Pastor Rex Duval, the son of BJ and Paul Dunn, of Pinehurst, will take part in the service Sunday, Aug. 21, at True North Community Church in Whispering Pines at 11 a.m.

Duval, who was ordained by Jack Hayford, of Los Angeles, Calif., preaches in New York City at the Bowery Mission and other venues.

To get to the church, travel on Airport Road to the small traffic circle, go around and straight toward Whispering Pines. Take the first left at Hardee Road, go to the end, which is Niagara Carthage Road, and the church is directly ahead.

'Blessings for Battle'

Ashley Heights Baptist Church has embraced a new churchwide outreach program that will focus on supporting troops and their families.

The outreach is called "Blessings for Battle." Personal care packages will be sent to anyone who is deployed or relocated, upon request. The congregation will join in creating greeting cards for members to use to communicate with the soldiers. Bible tracts will be sent with packages for the soldiers to share to spiritually encourage others in their units.

"We must support our troops and their families," says a spokesman. "They make great sacrifices every day in order for us to be safe and free. The members are committed and excited about this new outreach for the church."

Bethesda Presbyterian

On Aug. 27, the annual Rally Day picnic will be held at Old Bethesda Church at 6 p.m.

"We will roast hot dogs and marshmallows, play games and relax a little bit and enjoy fellowship with others," says a spokesman. "This intergenerational event is a favorite among our members."

The Rally Day breakfast will be held on Aug. 28, at 9 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

"This begins a new year, and our Christian Education committee has many exciting things planned," says the spokesman. "This is also 'Invite a Friend' Sunday. If you're already involved in a Sunday School class, you can come and meet your teacher. If you're not part of a class, we have one for you."

Sunday School classes begin at 9:45 a.m. and a worship service follows at 11 a.m.

The youth-parent night is planned for 5 p.m. on Aug. 28. A parent appreciation dinner will be cooked and served by the youth. The youth group meets every Sunday at 5 p.m. for devotion, recreation, dinner and community service.

On Sept. 11, the church will have a service of remembrance at 7 p.m. to honor the victims of the 9/11 tragedy.

The annual homecoming at Old Bethesda Church will be held on Sept. 25.

The church is located on U.S. 1, Aberdeen.

Contact the church office at (910) 944-1319 for more information.

Congregational Church of Pinehurst, UCC

Last Sunday the choir held a reception to celebrate the gifts of Susan and Don Cox to our community as they move back to New Hampshire. "Don has shared his talents as church organist, and both he and Susan will be deeply missed," says a spokesman.

Fall is coming and with it the return of the popular Sunday Night Discussion Group.

"This year we are sponsoring a community read and discussion of the provocative book 'Saving Jesus from the Church: How to Stop Worshiping Christ and Start Following Jesus,' by noted scholar Robin Meyers," says the spokesman. "The group will provide a forum for those who may have given up on 'traditional church doctrine' but still desire an authentic life of faith." Books may be purchased locally at The Country Bookshop. For more information and to register, call Mary-Scott Arnold at (910) 295-7456.

The Worship and Education Team will meet on Wednesday to plan upcoming enhancements to the children's program. A membership Sunday will be celebrated on Aug. 21 to welcome new members into the church. For information please call the church office at (910) 295-2243.

The Congregational Church of Pinehurst, United Church of Christ, is located at 895 Linden Road across from Elliott's restaurant. For information call the church office at (910) 295-2243 or visit the website at youarewelcomehere.org.

West End UMC

Bread of Life Ministry at West End United Methodist Church meets every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This ministry is for seniors (widows, widowers and the elderly). It is a time of fellowship and devotion with a home cooked meal provided at a charge of $5 per person.

West End United Methodist Church will recognize its educators for their contribution in the education of future generations on Sunday, Aug. 21, at the 11 a.m. service.

"We invite all Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teachers, area principals, teachers and assistants (both active and retired) to attend this very special service in their honor," says a spokesman.

Gospel Meeting

Spout Springs Church of Christ will hold a gospel meeting, featuring Joe Hickman, of Asheville, at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19 and Saturday, Aug. 20, and at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21.

The church is located at 150 Marks Road, Cameron. For information, call (910) 580-0142.

Beth Moore Simulcast

The First Baptist Church of Aberdeen will be hosting a Beth Moore simulcast on Saturday, Sept. 10. Refreshments will be provided in the fellowship hall at 8:15 a.m. From 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Beth Moore and her worship team leader, Travis Cottrell, will lead the conference. The cost is $20 per person. Lunch will be provided.

To register, contact Deborah Richardson in the church office at (910) 944-1421 or Marion Moss at (910) 215-0198.

Outreach Center

Jesus World Outreach Center Inc. (JWOC) will hold its 14th church anniversary celebration Sunday, Sept. 4. The program will begin at 6 p.m. Drs. Jake and Barbara Williams are the pastors.

This year's theme is "Pressing Toward the Mark." Apostle Karen Evans, of New Life Ministries, in Fayetteville, will be the guest speaker. Evans has traveled throughout the world for the ministry for more than three decades.

The church is located at 2727 Murchison Road, Fayetteville. For more information, call (910) 823-4849.

Harvesters

Glendon Independent Christian Church will host The Harvesters at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 28. There will be a luncheon following the service.

The church is located at 148 Glendon Church Road, Glendon.

For information, call Pastor Joe Johnson at (910) 464-4031.

Culdee Presbyterian

The youth of Culdee Presbyterian Church, under the direction and leadership of Sharon Cuff, left Sunday after worship for an outing at Lake Tillery, returning on Tuesday.

The Presbyterian Women's fall gathering will be in Fayetteville, Saturday, Aug. 20.

Larry and Beverly Furr, members of Culdee always host "The Gathering" the third Saturday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. All seniors are welcome, and each month a different menu and entertainment. Their number is (910) 673-7190 for information or directions.

The New Horizons Brass will supply the music during the worship service Sunday, Aug. 21.

"After worship plan to stay and help celebrate Bob Moore's 90th birthday with a salad, sandwich and dessert lunch," says a spokesman.

The church will play host to Family Promise beginning Aug. 21.

"Don't forget to order your Angel Food for August," says the spokesman. Call (910) 295-6685 for information."

Shabbat Services

The Sandhills Jewish Congregation will hold Shabbat services at Temple Beth Shalom Friday, Aug. 26, at 7 p.m., welcoming the new rabbi, Ken Brickman. Torah study will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday morning, also by Brickman.

Temple Beth Shalom is located at the corner of Jackson Springs Road and Hoffman Road in Foxfire Village. For more information, contact the Sandhills Jewish Congregation at (910) 673-5224.

Financial Peace

Financial Peace University (FPU) is coming to Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Southern Pines.

FPU is a 13-week class built on biblical principles that teaches people how to budget, dump debt and build wealth.

"The average family completing the class pays off $5,300 in debt and saves $2,700 during the 13-week period," says a spokesman. "Financial stress is reduced in the home as couples learn how to communicate about money and work together toward family goals. During this life-changing course, participants will learn to put together a monthly spending plan that really works, the step-by-step process for getting out of debt for good, how to set financial goals, and much more."

Materials for the course are $99 per household and include a book, workbook, audio CD library of all 13 lessons, and the FPU envelope system - a great tool to organize your money and stay on budget. Members also have access to online support and budgeting tools.

"FPU is a lifetime membership," says the spokesman. "That means members can attend any class, anywhere, anytime - as often as they like."

Two free preview sessions will be held on Sunday, Aug. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 4, at 9 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Classes will run from 6 to 8 p.m. every Thursday night from Sept. 15 through Dec. 15, with the exception of Thanksgiving. Free child care is available.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Sara Blakely at (910) 603-8711 or scooty1976@hotmail.com.

Our Saviour Lutheran church is located at 1517 Luther Way in Southern Pines.

UUC of Sandhills

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Sandhills (UUCS) has moved to its new location, at the Whispering Pines Community Building, 1320 Rays Bridge Road (behind the WP Rescue Squad Building). Services are held at 10 a.m. every second and fourth Sunday.

The UUCS was established five years ago and is an emerging member of the Unitarian Universalist Association and a member of the Universalist Convention of North Carolina.

To learn more about this progressive religion, visit www.uucsandhills.org or www.uua.org.

Usher Anniversary

Oakridge A.M.E. Zion Church will be having its annual usher anniversary on Aug. 28 at 4 p.m. Bishop Ricky Smith, pastor of St. Peters Deliverance Church of God, will render the service. The Rev Walter Cotton is the church pastor.

'The Truth Project'

Sandhills Alliance Church, of Pinehurst, will be presenting "The Truth Project" starting on Sept. 11. Meetings will be held on Sundays from 9 to 10:15 a.m. at the church, 425 Magnolia Road, just off Rattlesnake Road.

"The Truth Project" is presented via one-hour DVDs taught by Dr. Del Tackett of Focus on the Family. This study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Each lesson discusses the relevance and importance of living the biblical view in daily life.

For more information, call the church at (910) 295-4949.

Sale

The Northwood Temple MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is hosting their semi-annual Twice Is Nice children's consignment and boutique overstock sale at the Northwood Temple Family Life Center (4250 Ramsey St., Fayetteville). The sale will open to the public on Saturday, Sept. 3, from 7:30 to 11 a.m., and again from noon to 3 p.m. for a 50 percent off sale.

Twice Is Nice specializes in gently used toys, baby gear, nursery items, feeding and diapering essentials, maternity, educational supplies, books, CDs/ DVDs, clothing (size newborn to 16) and boutique overstocks.

The sale supports a local chapter of the nonprofit group MOPS, a community of moms that offers friendship and practical mothering support.

"Northwood MOPS is pleased to announce that the Twice is Nice sale will also be a charitable fundraiser for Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation's Friends of the Cancer Center (FOCC)," says a spokesman.

At the Twice is Nice sale, shoppers will be asked to add $1 to their purchase total as a donation to the FOCC. Donation boxes will also be available throughout the sale.

Twice is Nice consigner and volunteer registration is open. Visit www.northwoodmops.com for details or contact www.nwtmopsvolunteers@gmail.com.

Candlelight March

Body of Christ Outreach Ministry will hold its second annual candlelight march at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20.

Minister Mary Ray, of St. Ruth UCOG, in West End, will be the guest speaker.

The church is located at 6081 Lemon Springs Road, Sanford.

Jesus Is Lord Family Worship Center will host a fellowship service at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14.

The guest speaker is Apostle Darren Johnson, of Restoration Temple Family Life Center, of Lexington.

The church is located on U.S. 15-501, Aberdeen.

For information, call Pastor Victor Blue at (910) 315-2475 or Danielle Blue at (910) 220-6792.

Culdee Presbyterian

Culdee Presbyterian Church located on 916 N.C. 73, West End, is now an "Angel Food Ministries" distribution center.

"You may place your order on line or call the office at (910) 295-6685," says a spokesman. "If you have questions, please call Dannie Jackson at (910) 692-7969."

The next order must be placed and paid for by cash, check or money order by Sunday, Aug. 21, Pick-up will be Saturday morning, Aug. 27.

"Every month Angel Food creates a tasty menu," says a spokesman. "A family of four can be feed for approximately $30 for the week or a single person for a month. Any one can place order."

Food Wagon

David Bibey Ministries will have its world mission food wagon set up across from Matthews Market, at the intersection of Carthage-Vass and Niagara Carthage roads, each Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., selling barbecue plates, with slaw, baked beans and roll, as well as barbecue sandwiches and hot dogs.

"We hope that you will stop by and support our efforts," says a spokesman.

For information, call (910) 949-3971.

Homecoming

Liberty Church will hold homecoming Sunday, Aug. 21. The speaker is Robert "Bob" J. Manuel. A covered dish lunch follows the 11 a.m. service, with special singing by the Reynolds Family at 1:30 p.m.

The church is located at 1810 Quewhiffle Road, Aberdeen.

Reading Room

Christian Science Reading Rooms are public bookstores where people of all faiths are welcome to explore spiritual healing, pray or ask questions. Biblical and Christian Science literature is available for study or purchase. including the Christian Science Monitor, an international newspaper and winner of seven Pulitzer Prizes for for its exceptional, unbiased reporting.

All are invited to visit the local Christian Science Reading Room at 173 NE Broad St. in Southern Pines.

The Reading Room is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday evenings during the summer months. Information about church services at 240 E. New Hampshire Ave., and other activities may be obtained there.

Precepts Bible Study

Precept Bible studies are written by Kay Arthur, well-known speaker, broadcaster and author. Her in-depth knowledge of the Bible as well as her gifted presentation of biblical truth has made the Precept method an effective tool for thousands. The study is uniquely designed for the experienced student as well as for the individual who has never studied the Bible before.

The Ladies Thursday Morning Precept Upon Precept Class will begin its fall session on Sept. 8, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., with "Sermon on the Mount," an eight-week study at the Care Cottage in Pinehurst. An interdenominational Bible study, sessions begin with prayer, discussion of the week's homework and then a teaching DVD featuring Kay Arthur, co-founder of Precepts Ministries. The Sermon on the Mount is commonly known as the Beatitudes, in which Jesus tells his followers exactly how to be blessed by God.

The Care Cottage is located down the street from the Manor Inn, next to the Pinehurst Fire Department.

"Please join us," says a spokesman. "We are a loving group, sometimes too chatty, always caring and seeking to deepen our relationship with our Lord."

To register for the class and order a workbook or for more information, call Pauli Curl at (910) 215-9796.

Bible Study

Registration for the Community Bible Study Book of Revelation Evening Class is growing short. The study will be held at Bethesda Presbyterian Church starting Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.

The four-part method of study includes study questions, core-group discussion facilitated by a trained leader, a lecture covering the passage and a commentary that reviews and clarifies the passage discussed.

For more information or to request a registration form, contact Clyde Register at (910) 8785 8243, email mipa35@aol.com or Merle Lewis at (910) 255-6179, mlewis27330@nc.rr.com.

Gospel Mellowtones

The Gospel Mellowtones, of God's House of Prayer Ministry, will be having their 11th choir anniversary Saturday, Aug. 27, at 3 p.m. at the Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave, Southern Pines.

"The choir wants to invite all choirs and groups out for this celebration," says a spokesman. "To RSVP, you can contact Minister Frederick Kelly at (910) 245-3263, Carolyn Wilkins at (910) 245-7813 or Anita Finch at (910) 724-4174.

Seminars

Jesus Is King of Deliverance Ministries will host "effective worshipping" and "prophetic ministry" seminars presented by the the husband-and-wife team of Drs. Renny and Marina McLean. Both were born and raised in London, and they now reside in Dallas.

The effective worshipping seminar will be Thursday, Aug. 25, at 7 p.m., and the prophetic ministry seminar is Friday, Aug. 26, at 7 p.m.

The church is located at 550 Ashemont Road, Aberdeen, off N.C. 211 near McCain.

For more information call the church at (910) 944-5536.

Bible Study

Community Bible Study, an international study with classes held throughout the United States and more than 120 other countries, is now taking enrollments for the 2011-12 season in the Sandhills for women, which will begin Sept. 6.

Nondenominational -classes meet each Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, U.S. 1, in Southern Pines. Members will be studying I and II Peter, Philippians, Colossians and I John.

Women meet together for a short opening program, then proceed into small groups, where answers to printed lessons are discussed, and end the morning with a lecture presentation.

Classes with crafts and Bible lessons are available for children from preschool age. Additionally, classes are offered for home-schooled children, and there is a -nursery for infants.

A registration fee covers the cost of materials and scholarships are available for those who cannot afford the fee.

For more information about Community Bible Study or to receive registration materials, contact Noel Roberts at (910) 235-5271 or Betty Rossi at (910) 295-0489.

Information also can be found at www.pinehurstcbs. org.

Town Talk

"Town Talk" airs at 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. every day on Time Warner Cable 3 of Southern Pines.

The show is back to its 30-minute format and will -feature local inspirational performances, faith-based programs, and individuals with triumphant stories of overcoming hardships. The host is Rose Highland-Sharpe.

Call (910) 295-0013 or email rosesharpe37@gmail.com.

Prayer Hour

St. James Lutheran Church, on the corner of Gaines Street and New Hampshire Avenue, Southern Pines, is holding a Saturday morning prayer hour each Saturday at 10 a.m.

For information, call (910) 295-6735.

Martha's Place

Martha's Place, a soup kitchen sponsored by Page Memorial United Methodist Church, offers free lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays.

Both Calvary Chapel, of Aberdeen, and Pinehurst United Methodist Church now assist by each serving two Tuesdays per month.

Martha's Place is in the fellowship hall of Page Memorial United Methodist Church of Aberdeen.

Healing Service

A healing service is held the second Wednesday of the month at 5 p.m. at The Village Chapel, Pinehurst.

The service includes the -reading of God's Word, -confession, prayer, the Sacrament of Holy Communion and the anointment with oil.

Health Ministry

Sandhills Health Ministry -meetings are held at 9 a.m. on the third Monday of the month, at the Pinehurst United Methodist Church, Airport Road, Pinehurst.

Inquiries may be -directed to (910) 295-1577.

Email news for the religion page to fdasen@thepilot.com by 5 p.m. Thursday for consideration for publication the following Wednesday. Call (910) 693-2475 for information.