A free Children’s Harvest Carnival will be held on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m., sponsored by Word of Grace Fellowship. This is a safe alternative to “trick-or-treating” and will be an evening of fun, games, rides and candy. There will be two inflatable obstacle courses, midway games, and motorcycle rides. Admission is free and the carnival is open to all. The church is located at 13832 Redskin Drive, Herndon. Call 703-796-WORD or visit www.wogf.org.
Looking for a safe alternative to trick-or-treating? X-treme Life Youth Group of Centreville Baptist Church has the answer. On Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Centreville Baptist Church is holding its annual “Hallelujah Party” for youngsters through the sixth grade. There are Bible-based games with lessons to be learned from scripture, candy and loads of fun. Non-scary costumes only. Bring a donation of one or two bags of individually wrapped candy per child. Centreville Baptist Church is located at 15100 Lee Highway, Centreville. Call 703-830-3333.
Shepherd Gate Church is inviting the community to its Awesome Alternative for Halloween party on Thursday, Oct. 31. Admission is free and a bag of candy is optional. Come dressed in costumes (non-scary) and don’t forget Trick or Treat bag. The theme is “The Seven Days of Creation.” There will be games, activities, candy, prizes and snacks. Shepherd Gate Church is located at 4310 Pleasant Valley Road in Chantilly. Call at 703-961-1040 or check the Web site at shepherdgate.org.
A “Harvest Happening” (an alternative to Halloween) will be held at the Jubilee Christian Center on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 7-8:30 p.m. There will be games, prizes, a moon bounce, and goody bags for ages 3 through 6th grade (no costumes). Free. Located at 4650 Shirley Gate Road, Fairfax. Call 703- 383-1170.
A Family FunFest will take place Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Centreville Elementary School’s cafeteria. Sponsored by Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church. For children in preschool to sixth grade accompanied by a parent. This safe alternative to trick-or-treating offers a space theme with other costumes acceptable, except for witches, ghouls or scary costumes. Carnival games, prizes, lots of candy, a zero gravity game, a lunar rover ride (hayride), moon bounce, and other exciting rides, cotton candy, popcorn and entertainment. To register, call 703-502-1732.
Wellspring UCC will celebrate Holy Communion on Sunday, Nov. 3, with Pastor Richard Thayer preaching. There will be a special offering of canned goods for the Western Fairfax Christian Ministries food pantry. Worship begins at 10 a.m. at Centreville Fire Station No. 17, on Old Centreville Road. Sunday School classes for children meet during worship. Wellspring is a new congregation of the United Church of Christ, and welcomes all to join its "circle of love for all people." Call pastor Richard Thayer, 703-758-9748.
The Rev. Tom Herrick and Keith McCallum, both of Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church in Centreville, are in Bolivia as part of a team from Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA). The team gave a seminar on ministering healing to people through prayer in Cochabamba, Bolivia. The team developed the seminar for church leaders at the request of Bishop Lyons of Bolivia.
For several years, Christ the Redeemer in Centreville has been supporting the ministry of the Rev. Pepe Zubieta, Rector of Christ the Redeemer in La Paz by providing financial assistance for meals and medical treatment for needy children in La Paz.
Notes from Centreville Baptist Church:
* Nov. 3, flu shots are available for $20 at Centreville Baptist Church from noon to 2 p.m. in room 142-144 — no appointments are necessary.
* Dove Award winners, GLAD in Concert at Centreville Baptist Church, on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. Seating is limited. Tickets are $12. Call 703-830-3333.
* Men’s Ministry Fellowship Breakfast, Nov. 9, at 7:30 a.m. Come for music, great food and fellowship, and hear Dr. Shulte, a graduate of the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. He and his family are currently active in missionary work in Nicaragua. His work not only includes building churches and orphanages, but also providing dental services.
* Clothing give-away on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 9-11:30 a.m. at Centreville Baptist. Everything is free. Fall and winter clothing available in sizes infants to adults.
The International Network of Children's Ministry, which resources and trains both professionals and volunteers who minister to children, is conducting its national Children's Ministry Seminar on Saturday, Nov. 2, at Centreville Baptist Church. The theme for this year's seminar is "Teaching God's Kids, God's Way." Nationally recognized children's ministry leaders will conduct four workshops developed to assist both ministry staff and lay volunteers. These workshops will address how to lead a child to Christ, how to minister to kids with special needs, and how to handle kids with ADD, ADHA and ODD. The conference is open to the public and will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. with registration beginning at 8 a.m. Seminar tuition is $44 for full-day registration, which includes lunch, and $34 for half-day registration. Call 1-800-324-4543, ext. 243, or visit the Web site at incm.org.
Clifton Presbyterian Church activities:
* Sundays: 8:30 and 11 a.m. — Worship Services.
* Adult Education: Meets 9:45 a.m. Study of Biblical Stewardship principles, now through Nov. 17.
* Adult Bible Study this Fall: A 34-week study program, following the “Disciple: Becoming Disciples through Bible Study” approach, will emphasize disciplined reading of and listening to Scripture encompassing 70 percent of the Bible. The class will meet Mondays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Childcare available. Contact Carl Howard at 703-830-3175.
* Women’s Bible Study: Looking at the book of Ephesians, on Tuesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. Childcare available. Contact Rev. Lynn Stanton-Hoyle at 703-830-3175.
* Youth Activities: Senior High Youth meet each Sunday at 7-8 p.m. at the church. Discussing “hot topics” of the Christian faith.
* Middle School Youth meet twice a month, on Sunday afternoon 5:30-6:45 p.m. Discussing “The Life of Jesus.”
* Club 56 (5-6 grade ministry) meets once a month on Sunday afternoon. Contact Rev. Julie Hodges at 703-830-3175.
* Sanctuary Choir rehearsals: Meet 7:30 p.m. each Wednesday. All are welcome.
Cedar Run is a non-denominational, Christian church currently meeting at Waples Mill Elementary off Route 50 in the Fair Oaks area. It provides a high-quality, secure, and fun Promiseland children's ministry for ages newborn through sixth grade. More than 60 children in grades 7-12 come out for the student ministry during the Sunday service as well. Call 703-968-7312 or check out the Web site at www.cedarrun.net.
Congregation Yad Shalom is a conservative synagogue located in Centreville. It provides a traditional service with a progressive format to enhance a Jewish lifestyle.
* There are wonderful opportunities for a religious school education for children. Bar/Bat Mitzvah training can be provided on a one-to-one basis. Sign up for an introductory program to begin January 2003 for children up to age 6.
* Join in the Friday evening Shabbat service with the Cantor at Little Rocky Run Community Center # 3 (near Centreville High School) on Nov. 1.
* Join in a Havdalah service and Progressive Dinner with a special White Elephant gift exchange (adults only) on Nov. 9.
* Join the congregation and the Tepper family for the joyous Bar Mitzvah of their son, David, at the Little Rocky Run Community Center # 3 on Nov. 16.
Call Mike Goldenzweig at 703-968-0730, or visit the Web site at www.yadshalom.neighborhoodfind.com.
Temple Beth Torah is a Reform Jewish congregation and member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC) that meets at St. John's Episcopal Church in the heart of Centreville. The congregation offers the Northern Virginia Jewish community services that provide numerous spiritual, educational, support and social opportunities including religious school for member children age 3 through Bar/Bat Mitzvah and confirmation. Call 703-263-2252 or visit www.BethTorah.net.
Upcoming Services:
* Shabbat service, Friday, Nov. 1 from 7:30-9 p.m. A special dinner for parents and children in 6th and 7th grade religious school classes will precede the service.
* Rabbi Block will conduct an Interfaith Seminar on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. entitled "How Do We Observe The Cycle of Life?"
* Tot Shabbat on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m.
* Special Youth Havdalah service on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 7-9 p.m.
* The Adult Education program meets twice a month. The next is Nov. 16 from 3-6 p.m.
* Special Hanukah service Sunday, Nov. 24.
* Religious school applications are still being accepted for both existing and new Temple Beth Torah members. Call 703-263-2252.
* The popular Adult Education program is back, with meetings twice a month.
* The TBT Sisterhood is planning a Southern Living fund-raiser. Next meeting is Nov. 13.
Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church Activities
* Women's Bible Study — The Women's Ministry is starting two new studies for the fall.
* A study on the book "Prophetic Foundations" by C. Peter Wagner will meet on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Virginia Run area. This course is open to anyone wishing to learn more about how God can speak into our lives through the prophetic in its many forms. Childcare will be provided. Call 703-815-3965.
* "Life Principles from the Prophets of the Old Testament" — Those seeking refreshment and renewal in their spiritual walk are invited to attend a Bible study on Thursdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in Little Rocky Run. Childcare will be provided. Call 703-266-7834.
* "Discipline Them, love Them" — Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in Gainesville. This class provides inspiration for supporting each other and families with the challenges of raising children. Call 703-753-2283. Childcare will be provided.
* "The Release of the Spirit" by Watchman Nee — Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. in Fairfax. This study is based on how God moves among us. Call 703-278-9259.
* Men's Bible Study — The Men's Ministry meets Mondays from 7:30-9 p.m. Call Dave Griswold at 703-330-2637.
* Blessing of Adopted Children — A Blessing of Adopted Children will be held on Sunday, Nov. 3, during the morning worship service. If you would like to be included in this special time of praying for those who have been adopted, call 703-502-1732.
* Baptism Service — Christ the Redeemer will hold a baptism service on Sunday, Nov. 3 at 4 p.m. at Truro Episcopal Church. Baptism classes will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2 at the church office. Call 703-502-1732.
* A Men's Day Retreat is Saturday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Delaplane, VA. The subject will be "Incarnational Living: Man to Man." Deadline for registration is Nov. 3. The retreat is free and lunch will be served. Call 703-222-1230.
* Making a Connection at CtR — A Newcomer's Tea will be held on Nov. 17 following the 10 a.m. service. Join the Rev. and Mrs. Tom Herrick and other Christ the Redeemer members. Childcare provided.
* Those seeking refreshment and renewal in their spiritual walk are invited to attend a Bible study on Thursdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in Little Rocky Run. Childcare will be provided. Call 703-266-7834.
Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church meets Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. at Centreville Elementary School in Centreville. Sunday school and a nursery are available for children. Go to www.connectwithctr.com.
Centreville Presbyterian Church invites the public to participate in its fall programs and events:
* Children's Sunday School classes — "The Kingdom Express," Sundays, 10-11 a.m.
* Planet 56 Adventure — Sundays, 10-11 a.m., and second and fourth Wednesday evenings, for 5th and 6th graders. Room 8 at CPC.
* Youth Group — Senior High Fall Retreat, Nov. 15-17.
* Fall Adult Sunday School Classes — "World Views," "Basic Christianity," "Isaiah," and "Pursuit of Holiness."
* Small Groups — Meet in area homes for fellowship and spiritual growth.
* A Woman God Can Lead Bible Study, led by Rev. Carol Berryhill, Thursdays, 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Call about childcare needs.
* Christmas in New York City Trip — Saturday, Dec. 14, one-day chartered bus trip to Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show, starring the Rockettes.
CPC is located at 5690 Sully Road, Centreville at the I-66 and Route 28 interchange. Call 703-830-0098.
News from Centreville Assembly of God
Sunday School for all ages at 9:30 a.m.
Morning worship at 10:30 a.m. and evening worship at 6 p.m.
The third Sunday of the month at 6 p.m. is an anointing and prayer for the sick service.
The Joybells (children's handbell choir) meets the first Sunday of the month.
Youth services are led by Jackie Hansen on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.
The Adult Bible study group on Wednesday nights is studying how to handle adversity and hard times in our everyday lives by looking at the life of Joseph in Genesis: 37-50.
Crafters are wanted for the annual Craft Bazaar to be held Saturday, Nov. 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christ Presbyterian Church, 12410 Lee-Jackson Hwy., Fairfax. Call 703-378-6838 for an application.
Crafters are needed for Centreville United Methodist Women's Annual Craft Fair and Bazaar on Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Alyson Sengstack at 703-378-2740. The church is located at New Braddock and Route 28. Items are also needed for the silent auction.
Centreville United Methodist Church Women's Annual Craft Fair and Bazaar will take place Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a silent auction, luncheon, crafters, bake sale, White House Ornaments, Secret Santa Room for the children, and baby-sitting provided for a small fee. Proceeds benefit local, state and world missions.
Christ Presbyterian Church will be hosting its annual Christmas bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be more than 20 local crafters, fresh made waffles, a children's craft center, bake sale, like new items, quilt raffle and a baked potato bar. Call 703-278-8365. Located at 12410 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway, Fairfax.
Gail Kinsey, principal of Sangster Elementary School and adoptive mother, will speak about adoption on Sunday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Centreville chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 14150 Upperridge Dr., Centreville. November is National Adoption Month. Call Martha Lagerberg at 703-866-3621.
Centreville Assembly of God — There are Christian education classes for all ages from the cradle to senior adults with qualified teachers in each class. Morning worship is at 10:30 a.m. with lively singing and an up-to-date message by the pastor.
There is an in-depth Bible study on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. for adults. There is also a youth service for teens from 12 and up. Jackie Hansen is the teen leader. Centreville Assembly of God is located at 14821 Lee Highway, Centreville. Call Rev. David A. Forkey at 703-830-1841.
Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church meets at Centreville Elementary School on Sundays at 10 a.m. Sunday school, KIDS Church, and a nursery are provided for children. Call 703-502-1732 or visit the Web site at www.connectwithctr.com.
Centreville Community Church will offer a study of the book of Proverbs and talk about doing life according to the wisdom of God. Free childcare and an exciting program is provided for the kids. Services are 10:30 a.m. each Sunday at Bull Run Elementary School. Call 703-580-5226.
Capital Worship Center will hold weekly Bible Study and Worship Services on Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m. at Centre Ridge Elementary School (14400 New Braddock Road, Centreville). Also offered at this time will be Youth Services, Children's Fellowship and a Nursery. Call 703-530-8100.
St. John's Episcopal Church offers the following:
Sunday Eucharist services are at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A nursery for children up to age 3 is available. Opportunities for adult, youth and child enrichment are offered. On Sundays: Christian Formation for all ages, Adult Lectionary Class and Newcomer Class at 9:15 a.m.; Children's Chapel at 10:30 a.m.; Youth Music and Youth Group at 4:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., respectively. On Mondays: New Testament Class at 7:30 p.m. On Wednesdays: Morning Bible Study at 10 a.m.; Eucharist and Healing Service at 9:15 a.m. on Thursdays: Children's Choir at 5 p.m.; Adult Choir and Education for Ministry at 7:30 p.m. Call 703-803-7500 and visit the Web site at www.stjohnscentreville.org.
Mount Olive Baptist Church activities:
* Church Services: Rev. Eugene Johnson, pastor
* Prayer Meeting/Bible Study — Wednesday, 7 p.m.
* Sunday, Morning Worship — 7:30 and 10:30 a.m.
* Sunday School — 9:45 a.m.
Mount Olive Baptist Church is located at 6600 Old Centreville Road, Centreville. Call 703-830-8769.
Cedar Run Community Church's Sunday service is held at 10:30 a.m. at Waples Mill Elementary School. New Community monthly worship service is held on the third Sunday of every month from 5-7:15 p.m. at Centreville Presbyterian Church. Free pizza dinner starting at 5 p.m. Childcare provided.
Interested in learning about Cedar Run? Visit the Web site at www.cedarrun.net or call the church office at 703-968-7312.
Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church holds a contemporary worship service on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. at Centreville Elementary School in Centreville. Sunday School, K.I.D.S. Church, and a nursery are provided on Sundays. The Web site is www.connectwithctr.com. Call 703-502-1732.
Mount Horeb A.M.E. Mission Church invites the public to worship on Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. at Virginia Run Elementary School, 15450 Martins Hundred Drive in Centreville. The Rev. Larry C. Rogers is the pastor. Call 703-330-2109.
New Hope Fellowship currently meets at 10 a.m. at Rocky Run Middle School, with worship at 11 a.m. each Sunday. The school is located at 4400 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly. Call 703-591-2948.
Oasis Ministry is a Christian support group for men struggling with pornography, sexual addictions or same-sex attractions. For more information on weekly Centreville meetings or personal help, call 703-830-6999. Or write Oasis Ministry, P.O. Box 602, Centreville, VA 20122. Free confidential HIV/STD testing through Oasis available. Confidentiality is assured.