JANUARY THROUGH MID-FEBRUARY
From the Pastor's Desk
Happy New Year and a blessed season after Epiphany to all. The light of Christ has come into the world, shining and calling all nations to “come, let us adore him.” As the holiday bustle fades, we enter a new year with gratitude for the blessings God brings in Jesus’ name and for the quiet joys of this season between seasons.
During this time, communion classes will be offered for those wishing to learn more, especially for children seeking a deeper understanding of God’s grace in the holy supper. We also conclude our financial year and look ahead together at the Annual Congregational Financial Meeting following worship on January 25, 2026.
This pause before Lent invites reflection: What is your heart craving now? Perhaps it is deeper connection, with small groups beginning in January. Perhaps it is serving the church during the winter months, or supporting neighbors through ProjectFresh with your time, talents, or resources. Beyond resolutions, take time to pray about how God is calling you into deeper relationship within our church community.
Many blessings on this New Year and thank you for being church together,
Faith Milestones
New Member Welcome Class
Sunday, Feb 1 after Worship
We will be welcoming new members during Worship on Sunday, February 15 at 10:00 AM.
Communion Celebration Classes
Dates and Times - TBD
Please contact office@stjameslutheran.org if interested.
Growing in Relationship with JESUS
Prayer Group
Saturdays, Jan 10 & Feb 14 @ 9:00 AM
St. James Singers
Sundays, Jan 25 & Feb 22
All singers are welcome to join on the fourth Sunday of the month. Rehearsals are the third and fourth Sundays before Worship.
"Finding God in the Garden" Devotional Small Groups
We are excited to offer two venues this winter to study the book, “Finding God in the Garden”. The six weekly sessions will begin in early January and end before Ash Wednesday.
Those who wish to meet in person will gather at St. James on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 starting Jan. 7. Those meeting via Zoom will log on Tuesday evenings beginning Jan 6.
Copies of the book are available at church for $20 each or can be ordered on Amazon! Please contact discipleship@stjameslutheran.org to express interest or ask questions.
“The Chosen” Watch & Study
Watch an episode and discuss. Dates & Times to come. If interested, please email mackenzie@stjameslutheran.org
Adult Study
Meets each Tues morning at 10:30 am at St. James
Growing in Relationship within the CONGREGATION
Family Game Night
Saturday, Jan 31 @ 5:00-7:00 PM
Watch for signups
Winter Work Day
Saturday, Feb 21 between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm
Join us at church for various work projects around the building and property.
Annual Financial Meeting
Sun, Jan 25 after Worship
Growing in Relationship with our NEIGHBORHOOD
Sewing Group
Thursdays, Jan 8 & Feb 5 @ 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Join a group of faithful crafters who make teddy bears and quilts for children in need for our community partner organizations. Bring a lunch!
ProjectFRESH
Help provide fresh produce to local food pantries. This season, we’re focusing on CITRUS + the staples (apples, onions & potatoes). Bring on Sundays or swing by the Drive-Thru Drop Off dates on Saturday, January 17 & February 21 from 10:00 am - Noon.
“Pack the Place” for COOL Ministries
Wednesday, January 21 @ 5:00-9:00 pm
Come to dinner at Tangled Roots Craft Beer & Kitchen in Vernon Hills and 10% of the proceeds go to the COOL Food Pantry.
.png)
For the Kids
Pajama Night
Saturday, January 10 & Friday, February 13 @ 5:00-8:00 pm
Pre-K through 6th graders, come in your pajamas for a night of fun while parents get an evening to themselves! We’ll make pizza and bake some cookies, then pile up in blankets for a movie. RSVP: mackenzie@stjameslutheran.org
Sunday School
Sundays at 9:15 am
Pre-K through 6th graders are invited to nurture their spiritual growth each Sunday morning. Lessons follow the weekly lectionary providing continuity to the Worship service, opening doors for family discussion. Children join their parents for Worship and Communion.