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Sunday, March 31, 2024

An Open And Affirming Community Of Faith -

We Welcome All Beliefs!


  • Sage meets every Friday at 1 PM. Check here for the church calendar for the link.


  • SAVE THE DATE - TOWN WIDE CHURCH GARAGE SALE - APRIL 27TH RAIN DATE APRIL 28TH-WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!



  • If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to update our video greetings for the Passing of the Peace! A short (5-10 seconds) video is all that’s needed, and phone recordings are fine! Or Rox can record you after church! Send your recordings to Roxann.victory@outlook.com and she will add it!


  • Holy Covenant t-shirts available to order, possibly last chance. See below!



  • Pot Luck 4/28 after service - see below


  •  Saturday, May 4 is World Labyrinth Day. Holy Covenant will be open from 12 pm

to 3 pm for those who would like to walk our labyrinth. We will have explanatory

materials and music to accompany your walk.


  • Meditation on Wednesday, April 3rd at 7 pm


  • The next Thrive with Pride café will be held on April 4 at 7 pm via Zoom—we will talk about the women in the history of the Chicago LGBTQ+ community! Contact Rev. Martha for the link.



  • Pints With the Pastor, Thursday, April 11th at 6pm


  • Looking ahead to May and June, if you would like to add or update a photo of your mom (Mothers Day in May) or father (Fathers Day in June), or of someone who was a parental figure to you, dig those pictures out to send to Roxann.


Support Holy Covenant MCC

with Your Generosity Today!

Giving Needed Weekly

(5 WEEKS) $936

The monthly difference is -$35

MAKE A DONATION TODAY!

Our bills are listed for the month of MARCH 2024.

Your generosity helps us pay the bills. Any amount helps us meet our obligations.






If you would like to pay one of the bills,

please designate that in your donation. 

MARCH IS WOMENS HISTORY MONTH

Patsy Mink (1927--2002)

U.S. House of Representatives


The National Women's History Alliance designates a yearly theme for Women's History Month. The 2024 theme celebrates “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.” This theme recognizes women who understand the need to eliminate bias and discrimination from individuals' lives and institutions.


In 1959 when Hawaii became a U.S. State, Patsy Mink knew she wanted to run for a position in government. Little did she know, she would become the first woman of color elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first Asian-American woman to serve in Congress. In addition to writing bills like Title IX, the Early Childhood Education Act, and the Women's Educational Equity Act, Mink was the first Asian-American to run for U.S. President.


Patsy Matsu Takemoto was born on December 6, 1927 in Paia, Hawaii. One of two children, her father, Suematsu Takemoto was a civil engineer. When she was a junior at Maui High School, she won her first election as class president. She graduated in 1944 as the valedictorian. After graduation, she went on to attend Wilson College in Pennsylvania and the University of Nebraska but transferred after facing racial discrimination. All students of color were not allowed to live in the same dorms as white students. In addition, Mink was diagnosed with a thyroid condition that needed surgery. She decided to move to Honolulu to finish her schooling at the University of Hawaii with hopes of becoming a doctor. At her new school, she became a member of the varsity debate team, and was elected president of the Pre-Medicine Students Club. She graduated in 1948 with majors in zoology and chemistry. She applied to several medical schools after graduating but none of her applications were accepted. Instead, Mink decided to apply to law school and was accepted at the University of Chicago Law School.


While at the University of Chicago, she met John Mink playing the card game bridge at the International House. The two married and remained in Chicago. Patsy graduated from Law School in 1951 but kept her job at the University of Chicago Law School library. The next year, they moved to Hawaii after having their daughter Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn would grow up to be an author and advocate for women’s issues. While in Hawaii, Patsy Mink registered for the bar exam to be able to practice law in the territory. Unfortunately, even after she passed, Mink was unable to find a job because of her interracial marriage. She decided to start her own practice instead and founded the Oahu Young Democrats in 1954. She became the first Japanese-American woman to practice law in her home state of Hawaii. Mink also worked as a private attorney for the House of Representatives in that territory. When Hawaii became a state in 1959, Mink immediately began campaigning to be elected as a congresswoman. Although Mink’s first attempt was unsuccessful, she returned to politics in 1962 when she won a seat in the Hawaii State Senate. She continued to campaign for a seat in the U.S. Congress even after the Democratic party decided to support another candidate.


In 1964, a second position was created in the U.S. House of Representatives. With the help of her husband and several unpaid volunteers, Mink won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, making her the first Asian-American woman to serve in Congress. As a congresswoman, Mink fought for gender and racial equality, affordable childcare, bilingual education, and became a supporter of Title IX. She was one of the authors and sponsors of the Title IX law that stated that “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”[1] While she worked in Washington, D.C., she also traveled back to Hawaii every other week to make sure she was connected to the issues and concerns of the Hawaiian people. She successfully served on many committees while in congress including; the Committee on Education and Labor, Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, and the Budget Committee. Through these committees, she was able to voice the concerns of groups that were discriminated against. In 1974, she was able to pass the Women’s Educational Equity Act to promote gender equality in schools.


Recognized for her work, Mink was asked by the Oregon Democrats to run for United States President with the support of their party. Their focus on the anti-war movement attracted Mink, and she decided to run for president. Unfortunately, she only received 2 percent of the vote. After this, Mink remained active in politics and served as the president of the Americans for Democratic Action. She also served as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. In 1990, Mink was reelected to Congress and served six terms in the House of Representatives. During this time she also formed the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.


In August of 2002, Mink was hospitalized for pneumonia. A month later, Patsy Mink died in Honolulu, Hawaii. Due to the upcoming election, her name was still on the ballot in November even though she passed away a month before. She won the election by a landslide but was replaced by Ed Case. After her death, the Title IX law was renamed the Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act.


Taken from National Womens History Museum

NEW T-SHIRTS FOR HOLY COVENANT


NOW AVAILABLE! ORDER NOW! Show your support of Holy Covenant by buying a t-shirt. Many sizes, shirt types and colors to choose from. These shirts will be used throughout the year when we attend Pride parades or fests and for our garage sales so we are known to our neighbors. A small portion of the proceeds goes to Holy Covenant. Any questions please see Roxann Victory or email her at roxann.victory@outlook.com.


Click here to order! https://www.bonfire.com/holy-covenant-mcc/

UPCOMING EVENTS OF INTEREST

PINTS WITH THE PASTOR

APRIL 11TH!


Join us at Pub 78 in beautiful downtown Brookfield for no-host dinner and/or drinks. conversation and good times from 6 pm - 8 pm.


Time: 6 pm, Thursday, April 11th.

Pub 78

3733 Grand Ave

Brookfield, IL 60513

POT LUCK COMING UP!

POTLUCK - ECO-FRIENDLY FOODS!

APRIL 28, 2024

Our fourth potluck of the year is all about eco-friendly foods. Join us on Sunday, April 28th, immediately following church to enjoy a plethora of foods prepared by the blessed hands of our congregation!



What can you prepare that uses eco-friendly foods? These are dishes that are minimally processed and/or are organic.


Eco-friendly food products include:

  • Pasta
  • Vegetable oils
  • Nuts and dried fruits
  • Natural canned goods
  • Dairy products
  • Sweets
  • Chocolate

Here is a link to some eco-friendly recipies!

To ensure we have a variety of dishes, we have a sign-up sheet downstairs. Don't miss out on this opportunity to share a meal and fellowship with your church family. See you there!

GARAGE SALE

APRIL 27th


Hey there, Brookfield buddies! The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here - the Brookfield Community Wide Yard Sale is making its grand return for the 3rd year running! We're beyond stoked to announce this fantastic event and none of it would be possible without our amazing community.


Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 27th from 9am to 3pm (and keep Sunday, April 28th on standby in case of rain). It's time to de-clutter your spaces, hunt for treasures, and make some sweet deals! See you there!


We are accepting donations of clean clothing, books, clean kitchenware, craft material, small furniture, etc. We will not be accepting any electronics such as TV's, computers, etc. Please contact the church at 708-387-1611 or email office@holycovenantmcc.org if you have anything to donate.


THRIVE WITH PRIDE CAFE

HONORING LGBTQ+ CHICAGOIANS FOR

WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Join us THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2024 at 7pm to 8 pm (CST)!


This month we welcome Jen Dentel from Gerber/Hart Library & Archives to discuss several women highlighted in their 2022 podcast Unboxing Queer History, including Lorrainne Sade Baskerville, the founders of Amigas Latinas, and the women of the Great Angling Lesbian Society, whose work impacted Chicago LGBTQ+ history. Founded in 1981 and located in Chicago's Rogers Park Neighborhood, Gerber/Hart is one of the largest repositories of LGBTQ+

content in the world. Join us as we dive into their amazing collections!


Join by clicking https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6711227765

Meeting ID: 671 122 7765

This event is free; registration is not required.


INTER-GENERATIONAL DINNER & DIALOGUE


On April 4th from 6 to 8 pm, there will be an Inter-generational Dinner & Dialogue. This is free and open to all ages over 18 and stages of life. You can download a flyer for this here. Registration is required and can be done at www.thrivingwithpride.org. A wait list may be possible so register early.

HOLY COVENANT BOARD MEETING - MOVES TO ZOOM MEETINGS STARTING APRIL 21 ST

The next Board meeting will be held on April 21st, 7 pm via Zoom. The Board discussed about moving meetings to Zoom and it was approved by everyone. If you would like to attend a meeting via Zoom, please contact Rev. Martha for the link so you can listen and observe.


You can find all the Board agenda, minutes and financials on our website. They are also posted on the bulletin board in Fellowship Hall.


You can find a PDF of the past Board Meetings Agenda, Minutes and church financials here

WEEKLY SERVICE INFORMATION

HYBRID - IN PERSON AND ON YOUTUBE

REV. MARTHA DANIELS PREACHING

10:00 AM CST

Our worship celebration is every Sunday at 10 am CST. If you would like to join us you may join us in person or go to our Facebook page at Holy Covenant Facebook Page and click on the LINK to YouTube to watch the service.


Sunday, March 31, 2024

Isaiah 25:1-10

John 20:1-18



Sermon Title - "What's In A Name?"


Have a candle ready to light, a cookie or bread, and a glass of your favorite libation for communion if you are watching online.


You can also find previous services on our YouTube Channel here.


Rev. Martha is available by email, phone, Facebook Messenger, and text for any pastoral needs you may have revmarthadaniels@gmail.com


DO YOU WANT TO HELP WITH WORSHIP?

Do you feel a call to help with worship? To read a prayer, or a reading, or to usher or serve communion? Whether you are here in person or virtually, we need and want your gifts! Contact Rev. Martha or Roxann at roxann.victory@outlook.com.

AGING WELL MARCH PROGRAMS

Join us all month long for informative seminars, health programs, fitness, entertainment, and more!
 
Hello Neighbors! Below is our June schedule. Join us all month long for informative seminars, brain health programs, fitness, history, entertainment, and more online and in person! Just click here for the list of classes.

We encourage you to share our class schedule with friends, family, and neighbors, near & far, of any age – everyone is welcome to join us! All of our classes are free & no advance registration is required. We hope to see you soon on Zoom!

Thank you all for being a part of the Aging Well Neighborhood!

For questions about the programs listed, please email AWN@agingcareconnections.org.

SHARE FOOD, SHARE LOVE

FOOD PANTRY NEEDS YOUR HELP!

Food insecurity has become a public health crisis that continues to affect our communities, with an alarming increase of 19 in the number of households facing hunger compared to pandemic levels. The situation is even worse for Black households, as the number has risen by 37%. With the recent cancellation of extra money in the SNAP program, it is now more vital than ever to support organizations like Share Food Share Love.


By donating to the Share Food Share Love Food Pantry, you can make a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling to put food on the table. With just a $1.00 donation, you can help provide 3 meals for a family in need. Your generosity can help ensure that our neighbors do not go hungry.


We are calling on all members of our community to help us fight food insecurity by donating to the Share Food Share Love Food Pantry. There is a food box located in front of Tischler's where you can drop off your non-perishable food items 2/47 or bring your food donations to the church and we will take it over. Let's come together to support each other during these challenging times. Thank you for your support!


If you live in the surrounding area of Brookfield, you may qualify to be our neighbor at Share Food, Share Love. You can stop in on Tuesday evenings 7pm to 9 pm and Saturday mornings 10 am to 12 pm to apply and gather up some food for you and your family. If you do come, please try to bring your own reusable bags but if you forget, we will have bags for you.


The food box located in front of Tischler's where you can drop off your non-perishable food into this box 24/7!



Thank you!


SHARE FOOD, SHARE LOVE GIVING PAGE

WSSS (SAGE) CALENDAR, EVENTS & MENU

West Suburban Senior Services (previously known as West Suburban SAGE) a social support group for LGBTQ seniors, meets both via ZOOM and in person on Fridays at 1 pm. Please contact Eric Eugenio Vironet (evironet@cmsschicago.org) if you plan to attend in person as space is limited.


On April 1 at West Suburban – AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging for suburban Cook County, will host a Legislative Breakfast at West Suburban at 10AM. This event welcomes Cook County federal, state, county, and local officials to discuss issues facing older adults. You are invited to attend! You must register prior to the event – you can scan the QR code on the flyer which can be downloaded below or register here:

AgeOptions 2024 Legislative Breakfasts

West Suburban March Activity Calendar click here

West Suburban March Menu click here

West Suburban Senior Services website click here

WSSS Facebook Page click here

PASTOR'S PICK CORNER -

Rev. Daniels Reading/

Listening/Watching Suggestions

I am, as all of you probably have noticed, a voracious reader! One of the downsides to reading is the cost of books. Well, here are some suggestions to help you read the books you want to read without breaking your budget!


1. Use your library! As a former librarian, I encourage the use of your public library! Using the free Swan+ app, you can search for any books (video, audiobook, e-book, etc.) and if an item isn't held in your local library, it is automatically requested for you from another library. You can choose where it will be held for you (maybe the library close to your work, maybe one you just like better). Note that if it is a title in high demand, residents of the library district that owns the title have priority. Holds can be suspended, if you need to, and you won't lose your place. Also note that e-books are on a kind of subscription basis for the libraries, and there may be more requests for a title than the subscription permits, or the subscription may have expired. Libraries also allow you to check out e-versions of magazines! Many also have libraries of things--tools, kitchen appliances, etc.--that you can borrow for a project when you don't want to buy the item. Many also have "maker labs" where you can print in a variety of media, including in 3D, create computer graphics, and more.


2. Little Free Libraries! Maybe you've seen those small boxes in a neighbor's yard, maybe painted bright colors. Little Free Libraries operate on the principle of ‘take when you like, leave what you are done with.” They’re a grab bag; you're not likely to find the latest bestseller in a Little Free Library, but there are many other choices! We have our own version in the Fellowship Hall by my office! Check it out!


3. Online booksellers like AbeBooks (owned by Amazon), Powell’s (they have a warehouse here in Chicago, so ordering from them may get you the books a bit faster), Half Price Books, and more. Bookshop.com is a website for independent bookstores--which includes our own local Anderson’s, as well as many women-, LGBTQ+-, and minority-owned bookstores. You won't get the lower prices of the used book stores, but you'll be supporting local, independent stores!


3) Trade with your friends! I've done a few book-swap parties, and they're a lot of fun. Everyone brings the books (or CDs, DVDs, etc.) they want to swap, and everyone gets to choose what they want to take home! I once scored a full boxed version of Angels in America at a book swap, and another time a pile of five lesbian-themed mysteries.


4. Finally, Amazon is not my favorite place to buy books, but if you are looking for used books, you can choose "other buying options" when you are shopping for books, and that allows you to compare the prices for used books from several booksellers.


Happy reading!

PLEASE MAKE A DONATION TO HOLY COVENANT TODAY!

MEDITATION WILL BE APRIL 3RD!

The next date for meditation with Mary Ann will be on Wednesday April 3rd at 7:00 pm. We hope to see you there!


For more information about meditation please contact Mary Ann Latsaras at only1amar@yahoo.com.

AMAZON HAS OUR LIST OF NEEDS!
UPDATED LIST!

We have updated our "needs" list online at Amazon. We ask that you look at our list of what items we are in need of and purchase something for the church.


This list is available to see here HC Need List and is updated as needed. You can order and pay for anything off this list and have it shipped directly to the church. We appreciate anything you can order for us!


We thank you for your continued support of Holy Covenant!

NEED POWER OF ATTORNEY OR WILL?

Contact the Center for Disability & Elder Law at Center for Disability and Elder Law. Click this link to see more information and links.

We mourn and pray for all the families who have suffered personal losses from gun violence at our schools, churches, and hospitals. public venues and other places.


Prayers for Joyce to be able to sleep normally again.1

Prayers for Jen, Laura, Barbara, Colin, Jionna, and all who struggle with anxiety and depression.1


Prayers for Cynthia and her children Isaiah, Imani and Ian for better health.2

Prayers for Brenda and Sandra as he knows why.2


Prayers for the Richey family especially Julie, Barb and Eddie on the passing of their mother Mary Abernathy who is also Rev. Martha's Aunt.3

Prayers for Barbara R. friend Joyce who foot needs to heal.3

Prayers for continued healing for Barbara R, Mary Ann, Kim and Michael.3

Prayers for Roxann's Grandma Margie who has been sick lately.3


Prayers for those with harden hearts that feel the need to deface places of worship.

Prayers and strength for Ukraine, for those who are relocating, and to end the war and unnecessary deaths.

Prayers for all our first responders that they stay safe while helping others.

Prayers that God will provide for those who are hungry, unemployed, and homeless,

or in financial difficulties.

All those affected by HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, COVID-19, and other life-threatening illnesses.

All communities of faith.

LINKS AND OTHER INFORMATION

There is a universal help line 211 for Cook County. They can help residents with housing, food, health services and more. It is a 24 hour seven day a week operation and have trained professionals answer the phone and are able to help you


Missed a sermon?

Click here to catch up and watch on the Holy Covenant YouTube channel! 
If you or someone you know is in an emergency call 911 for help.

Need someone to talk to? Call the suicide lifeline by dialing 988.

NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Health
Every day brings something new—
and God is with us always!
9145 Grant Ave
Brookfield, IL 60513
Phone: 708.387.1611
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