McHenry County Blog

The crucifix and alter that used to hand in the Chapel at Resurrection Center in Bull Valley. Neither are there now.

Resurrection Center in Bull Valley ran into trouble after state-backed borrowing to build an addition.

The Catholic order that owned it put it up for sale.

After several missteps, Loyola University purchased the property.

It was re-named the Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Campus.

This is the location that the Northern Illinois Emmaus community used to hold its Thursday evening through Sunday afternoon short courses in Christianity.

Based on the Catholic short course called Cursillo. the Walk to Emmaus is sponsored by the Methodist Church, but thoroughly ecumenical.

This weekend and next weekend the Emmaus community is again holding retreats out in Bull Valley.

But, there is a significant change in the chapel.

The crucifix is gone.

Replacing the crucified Christ hanging from the ceiling is a small cross at chest height affixed to the center back wall which would be appropriate for any Protestant church.

Not a crucifix.

Just a cross.

I’ll admit that some Protestants attending retreats at Resurrection Center had problems with worshiping in a chapel with a crucifix, but, considering the weekend’s theme is God’s love for us in sending his son to sacrifice himself for our sins, most overcame any original trepidation.

At Saturday night’s Emmaus service, this Methodist has to admit to missing the representation of Jesus on the cross.

Perceptive readers will not continuing advice to candidates about how to maximize their chances of success.

Usually, it’s indirect.

Today, it’s direct.

There are a couple of politically influential organizations in McHenry County.

One is Patriots United. While organizationally not-for-profit, folks who attend its affairs are pretty much sure to vote and influence others.

Another is surely the Environmental Defenders. Called the McHenry County Defenders in years past, the group is composed of individuals who know how to influence the political process.

If you don’t believe me, ask any number of zoning authorities who actions they have influenced. (Note, I don’t say, “tried to influence.”)

The group was formed 42 years ago. For years, it was the largest organization with a political (defined broadly) interest.

More recently, Patriots United seem to have involved more people.

OK. Here’s the advice.

Click to enlarge.

The 42nd Annual Meeting will be held at the old Resurrection Center on Sunday, March 11th. (Now, it’s called the Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Center.)

The “social time” starts at 5. Don’t be late, because once you are seated for dinner, most of your interaction will be with those at your table.

Dinner is served at 5:30 and the program, featuring Tom Loftus of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and Nancy Tuchman of the university starts at 7.

I write about this so far ahead because the price for non-members is $40. Or you can join now and pay only $20 for dinner.

If one wishes to attend just the program, one can do so for free…with advanced reservations.

Reservations are due by March 1st for the catered dinner. Basil and brie stuffed chicken or roasted vegetable pasta are your food choices, selection of which is requested with reservation and payment.