Des Plaines Ministerial Association Presents Fifth Annual "Day of Spiritual Awareness"

"A Day of Spiritual Awareness:  What Does God Think of Addiction?" will be held at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 6.  Sponsored by the Des Plaines Ministerial Association, the event is free and open to the public.

This year's event aims to promote awareness of the available resources in and cooperation of the local faith community, social service agencies and government agencies in creating a stronger community. The event features several guest speakers and also showcases approximately 20 local spiritual and humanitarian organizations.

          Two featured speakers will address the theme of the day.  Kenneth Simmons, a Christian Science nurse, will speak at 10:00 a.m. A former child runaway who lived on the streets of Chicago and later struggled with drug addiction for 20 years, Simmons also was incarcerated for 10 years at a state prison in Pontiac.  Irene Cauwels, a certified alcohol and drug counselor at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, will speak at 10:45 a.m.

          A panel discussion will follow each keynote address, with panelists representing local populations with various perspectives on addiction.

          The Des Plaines Ministerial Association holds an open meeting on the second Tuesday of each month from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oakton Arms in Des Plaines.  For further information contact Jim Ernst at Our Lady of Hope Church, 847/825-4673.

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