The new year always means change and that is true as 2011 comes to a close. Mixed emotions will be displayed when Hope Presbyterian Church members gather for worship at 11 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 8.
The service honoring retiring Pastor Cherry Marshall, who has been pastor at the church at 4748 Shelbourne Road for 38 years, promises moments full of memories with lyrical praises from the choir and band.
"What am I going to do next? Not sure," she said. "I hope to continue ministry in some way."
The community is invited.
If you cannot attend, call 410-247-4673 to wish her well.
Head start on new year
In Isaiah 49:13, we read, "You heavens, sing for joy; Earth, exult!"
It is appropriate for those of us still celebrating the Christ Child's birth to look ahead with joy and exultation. Congregate on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, with these church members:
• Church of the Ascension, 4600 Poplar Ave., presents a 4 p.m. Solemnity of Mary New Year's welcoming Mass for all ages. Ring 410-242-2292.
• Our Lady of Victory Church, 4414 Wilkens Ave., hosts 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Masses to honor the Vigil of the Feast of Mary. Call 410-242-0131.
• Arbutus United Methodist Church, 1201 Maple Ave., invites celebrants of all ages to a 7 p.m. Watch Night service with Holy Communion provided. Call 410-242-9029.
• St. Clement Catholic Church, 2700 Washington Ave., offers a 4 p.m. English Mass and 6 p.m. Spanish Mass. Call 410-242-1025.
Something to celebrate
Arbutus United Methodist Church members believe in good fellowship and good food. See for yourself at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, when these good timers savor "Souper Night." A variety of hearty soups will satiate appetites. Call 410-242-9029 for details.
An Epiphany party and gift exchange are scheduled at Halethorpe-Relay United Methodist Church, 4513 Ridge Ave., at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8. Bring a covered dish entree (desserts provided) and small, inexpensive items to represent the Wise Men's gold, frankincense and myrrh. Be creative! This family night is perfect for young and old revelers. Unwrap details at 410-242-5918.
Selling points
Bargain hunters will find post-holiday specials in the Southwest Emergency Services Thrift Shop weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 1201 Maple Ave. Coordinator Betty Okonski sells many half-priced wares, literally to be had for loose change. Stop in and browse. Call her at 410-247-8154 for New Year shopping tips.
The women at Halethorpe-Relay United Methodist Church host a "My Sisters' Swap" event at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, to begin this new year with a clean sweep. Bring items in pristine condition, then trade them for attractions that others offer. One gal's junk is another's treasure. Call Chrissy Sohns, 410-375-6364, or Fran Ring, 410-242-1956.
Teaching moments
The after worship discussion group meets every Sunday in Lansdowne Christian Church, 101 Clyde Ave., to digest news of the day from a Biblical perspective. Pastor Trent Owings leads.
Ask him to include you in the conversation at 410-444-9017 or 410-242-4821.
Pastor Ira Barr of Arbutus United Methodist Church invites inquiring minds to join him at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays for Bible study. No experience required, just a thirst for knowledge. Call 410-242-9029 for details.
Learn about Catholic Church teachings with Pastor John Williamson and Ascension parishioners Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in the Parish Center, 4603 Poplar Ave. On the schedule is the Sacrament of Matrimony (Jan. 3) and Anointing of the Sick (Jan. 10). Call him at 410-242-2292.
Higher calling
Christ Deaf Church doors swing wide on Sundays at 1040 S. Beechfield Ave., to offer signed worship hours for believers of every age and fellowship lunches, served free of charge. Arrive by noon or contact Pastor Sandi Johnson for interpretive details, 410-242-6303 TTY/V.
Our Saviour Lutheran Church's prayer wall is back by popular request. Stop by 141 Laverne Ave., pen your request on the giant, outdoor sign-up sheet. Members will lift your plea daily. The Rev. Kristi Kunkle holds details at 410-242-2141.