Pastor Jim Rennie of First Baptist Church in Colrain wishes readers to know that there is a Men’s Retreat coming up at Camp Northfield on Sept. 16. “It’s overnight and includes a guest speaker, three means and accommodation, all for only $55. Men can register online at CampNorthfield.com.”
HALIFAX, Vt. — The Halifax Union Society concludes its summer season this Sunday evening with the Rev. Dr. Marcia Dorey taking a final look at “The Feminine in the Bible.” Merrillyn Courser will play request hymns on the antique Carpenter reed organ. The service begins at 6 p.m. with a potluck picnic starting at 4:30 p.m. on the lawn in front of the historic church, which is located at 44 Stowe Mountain Road near the crossroads in Halifax Center. All are welcome to attend.
CONWAY — The building of two massive stone Stupas, or Buddhist sacred sculptures, at Wilder Hill Gardens is complete. The public is invited to a party and dedication ceremony Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m., with activities, refreshments and Tibetan music and dance. Activities include making a community mandala, flower garlands and prayer flags. A ceremony will be at 4 p.m. Free of charge; donations to the Wilder Hill fellowship fund greatly appreciated. Children are most welcome; please, no pets. Wilder Hill Gardens is located at 351 South Shirkshire Road. For more information: Lillian Jackman at 413-625-9446 or lillianjackman@gmail.com.
MONTAGUE CENTER — Montague Congregational Church is hosting the workshop, “Focusing as a Spiritual Practice” on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon. This workshop is an experiential introduction to focusing, a mindfulness tool that can help us find inner clarity. The facilitator, Daphne Bye, is a Certified Focusing Trainer, musician and teacher. There is no charge for this workshop but a free-will offering will be taken. Please RSVP at daphneannbye@gmail.com or 413-834-0597 or www.daphnebye.com.
NORTH ORANGE — Rev. Don Erickson will begin a new sermon series, “A Nonviolent Reading of the Bible,” on Sunday, Sept. 11, at 9 a.m., at the Community Church of North Orange and Tully. The series will seek to answer the question many have — “How can I find meaning and hope in a book that has so much violence?” Sermons in the series will be presented on the first and third Sundays of each month, in the first part of Sunday services starting at 9 a.m.
GREENFIELD — Temple Israel is holding its first Fall Barbecue on Sunday, Sept. 18, from noon to 3 p.m., rain or shine, at Camp Lion Knoll. This is an event for members, prospective members and friends of all ages. Vegetarian portobello mushroom burgers, Kosher hot dogs, and Kosher barbecued chicken raised locally will be provided. There will be hiking, games and crafts. This is an opportunity to learn more about Temple Israel, to meet Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener and enjoy the good food and company. Requested donation of $5 per person, Max. $15 per family. RSVP by Sept. 8 at www.templeisraelgreenfield.org or call 413-773-5884.