If you would like to have an event included in Religion news, send a news release to ebattenobserver@gmail.com.

Compiled by Erica Batten

St. Gabriel Catholic

Military appreciation Mass: Veterans, active-duty members and their families from our interfaith community are invited. The USAR 108th Training Command will provide a color guard. The Rev. Frank O’Rourke will extend a special blessing. Reserved seating provided. Active-duty members encouraged to wear uniforms. 10:45 a.m. Nov. 11. 3016 Providence Road. www.stgabrielchurch.org.

St. Stephen United Methodist

Fall craft festival: More than 50 vendors with crafts and gift items, baked goods, door prizes, barbecue lunch. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 3. 6800 Sardis Road. 704-364-1824; www.ststephenumc.net.

St. Ann Catholic

Concert: The Gaudium Musicae concert series begins with a performance by harpist Andrea Mumm. Families, $30; adults, $12; students, $8; children 12 and younger, free. 4 p.m. Nov. 4. 3635 Park Road. 704-523-4641; www.StAnnCharlotte.org.

Pineville United Methodist

Community prayer service: Renew the love in the hearts of people in churches, community and country. Prayer and candlelight service with guest speaker the Rev. Marjorie Gilliam of Faith Community Fellowship. 6 p.m. Nov. 3. 110 S. Polk St., Pineville. 704-889-2022.

Bethlehem United Methodist, Waxhaw

Benefit event: Yard sale and silent auction to benefit a neighborhood family. Auction items include horseback riding lessons, taekwondo passes, haircuts, more. 8 a.m.-noon Nov. 3. 5300 Nesbit Road, Waxhaw. 704-764-3602.

Grace United Methodist

Community yard sale: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 3. Breakfast, 8-10:30 a.m. Lunch, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 737 E. Woodlawn Road. 704-523-5052.

Philadelphia Presbyterian, Mint Hill

Annual bazaar: Sausage-biscuit breakfast and yard sale, 8 a.m. Nov. 3. Arts and crafts and bake sale, 9 a.m. Chicken and dumplings dinner, 6 p.m. Quilt drawing and auction, 7 p.m. Proceeds go to church activities and missions. 11501 Bain School Road, Mint Hill. www.philadelphiachurch.org.

Southbrook Church, Weddington

Free shopping day: The clothing closet ministry will have clothes, shoes and household linens available for those in need. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Nov. 3 in the Southbrook Ministry Center, 104 S. Hayne St., Monroe. www.southbrookchurch.com.

Temple Beth El

Panel discussion: Ed Williams, former Charlotte Observer editorial page editor, will moderate a discussion on “Faith and Politics: Where is the Line and Has It Been Crossed?” Panelists include Ruth Samuelson, Dr. Scott Huffmon, and Dr. Rodney Sadler. Free. 4-5:30 p.m. Nov. 4. 704-366-1948.

Classes: Rabbi Jonathan Freirich will guide Temple Beth El University’s “Spirituality for Skeptics,” an exploration of Jewish mysticism. Discover how thoughtful, grounded spirituality can be found through Kabbalah. $36 for members; $52 for nonmembers. 7-9 p.m. Nov. 7, 14, and 28. 5101 Providence Road. www.beth-el.com/RSVP.

Clinton Chapel AME Zion

Anniversary celebration: Homecoming revival, 7 p.m. Nov. 7-9. Anniversary celebration service with guest speaker the Rev. George Battle, 4 p.m. Nov. 11. 1901 Rozzelles Ferry Road. 980-224-9709.

New Life Theological Seminary

Scholarly forum: The public is invited to the Voices of New Life quarterly forum. Dr. James Gifford will read his paper “Augustine: The Father of Christian Determinism.” A question and answer period will follow. 7 p.m. Nov. 8. 3117 Whiting Ave. 704-334-6882; www.nlts.edu.

St. John’s Baptist

Concert: Meredith College’s Sinfonietta, Chorale, Encore! and Octavia Ensembles will perform. Reception follows. Hosted by the Mecklenburg County chapter of the Meredith College Alumnae Association. Free. 2 p.m. Nov. 4. 300 Hawthorne Lane. 704-333-5428.

First Presbyterian

Performance: The American Spiritual Ensemble will present an evening of beloved spirituals, folk and Broadway songs. Free; donations welcome. 7 p.m. Nov. 9. 200 W. Trade St. www.firstpres-charlotte.org.

Newell Baptist

Homecoming: Guest speaker Dr. Ralph Holt, former interim pastor. Former congregants welcome. Lunch follows service. 11 a.m. Nov. 4. 9115 Newell Baptist Church Road. 704-596-0184.

Second Calvary Baptist

Anniversary service: The church celebrates 98 years. Dr. Denny Davis will be the guest minister. 10 a.m. Nov. 11. 114 Nelson Ave. 704-399-0378; www.secondcalvary-charlotte.org.

Hickory Grove United Methodist

Fundraisers: The United Methodist Women will host a craft and bake sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 10. The Methodist Men will host a chicken and dumplings dinner noon-7 p.m. All you can eat. Adults, $8; children younger than 12, $3. No charge for children younger than 3. Desserts available for donation. 6401 Hickory Grove Road. www.hickorygroveumc.com.

Christ United Methodist

Wonderful Wednesdays: Drop-in meal, 5:30-6:15 p.m. Donations only. Small-group studies, youth group, and children’s groups meet 6:15-7:30 p.m. 8020 Bellhaven Blvd. http://christumc-charlotte.org.

Steele Creek Church of Charlotte

Men’s conference: 2012 Iron Sharpens Iron men’s conference is a regional event unifying men. Open to ages 13 and older. 8:30 a.m.-4:55 p.m. Nov. 17. 1929 W. Arrowood Road. Registration and details at www.CRCMM.org.

St. Matthew Catholic

Lecture: John Allen will present “The Future Church: Current Trends That Will Revolutionize the Church.” Free. 7:30-9 p.m. Nov. 12. 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. www.stmatthewcatholic.org.

Matthews United Methodist

Holiday shopping extravaganza: Shop for the holidays and other special occasions. More than 70 vendors will offer handmade items for the home as well as all age groups on your gift list. Holiday desserts, breakfast and lunch available. Sponsored by Prime Time Adults Senior Ministries. Proceeds support local missions. Free admission and parking. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 17. 801 S. Trade St., Matthews. 704-847-6261; www.matthewsumc.org.

New Charlotte Church, Matthews

Marriage weekend: “Heart to Heart” combines a series of talks on important topics with a series of guided personal conversations between spouses. Couples will not be required to share personal issues with other couples. Engaged couples welcome. $20 per couple. Meals not provided. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Nov. 9 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 10. 11011 Monroe Road, Matthews. Register at http://hearttoheartfall2012.eventbrite.com.

Central Church Life Care Center

Seminar: Robert McKenzie, senior vice president of Bank of America and certified career management coach, will present “MAXimize Your Career.” Learn six steps to walk in the work God prepared for you, learn methods for developing resumes, preparing for interviews, and networking. Workbook and online resources included. 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Nov. 10. 5500 Randolph Road. Register at www.centralchurchofgod.org/lifecare or 704-365-6112.

Shepherd’s Center SouthEast

Book club: Discussion of Richard Russo’s “Empire Falls.” Please read selection prior to the meeting. Newcomers welcome. The club meets the second Tuesday of each month. 10-11:30 a.m. Nov. 13 at The Ivey, 6030 Park South Drive. 704-321-0325; pegndale@gmail.com.

Calvary Church

Veterans’ breakfast: All veterans in the community are invited. Former aircraft commander and Marine Corps Capt. Sam Jacks will be the keynote speaker. $5. 8-10 a.m. Nov. 10. 5801 Pineville-Matthews Road. Register at www.calvarychurch.com.

Providence United Methodist

Special program: The Rev. Beth Brittain, chaplain and grief counselor, will present “Living With Grief During the Holidays.” Free. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 11. 2810 Providence Road. www.providenceumc.org.

Harrison United Methodist, Pineville

Craft classes: “Christmas Under Construction” features craft classes for individuals and families. Learn to make your own Advent wreath or family holiday ornament, select an opportunity for the Angel Tree Ministry, or help pack shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. Free. 2-5 p.m. Nov. 10. 15008 Lancaster Hwy., Pineville. www.harrisonumc.org.

Myers Park United Methodist

Holy Communion service: Unity-building service on Election Day. Service is part of a national effort called Election Day Communion. 7 p.m. Nov. 6. 1501 Queens Road. 704-376-8584; www.mpumc.org.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drive: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 4 at Lakeview Baptist, 4602 Concord Hwy., Monroe. 704-972-4700; www.carolinadonor.org.

Waxhaw United Methodist

Annual Thanksgiving dinner: Turkey with all the trimmings, delightful homemade desserts. Dine in or carry out. Proceeds go to the United Methodist Women’s local missions fund. Adults, $8; children, $4. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Nov. 10. 200 McDonald St., Waxhaw. 704-843-3931; www.waxhawumc.com.

First Baptist, Indian Trail

Christmas shopping event: “Mistletoe Madness” with Christmas décor, gifts and more. Admission is canned goods to help support local food banks. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 10. Vendors may register for $30 by contacting Sherri Mangum at sherrimangum@att.net. 732 Indian Trail-Fairview Road, Indian Trail. 704-882-1005.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drives: 12:30-4 p.m. Nov. 4 at Living Water Church of God, 166 N. Little Texas Road, Kannapolis. Noon-2 p.m. Nov. 11 at Calvary Lutheran, 950 Bradley St., Concord. 3:30-6:30 p.m. Nov. 12 at Crossroads Church, 220 George W. Liles Pkwy., Concord. 704-972-4700; www.carolinadonor.org.

Grace Lutheran, Concord

Harvest home celebration: The church celebrates 129 years with the theme “Celebrating Our Past, Engaging Our Present, Creating Our Future.” Youth program, fellowship, hot dog and marshmallow roast, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9. “Evening of Elegance” with musical and comic entertainment and heavy hors d’oeuvres, 6 p.m. Nov. 10 at Barber-Scotia College student union. $20 per person or $35 per couple. Service with guest speaker the Rev. Glenn Lucas, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 11. Lunch will be served at 1 p.m. with testimony service at 2:30 p.m. 58 Chestnut Drive, Concord. 704-782-7620.

All Saints’ Episcopal, Concord

Embroiderers Guild of America: Learn the art of hand embroidery. Correspondence courses from the national organization, expertise and support for all ability levels. Meetings monthly. 10 a.m. Nov. 6. 525 Lake Road, Concord. 704-782-2024; www.allsaintsconcord.org.

Temple Or Olam, Concord

Special event: Friends of all faiths invited to celebrate with us as we welcome home a second handwritten Torah scroll. Presentation on Torah history and production. 2 p.m. Nov. 18 at McGill Baptist, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, Concord. 704-720-7577; www.or-olam.org.

Mount Olivet United Methodist, Concord

Service: Sermon “Don’t Beat Around the Bush.” 8:45 and 11 a.m. Nov. 4. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. 301 Mt. Olivet Road, Concord. 704-782-8846.

Boger’s Chapel United Methodist, Concord

Annual supper: Chicken and dumplings supper. Donations accepted for missions. 5-7 p.m. Nov. 10. 1775 Flowes Store Road E., Concord. 704-786-3575.

St. James the Greater Catholic, Concord

Fundraiser: The women’s guild will host a sale with homemade desserts, bargain prices on books, CDs and DVDs, and exciting raffle items. Noon-5 p.m. Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Nov. 10, and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 11 in the parish hall. 139 Manor Ave. S. W., Concord. 704-720-0600; www.saintjamescatholic.org.

The Episcopal Church of St. Peter By-the-Lake, Denver

Concert: The Alexander Community Concert Series welcomes Carolina Pro Musica performing Baroque chamber music. Reception follows concert. Adults, $15; seniors and students, $10. Children younger than 12, free. 3 p.m. Nov. 4. 8433 Fairfield Forest Road, Denver. 704-489-6249.

Davidson College Presbyterian

Discussion program: Dr. Kristie Foley will present “Do We Have a Moral Obligation to Provide Health Care for the Poor?” 9:45 a.m. Nov. 4, 11, 18 and 25.

Study series: The Jubilee Class will present programs on the relationship between church and state. Adults and college students invited. 9:45 a.m. Sundays through Nov. 18. Dr. Sherrill Holland will present “Calvin and the Constitution” Nov. 11. 100 N. Main St., Davidson. www.dcpc.org.

Davidson Friends Meeting

Community open house: The congregation will celebrate the move into its new meeting house with tours, displays and refreshments. 1-5 p.m. Nov. 4. Program at 3 p.m. 625 South St., Davidson. Regular worship meetings at 10 a.m. Sundays. http://davidson.quaker.org.

St. Mark Catholic, Huntersville

Guest speaker: Dr. Peter Kreeft will present “Living a Virtuous Life in the 21st Century” at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10. A wine-and-cheese reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. $15 per person or $25 per couple. 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville. Tickets available at 704-948-1306 or dsmith18@bellsouth.net.

First Presbyterian, Mooresville

Holiday market: Pancake breakfast with Santa, handmade Christmas items, garden art, baked goods, more. Breakfast is $6 for adults and $3 for children; $15 family maximum. Tickets available in advance or at the door. Proceeds support church mission projects. 7 a.m.-noon Nov. 10. 249 McClelland Ave., Mooresville. 704-664-5275.

Centerpointe Baptist, Huntersville

Couples’ conference: “After You Kiss the Bride: Enjoying Marriage God’s Way.” Speakers include Jason Ormiston and Greg Blake. Open to anyone. Individuals, $15; couples, $25. 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 10-11:30 a.m. Nov. 11. 6431 Cashion Road, Huntersville. Register at www.cbchuntersville.org.

Mt. Zion United Methodist, Cornelius

Veterans’ service: The church will honor its veterans at the 11 a.m. service Nov. 11. Please wear uniforms and medals, and greet members in front of the church. RSVP for a luncheon by Nov. 5. 19600 Zion Ave., Cornelius. www.mtzionumc.net.

Independence Hill Baptist, Huntersville

Preschool openings: The weekday preschool has openings for this school year. Classes are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Thursday. 10220 Eastfield Road, Huntersville. 704-596-4779.

The Bahá’ís of Huntersville

Devotional gathering: The public is invited to bi-weekly devotional gatherings. The next topic will be “The Inestimable Value of Education for Mankind.” Light refreshments served. 2 p.m. Nov. 4 at the Huntersville Arts and Cultural Center, 109 S. Old Statesville Road, Huntersville. www.huntersvillebahai.org.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Catawba Valley, Hickory

Service: “The Spiritual Path of Being in Relationship.” Janet and John Wepner of The Wepner Wellness Center will speak on how being in a relationship, both friendship and intimate, feeds and nourishes spiritual growth. 11 a.m. Nov. 4.

Meditation group: Meditation and discussion to foster mindfulness and clarity. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursdays. 833 Fifth St. S. E., Hickory. www.uuhickory.org.

Blessed John XXIII Ecumenical Church, Hickory

Services: 4:30 p.m. Saturdays in the old sanctuary of Zion Lutheran Church, 1911 Zion Church Road, Hickory. 828-850-2675.

St. John’s Lutheran, Cherryville

Wednesday evening ministry: Bible lessons and activities for youth in fifth grade and younger, 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Fellowship meal for all ages, 6 p.m. Youth and children’s music and adult ministries, 6:30 p.m. 310 W. Church St., Cherryville. www.stjohnscherryville.com.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drive: 4-7 p.m. Nov. 5 at First Presbyterian, 102 S. Central Ave., Belmont. 704-972-4700; www.carolinadonor.org.

Temple Solel, Fort Mill

Services: Regular services will be held at 7 p.m. each second and fourth Friday. The first service will be a Kabbalat Shabbat, and the second service will be a Midrash, or learners’, Shabbat. The program will include prayer and a discussion topic.

Religious school: Classes for children in kindergarten through B’nai Mitzvah using the curriculum of the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life. 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Classes and services are held at St. Philip Neri Catholic, 292 Munn Road, Fort Mill. www.templesolelsc.org.

Epiphany Lutheran, Rock Hill

Adult Sunday school: New series “Making Sense of the Bible.” 9:15 a.m. Sundays, Nov. 4-Dec. 16. 2370 W. Main St., Rock Hill. www.epiphany-rockhill.org.

Good Samaritan United Methodist, Lake Wylie

Craft vendors wanted: Applications being accepted for a craft fair Nov. 17. Indoor and outdoor spaces available. Contact Nancy Mathis at 803-831-1080.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drives: 5-7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at Mt. Holly United Methodist, 1996 Mt. Holly Road, Rock Hill. Noon-3 p.m. Nov. 10 at St. John Missionary Baptist, 3726 Woodlawn St., Sharon. 704-972-4700; www.carolinadonor.org.