A vibrant and generous community of faith, sharing the beauty and struggle of life through a Lutheran perspective
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
We are providing questions that tie back to the preceding Sunday's primary reading and sermon each week. Feel free to think about these on your own, to discuss with a family member or friend, or to use these within your small group.

Song: "Precious Lord," by Thomas Dorsey
Readings: Psalm 36:5-9; John 14:1-7

1. Describe the similarities and differences between "house" and "home." What do each mean to you?

2. Much of the Old Testament is centered around the family that begins with Abraham and Sarah, continues through Isaac and Rebekah, and becomes a nation through Jacob (Israel). Read Psalm 36:5-9. How does this passage express a broader reach of the love of God?

3. John 14 is frequently chosen to be read at funerals and memorial services. These are among Jesus' words on the last night that he is with his friends before he is crucified. How do you experience a "troubled heart?" What word of comfort does Jesus offer to his friends? How might this word comfort you when your heart is troubled (and not in a way that would send you to a cardiologist)?

4. How might Jesus' disciples understand what he means by his Father's house? How do you understand that? The NRSV translates as "dwelling places" what older translations have called "mansions." What do you think Jesus is talking about? How does this align with Jesus' own death, resurrection, and ascension? How does this align with the promised resurrection that we anticipate for God's faithful people?

5. Find the words for Thomas Dorsey's song, "Precious Lord." These were written during the worst time of Dr. Dorsey's life. How do these words speak to you? Where is "home" now? Where is home finally? What do these have in common?
Worship Schedule
Worship Service Information
September 6
Drive-In Worship this Sunday!
Join us in Atonement's front parking lot at 9:30 on Sunday. Sit in your car or bring your own lawn chairs to sit in the adjacent parking place. We'll have an outside sound system and also an FM broadcast frequency so you can listen in your car. We'll wear masks when outside of cars. Watch this SHORT VIDEO of what to expect when you arrive. We'll finish by 10:15.If you're not able to join us, we'll also post a virtual worship service by late Saturday.

September 13
Virtual worship only. 9:30 Sunday School (virtual) begins. 9:30-10:30 Communion with Pastor Don in parking lot

September 20
Drive-In Worship, 9:30. Virtual worship also.

September 27
Live Zoom worship, 9:30. 10:30-11:30 Communion with Pastor Don in parking lot.
Serving Opportunity
Our ministry partners at Barrington Area Council on Aging are in need of help with the Meals on Wheels program. 

They are looking for volunteers to deliver meals the 1st Wednesday and the 3rd Tuesday of each month. It is approximately a 1 hour time commitment.

Meals are delivered with social distancing in mind and may be an opportunity for youth to be involved as well.

Willing to help or have questions call Cindy Schaar directly at 847-381-5030 or Contact Mary Williams
Sunday School Information
All families with 4 year olds - 5th graders need to register for Virtual Sunday School, which begins September 13 at 9:30 am, on or before Sep. 6. Registration ensures that we have enough teachers and supplies for every child!
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All Sunday School participants need to have September's supply kit before Sunday School begins on September 13. Supply kits can be picked up from Jen after parking lot worship THIS Sunday, September 6. If you are unable to pick up your kit at that time, please let Jen know!
Confirmation Parent Meeting
We will be having a virtual parent's meeting for confirmation parents (parents of 6th - 8th graders) on Thursday, September 3 at 7 pm. At this meeting, you'll learn about this fall's confirmation ministry, including expectations of participants. Join us on Zoom at 7 pm Thursday
JAM
All high schoolers are invited to the first virtual JAM of the school year on Wednesday, September 16 from 7-8 pm. Join us on Zoom. Whether it's your first time or your a JAM regular, we hope you'll join us!