Stock the Storehouse Open House

Recently, our Area Pastor LaVerne had a successful open house for Stock the Storehouse. Do you have a similar story? Share with us by sending pictures or video to southwestneighbors@gmail.com.

How to host your own Stock the Storehouse Party

Area Pastor LaVerne shows us how you can Prepare and host a stock the Storehouse Christmas party. Watch and get tips on how to have a successful event. If you host an event, let us know how it went or send us pictures or videos on how it went to southwestneighbors@gmail.com.

Come and see

Arne challenges you to come and see what happens at the Gathering.

Looking for a Women's Bible Study?

A Women's Study Group is forming in the South Elgin/Randall Road area . They meet the first and third Thursday of each month and will study "Pursuing Spiritual Transformation" a series by John Ortberg. They will begin with the study of GRACE: An Invitation to a Way of Life. Session One is on Thursday November 6 from 7-9 pm the Ness home located in South Elgin. Contact Holli for more information.

Orphans Passion

Dina Ackermann talks about God's heart toward orphans and her passion to serve them. Find out how you can be a part of serving orphans living in the U.S. and around the world. Contact Dina for more information about the Willow group that meets in Bartlett.

Weekend News

Southwest Community Life Friends,
Looking for a place to make a difference in the life of a Willow family? Serving is a great way to be the hands and feet of Jesus to people in need. If you like working with your hands, there is an opportunity in Bartlett this Saturday. Below is a portion of a note from Anne Rand at Willow that describes the need.
On a beautiful day like today, it's hard to imagine people are still cleaning up from the devastating floods two weeks ago. But they are--and having had the opportunity to speak with one Willow family directly, I saw up close and personal how lost and overwhelmed they feel. The Bartlett family had 3 feet of water throughout their first floor destroying their kitchen, living room and all the appliances, furnace, etc. This Saturday, October 4 and possible additional days into the future, we could use people who are generally handy with installation of flooring, drywall and a host of other semi-skilled needs.
Bartlett Relief Efforts
Click the link above to sign up for Saturday or come for part of the day. Those who can serve other days, email Eric who is organizing additional times.

Are you applying your INFLUENCE in the lives of others? A great place to begin is in the Atrium at Willow Creek South Barrington after weekend services. Stop by the Bartlett/South Elgin sign and connect with others from the community. Help yourself to free coffee and donuts. More people are coming each week and great conversations take place.

Lake Geneva Outing

About once a quarter, the ACTivity Group goes on an outing. This group is part of the South Elgin Gathering, and the activities are open to everyone. In June, the group went to a Kane County Cougars game. On August 24, after breakfast at Burnt Toast, the group went to Area Pastor LaVerne and Susan's Lake Geneva home for a brilliantly sunny afternoon of boating, tubing, picnicking, and chatting. Everything couldn't have been more perfect -- just ask Eric/Kristen (organizers), Kim, Mike/Matt, Donna, Jo, Nancy, and Romana. Thanks to LaVerne and Susan for their hospitality throughout the day. What a beautiful place to entertain folks in Christ's name!

Weekend News

It is exciting to hear how many of you are taking specific steps to move forward on your spiritual journey. Classes @ Willow is a path many chose and the fall options begin next week. If you are ready for the challenge, register now. For those willing to expand your ability to come along side others in your group, sign up for “Call to Care” training on Saturday 9/20 or Wednesdays in November.

Recently, people have begun forming a variety of relational groups in their communities. Beginning the weekend of September 13 & 14 at South Barrington, following all services, people will be encouraged to connect with others from their area in the Atrium. After the service you attend, stop by our area in the Atrium and connect with people from the community.

Set aside the evening of October 16 for a free gift of time with Will Miller at Willow Creek. He is one of the speakers at the Group Life Conference and will offer a private session for Willow leaders. He is a unique individual with experiences that will serve you. For those who can attend the Group Life Conference, there is a special $ 67.00 rate for Willow . Register now using Priority Code WCCCA8 by September 9.

Sunday Gathering with Student Impact

We thought we would do something different on our next table gathering. We invited our Student Impact house group to join us! It was a wonderful turn out! We had all ages sharing in the community and we were able to meet new friends. There was swimming, bags tournament and of course the most delicious food. The weather was beautiful and the fellowship was priceless. Thank you for making this gathering a success.

Willow Leadership Summit 8.8.08 Highlights

Speakers again today, led from a calling and passion that is greater than themselves. Their entrepreneurial organizations emerged from Holy Spirit promptings which they took action and developed. Bill Hybel's closing talk chronicled Mother Teresa's life which demonstrated "cart blanch yieldedness" of a leader with a "relentless commitment" to her calling.

This day was filled with conversations over times when the Holy Spirit prompted leaders to step out. Craig Groeschel, Pastor of Lifechurch.TV, Chuck Colson of Prison Fellowship Ministries, Catherine Rohr of Prison Entrepreneurship Program, Brad Anderson of Best Buy, and Bill Hybels all spoke of times the Holy Spirit prompted action in a clear and present way. While it is different for individuals everyone acknowledged the unmistakable presence.

Have you had an encounter with God through the Holy Spirit? What action did you take? What results were produced? How did it mark your life? We would like to hear your story as a comment below.

Willow Leadership Summit 8.7.08 Highlights

Looking at notes and reflecting on the day, 4 things were consistent with all speakers.

1. Each had a clear call to their mission.
2. Everyone was passionate about their calling.
3. Through their passion, appeals to the mission were compelling.

Each person shared personal stories that Bill George described as "Crucibles in Life". These significant leaders were close and personal about their lives which drew people to their cause.

If you attended the Leadership Summit, leave a comment telling us which session impacted you most and how.

Weekend News

He executes justice for the orphan and the widow,
and shows His love for the alien by giving him food and clothing.
Deuteronomy 10:18

“Throughout history, God has called his people to care for orphans. With millions of orphans worldwide the task is great, but our God is greater still! He is looking for people who will love, care and advocate for a child without a forever family.

As a mother of two internationally adopted daughters, I’ve had the opportunity to witness first hand and learn about the plight of orphans. It has long been a desire of my heart to be involved in reaching out to these children by providing for them and showing them God’s love.

If you are interested in exploring a group that reaches out to orphans, I invite you to attend an informational meeting on Tuesday, August 19th at 7:00pm in downtown Bartlett. For more information or to R.S.V.P., please contact me, Dina Ackermann, at 630-213-3558 .”

Elgin Blitz Build 2008

The weeks leading up to the Elgin Blitz Build was unpredictabe to say the least. The original home scheduled to be rehabed was sold to a different owner with the request of the City. This left the group scrambling for a new home. Northern Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity were able to acquire a different house on 524 Bent St. Little did they know that this was the plan all along, just not their plan.
The neighbors have been praying for this house for years. This house was shut down by the city several times because of drugs, gangs, shootings, and it once housed illegal immigrants. Everyone feels that the hand of God directed this. The neighbors prayers have finally been answered.
The permits and permisions were not finalized until the day before the start of the build. The owners, C.J. and Andy did not find out they were going to get this house until Friday night, the night before the build. They were very excited and thankful for this.
The week of the Build was very exciting. There were surprises all around. A busted pipe that emitted an odor that no one wanted to be around. The house was considered a historic building so there had to be a plan b. It had sunk about an inch and had to be jacked up and reinforced. A Funk & Wagnall's Literary Digest dated February 12, 1927 was found. The neighbors were extremely happy with what is going on that they also lent a hand. There was also great food served each day from different restaurants in the area and homemade entres and goodies from different volunteers. There were some minor injuries but all in all, it was a successful and rewarding week. Thank you to all who participated and prayed for the team.
The project was too big to be finished in one week and help is still needed to finish it. If you are interested, please click here and sign up. To read and view more pictures about this build and other communities, go to the official Blitz Build blog.

Another Beautiful Sunday for Baptism!

The rain stayed away as always and we celebrated with 722 baptisees. Special mention to our very own community members Kristen Jordan, Kim Parsons and Matt Breen who publicly declared their faith that day. The heavens celebrated along with us!
Our Community tent was a big success and it was easy for everyone to find us and fellowship with us. We hope to have more people meet with us next time.

Swing Batter!!!

On June 6th & 7th, the newly formed ACTivity group enjoyed a couple of Kane County Cougars games at Elfstrom Stadium in Geneva, IL. The first night Donna, Arne and Nancy, and Eric and Kristen enjoyed a 4-1 lead after the first inning created by 2 Cougar's home runs. Mike and Melissa joined us in the 2nd inning because of work schedules, and I do not really want to talk about the sad 7-4 loss that night, because I am afraid I will get my blog posting privileges suspended. Between innings we were able to enjoy the silly antics of Myron Noodleman, assisted by both teams, the umpires and fans from the crowd. That night was concluded with a delightful 15 minute fireworks display, and despite the loss everyone left full and happy. The next night enjoying the ball game were Lois, Mike and his son Matt, Kim and Jessica, Mike, Romana, and again Eric and Kristen (we love baseball). While watching this game we were able to enjoy a 5-4 victory. After the game was complete we marveled the flips and flops presented by the Jesse White tumblers. Again that night was capped off by another 15 minute fireworks display with the King singing background. On that night I was successful in talking most of the group into ice-cream and we stopped off for a few more minutes of fellowship while enjoying the offerings from Colonial. I would hate to call anyone out, but a certain father/son duo walked out with a bumper sticker in hand, because they were able to finish off the kitchen sink. Here are a few pictures of the fun, and please try to join us for our next ACTivity.

Community Weekend News

This Sunday afternoon, the lake will be a place where hundreds of people publicly declare their faith & trust in the gift of grace through Jesus’ blood shed for us on the cross. If you are ready to take the step, email us and join Kim, Kristen, & Ricardo being baptized by our Area Pastor. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to the South West Communities tent. It will be a great time to celebrate baptism as a community.

Blitz Build projects at Elgin & Riverwoods begin Saturday and continue through next week. Please join your neighbors and friends from the South West Communities serving at these projects. Click here to sign up.

Dad's Fest 2008

South West Community Life had our own display of Vintage John Deere tractors and a red hot convertible Corvette. Thanks to our Area Pastor LaVerne Weber, our community was able to take part in this great event.

Willow Serves in Costa Rica - Serve today

In March 2008, Mars Manderico (middle picture, middle), who is part of our
local Willow family, went on a serving trip to Fraijanes, Costa Rica. The
team of 12 was charged with digging trenches three feet wide by four feet
deep for the foundation of a new church and rehabilitation facility. Once
they got started, it was no stopping them. They finished about 90%. of the
perimeter of the church portion. They not only were involved in this hard
labor serving, but they had time for fellowship, and, of course, they
zip-lined through the jungle and hiked among waterfalls. That week was
just a glimpse into the adventures that lie ahead for all eternity.

During the week of June 21-29, more from Willow will be serving in Costa
Rica, the Gulf Coast, and locally. You still have time to sign up for
Blitz Build 2008 to meet needs and change lives in our South West Community
-- Elgin and St. Charles.

Arne Ness Baptism Story

Listen to how God got Arne's attention in a way he could not ignore. Then think about what God is trying to tell you.
If you are considering baptism, please visit Willow Creek Baptism website.

Community Weekend News

Celebrate Dads at DadFest as a community.Join our Area Pastor and others from South West Communities at Dad Fest 08. This year there will be a dedicated area for the SouthWest Communities. (Look for the tractors) If you have a classic or unique vehicle and would like to display it, let us know. To help manage display spaces in “our area” tell us which day(s) and the number of vehicles you will bring. God always shows up at Dad Fest and lives are significantly impacted. If you can help “greet people” in the area and are open to interesting conversations on a great summer weekend tell us. Reply here with DadFest thoughts and information.


Take a step on your spiritual journey by registering for classes now that will begin on June 18 at South Barrington.

Considering Baptism? If the Holy Spirit is prompting you, do not dismiss the “tug”. Signing up today & join others from the South West Communities. A celebration is being planned at the lake on Sunday June 22, 2008 and you are invited!

Thank you to all who participated in the Celebration of Hope!

HUNGER a Celebration of Hope 08
As of May 18, Willow volunteers has reached our goal of 3.5 million packed meals and collected $535,000 for COH. Way to go Creekers! Children of Zimbawe will be a little bit healthier thanks to the many volunteers that scooped, weighed and packed.
Celebration of Hope website.

Community Weekend News

This week we welcome 200 plus new Willow Creek readers living in the Bartlett HS Area to this page. In an interim, LaVerne Weber is serving as their Area Pastor. This will create an opportunity to develop a Bartlett Community unencumbered by high school boundaries which currently divide the town. Volunteers are stepping up to form a leadership team. If you lead a group or would like to be part of the Bartlett Community leadership contact Karen Berndt.

To help you stay informed, visit the South West Community Life Blog site. It will serve both the South Elgin/St Charles North/ Southwest Elgin & Bartlett Communities.
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Following services this weekend at Willow, Bill & Greg will provide an update on Community Life. Plan to stay a few minutes for this information and next steps.
Last week we mentioned keeping open May 31 for a gathering with Dallas Willard. That meeting has been postponed and will NOT occur as planned. Sorry for the change!

Mother's Day Weekend News

This weekend Nancy Beach will encourage mothers in her message. This is the weekend to bring your special offering from limiting consumption to pay for meals prepared for Feed My Starving Children.
Thanks to the help of 1900 volunteers from the Southwest Communities, 280,000 meals at the Elgin site, and 190,000 meals at the Streamwood site were prepared. It was a great experience and exciting to make a difference in lives of many children.

Mark your calendar and reserve Saturday May 31 for a special Community Life opportunity with Dallas Willard at Willow Creek. Details will follow next week. This will be a significant gathering to attend.

Housing construction is a tangible way to serve people in need. Willow’s Blitz Build provides a variety of opportunities at two locations in our area. They include skilled, unskilled, and support roles. For information about the St. Charles Riverwoods site, attend an informational meeting there on Sunday May 18 at 1:30 PM. Pizza will be provided.
For the Elgin site, contact Todd if you would like to serve on the Prayer Team, Snack Team, Clean Up team, Support Team, Hospitality Team, or Purchasing Team.

Community Weekend News

Returning to my desk this afternoon from meetings, I stopped to thank God for each of you. Why today? It is a blessing to observe your servant’s hearts. You are leading groups, starting new relational gatherings, and helping others connect at local gatherings. Thanks for honoring God by using your gifts.

Last Saturday, 50 of you attended a Blitz Build information meeting and signed up to serve at local projects in June. Many are also reducing consumption and participating in the “solidarity challenge” as part of the Celebration of Hope this week. While this is significant, even greater is the fact that over 1000 of you have registered to serve this weekend packing food for Feed My Starving Children! This is incredible! It is humbling to serve with people who display the heart of God and respond to needs. If you have not registered, please do so now as we opened a few more serving opportunities allowing us to package even more food.

If some of you can arrive 30 minutes before your shift and assist with sign in, that will be a great help. Let Arne Ness, Bob Allen, or myself know at the site.

Partnering with you,
LaVerne Weber Area Pastor

Student Impact goes to South Africa

On March 20 - 31, our Student Impact high school group went to South Africa to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Our own Ness table member, Melanie Forsberg was one of the students that was blessed to bring the love to South Africa.

They first went to Johannesburg and stayed with an organization Thrive Africa. They visited, prayed and played with children in a hospital. They also did a variety of manual labor in the community including working to beautify a school for the disabled. They went on to Cape Town and stayed with a Christian college Pneumatix. They served most of their time in a township of Kayumandi. They worked hard and affected many children in this community. Melanie said that this is truly what being the church is all about.

Biblical Literacy Class at the Ness Table

We finished a Biblical Literacy class with members of our table group. It was a four week series and it was held at the Ness home. This was one of the first classes held outside of Willow campus brought to the table groups. This set a precedent of growing together. Not only did we learn about the Bible but we also learned more about each other and made new friends in our teachers.

A Successful Table gathering

Recently, we invited a few new people to attend and taste what it is like when a group of neighbors gather together. There was a great turn out and great food eaten. It was a delightful evening getting to know each other.