguirre, Kristine Narovec,  Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Wil Meister, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani; our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; and the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine. Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

Dearly Beloved,

FARMERS MARKET THIS SATURDAY!

Please join your fellow parishioners at St. Gregory's Day at the Farmers Market, just east of the Deerfield Road viaduct on the north side of the street.

This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our parish.

We need people for hourly slots― so please sign up for the 7-8 AM hour with Alison Cioffi-Brown; or 8-9 AM with Barbara Schaper and Dorothy Collins; or 9-10 AM with Sue Koy and Bill and Ingrid Roberts; or 10-11 AM with Michele Appelbaum and Ida Butler; or 11-Noon with Ida Butler and Bill and Ingrid Roberts.

    ST. GREGORY WANTS YOU!

We also need baked goods, delivered to the Church Kitchen on Friday by 8:00 PM, or delivered in person Saturday morning. Thanks to Dorothy Collins (chocolate cookies with nuts), Elouise Friedberg (cookies or brownies!), and Ingrid Roberts (raspberry cream cheese brownies) for signing up along with Alison Cioffi-Brown and Michele Appelbaum.

And finally, many thanks to Karen Dahl for organizing this fun event and outreach to the Deerfield Community. Karen, Phil, Matt, and Jocelyn will all be working at our booth at various points throughout the day.

 NEWEST OUTREACH MINISTRY AT ST. GREGORY'S

Many if not all of you know that we sponsor an amazing, Eagle-producing Boy Scout Troop 50 headquartered in our basement. What you may not know is that we also have a number of other Scouting troops, packs, and dens that use Founders Hall and other locations to hold their meetings.

For many years Jim Millspaugh has been our liaison with Troop 50, helping to coordinate their events, such as the Haunted House, and arranging the Scouts' participation in Clean-Up Days. Currently, Jim is working with the Troop's adult leadership to improve our electrical capacity and sump pumps systems in the basement. I am grateful to Jim for his past and continuing ministry with Troop 50.

With the increase in other Scouting groups wanting to use our building, and our Parish Administrator Ida Butler's efforts to formalize the scheduling of our space, I am delighted to announce that Tracy Webster-Babcock has volunteered to be our newly-created "Scheduling Coordinator" for all Scouting organizations. She will work with the various troops, packs, and dens to make sure they schedule their events with Ida and fill out the "Event Registration Form." Thanks to Tracy, whose ministry, like Jim's, will enhance our outreach to and relationships with our Scouting communities.

(If you need a room for a meeting or event, please talk to Ida so we can schedule your time and reserve your space!)

IT'S OUR TURN TO PREPARE AND SERVE A DELICIOUS DINNER

on Sunday, August 15, for our guests at the Christ Church, Waukegan, Community Meal program. Please sign up to help out, or to provide dessert. Questions? Ask Janet and Bill Foltz and Barbara Schaper.

PRESCHOOL AUCTION THANK YOU

Thank you to Catherine Martin and Marty Esgar for working on the admission and raffle tickets for the Preschool Auction to be held on the last Saturday in September― the 25th.

YOUTH ADVENTURE TRIP TO THE APOSTLE ISLANDS, WISCONSIN

Allison Appelbaum, Ashley Babcock, Derek Hill, Grayson Peacock, Aurora Raimondi, Nick Raimondi, Scott Schaper, Kelsey Travis and Trey Travis, along with adult leaders Erica Jeglum, Allison Nichols, and Bonnie Travis are in northern Wisconsin "peddling and paddling." Their base camp is Bayfield, Wisconsin, on the shore of Lake Superior. They will cycle to Iron River and camp out under the stars and kayak to the Apostle Islands, exploring the sea caves. Please pray that these youth will gain confidence in themselves, experience Creation in a new way, dig deeper into the Bible, and grow in their Faith.

Faithfully yours,

TROOP CARE PACKAGE EVENT

Mark your calendars; the next Troop Care Package Event will take place on Tuesday, August 24th, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. If you can arrive early we can always use extra volunteers to help set up, which begins at 4:30 p.m. Snacks and drinks are provided.

If you would like to donate items for the packages, they can be dropped off in the entryway outside of Founders Hall. We depleted our stock at the last packing night and need hygiene items (body wipes, powder, lens cleaner, razors, soap), snacks (single-size pop-top servings of food, nuts, granola and power bars, gum, fruit snacks/dried fruit, single serving drink mixes, etc.), socks, and fun items.

If you would like to donate money to help purchase supplies or pay for postage costs, checks can be written to St. Gregory's Church and note TROOP PACKAGES in the memo line. We hope you can join us on August 24th! Cissy Singleton and Nuala Kurokawa

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday August 11

Whole Foods Cooking Class from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Sunday August 29

Youth Commission's FIRST ANNUAL KIDS' CARNIVAL

Save the date! Enjoy the games, face-painting, cupcake walk, adult raffle, and a special balloon artist. It will be held at the park after the 9 am Mass on the Grass until noon. (If it rains the activities will move into Founder's Hall.) We need volunteers to help run games and bake cupcakes for the kids' "cupcake walk"; see Annette Baez or Gail Bozzano.

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB NEWS

St. Gregory's Book Club will meet again on Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. It's a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life as only a dog could tell it!

Selections for the October 20 and November 17 meetings will be determined in September. Join us for an interesting discussion and a fun evening!

ST. GREGORY'S PRESCHOOL AUCTION ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The 5th Annual Pig Roast and Auction for St. Gregory's Episcopal Preschool will take place on Saturday, September 25, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Join us for an exciting evening of delicious food, live entertainment, and fantastic prizes offered in our live and silent auctions. A cash bar will be available. Special features include gift baskets, wine pull, and a "50/50" Raffle. Admission tickets are $20.00 for adults and are available in Founders Hall following Sunday services or at the Parish Office. Child care will be available with advance registration and payment of $8.00 per child (includes pizza dinner). Tickets for the "50/50" Raffle are also available for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. Purchase your admission tickets early so that we can plan appropriately for this spectacular event!

MARIAN HOUSE UPDATE

1. Completed majority of rough-in framing for knee walls, reworking closets, bathroom footprint, opening at top of stairs and installed rafters' cross ties in storage room;

2. Installed new fixed window on w/s in masonry wall, replacing louvered gable;

3. Installed in upstairs bathroom new plumbing for all supply lines and drains including removal of gas supply under bath floor to better fit furnace and water heater configuration.

SUMMER PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Hazel Aguirre, Kristine Narovec, Joe S. Beard, Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Wil Meister, Lindsay Tracy, Siobhan Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;

our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy;

the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and

the faithful departed, remembering especially Ann Hallet and Dick Schwermin.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

Dearly Beloved,

NEWS FROM DEACON DONNÉ AND OUR COMPANION PARISH

Deacon Donné is now Father Donné! He was ordained to the Sacred Order of Priests this past Sunday at the Cathedral of St. Lawrence in Antananarivo, Madagascar. I asked Bishop Todd McGregor to provide Donné with two ordination gifts, one on behalf of St. Gregory's, and one personally from me and Ingrid. For a total of $60, Donné was able to purchase a cope, a red chasuble, and a clergy shirt!

Here is Rev. Donné with Bishop Todd.

And here the new priest poses with his wife, Vero, and their son, Andrianiaina.

And here the new priest gives his first Communion during the service in the Cathedral.

A word about his title: in Madagascar, most ordained clergy simply go by the title Reverend rather than Father (or, in a very few places, Mother).

ST. GREGORY'S EPISCOPAL PRESCHOOL NEWS FROM BOARD MEMBER CATHERINE MARTIN

Ida Butler has been hard at work this summer as our Preschool's development director, planning and implementing a marketing program. With input from the preschool director, Debbie Ham-Bolger, Ida created and produced a plethora of Preschool promotional pieces!

We are advertising our Preschool with key rings and magnets, and with fliers which include a discount coupon. The key rings and fliers were handed out at Deerfield's 4th of July Parade and will also be featured at St. Gregory's Farmer's Market Day on Saturday, August 7th. We will soon have a new tri-fold brochure to hand out, detailing our Preschool curriculum, philosophy, tuition and program options.

And if you haven't picked up your own preschool vehicle magnet to display on your car and advertise our Preschool as you drive, please pick one (or more) up in the church office. They are great to give to your neighbors and friends with small children or grandchildren who would benefit from 2, 3, 4 or 5 days a week of Preschool or Kindergarten Enrichment. All families who arrange a visit to the preschool will receive one, along with a St. Gregory's Preschool giraffe growth chart, another clever reminder to "Come Grow With Us!" at the school.

In addition, you will soon see a new preschool banner on display in the front lawn to highlight our Preschool's new 5-day option, especially for families of kindergartners in Deerfield, where the kindergarten day is less than four hours.

Please join Ida and the rest of our Preschool Board by playing a part in promoting our Preschool! Come to the office for promotional items and literature and let's all help the Preschool realize its best year ever!

AND SPEAKING OF ST. GREGORY'S FARMERS MARKET ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 7

Thanks to Karen Dahl for organizing St. Gregory's Day at the Market. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our parish. We need people for the hourly slots― so please sign up for the 7-8 am hour with Alison Cioffi-Brown; or 8-9 am with Barbara Schaper; or 9-10 am with Sue Koy; or 10-11 am with Michele Appelbaum; or 11-Noon with Ida Butler. I am so grateful to those who have already agreed to represent us. To join them, call the Parish Office or sign up this Sunday on the table across the hall.

Perhaps you can't be there in person but would like to be there in baked goods! Please drop them off at St. Gregory's Kitchen on Friday, August 6, by 8:00 pm, or first thing Saturday morning at the Farmers Market. And once again thanks to Alison Cioffi-Brown and Michele Appelbaum who have also signed up for the Bake Sale!

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday August 4 NO SYG due to HS Adventure Trip

Wednesday August 11 Whole Foods Cooking Class from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

PART-TIME POSITION OPENINGS

The Village Presbyterian Church in Northbrook is looking for a Property Manager, a Communications Coordinator, and an Administrative & Accounting Assistant. I have posted the information on our Career Renewal Bulletin Board.

I have also just begun a series about coping with unemployment on my Blog.

Faithfully yours,

MARIAN HOUSE UPDATE

― Village approved architectural drawings subject to building inspections;

― Contractors & Dan completed demolition of unnecessary framing, electrical and plumbing;

― Bathroom's framing completed to reflect new foot print;

― HVAC contractor removed old AC compressor and duct work to modify airflow of new system;

― Electrical service panel upgraded to accommodate new circuits being added upstairs;

― Installed new AC service disconnect;

― Area cleared of vegetation for new AC pad & compressor by David, Matthew & Scott Schaper.

TROOP CARE PACKAGE EVENT

Mark your calendars; the next Troop Care Package Event will take place on Tuesday, August 24th, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. If you can arrive early we can always use extra volunteers to help set up, which begins at 4:30 p.m. Snacks and drinks are provided.

If you would like to donate items for the packages, they can be dropped off in the entryway outside of Founders Hall. We depleted our stock at the last packing night and need hygiene items (body wipes, powder, lens cleaner, razors, soap), snacks (single-size pop-top servings of food, nuts, granola and power bars, gum, fruit snacks/dried fruit, single serving drink mixes, etc.), socks, and fun items.

If you would like to donate money to help purchase supplies or pay for postage costs, checks can be written to St. Gregory's Church and note TROOP PACKAGES in the memo line. We hope you can join us on August 24th! Cissy Singleton and Nuala Kurokawa

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB NEWS

St. Gregory's Book Club will meet again on Wednesday, September 1st, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, a heart-wrenching but deeply funny and uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope. It's a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life as only a dog could tell it!

Future Book Club meetings are October 20th and November 17th. Selections for October and November will be determined in September. All are welcome to join us for an interesting discussion and a fun evening!

SUMMER PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

RECTOR'S OPEN OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

PASTORAL STAFF DAYS OFF: Meredith Woods Potter: Tuesday and Friday; Bill Roberts: Thursday; Erica Jeglum: Friday and Saturday

PARISH OFFICE DEADLINES: Newsletter announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday for publishing on Wednesday; Bulletin announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday.

To publish your announcements, please call (847-945-1678) or E-mail Ida (office@stgregoryschurch.org).

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Hazel Aguirre, Ann Hallet, Kristine Narovec, Joe S. Beard, Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Wil Meister, Lindsay Tracy, Siobahn Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;

our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Rev. Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy;

the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Willis Potter, Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and

the faithful departed, remembering especially Litsa Press.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

Dearly Beloved,

MASS ON THE GRASS

It was great fun to celebrate my return from vacation on the first of two Masses on the Grass for this summer.

As I surveyed the wondrous congregation (did you catch the allusion?!), arranged in a semi-circle around the gazebo, I couldn't help mentioning in my opening welcome how good it will be when our Master Plan for worship will give us the flexibility to offer an "in-the-round" alternative for celebrating and preaching.

It takes a great deal of extra effort to put on a Mass on the Grass, and to offer the delightful buffet afterward.

Meredith, to whom I am so grateful as the tour de force behind these mid-summer experiences, offers her. . .

"THANKS to all who helped make our Mass on the Grass so much fun. Special thanks to the Schaper family: David, Barbara, Matthew and Scott for all their work in helping to buy food, carry supplies to the pavilion site, cook, and cleaning up. Thanks to Lyle and Sybil Ten Eyck for carrying supplies to the pavilion and setting up for the Eucharist. Thanks to our pick up band: Jim Swager on drums, Jim Collins on keyboard, Rob Cunningham, Meredith Potter and Bill Roberts on guitar, and Erika Hernandez for singing with the chancel choir for the anthem, "Go Make a Difference." And it was so exciting to see Rob's fellow vocalists join us: Dena Borman, Susan Nelson, and Hans Royal-Hedinger. Thanks also to all who brought such delicious food. Thanks to all who helped with the clean up, especially Dorthea White, Nuala Kurokawa and the Schapers.

PRESCHOOL APPRECIATION

On Saturday, July 10, David Schaper, Preschool Director Debbie Ham-Bolger, Ida Butler, Jon and Susie Dutcher, Kimberly Balmos, Marty Esgar, Mike Hill, and Sybil and Lyle Ten Eyck painted the preschool classrooms. I was so impressed by the work that they, and the "preparation crew" in June, had done: the Preschool/Christian Education Wing hasn't looked so clean and bright, from windows to walls, for years. Plans are in the works to clean the carpets, too.

At last night's Preschool Board meeting, I was further impressed by the work Ida has done in marketing. For those of you reading this online, you can read her updated report to last week's Vestry meeting here.

NEWS FROM DEACON DONNÉ AND OUR COMPANION PARISH

Hello Rev. William,

I greet you in Jesus' name. We are doing fine here and we thank God for his never failing kindness.

Thanks for the letter you sent to our Sunday School children, we are getting set to respond soonest.

The construction of our church is going on well. The wall is already up and we are currently working on the roof. Glory be to God!

I would also like to inform you that I will be ordained as a priest on 25th July this year at the St. Lawrence Cathedral in the capital, Antananarivo. I request that you keep me in prayer as I undertake this noble task.

We continue to pray for you, your family and the parish where you serve.

I am looking forward to when you will be coming to see us again.

God bless you,

Rev. Donné & family and Fort Dauphin Parish.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR MARIAN PARKER

The Memorial Service for Marian Parker, widow of our founding rector, will be held this Saturday, July 24, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, at the corner of McHenry Avenue and Grove Street in Crystal Lake. Interment will be in our Churchyard on this Sunday at 12:30 p.m. I hope that some of you may be able to attend the memorial service, as well as Sunday's interment.

Faithfully yours,

MARIAN HOUSE UPDATE

-    Received final clearance from hygienist approving remediation contractor's work with appropriate tests meeting performance and results protocols established by industry;

-    Scaled back plans for 2nd floor (as recommended by the Work Group and approved by Vestry at July's meeting) to rebuild only the previously finished areas. Adding attic dormer has been scrapped due to several structural concerns identified that indicate substantial cost overruns as well as known additional costs did not seem to justify livable space gained;

-    Agreed attic space will become conditioned (HVAC), and finished with drywall with overhead lighting controlled by wall switch;

-    Awarded HVAC and bathroom contracts;

-    Continued demolition to remove old framing not applicable to drawings, and any unused/obsolete HVAC ductwork, plumbing and electrical in preparation for actual rebuilding.

ST. GREGORY'S BOOK CLUB: WEDNESDAY, JULY 21st, 7:30 PM― HANNAH'S LIST

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday July 28 Paint Your Own Pottery 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday August 4 NO SYG due to HS Adventure Trip

Wednesday August 11 Whole Foods Cooking Class 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

TROOP CARE PACKAGE EVENT

Mark your calendars! The next Troop Care Package Event will take place on Tuesday, August 24th, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. If you can arrive early we can always use extra volunteers to help set up, which begins at 4:30 p.m. Snacks and drinks are provided.

If you would like to donate items for the packages, they can be dropped off in the entryway outside of Founders Hall. We depleted our stock at the last packing night and need hygiene items (body wipes, powder, lens cleaner, razors, soap), snacks (single-size pop-top servings of food, nuts, granola and power bars, gum, fruit snacks/dried fruit, single serving drink mixes, etc.), socks, and fun items.

If you would like to donate money to help purchase supplies or pay for postage costs, checks can be written to St. Gregory's Church and note TROOP PACKAGES in the memo line. We hope you can join us on August 24th! Cissy Singleton and Nuala Kurokawa

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

RECTOR'S OPEN OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

PASTORAL STAFF DAYS OFF: Meredith Woods Potter: Tuesday and Friday; Bill Roberts: Thursday; Erica Jeglum: Friday and Saturday

PARISH OFFICE DEADLINES: Newsletter announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday for publishing on Wednesday; Bulletin announcements are due by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday.

To publish your announcements, please call (847-945-1678) or E-mail Ida (office@stgregoryschurch.org)

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly, Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Wil Meister, Lindsay Tracy, Siobahn Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;

our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Deacon Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy;

the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Michael Molloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and

the faithful departed, especially remembering Justine Vaughn.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

VICAR’S CORNER

A new book on worship came across my desk this past week. It is written by well-known pastor and author N. Graham Standish and is titled In God’s Presence: Encountering, Experiencing, and Embracing the Holy in Worship. The author challenges the reader to think about why we do what we do in worship. He asks, “Do we worship the way we do because it is how we have always done it? Do we worship the way we do because it is what we are best at? Do we worship the way we do because it makes certain members of the church happy?” Standish then suggests that our reasons for worshiping the way we do may be at the center of why so many people continue to walk away from the church. But he also states his conviction that people want a tangible encounter with God. I would suggest that the way we worship at St. Gregory’s does invite people to experience the living Christ, and that is precisely why we do what we do at St. Gregory’s. Furthermore, the way we worship is also why St. Gregory’s has something to offer those who have walked away from other churches!!

MASS ON THE GRASS AND CHURCH PICNIC - JULY 18 AT 9:00 AM

Mass on the Grass at the north end of Mitchell Park. Church service at 9:00 a.m. followed by the picnic lunch. Park in our parking lot and walk north past the labyrinth or take Hazel Avenue and park in the swimming pool parking lot. Church will furnish hamburgers, hot dogs, and some soft drinks and lemonade. Please bring a dish to share. There will be benches to sit on, or bring a lawn chair. Helpers needed to set up for lunch – tables need to be set and grills brought to the picnic site. David Schaper will also need help with the grilling. Services at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. will be held in the Church. Eleven o’clockers who wish to attend the picnic, are encouraged to send their dish to share to the picnic site before the service, then join the picnic after the service.

PRESCHOOL NEWS

At its June Meeting, the Vestry approved a request from the Preschool Board to expand St. Gregory’s Episcopal Preschool hours to five days per week. This is welcomed news for parents who are seeking a 5-day option for their preschooler or kindergartner! For the 2010-2011 school year, students may enroll for either 2, 3, 4 or 5 days – morning or afternoon options for all.

“We are particularly excited to offer the Kindergarten Enrichment program on this basis” notes Director Debbie Ham-Bolger. “We currently escort kindergarten students from Wilmot for enrichment classes and, of course, we welcome students from other elementary schools via the District 109 bus system, which parents may elect to pay for. Expanding to a 5-day option will, we feel, increase the appeal of St. Gregory’s Preschool dramatically.”

Ida Butler is working this summer as a consultant to the preschool developing marketing and promotional materials. A newly–published flier is available on the hallway table to give to your family members, friends and neighbors. Why don’t you contribute to our promotion by handing a flier – which includes a discount coupon! – to at least TWO families near you? (The coupon encourages registration before August 1st, by cutting the registration fee in half.) Many hands make light work, and this truly is an exceptional program worthy of our individual efforts.   

Look for more Preschool News in upcoming newsletters.

HARD HAT AREA

As of this week, Marian House has become a construction zone. To ensure the safety of parishioners and to minimize the church’s liability, the premises of Marian House, 835 N. Wilmot Road, will be off-limits until the remediation and remodeling have been completed. Anyone needing to enter the premises should contact Dorthea White, project coordinator, to arrange a supervised entry to the premises.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR MARIAN PARKER

The Memorial Service for Marian Parker, widow of the founding rector of St. Gregory’s Church, will be held on Saturday, July 24, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, at the corner of McHenry Avenue and Grove Street in Crystal Lake. Interment will be in the St. Gregory’s Churchyard on Sunday, July 25, at 12:30 p.m. Members of St. Gregory’s are invited to attend both the memorial service and the interment.

FORMER ASSOCIATE RECEIVES CALL TO CALIFORNIA PARISH

The Rev. Jeanette Repp, one time associate at St. Gregory’s Church, has been called as rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in San Pedro, California. St. Peter’s is a 125 year old, medium sized, progressive, culturally diverse parish. The church describes itself as having a strong sense of community/family and sought a leader “who would embrace their diversity, empower their laity, and help grow and support the youth program.” Mother Jeanette is excited about this pastoral opportunity. She and her twin daughters will be leaving for San Pedro at the end of July. Congratulations and God speed to her!

AUCTION COMMITTEE NEWS

The 2010 Preschool Auction will be held on Saturday, September 25th, so mark your calendars for this exciting event! A popular aspect of prior auctions has been a cash raffle, which will be repeated this year. Beginning this Sunday, July 18, and up to the Auction, tickets for the raffle will be available following Sunday services and on weekdays during Parish Office hours. Raffle tickets will be $5 each or 5 for $20. The more we sell, the more you can win!

Last year, the themed gift baskets were a big hit at the Silent Auction. We are again asking that families or groups from the parish sponsor a basket in 2010. You can create your own theme or use an idea from 2009, when the gift baskets included Reader's Delight, Proud to be an American, Barbecue Basics, Tea Time, Spa at Home, and Movie Night, to name just a few. A sign-up sheet for baskets is outside the sanctuary. 

We would also gratefully accept donations of bottles of wine for the wine pull, which was a very popular new addition to the Auction last year. Please leave any wine donations in Fr. Bill's office, where they will remain safe and secure! 

Donation forms acknowledging your tax-deductible donation will be available in Ida's office or on the hallway table. Thank you in advance for your always generous support of the Preschool Auction. The Auction Committee

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday   July 21           Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home Visit                        6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home - I know this sounds weird, but I think it is really important to talk about what happens when we die.  Unlike a few generations ago, many students have never been to a funeral, or seen a casket, and the first time they have that experience is when someone very close to them dies.  Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home does several services with St. Gregory's and has a good relationship with our church.  I've asked Kelley & Spalding if they would lead us on a tour of their facility, and speak about what they do.  How does working in a funeral home challenge your faith?  What does a casket look like?  How did you end up in this line of work?  Is it like a CSI show?  Is it scary?  Father Bill and Mother Meredith will join us for this tour.

Wednesday   July 28           Paint Your Own Pottery                                              6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

ST. GREGORY’S BOOK CLUB NEWS

The next book club meeting will be Wednesday, July 21st at 7:30 p.m. Our selection is Hannah’s List by Debbie Macomber. It is a lighter summer read.

On the anniversary of his beloved wife's death, Dr. Michael Everett receives a letter his wife Hannah had written him. In the letter she makes one final request that he should marry again.  She has also chosen three women for him to consider. During the months that follow, he spends time getting to know the three women, learning more about each of them, about himself, and about what Hannah already knew…he's a man who needs the completeness only love can offer. Hannah's List leads him to the woman who can help him find it!

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Wil Meister, Lindsay Tracy, Siobahn Patterson, Sarah Snyder, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;  our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Deacon Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; and the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Michael Malloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine.

Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.

VICAR’S CORNER

The Episcopal Church in general, and St. Gregory’s in particular, are being challenged as never before in history to focus our time, our money, and our energies on the “mission of the church.”  In a recent address to the USPG-Anglicans in World Mission conference, our presiding bishop, The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, defined the church’s mission as “healing and restoring all creation toward the common weal of God . . . living in justice with dignity, and all people and creation living together in peace.”  She went on to say that “God’s mission needs our willingness to partner with any who share that vision of a healed world. . . If we understand our beautiful vocation to be building a just and peaceful society, we’ll also understand the need to be able to work with others who share that goal, whatever their religious affiliation or politics.”  Her words serve as both challenge and reminder for people of all faiths to set aside differences and work together to bring justice and peace to our world!

BOUQUETS

Thanks to Nick Raimondi for sharing his musical talents with us on Sunday in Jim Collins’ absence.  Great job, Nick!

Thanks to Mike Hamilton who stepped in at the last minute at the 9:00 am service to join his son, Jacob, as scout flag bearers.

Thanks to those who participated in the Fourth of July Parade: Ashley Benson, AJ, Caroline, LoriLee and Art Bielski, Ida Butler, Karen Dahl and Philip York, Catherine and Ron Martin, and Sybil and Lyle Ten Eyck.

Thanks to each person who took a Soles4Souls box to mail.  As my mother would say (or as the old saying goes):  Many hands make light work!!!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday        July 10, beginning at 9:00 a.m. help needed painting the preschool classrooms.

Sunday          July 11, 1:00 p.m.  Car wash in our parking lot sponsored by and in support of the                                  Leukemia Foundation.

Monday         July 12           Finance Committee Meeting

Tuesday         July 13           Vestry Meeting

Sunday          July 18, 9:00 a.m. – noon.  Mass in the Grass at the north end of Mitchell Park. Church service at 9:00 a.m. followed by the picnic lunch.  Park in our parking lot and walk north past the labyrinth or take Hazel Avenue and park in the swimming pool parking lot.  Church will furnish hamburgers, hot dogs, and some soft drinks and lemonade.  Please bring a dish to share.  There will be benches to sit on, or bring a lawn chair.  Helpers needed to set up for lunch – tables need to be set and grills brought to the picnic site.  David Schaper will also need help with the grilling.  Services at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. will be held in the Church.  Eleven o’clockers who wish to attend the picnic, are encouraged to send their dish to share to the picnic site before the service, then join the picnic after the service.

UPCOMING SUMMER YOUTH GROUP EVENTS

Wednesday   July 14           North Shore Unitarian Church Rummage Sale            5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

100% of the proceeds of the sale go to various charities. Where else can we go to find awesome Halloween costumes and volunteer at the same time?! Dinner will be served at the Unitarian Church.

Wednesday   July 21           Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home Visit                        6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home - I know this sounds weird, but I think it is really important to talk about what happens when we die.  Unlike a few generations ago, many students have never been to a funeral, or seen a casket, and the first time they have that experience is when someone very close to them dies.  Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home does several services with St. Gregory's and has a good relationship with our church.  I've asked Kelley & Spalding if they would lead us on a tour of their facility, and speak about what they do.  How does working in a funeral home challenge your faith?  What does a casket look like?  How did you end up in this line of work?  Is it like a CSI show?  Is it scary?  Father Bill and Mother Meredith will join us for this tour.

ST. GREGORY’S BOOK CLUB NEWS

The next book club meeting will be Wednesday, July 21st at 7:30 p.m. Our selection is Hannah’s List by Debbie Macomber. It is a lighter summer read.

On the anniversary of his beloved wife's death, Dr. Michael Everett receives a letter his wife Hannah had written him. In the letter she makes one final request that he should marry again.  She has also chosen three women for him to consider. During the months that follow, he spends time getting to know the three women, learning more about each of them, about himself, and about what Hannah already knew…he's a man who needs the completeness only love can offer. Hannah's List leads him to the woman who can help him find it!

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In your prayers this week, please remember the sick, particularly Bill Potter, Robin Richmond, Andrew Zint, Jamie Wells, Wil Meister, Lynn Mayer, Lindsay Tracy, Karen Nicholas, Siobahn Patterson, David Ingram, Sarah Snyder, Susan Browne, Ethan Saunders, and Jack Trapani;  our companion parish in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and its leaders, Deacon Donné and Evangelist Tomboasy; the men and women serving in our armed forces and their families, remembering especially Michael Malloy, Tom Samella, Robert Steere, Eric Cloe, Pamela Aitchison, Molly Cahill, Jared Doty, Mark Kraus, Ilan Keldar, Richard Heyward, Robb Dunlap, Greg Hirsch, Jamie Mitchell, Chad Field, Brian Adamson, and Hunter Levine; and the faithful departed, remembering especially Andrew Larson. Please contact the church office to add an individual or family to the Prayer List.