ASHFIELD — The First Congregational Church in Ashfield invites anyone to contribute to a fund to support Joan Arsenault, whose house and barn burned down on Nov. 8. “We are developing ways to respond to Joan’s losses,” said David Jones, minister at First Congregational. “She and her late husband, Joel, are well-known members of the community and beloved members of our congregation. Setting up a fund is the first step of many to help her recover from this tragedy.”
Please make checks to Ashfield Congregational Church, and write “For Joan Arsenault” on the memo line. Mail to P.O. Box 519, Ashfield, MA 01330.
BERNARDSTON — Bernardston filmmaker Rawn Fulton of Searchlight Films will present the film “Twice Upon A Caravan,” a real life adventure documenting a motorcycle trip taken by his father, Robert E. Fulton, Jr. in 1932. This report of 40,000 miles through 20 countries on three continents is an extraordinary record of a changing world seen through the eyes and mind of a venturesome traveler on a life enriching journey. 11:30 a.m. at the 1739 Bernardston Unitarian Meetinghouse. Coffee starts at 11 at 49 Church St.
PETERSHAM — Bonnie MacCracken, chair of the Hampshire-Franklin Commission on the Status of Women and Girls (HFCSWG) will speak on the mission of the organization at the First Congregational Parish Unitarian in Petersham on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 10:30 a.m. The HFCSWG is working to expand the public discussion of gender-based inequality in Western Massachusetts.
GREENFIELD — Julie Payne Britton will speak on the topic of “Before We Are Grateful (A Time for Grump)” at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church on Sunday, Nov. 17, at 10:30 a.m. This topic will reflect on issues of what you may not be grateful for and what helps when you can’t keep up with presumptions of gratitude or family. Keith Rollinson and the All Souls Choir will provide music. Coffee hour to follow the service. The church is on the corner of Main and Hope streets.
NORTHFIELD — Join the congregation at First Parish Unitarian, Northfield, on Sunday, Nov. 17, for open discussion and active listening about youth voice. How can we adapt our relationships with young people so that we do not miss out on their vital contributions? All are welcome to the 10 a.m. service held in the historic sanctuary on the corner of Parker Avenue and Main Street.
GILL — A benefit concert for Gill Church will feature a special performance by renowned Pioneer Valley Singer/Songwriter Norman Schell at the Gill Church, 6 Center Road, on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. A contribution of $10 will be asked to help defray the cost of the new handicapped-access addition to the church. However, organizers say no one will be turned away for lack of funds. The performance will include such Christian favorites as “Eternal Father,” “Amazing Grace” and “Green Pastures” as well as Schell’s compositions, “The Hand Upon the Tiller,” Not Enough Time,” “By the Banks of Stormy Jordan” and “Oh Jerusalem.” For more information, call 413-768-9543.
GREENFIELD — Children and adults can make ornaments, yule logs, door sprays and more to cheer your home. 11 a.m., immediately following worship at Second Congregational Church, 16 Court Square. All are welcome.
TURNERS FALLS — Enjoy a Christmas Carol Sing and Concert on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. at JaDuke Performing Arts Center, 110 Industrial Blvd. Featured is 4D1G Gospel Quartet, the Valley Revival Choir, Dennis Ainsworth on piano and other special guests. Free admission.
GREENFIELD — Join in telling the story of Jesus’s birth at the Second Congregational Church, 16 Court Square. All are welcome to have a role or to be in the audience. One rehearsal at 3 p.m., followed by the pageant (with costumes) at 4 p.m. Then stay for a Mac’n’ Cheese dinner for everyone right after the pageant. Musicians encouraged and music is provided.
GREENFIELD — A special service for those seeking wholeness and peace during a season of festivity, 7 p.m., at Second Congregational Church, 16 Court Square. This Blue Christmas service gives the opportunity to feel the hope, love and peace of the Advent season in a subdued and reflective setting. Candle lighting, silence and music are part of this service.
COLRAIN — “CHRISTMAS IN COLRAIN” is a free concert at the First Baptist Church on Foundry Village Road. Concert starts at 2 p.m. and includes free refreshments.