Religion news
102 YEARS: The 102nd anniversary of New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman St., Youngstown, where the Rev. Kenneth L. Simon has served as pastor for more than 30 years, will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
GOSPEL CONCERT: First Baptist Church of Niles will host a gospel concert with Wes Hamptom at 7 p.m. July 10.
FIRST FRIDAY: The First Friday Club of Greater Youngstown will meet at noon July 9 with a luncheon and program with Steven Kramer, who will present “Evangelization: Encouraging an Encounter with Jesus Christ” at Avion on the Water Banquet Center, 2177 W. Western Reserve Road in Canfield. Kramer was ordained in 1994 for the Diocese of Rockville Center, New York, and is now incardinated in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Kramer offers retreats, parish missions and presentations on preaching, evangelization, pastoral care and end-of-life ministry. There will be an opportunity for participants’ questions following the talk. The cost is $25 and reservations are required by calling 330-720-4498 by Thursday. The program was moved to the second Thursday because of the July 4 holiday.
SUPERHERO WEEKEND: Rock of Grace Church in Vernon will host Superhero Summerfest with a family night from 5:30 to 8 p.m. July 11 and a special service with the children at 9:30 a.m. July 12.
CHURCH HOSTS LADIES EVENT: Southington Christian Church, 3285 state Route 534, will host “In the Garden” ladies event honoring a Legacy of Faith immediately following the service at 10:45 a.m. July 19. The event is hosted by Ashley Morrow in loving memory of her grandmother, Gwendolyn Irene Arnold, to celebrate the quiet strength and lasting legacy of faithful women. The theme is “Consider the Lillies,” reminding people to trust God’s care and provision. The event is free and cosponsored by Philip Clingerman and will include refreshments, music, a short devotional and seed packets to take home.
MASSES AT FAIRGROUNDS: In order to serve rural families living on area fairgrounds during fair weeks, the Diocesan Office of Rural Life and Ministry announces opportunities to celebrate Catholic Mass at county fairs. The Rev. Kevin Peters will celebrate Mass at the Trumbull County Fair at noon July 19 at the Historical Stage. “A Blessing of the Herd” event will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday, at Brugler Farm, 7827 Hayes-Orangeville Road, Burghill.
GROW CAMP Registrations are now being accepted for two GROW Camps for children ages 5-12 at Villa Maria Education and Spirituality Center. The two sessions of GROW Camp will be July 13-16 or July 20-23 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Activities will include hands-on learning experiences with plants, animals and insects, exploring forests, ponds and wetlands, playing games and swimming. Lunch and snacks will be provided during both camps. Register online at vmesc.org.
GUIDED LABYRINTH: The Villa Maria Education and Spirituality Center will offer a Guided Labyrinth Walk 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. July 8. The theme is “Honoring Struggles and Letting Go.” The labyrinth is a tool that allows participants to explore their inner space and discover the sacred within and around them. Participants prayerfully walk the outdoor grass path after receiving thematic instructions from the presenter. This event is held on the grounds of Villa Maria Community Center. Walks are free, but registration is preferred. The event will take place rain or shine. If inclement weather is in the forecast, the labyrinth walk will take place in the Activities Building.


