BY SUSAN RUMBLE

Special to The Press

With adaptations due to COVID-19, Union United Church of Christ, Neffs, will have its annual family picnic following the 10:30 a.m. worship service Aug. 23 in the grove.

Social distancing guidelines will be followed.

Featured music includes Bev Conklin and the BC Combo who were featured entertainers at the annual Blues Nite Out which has been canceled this year.

After the church service, bagged lunches will be available.

Church organizers say this event can be enjoyed as a mini Blues Nite Out with safety precautions in effect.

In case of rain, the bagged lunches may be picked up at the canopy on the north side of the church.

Call 610-410-9595 to hear Union UCC services either live at 8 a.m. on Sundays or replays of previous services at any time.

Associate Pastor Kayli Freeman invites all eighth graders to join the confirmation class.

Call 610-390-8768 to learn more.

Information packets are available. Orientation will take place at 9:15 a.m. Sept. 20.

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Pastor James Gottwald of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Laurys Station, reports typically August is a time of planning for return to education and fall activities but 2020 is different.

“This year we are trying to figure out a way to safely return to in-person education, worship and events,” Gottwald explained. “We wonder what worship will be like without handshakes and hugs, and with masks.”

The pastor said the church is making plans to step out in faith to offer confirmation and safe ways to worship and serve the Lord.

“This process will require courtesy, adjustments and faith,” Gottwald said. “Our God has the power to get us through difficult times.”

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Union Lutheran Church, Schnecksville, has outdoor worship planned for 9 a.m. on Aug. 23 and 30.

Upon arrival, a packet containing a bulletin and sealed communion supplies will be distributed.

Online services will continue to be available, as well as Pastor Gordon Camp’s scripture reading and sermon on the free phone line at 610-885-8237.