How We Grow Spiritually

 Adult classes | Mid-Week Recharge  | Youth activities | Children’s education

Lake Street Church encourages spiritual enrichment through the programs described below. Anyone may attend these programs, whether or not he or she is a member.  For detailed information on our current program offerings, please see our current November events document, or pick up a copy in the church office.

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Adult Groups

From 9:30 to 10:15 am on Sunday mornings during the program year, adults gather before the worship service for all kinds of learning.  During the program year, the classes noted below meet regularly throughout the church building. 

Abwoon Study Circle - Abwoon is the first word of the Lord's Prayer in Aramaic, Jesus' native language.  Come taste and feel how the many layers of meaning and sounds of Aramaic breathe new life into each line of this familiar prayer.  Currently we are reading and reflecting on Neil Douglas Klotz's book Desert Wisdom. 

Crystal Ringers - Adults and children of all ages are invited to join the Crystal Ringers tone chimes ensemble.  No musical experience is required - only the ability to count to four!  Join us in the Choir Room - 204.

Dream Sharing is led by a clinical Jungian psychologist who enables people to reach the deeper dimensions of their soul through their dreams.

The Early Middle Ages - Join this lecture series by Prof. Philip Daileader of the College of William and Mary, projected on the big screen.  Dealing with the period of European history usually referred to as the "Dark Ages" - a transitional period between the ancient and medieval worlds during which Rome fell and Christianity "triumphed" over paganism.  This course is facilitated by Jean Gillies.    Join us at 9:30 am in the Parker Room.

Newcomers Breakfast - Every other month, people who have recenlty visited LSC have a chance to get acquainted with each other at a light breakfast in MacLeish Hall before the worship service.  The next scheduled date is Sunday, January 24.  RSVP by Thursday, January 21.

Sunday Morning Prayer Circle - Come sit in Sacred Space, and spend time in silence or in spoken prayer.  Bring joys and concerns for yourself, loved ones, the church community and the world.

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The Last Supper

During the program year (September - April), we gather on the last Wednesday evening of the month from 5:45 to 7:00 pm for a modestly-priced vegetarian meal and friendly conversation to help rejuvenate us.  (Sometimes we gather together at the middle of the month, so, be sure to watch for dates).  There are activities and service projects planned that are fun and meaningful, too.  Newcomers, friends, spouses, partners, and children of the Lake Street Church family are all welcome. Children are served first, and child care is available as soon as they finish eating. The gathering ends promptly so people can join other Wednesday night events, such as choir rehearsal and confirmation class.

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In addition to the Sunday morning sessions and Mid-Week Reharge, other weekly or monthly enrichment opportunities are offered, such as book discussion groups, drum circles, and a support group for gays and lesbians. For more information about adult programs, see the calendar page, or contact Ann-Louise Haak, Associate Minister, at 847-864-2181, ext. 112 or alhaak@lakestreet.org.

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Youth Activities

Our middle and high school students meet at 9:30 on Sunday mornings to talk about issues that matter to them in a supportive environment. Meetings begin with an opening ritual, followed by personal "check in" and discussion. The youth plan social activities and youth-led worship services at this time, too.  For general information about the Youth Program, please click here.

Every month also includes special activities for the Middle School Youth Group (MSYG), the High School Youth Group (HSYG), or both groups at once.  Recent events include a return work trip to New Orleans, LA - second year in a row!

For information about youth activities, contact the Co-Chairs of the Youth Committee, Coley Gallagher (cogal@comcast.net) or Kelli Klinger (kelli@onsight.com).

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Preschool Rainbow Room is an introduction to the church for toddlers 2 to 5 years old. Children have the choice of free play, a story, or a project–all in a nurturing atmosphere.

The Beginner Room for children in kindergarten and first grade is taught by an early-childhood educator assisted by Lake Street Church youth and adults. The foundation of the curriculum is The Family Story Bible, through which the children become familiar with the stories of the Christian tradition, and includes stories, songs, enactments, art projects, and playtime.

Sunday School is offered to 2nd through 6th graders. The curriculum is chosen to reflect Lake Street church's "rooted, connected, transformed" philosophy, with interfaith learning as a key element. Through readings, art, music, drama, games, and service projects, the children d3evelop a sense of both personal and communal spirituality.

For information about children's programs, contact Joan Roe, Director of Children’s and Family Programs, at 847-864-2181, ext. 115, or jroe@lakestreet.org.

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