Religion

Faith news and events for the week of March 7



 The 42-voice choir recently toured South Africa, singing at large urban churches, universities, small parishes in black townships, inner-city missions and AIDS clinics. The choir is also featured in Hope College’s longstanding tradition, Christmas Vespers, the award-winning television broadcast of which is seen around the country at Christmastime on PBS
The 42-voice choir recently toured South Africa, singing at large urban churches, universities, small parishes in black townships, inner-city missions and AIDS clinics. The choir is also featured in Hope College’s longstanding tradition, Christmas Vespers, the award-winning television broadcast of which is seen around the country at Christmastime on PBS COURTESY OF NIKKI LIVINGSTON

If you have news about your faith community, please send announcements and photos to ebattenobserver@gmail.com.

Compiled by Erica Batten

American Islamic Outreach Foundation

Community program: “Should We Fear Islam?” will promote diversity and address misconceptions about Islam. All are invited. 7 p.m. March 7 at the Embassy Suites, 5400 John Q. Hammons Drive N.W., Concord. www.AmericanIslamicOutreach.org.

Sardis Presbyterian

Concert: The Hope Chapel Choir, the touring ensemble from Hope College in Holland, Mich., will perform as part of its spring concert tour. The program highlights several arrangements of South African songs as well as sacred and secular works from the Western choral tradition. 7 p.m. March 14. 6100 Sardis Road. www.sardis.org.

Saint Nektarios Greek Orthodox

Concert: Cappella Romana will present a concert of medieval Byzantine chanting. Free admission. 8 p.m. March 13. 5108 Kuykendall Road. www.stnektarios.org.

Women Living Well Ministries

Forum: Learn the word of God and be empowered to grow in Christian faith. The new series is “Conquering Giants.” Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursdays. Free. The next forum will focus on “The Battles We Face are NOT Ours to Fight.” 7-8:30 p.m. March 12 at the Hilton Garden Inn Uptown, 508 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Free parking in the EZ Parking Lot, 501 Caldwell St. www.womenlivingwellministries.org.

Second Calvary Baptist

Spring revival: The Rev. John McCormick, senior pastor of Crosswork AME Church in Round Rock, Texas, will be the guest preacher. 7 p.m. March 9-11. 114 Nelson Ave. www.secondcalvary-charlotte.org.

Saint Gabriel Catholic

Lenten mission: All are invited to “The Return of the Prodigal.” Join the Rev. Bill Cosgrove on a journey of discovery, providing new insights into ways the parable plays out in our lives. 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. March 9-11. Mass at 11 a.m. presentation. Light lunch available for $10. 3016 Providence Road. www.stgabrielchurch.org.

Amity Presbyterian

Lenten services: Noon-12:30 p.m. March 11, 18 and 25. Participating churches are Third Presbyterian, First Church of God, and Central, Cokesbury and Memorial United Methodist. 2831 N. Sharon Amity Road. 704-537-3484.

Clear Creek Baptist, Mint Hill

Guest speaker: Bailey Smith, evangelist and past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, will speak at 6:30 p.m. March 7 and 10:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. March 8. 9015 Ferguson Road, Mint Hill. www.clearcreekbaptistchurch.com.

Elizabeth Communities of Faith

Lenten services: Six churches and the chaplaincies of CMC-Mercy and Novant Presbyterian will gather each week for worship on the theme “On the Journey Together.” A different church or chaplaincy will lead worship each week, and area restaurants will provide a simple lunch. $5 suggested donation for lunch. All money will be donated to Loaves and Fishes and the Community Culinary School of Charlotte. The 30-minute services will be held at noon Wednesdays at Caldwell Presbyterian, 1609 E. Fifth St. On March 11, the CMC-Mercy Department of Pastoral Care will lead worship. Soup and bread will be provided by Passion8 and Great Harvest Bread Co. www.elizabethfaith.org.

Pleasant Hill Baptist

Exercise classes: Kickboxing classes will be held at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of the month. $3 donation per person. 517 Baldwin Ave. 704-376-1201.

Cokesbury United Methodist

Annual attic sale: The United Methodist Women will host an attic sale 7 a.m.-noon March 14. 6701 Idlewild Road. 704-537-5818.

Sharon United Methodist

Services: Sermon on “Don’t Be an Oxymoron.” 9 and 11:15 a.m. March 8. 4411 Sharon Road. 704-366-9166; www.sharonumc.org.

Providence United Methodist

Open house: The music department invites anyone who would like to visit a choir to sing along, to learn more about how a choir works, or just to listen. A reception will follow rehearsal. 7:30 p.m. March 12 in the music suite. 2810 Providence Road. www.ProvidenceUMC.org.

Wesley United Methodist

Study: We will read “The Story,” a 31-chapter version of the Bible story that reads like a novel. Each week we explore both God’s perspective and the human experience. Learn what it means to live the challenging and rewarding life of following Christ. Copies of the book are available at the church. 9 and 11 a.m. Sundays. 3715 Rea Road. www.WesleyCharlotte.org.

MorningStar Presbyterian, Matthews

Cards and games: Bring the cards and games you love to play. Snacks, lunch, door prizes and silent auction. Groups welcome. Sponsored by the Presbyterian Women. $10 per person. Payment must be received in the church office by March 12. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 14. 13000 Idlewild Road, Matthews. 704-847-0864.

Blair Road United Methodist, Mint Hill

Concert: The African Children’s Choir will perform African songs and dances including children’s songs, traditional spirituals, and gospel favorites. Free; a free-will offering will be taken to support the choir’s education, relief, and development programs. 8:45 and 11:11 a.m. March 15. 9135 Blair Road, Mint Hill. www.africanchildrenschoir.com.

Matthews United Methodist

Summer arts camp: Under God’s Sea in 3-D music and arts camp for children in kindergarten to sixth grades. $75 includes daily lunch and snack, T-shirt, materials. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 6-10 with performance at 6 p.m. July 11. Registration open.

Weekly summer camp: At The Lighthouse, children will explore cities where Jesus’ ministry came alive and learn to live faith in daily life. Games, crafts, cooking projects, devotions, field trips, service projects and more. $145 per week. 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. June 15-Aug. 19. Space limited. Registration open.

Vacation Bible school: Everest VBS: Conquering Challenges With God’s Mighty Power. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. June 22-26. Registration information available March 8. 801 S. Trade St., Matthews. www.matthewumc.org.

First Baptist, Indian Trail

Spring sports: Developmental tackle football for ages 6-8 and up to 75 pounds, $120; ages 9-11 and up to 120 pounds, $170. Register by March 21. Cheerleading for ages 6-11, $80. Register by March 21. Soccer for ages 5-11, $80. Register by March 12. 732 Indian Trail-Fairview Road, Indian Trail. 704-882-1005; www.fbcit.org.

Kerr Memorial Baptist, Concord

Concert: The Rick Webb Family will perform 10:30 a.m. March 8. The Webbs have shared their ministry at the NFL Hall of Fame, The Grand Ole Opry, the Southern Baptist Convention, Walt Disney World and other venues nationwide. 25 N.C. 49 S., Concord. www.kerrbaptist.org.

Forest Hill United Methodist, Concord

Consignment sale: Register to consign children’s clothing and toys for the Second Blessings sale to be held March 20-21. www.foresthillumc.org.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drives: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 8 at Epworth United Methodist, 1030 Burrage Road N.E., Concord. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. March 8 at Harrisburg Presbyterian, 4815 N.C. 49 S., Harrisburg. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 8 at Kannapolis Church of God, 2211 W. A St., Kannapolis. www.cbcc.us.

Fair View United Methodist, Mooresville

Lenten Bible study: Susan Harrison will lead a study of how to enter into an apprenticeship with Jesus. Everyone welcome. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Light supper available at 5:45 p.m. 1430 Mecklenburg Highway, Mooresville. 704-664-2880.

Saint Mark’s Lutheran, Mooresville

Lenten services: Soup suppers and fellowship will be held 5-6 p.m. March 8, 15 and 22 in the family life center. Holden evening prayer at 6:15 p.m. in the sanctuary. 454 Fieldstone Road, Mooresville. 704-664-5474.

Saint Alban’s Episcopal, Davidson

Organ recital: The church’s Stevens organ celebrates 150 years. Organist John Apple will perform pieces from the time of the organ’s construction, including works by Americans Dudley Buck, Eugene Thayer, and Henry Stephen Cutler, as well as Cesar Franck, Edouard Batiste, Felix Mendelssohn, and Franz Liszt. The celebration will include details about the organ’s history and Apple’s observations about aspects of the instrument and other historical American organs. Refreshments will be served. Free. 3 p.m. March 8.

Concert: Young musicians will present “Celebrating Grace,” inspired by the life of Grace Krumdieck, who died from complications of Rett Syndrome last year at age 15. Grace was the daughter of the church’s artistic director. $15 general admission; $10 for seniors; $5 for children ages 12-18; free for children younger than 12. 3 p.m. March 15. 301 Caldwell Lane, Davidson. www.musicatstalbansdavidson.org.

In His Steps Dance, Mooresville

Teen girls’ event: In His Steps presents “Elevate Teen: Cowgirl Up,” a free event for girls in seventh to 12th grades. Come dressed in cowgirl gear if you wish; prize awarded for most creative outfit. Enjoy door prizes, music, desserts, games, dancing and learning how to cowgirl up for Christ. 6:30-9:30 p.m. March 13. In His Steps also offers free weekly dance classes and spiritual development for girls. 197 Langtree Road, Mooresville. www.ihsdance.com.

First Baptist, Cornelius

Seniors group: Interesting programs, fellowship and travel opportunities. New people are welcome. Meetings at 10:30 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month. 21007 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. For information, call Pat Alleshunas at 704-787-9257.

Community in Christ Lutheran, Cornelius

Job assistance workshop: “Interview Coaching” will cover behavioral interviewing and how to prepare for interviews using key strengths, weaknesses, decision making and problem solving. The group meets monthly. 7 p.m. March 9. RSVP: 704-892-0120; jobassistanceworkshop@gmail.com.

Preschool: Registration open for the 2015-2016 school year. Classes for age 2 to transitional kindergarten.

Lenten services: 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Soup supper at 6 p.m. 7621 Norman Island Drive, Cornelius. www.communityinchrist.net.

Saint Phillip Missionary Baptist, Huntersville

Anniversary celebration: The Saint Phillip church family will celebrate the pastor’s 20th anniversary with the church. The Rev. Deborah Dozier, associate pastor of Mount Pleasant Baptist, will deliver the message. 11 a.m. March 8. Dinner will be served at 1 p.m. 524 Dellwood Drive, Huntersville. 704-875-6180.

Holy Spirit Catholic, Denver

Fish fry: The Knights of Columbus will hold its annual Lenten fish fries. Proceeds go to local charities. 5-8 p.m. Fridays. 537 N. C. 16 N., Denver. www.holyspiritnc.org.

Temple Kol Tikvah, Davidson

Community run: Second annual Run for Youth 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run/walk. All ages and levels welcome. Proceeds benefit Lake Norman-area youth, including Davidson Youth Baseball Association and community partner and youth groups at Temple Kol Tikvah. Registration is $20 through March 15, $25 March 16-21, and $30 on race day. Participants who register by March 8 will receive a free T-shirt. A post-race party with music, free food and an awards ceremony will be held on the lawn. Registration begins at 7 a.m. March 22. 605 South St., Davidson. Register at www.davidsontiming.com.

Davidson United Methodist

Quiet Space Fridays: Ecumenical monthly opportunity using the power of space to revive, restore, and reveal. Limited registration. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 13 at the Starrette Farm Retreat in Statesville. $20. Quiet Space Fridays will be offered the second Friday of each month. www.TheLydiaGroup.com.

New Hope Lutheran, Mooresville

Ministry: Lifetree Café is part of a national network of locations offering participatory events related to life and faith. Events typically include a short original film and guided conversation on topics such as loneliness, immigration, angels, guilt, prayer and life after death. Snacks and drinks available. Free admission. 7 p.m. Tuesdays. The topic for March 10 is “Zzzz.” 2987 Charlotte Highway, Mooresville. Information at www.LifetreeCafe.com.

Cornelius Presbyterian

Pine needle sale: Quality pine needles from Florida, $5 per bale. Delivery, $.50 a bale. Free delivery for orders of 100 or more. Sale and delivery March 14. 21209 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. Orders: 704-892-5577.

Denver United Methodist

Consignment sale: Consignor and volunteer registration is open for the spring children’s consignment sale to be held March 21. Consignor benefits include easy drop-off of items, early shopping, and 70 percent of sales. A raffle will be held for two consignors to keep 100 percent of their sales. Consignor registration ends March 9. The church is at 3910 N. C. 16 Bus. N., Denver. www.denverumc.org.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Lake Norman

Sunday morning groups: Humanist discussion group, 9:45 a.m. Sundays in classroom 2. Adult discussion group meets to explore and share inspiration and challenges. 9:45 a.m. Sundays in classroom 3.

Service: The Rev. Mary Frances Comer will present “Finding Refuge in Everyday Life.” Children age 4 and older go to spiritual exploration following the children’s story during the service. Nursery available. 11 a.m. March 8. Services are held at the Woodlawn School, 135 Woodlawn School Loop, Mooresville. www.uulakenorman.org.

Saint Therese Catholic, Mooresville

Lenten penance service: 7 p.m. March 9.

Lenten Mass: Noon Tuesdays. Soup luncheon at 1 p.m.

Stations of the cross: 7 p.m. Fridays. A living stations of the cross will be presented by the youth ministry at 7 p.m. March 15. 217 Brawley School Road, Mooresville. 704-664-3992.

RiverLife Wellness Center, Mooresville

Christian counseling: Free individual, marriage, and family counseling. Daytime and evening appointments available. 2487 Charlotte Highway, Mooresville. To schedule an appointment, provide your name and contact information to 704-664-7705 ext. 1.

Saint Luke Greek Orthodox, Mooresville

Worship services: 9:15 a.m. Sundays. 134-A Talbert Pointe Drive, Mooresville. www.stluke-nc.org.

Epiphany Lutheran, Rock Hill

Lenten services: Gather for vespers liturgy “Hidden With Christ” based on Colossians 2 and 3. Services will include responsive readings, silence, new musical selections and a message. 7-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Pine straw sale: Proceeds will go to youth summer trip. March 14 and 21. 2370 W. Main St., Rock Hill. www.epiphany-rockhill.org.

Temple Solel, Fort Mill

Shabbat services: The Reform Jewish Congregation is holding Shabbat services at 7 p.m. each second and fourth Friday in the ministry building at Saint Philip Neri Catholic, 292 Munn Road, Fort Mill. Religious education is held 10:30 a.m. Sundays at Blooming Einsteins, 2752 Pleasant Road, Suite 103, Fort Mill. 803-619-9707; www.templesolelsc.org.

This story was originally published March 4, 2015 at 11:26 AM with the headline "Faith news and events for the week of March 7."

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