BY SUSAN RUMBLE

Special to The Press

The congregation of Union United Church of Christ, Neffs, is hosting a neighborhood block party in the grove from 4-8 p.m. June 18.

The event will include food, games and music.

Admission is free. Bring along a chair.

Associate Pastor Kayli Freeman welcomes everyone to come and join in the fun.

The Jake Kaligis band will be on stage starting at 5 p.m.

Rain date is from noon to 5 p.m. June 19.

Church youth will serve walking tacos and root beer floats. Church members will be supplying a variety of homemade treats for the bake sale.

Union UCC is celebrating 150 years in the current sanctuary, the third building since the church was organized 267 years ago.

The congregation is expressing thanks for the people of Neffs and beyond, who are working together to serve God and neighbors.

A special message of gratitude is directed to the first responders who are such an essential part of the community.

The current brick church was built in 1871 with a 165-foot high steeple.

Founded in 1755, the congregation, then known as Reformed, worshipped in a log structure in its early years.

Later, a stone church was built which was then replaced by the existing brick edifice.

Union UCC will have its first worship in the grove on June 12 with the Rev. Dr. Allan Kramer-Moyer preaching at 10:30 a.m.

On June 21, the senior adult group, Golden Times, will gather in the grove for lunch and music.

Hot dogs and ice cream will be served free at noon. All are welcome. Bring a side dish or snack to share.

The beautiful grove is a great place to relax with friends while also getting acquainted with people who are new.

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St. John’s United Church of Christ, 1415 Rising Sun Road, Laurys Station, will host VBS 9 a.m.-noon from June 13-17 for children age 5 to those entering sixth grade.

There is no registration fee but organizers prefer if you call ahead to sign up at 610-262-8061.

Theme this year is “Monumental: Celebrating God’s Greatness.”