Harvest Family,
We began our April meeting by praying over and anointing members of our church family (James 5). Please join us in prayer on Wednesday, April 29, as one of our sisters undergoes surgery. Pray for healing, strength, and a deep sense of hope. Pray for opportunities for her to share her faith and the hope that is in her (1 Peter 3:15). And let’s continue to lift up all those who are hurting, asking for the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, to guard their hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).
We’ve also seen God powerfully answer prayer; one sister, days following a prior evening of prayer and anointing with us, experienced physical healing. Praise God! Moments like this remind us how near He is, even in the valleys, and how much He cares for each one of us.
CAMPUS UPDATES
Across our campuses, we’re seeing God move in exciting ways. Our Crystal Lake Campus is growing both numerically and spiritually. There’s a real sense of joy and anticipation, and it was especially encouraging to see so many men gather recently for Men’s Ministry. Praise God for how He is at work.
Rolling Meadows welcomed around 2,500 people (many of them guests) for Easter services. What an opportunity! Let’s pray that those who came would truly hear and receive the Gospel, and that God would lead them into a church home where they can grow.
At Elgin, we’re seeing more people step forward to serve, so thank you! When the Lord stirs your heart, don’t ignore it; lean in and step in. There is still a need for volunteers, especially in Harvest Kids and in supporting individuals with special needs during our Sunday service. We don’t want anything to stand in the way of families being able to fully participate in worship. Elgin also had a great turnout for Men’s Ministry, yet another reason to give thanks.
We also have a big reason to celebrate at Aurora. Through God’s faithfulness and your generosity, we were able to buy out the investors and are now the owners and stewards of that campus. What a gift! Aurora also welcomed Joel Aurand as Student Director, filling an important role we’ve been praying about. This is a beautiful reminder of what Jesus teaches in Luke 18:1, to pray and not lose heart. God answers us in His perfect timing, sometimes after years of waiting. Let that encourage you to rejoice always and pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18).
THE FOLLOW INITIATIVE
Through our “Send Out” Follow Initiative, we’re continuing to grow our partnership with Compassion and are planning a trip to Guatemala in March 2027. Thank you for your ongoing support. Please continue praying for the children we sponsor and for the work of Compassion around the world. If you need a little help or direction in your prayers, consider praying through Compassion’s April Prayer Calendar or 10 Prayers for Children Living in Poverty. You can also learn more about the heart behind Compassion by reading What Are You Going to Do? How One Simple Question Transformed Lives Around the World: The Inspiring Story of Everett Swanson and the Founding of Compassion International, by Eric Wilson and Matt Bronleewe.
We also want to share how your generosity is reaching beyond our walls through Send Out. Because of your giving above and beyond last year, we were able to support other ministries, including Gospel EKO. Our recent $50,000 gift came at a critical time for them, helping restart key mission efforts, especially in Italy. They’ve been able to re-engage church planters, restore operations, resume travel for ministry, and move forward with important resources. Even more, they shared that your support brought renewed encouragement and momentum to their entire team after a difficult season. They are deeply grateful, not just for the gift, but for the partnership in the Gospel it represents.
Our “Build Up” Follow Initiative is also moving forward. Architects are finalizing plans, and we’re hopeful to begin work on Aurora, Crystal Lake, and Rolling Meadows later this summer, with other campuses to follow.
If you weren’t able to participate in the Follow Initiative or are new to Harvest, there is still time to join in. There is much to be done, and every step forward is a shared effort.
THE FUTURE
God has done so much in just these past few months, and we’re expectant for what He will do in May and June. Let’s continue to pray together for deeper faith, stronger hope, and a growing love for one another.
Please continue to pray for unity, wisdom, and discernment as we seek a new permanent home for our Elgin Campus.
If you haven’t yet connected with your campus pastor(s), elder(s), or deacon(s), we would love to meet and pray with you. We’re available for before- and after-services, or you can always reach out by email for a longer conversation over coffee or a meal. It would be our joy to connect with you.
With love and with eyes fixed on Him,
—The Elders of Harvest Bible Chapel