Religion news

Compiled by Erica Batten

Temple Israel

Cantor and friends: Join us over the holiday weekend as Cantor Elias Roochvarg, with accompaniment by Monty Bennett, presents a special afternoon of American music in honor of our nation’s birthday. The program will include patriotic tunes, American folk songs and some uniquely American music. 4 p.m. July 5. 4901 Providence Road. www.templeisraelnc.org.

Temple Beth El

Lecture: Schloss Annual Summer Lecture and Dinner on “A New Israeli Knesset: What Does It Mean for Israel?” Gil Tamary, Washington bureau chief for Israel’s Channel 10, will join the community to discuss the latest political situation in Israel. $10 per person for dinner; lecture only, free. Summer services at 6 p.m. July 17. Shabbat dinner, 7:15 p.m. Lecture at 7:30 p.m. 5101 Providence Road. 704-366-1948; www.templebethel.org.

Cornerstone Baptist

Anniversary celebration: The church will celebrate its 30th anniversary by inviting the prior pastors to preach at special services. Cornerstone was formed by the merger of Chantilly Baptist and Albemarle Road Baptist on April 1, 1985. Pastor Tim Jernigan (2009-2011) will preach at the 10:45 a.m. service on June 28. Concert pianist Alex Zsolt will provide music. Following the service, there will be a picnic and children’s activities. The final celebration service is planned for Sept. 27. All services and luncheons are free and include child care for children age 5 and younger. Children’s worship available. 8947 Albemarle Road. 704-537-1097.

Sharon United Methodist

Vacation Bible school: Get ready to experience God’s unstoppable love at “G-Force Adventure Park.” Age 3 through completed fifth grade. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. July 21-24. Register online or at 704-366-9166.

Performing arts camp: “Kidshine” for grades 3-8. Campers experience and express God’s love through music, drama, dance, puppets and scenery painting. $225 before July 10; $250 thereafter. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 10-14. Performance at 7 p.m. Aug. 14.

Sermon series: Life is not a game, but it can be fun. Jesus came to give us full life. Join us for “The Game of Life” to explore what that means and to play some cool games along the way. The topic for June 28 is “War.” 9 and 11:15 a.m. Sundays. 4411 Sharon Road. www.sharonumc.org.

Saint Mark’s Lutheran

Vacation Bible school: Children will learn how to build community at Habitat for Humanity’s “Under Construction.” Age four through fifth grade. 9:30 a.m.-noon July 13-16. 1001 Queens Road. Register at www.saintmarkscharlotte.org. 704-375-9185.

Sedgefield United Methodist

Vacation Bible school: “Everest: Conquering Challenges With God’s Mighty Power” for rising K-5 grades. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. July 6-10. Registration open through June 28. 2830 Dorchester Place. 704-523-0077; www.sedgefieldchurch.org.

Saint Andrew’s United Methodist

Vacation Bible school: Children age 4 through fifth grade are invited to “Christ’s Chosen.” Join us for an adventure of learning about the choosing of the 12 disciples. Free supper served each evening. 5:45-8:30 p.m. July 13-16. Register by July 3. 1901 Archdale Road. To register, email Sherry Jackson at childrensministry@standrewsumc.com.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drive: Free T-shirts to donors. 8:30-11:30 a.m. June 28 at Saint Mark’s Lutheran, 1001 Queens Road. www.cbcc.us.

Cross and Crown Lutheran, Matthews

Staff member welcomed: On June 17, the church welcomed Danielle Vogel as the new director of children’s ministry. Vogel comes to Cross and Crown from Ames, Iowa, with extensive experience in ministry with children and youth, as well as public school teaching experience. She will focus on creating activities for children and young families within the congregation and in the church’s preschool. A potluck meal will be held for her after 10:30 a.m. worship on June 28. 300 Pineville-Matthews Road, Matthews. www.crossandcrown.org.

Saint Matthew Catholic

Bike blessing service: Riders of all faiths are invited to meet at 11 a.m. June 28 at Harley-Davidson of Charlotte for a cookout and live music. At 1 p.m., we will ride to Saint Matthew for a blessing for a safe riding season.

Summer classes: Eight classes on scripture, theology, the saints, liturgy, and social justice, as well as a special retreat. Classes are offered on a variety of days and times. 8015 Ballantyne Commons Parkway. Course descriptions and online registration at www.stmatthewcatholic.org/summerforum.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drive: Free T-shirts to donors. 12:30-4 p.m. June 28 at Shiloh Baptist, 2301 Rocky River Road, Monroe. www.cbcc.us.

Pleasant Hill Baptist

Choir anniversary: The Voices of PHBC will observe its anniversary. Guest choirs have been invited to share in this musical. 4 p.m. June 28. 517 Baldwin Ave. 704-376-1201.

All Things Possible Ministries

Auditions: Looking for Christian vocalists for the 2015 Exalt! Vocal Talent Showcase. Auditions will be held July 18 at Grace Presbyterian, 2955 S. C. 160, Fort Mill. Apply online to secure your spot. Top 10 will perform at grand finale; top three will win studio time; winner will perform on TBN. www.ATPMIN.org.

The Baha’i Community of Charlotte

Film: Maziar Bahari’s “To Light a Candle” is a hopeful story of the Baha’i Institute for Higher Education and the fight of Baha’is in Iran to enjoy civil and human rights. 3 p.m. June 28. Refreshments and fellowship will follow the film. 3514 Marvin Road. www.bahaicharlotte.org.

Amity Presbyterian

Vacation Bible school: “Everest: Conquering Challenges With God’s Mighty Power” for ages 3-11. Children will enjoy exploration, “glacier games,” Bible expeditions, music, mountaintop treats and more. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. June 29-July 3.

Coffeehouse worship: Enjoy contemporary Christian music and favorite hymns, a few visual images, a short message and time for table discussion on how to apply the Biblical passage. All ages welcome. Coffee, tea, and snacks will be available. The service will be held monthly. 6 p.m. June 28 in Johnston Hall. 2831 N. Sharon Amity Road. 704-537-3484.

Third Presbyterian

Vacation Bible school: Music, Bible stories, games, friends, crafts. Rising K-6 grades. 9-11 a.m. July 11, 18 and 25. Register by July 3. 4019 Central Ave. www.thirdpresbyterian.com.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

Blood drive: Free T-shirts to donors. Noon-2 p.m. June 28 at Robinson Presbyterian, 9424 Harrisburg Road. www.cbcc.us.

Prosperity Presbyterian

Guest musician: Harpist Helen Rifas will play a 15-minute prelude, play with all congregational singing, and play a 15-minute postlude at the end of the service. Rifas is the principal harpist with the Winston-Salem and Greensboro Symphony Orchestras. 9:45 a.m. July 12. 5533 Prosperity Presbyterian Church Drive. 704-875-1182.

Advent Lutheran

Day camp: Rising 1-8 grades. Experience the benefits of a traditional overnight church camp at a fraction of the cost. Run by experienced Camp Agape counselors. $125. Extended day care available for small fee. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 20-24. 8840 University City Blvd. Register at 704-549-1555.

Wilmar Baptist, Concord

Day camp: “KidShine” performing arts day camp offers music, drama, dance, puppets, and scenery painting for kids in rising 3-8 grades. Snacks provided; campers bring their own lunch. Space limited. $155. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 20-24. Performance at 7 p.m. July 24. 584 Wilmar St. N. W., Concord. www.kidshineonline.org/day-camps.html#registerSTEP.

Calvary Lutheran, Concord

Service of healing: 8:30 and 11 a.m. June 28.

Military recognition service: 8:30 and 11 a.m. July 5.

Vacation Bible school: “G-Force” theme. 5:30-8:30 p.m. July 6-9.

Adventure camp: Week one, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 6-9. Week two, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 3-6. 950 Bradley St., Concord. www.clcofconcord.org.

First Baptist, Mooresville

Performance: The sanctuary choir, soloists, narrator and instrumentalists and will share “America! A Pilgrim’s Prayer, A Patriot’s Dream.” This musical offers praise and thanksgiving for God and country. The public is invited. 8:30 and 11 a.m. June 28.

Vacation Bible school: Join us for “Journey Off the Map” as we discover truths about Jesus. Kids will visit Survival Springs for snacks, Rappelling Ravine for recreation, Boulder Bridge for missions and much more. 4-7 p.m. July 19 and 9 a.m.-noon July 20-23. Closing program and treats, 6:30 p.m. July 23. 150 S. Church St., Mooresville. Register at www.FBCMooresville.com. 704-664-2324.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Lake Norman

Sunday morning groups: Humanist discussion group, adult discussion group, and youth spiritual exploration meet at 9:45 a.m. most Sundays. The Humanist discussion group will discuss “The Road to Character” by David Brooks.

Service: The Rev. Amy Brooks will speak on “Play Every Day.” Children age 4 and older go to spiritual exploration following the children’s story during the service. Nursery available. 11 a.m. June 28. Services are held at the Woodlawn School, 135 Woodlawn School Loop, Mooresville. www.uulakenorman.org.

Horizon Church, Statesville

Concert: Testify Youth Choir is comprised of 80-90 high school students from the Lake Norman region who use contemporary music, dance and dramatic performances to communicate the message of hope in Christ to audiences of all ages. The choir will return from its summer tour in Tennessee and perform at 10 a.m. June 28 at Horizon Church. A love offering will be taken. 316 Signal Hill Drive, Statesville. www.testifyministries.com.

Community in Christ Lutheran, Cornelius

Prayer shawl ministry: Intergenerational group creates shawls, chemo caps and other crafts that serve as a physical reminder of God’s unconditional love to people experiencing illness or other difficulty. The group meets 6:30 p.m. June 28.

Patriotic celebration: Community invited to join our praise team, choir and gospel choir in presenting a tribute to our country’s heritage. Free. 4 p.m. June 28. Refreshments follow.

Preschool summer camp: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 29-July 2 and Aug. 3-6. $120 per session. 7621 Norman Island Drive, Cornelius. www.communityinchrist.net.

Bethel Presbyterian, Cornelius

Vacation Bible school: At “Everest,” campers will go on an exciting expedition and learn to overcome obstacles with God’s mighty power. Games, experiments, music, Bible study, more. Age 4 through rising fifth grade. Free. 5:30-8:15 p.m. July 17, 3:30-6 p.m. July 18-19, and 6:30-8 p.m. July 20. A special VBS Sunday school will be held at 10 a.m. July 19. 19920 Bethel Church Road, Cornelius. Register by June 28 at www.bethel-pc.org.

Williamson’s Chapel United Methodist, Mooresville

Sermon series: “The Bible Comes to Broadway” will use Broadway plays auch as “Annie” and “Wicked” to illustrate gospel truths. Many of the church staff will take a turn preaching. 8:15, 9:30, 10:55 and 11 a.m. Sundays. 575 Brawley School Road, Mooresville. www.willchapumc.org.

In His Steps Dance Ministry

Summer camps: The local, nonprofit dance ministry for girls will offer free summer dance camps in Mooresville, Statesville, Taylorsville, Salisbury and Cornelius. The theme is “Dance Party.” Girls will learn dance moves and how we can have fun in our joy for Christ. In His Steps also offers free weekly dance classes and devotions. Pre-K through 12th grade. Volunteers and donations welcome. www.ihsdance.com.

Hopewell Baptist, Davidson

Vacation Bible school: Join us for an adventure into uncharted territory. Connect faith and life through Bible stories, crafts, music and games. Classes for all ages. 6:15-9 p.m. July 12-16. 18841 Davidson-Concord Road, Davidson. www.HopewellBaptistChurch.com.

Saint Phillip Missionary Baptist, Huntersville

Children’s book club: The Phenomenal Readers Book Club will meet to read books, visit the library, play vocabulary games, have snacks and work with adult mentors. Ages 6-15. Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays through July 30. 524 Dellwood Drive, Huntersville. 704-948-6869.

Saint Therese Catholic, Mooresville

Summer schedule: Weekend Masses will be held at 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and at 8:30 and 10 a.m., noon, 2:30 p.m. (Spanish) and 5:30 p.m. Sundays. The Sunday nursery will be open during the 8:30 and 10 a.m. Masses. The schedule will begin July 4 and end Aug. 30. 217 Brawley School Road, Mooresville. 704-664-3992.

The Oratory Center for Spirituality, Rock Hill

Summer Bible institute: Old Testament study on “The Hidden Gems of the Bible and Our Faith” with the Rev. Garrett Galvin. Galvin will discuss the books of Ruth, Ecclesiastes and more and the value of constructing theology on lived experience rather than authority. Peter Judge will present a New Testament study on “The Gospel of John Through Its Characters.” July 12-17. 434 Charlotte Ave., Rock Hill. 803-327-2097.

Bethel Presbyterian, Clover

Fall Bible study: All moms of young children are welcome to join a “Mentors and Moms” Bible study about parenting. Light breakfast served. Child care and study books provided. Registration required. 9:15-11:15 a.m. Thursdays starting Sept. 6. 2445 S. C. 557, Clover. www.BethelChurchPCA.com. For information, email Ann Falls at apfalls@yahoo.com.

Temple Solel, Fort Mill

Community involvement: Temple Solel celebrated its first service in February 2012. Solel means “pathway” or “pathfinder,” and since its inception, Temple Solel’s path has resulted in work with more than 10 local charities. Members work with the Children’s Attention Home and the Palmetto School. Monthly and annual food drives have collected more than 2,000 pounds of food for the Fort Mill Care Center, and members have assisted with food preparation for the annual mother/daughter luncheon fundraiser at Unity Presbyterian. Young people in the religious education program at Temple Solel have completed B’Nei Mitzvot projects, including coat drives, library organization, and raising awareness of childhood cancer.

Shabbat services: The Reform Jewish Congregation is holding Shabbat services 7 p.m. each second and fourth Friday in the ministry building at St. 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 June 24, 2015 at 11:07 AM with the headline "Religion news."