Benedictine Sister authors book

Benedictine Sister of Perpetual Adoration Marietta Crahan, OSB, has authored a new book, “In the Boat With Us: Reflections of God’s Presence,” a collection of poetry that illustrates how all of us are joined in faith on our journey, accompanied by the Lord.

Reflecting the words written by Sister Marietta, each poem is highlighted with color illustrations and photographs of monastery scenery and of the Sisters’ chapel art. The 24-page book was designed by Clyde Prioress Sister Sean Douglas, OSB, with cover art by Sister Mary Carmela Rall, OSB, and additional art provided by Sister Mary Cyrilla Weilert, OSB, who passed away in 1975.

The cost is $10 each. Only a limited number of copies are for sale and can be purchased by calling (660) 944-2221. For more information, please contact Sister Marietta at (660) 944-2221 or Marietta@bspa.us.

Wesley UMC festival

Wesley United Methodist Church will hold its June festival from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 27. There will be kids’ games, pony rides, a moon bounce, a giant slide, a cake walk, craft booths and food. There also will be a free drawing for an Xbox 360. A few spaces are still open to anyone who would like to reserve a booth. For more information, call Randi Banker at 238-5049 or the church office at 279-7808.

Denton UMC marks 140 years

Denton United Methodist Church will celebrate 140 years of ministry with a 10 a.m. celebration service June 14. The Rev. Evelyn Fisher, Topeka district superintendent, will preach, and a basket dinner will follow. Drinks and table service will be provided.

The church is handicap accessible, with a ramp to the sanctuary and a chair lift to its fellowship hall.

South Park youth raise funds

The drama team of South Park Assembly of God, as well as competitors in vocal ensemble, rap, percussion traditional and American sign language categories will be in competition at the National Fine Arts Festival in Orlando, Fla., the week of Aug. 3.

The drama team consists of Angel Bills, Larnell and Elisha Byrd, Susanne Gloggner, Jessie May and Rachel Riley, performing an original skit called “Lifeswap” written by Rachel Riley. The Byrds will perform a rap, “Hands Up High,” that received the highest merit rating possible at districts for their performance. Larnell will also take part in the traditional percussion category with the Riley sisters doing a duet, “Lord, I Believe in You.” Jessie May Riley also is performing in the American sign language solo division with a rendition of “Word of God Speak” by Mercy Me.

From 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 7, the youth will host a barbecue at South Park Assembly of God, 4405 S. 22nd St. The menu includes loaded cheeseburgers for $3, beans, chili dogs for $2 and potato salad, chips, hot dogs and soda for $1 each. A full meal will be $5, and desserts are extra.

They will begin performing their events at 1 p.m. All funds raised will benefit their trip. Anyone wishing to help sponsor these young people may call 244-6216.

Shoe sale at Elwood First Baptist

Elwood First Baptist Church, 306 N. Ninth St., will hold a shoe sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 13. Shoes in all sizes will be available for $9.99, and with every set of shoes comes a free matching purse. All proceeds will go to the church’s youth department. For more information, call Kelly at (816) 294-3834.

Hope Fellowship Church begins

At 9 a.m. Sunday, June 7, the Rev. Earnestine Blakley will be starting a new church called Hope Fellowship Church, located in Mart Plaza (lower level) at 2921 N. Belt Highway, right next to the North Belt Kmart. The church is non-denominational with a contemporary and traditional blend. All are welcome. For more information, please call the Rev. Blakley at 279-8829.

VBS at First Christian

First Christian Church, 927 Faraon St., will host a vacation Bible school from 6 to 8:30 p.m. June 8 through 11. Travel back in time to Rome and explore the caves of the underground church, meet the apostle Paul, create Bible-times projects, experience real-life dramas, play games, sample Middle Eastern snacks and hear music. For more information, call 233-2556.

Immanuel Baptist dedicates sanctuary

Immanuel Baptist Church, 6920 Omelda St., invites you to the dedication of its new sanctuary at 2 p.m. June 7. The church will honor Lowele and Virginia Capps, charter members whose dedication through the years made this event possible. There will also be special speakers.

Lifestyles reporter Erin Wisdom can be reached at religion@npgco.com.