St. John's United Church of Christ, 223 West College Ave., Bluffton, will hold a blessing pets in the parking lot of the church on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. until noon, according to Rev. Carol Clements, pastor.
"As autumn arrives, people in various places may notice something odd - a procession of animals, everything from dogs and cats to hamsters and even horses, is led to churches for a special ceremony call the Blessing of Pets," she told The Icon.
St. John's United Church of Christ will serve their famous beef and noodle dinner at the church (223 West College Avenue, Bluffton) on Friday, Oct. 7, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., according to Rev. Carol Clements, pastor.
The cost is $7 and includes homegrown beef, homemade noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans and bacon, cole slaw, roll, homemade pie, tea, coffee or punch. Eat in, carry out, or delivery can be made by calling 419-358-5641 or 419-358-0479.
On Saturday, Nov. 19, Stewardship University will be held at First Mennonite Church at 101 S. Jackson St. in Bluffton. Open to the public, this educational event from Everence, in partnership with First Mennonite, helps people nurture and cultivate their God-given gifts.
The Bluffton Baptist Church will host a fall tent crusade at the church Friday through Sunday, Sept. 30, to Oct. 2, according to John McMinn, pastor.
Events will take place in a large tent on the Baptist church lawn. The crusade features Brian Fossett from Georgia, 2007 evangelism director of the Southern Baptist Convention. Michael Wilson from Texas, an upcoming artist, will be the contemporary worship leader.
Kevin Mohr, pastor of English Lutheran Church, head the Bluffton Area Ministerial Association (BAMA) in 2011-12. He and a slate of officers were named at the BAMA reorganizational meeting for 2011-12 held earlier this month.
Other officers are Steve Yoder, First Mennonite, recording secretary; Louise Wideman, First Mennonite, treasurer.
Outgoing officers were Eric Rummel, Emmanuel UCC, president; Carol Clements, St. John's UCC, recording secretary and Carol Inkrott, St. Mary's Catholic Church, treasurer.
