UPCOMING CHURCH HAPPENINGS

2026 UMM 5th Annual Potato Drop

On the morning of Saturday, October 17, we will be receiving approximately 45,000 pounds of potatoes. The potatoes will be 50 lb. bags, ready for pickup by local food pantries and government agencies from our surrounding communities. We are reaching organizations as far north as Barrington and as far south as Wilmington. We are asking our church family to help in the organization and distribution of these items. That morning we will be loading approximately 45 vehicles starting at 8:00 a.m. This would be an opportunity for our youth to get service points. Any questions, please contact Bob Bruozas at (708) 429-9151.

2026 Potato Bar Luncheon

The United Women in Faith are hosting the annual Potato Bar luncheon on Saturday, November 7. The tickets will go on sale between Sunday services starting October 4th. The cost is $12 for adults and $10 for children Please check out the Potato Bar Volunteer poster in the narthex. Hopefully you can find a place to help out. Also new crafts, baked items and used items for the Second time around are needed. Thank you. Additionally, the 2nd Time Around Shop held during the Potato Bar is looking for gently used donations. Items include jewelry, purses, candles, puzzles, holiday, kitchenware, decor. Almost anything really!! Donation box near office. Thank you

Introduction to United Methodism

This is a 4-week study that is open to our entire church, designed as an interactive way to learn a lot about United Methodism. This class is also the basis for those who desire to join the membership of The United Methodist Church of New Lenox. We will cover a little of our history, doctrine, theology, and membership vows.

There is no cost to participate, simply contact Pastor Wesley (wesley@umcnl.com) so that we have enough materials for everyone. This Study will be held on Sunday afternoons beginning at 2:30 p.m. on November 15, 22, 29, and December 6. Those desiring to join the membership of UMCNL will be received during the service of their choice on Sunday, December 20.

For a complete list of all upcoming church happenings, click HERE

For the latest updates, please check out monthly newsletter HERE

(Past Newsletters)

FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES

There are ongoing fellowship opportunities at UMCNL where you can find Christian connection and community. Some of these include:

Youth Group

UMCNL hosts a weekly youth program for 6-12 grade students every Wednesday from 7:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. We would love for you to join us! Keep in touch via email and text by texting JOINUYM to 84576 or connect online with us at unitedmethodistchurchofn.flocknote.com *Youth Group does not meet in the summer months

United Methodist Women Circles

Here at UMCNL, we have a variety of ways women can be involved and grow spiritually, become more centered in Christ, and put faith into action. Below are the different circles available:

Ruth Circle will meet at 1:00 p.m. Monday October 12 at Beverly Deptolla’s home. Cohostess will be Joyce Korista and devotions by Jan Madarik. Program by Janet Kuester “Share A Scripture”. Ladies are asked to share a favorite bible verse and bring their bible.

Lydia Circle

Mary Circle

Contact Person: Anna Melton, (815) 485-3010.

Naomi Circle

Attention young ladies of UMCNL: consider joining our circle! New members are welcome. We meet monthly for food, fellowship, and fun!

Hannah Circle

Sarah Circle will be meeting Friday, October 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the church. Bring salad to share! All ladies are invited to join us. Contact Teresa Randolph with questions, (773) 405-6233

United Methodist Mens Groups

Here at UMCNL, we have opportunities for men to focus on spiritual growth. The focus is outward, assisting all men to engage in this process through bible studies, retreats, small groups, or other opportunities.

Fellowship Breakfast:

UMM Fellowship Breakfast will next meet on Saturday, October 3 at 8:00 a.m. at UMCNL in our Fellowship Hall.

Friendship Group

Our next Friendship Group Luncheon will be October 15 at Teardrop Cafe in New Lenox. The Sponsor is Gary Barlow. All 55+ church members are invited. There is a sign-up sheet in the Narthex next to the name tags.

MUSIC MINISTRIES

We have multiple opportunities to make a joyful noise unto the Lord! Our ensembles meet September through May.

Vocal choirs

Chancel Choir (adults) meets Thursdays at 7 pm in the sanctuary
Youth Choir (grades 7-12) meets Thursdays at 6 pm in the sanctuary
Celeste choir (grades K-6) meets Thursdays at 5 pm in the sanctuary

Bell Choirs

Celebration Bells (experienced/adults) meets Wednesdays at 7:30 pm in the sanctuary. Auditions will be held if you wish to join.
Herald Bells (advanced/High school and up) meets Wednesdays at 6:45 pm in the sanctuary.
Joy Bells (beginner/Junior High and up) meets Wednesdays at 6:00 pm in the sanctuary.

TEAMS & COMMITTEES

There are many teams and committees you can join to be God’s hands and feet in our church and community. If you are interested in serving, please contact the church office. These opportunities include:

Administrative Council
Staff Parish*
Finance*
Endowment
Trustees
Worship
Mission
Christian Education
Membership
Memorials
Nominations
Children’s Ministry Council
Youth Council
Stewardship

*indicates membership in the church is required to serve on this team.

THE CARE TEAM

If you are interested in learning more about Care Team, please contact Debbie Speicher.

MARRIAGE COUNSELING

Marriages can be difficult to maintain. Misunderstanding, confusion, resentment, and anger can flare up in any marriage. Several couples at our church serve other families as marriage counselors. Their role in listening, understanding, helping, and encouraging struggling couples has, by God’s grace, saved marriages, and repaired relationships. Couples have found fresh hope and new joy in a warm and fulfilling relationship with their spouse.

PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY

Prayer can move the hand of God. Our church believes deeply in the power of prayer. A team of individuals receives prayer concerns from our congregation from those who have requested prayers. To join this ministry, contact the church office at 815-485-8271 .

CURRENT STUDIES & GROUPS

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Prayer Shawl Ministry will be meeting on the fourth Monday of the month at 10:00 a.m. at Bevery Deptolla’s home. (125 Whisper Creek in New Lenox) If you knit or crochet, come join us for fellowship and mission. Yarn and patterns provided. If you prefer to work out of your own home arrangements can be made. Please contact Beverly for more information at (815) 514-6814. (We do not meet during the summer months, please contact Beverly if you have a shawl need.)

THE COMFORT MAKERS

The Comfort Makers sewing group meets on various days throughout the year to make different projects for missions. They make comforters, backpacks and other items to be used throughout the world. You don’t even have to know how to sew to join in the fellowship of this wonderful group of ladies. You can cut fabric or iron if sewing is not your forte. If you would like more information, please contact Judy McCune at jmcsews@sbcglobal.net for the next chance to be a part of this group!

FRIDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY

Friday Morning Women’s Bible Study meets in the church chapel Friday mornings from 9:30- 11:00 a.m. New ladies welcome!

INDEPENDENT BIBLE STUDY

Do you want to spend time studying independently or just cannot make it to one of our group bible studies? There are several options you have to read God’s word on your own time.

Click here for plans and options.

Want to support UMCNL while you are shopping online?

Just click on the Goodshop Logo below! Once on the site, under the tab "Choose a Cause" and search for United Methodist Church of New Lenox. Click on our name as the choice of non-profit to receive a percentage of your purchases from Goodshop and then go shopping on their website! It is as easy as that!

Thank you for your support!