Latter Rain quartet will be in concert on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Victory Chapel of Praise, located at 13634 Ohio 235 in Harrod. Service begins at 10 a.m. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call 419-889-0308. Submitted photo

ADA — On Wednesday, Feb. 14, Christians around the world will observe Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the first day, or the start of the season of Lent leading up to Easter Sunday and the resurrection of Christ. Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. The …

One of those times in life when for which I have tremendous gratitude came during the years when I was a show choir parent. I got to watch my kids gain confidence and poise and to have an experience when “good enough” was not a part of the plan.

LIMA — Trinity United Methodist Church’s 2017-2018 Ronald W. Richards Music Series will be presenting Young Local Artists in concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. Come enjoy an afternoon of music by Young Local Artists performing various pieces that they performed at the OMEA Solo and Ensemble Contest.

Kenton Full Gospel Church will be welcoming Pastor Joe Compton at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. Compton will be visiting from Full Gospel Temple of Love in Lima and will preach on The Lord’s Prayer.

The Well of Grace Fellowship Church, 525 N. Ida St., Kenton, will be hosting gospel singing nights at 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.

I admit that Christmas is often not my favorite season. As a pastor, sometimes Christmas is something to be survived rather than celebrated. My family has always considered cynicism as one of our spiritual gifts, and our attitudes about Christmas reflect that.

Pastor Anita VanBuskirk is inviting everyone to Kenton Full Gospel Church, 129 N. Wayne St., this Sunday, Dec. 24 at 10:30 a.m. as they celebrate “the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ!” Everyone will be receiving a gift and children will receive stockings filled with candy and toys right after the morning service.

Like many my age, I remember the days when Sundays were for worship and family days. The only stores that were open sold the basic essentials like bread and milk.