Church events
Sunderland – First Congregational Church of Sunderland, 91 S. Main St., Serendipity Shop is open on Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with items for sale at bargain prices.
Weekly Sunday church service is offered at 11 a.m. in-person or on Zoom. Email scc1717@wordpress.com or visit the church on Facebook for more information.
Blessing of the animals
Agawam – Sacred Heart Parish in Feeding Hills will hold the annual “Blessing of the Animals” on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 10 a.m. in honor of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi (Oct. 4th). Please keep all pets on a leash or in crates so they do not disturb other animals or people. Children who are unable to have a live pet may bring their stuffed animals for a blessing also. The church is located at 1061 Springfield St., in the Feeding Hills section.
Discover harmony day
Holyoke – United Congregational Church, 300 Appleton St., presents Discover Harmony Day, hosted by Area 2 of Harmony, Incorporated on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Discover Harmony is a day of two a cappella workshops; one for younger voices aged 14-20 years old, and the other for adults 21 and older. Each workshop will feature sopranos and altos that will learn two songs in four-part harmony. Both workshops will then perform their songs at a Free Public Concert at 3 p.m., alongside Silk N’ Sounds and Area 2 quartets. The workshops are free to participate in, though pre-registration is required at www.area2harmony.org. For more information, please email the director at director@area2harmony.org.
Antique appraisals
Agawam – Feeding Hills Congregational Church, located at 21 North Westfield Street, in the Feeding Hills section, is hosting an antique appraisal on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $5 an item or 3 for $12 with a three-item limit. All appraisals are verbal intended to give the owner an idea of value and a sense of history. Items should be small enough to be hand carried. Please no firearms or weapons of any kind. There will also be an outdoor tag sale held in conjunction with the Antique appraisal event. For more information call Kathy 413-786-0195.
Blessing of the Animals
Wilbraham – Christ the King-Epiphany Church, 758 Main St., will hold a “Blessing fo the animals” on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 2 p.m. Rain date is Sunday, Oct. 6, 2 p.m. at the door. Enter through the parking lot. Bring your pets (including the stuffed ones) to receive a blessing. Enjoy free treats for humans and pets. All animals are welcome and asked that each pet be restrained for the safety of all in attendance. The church will also be collecting items for Dakin: canned cat food, canned kitten food, dry cat food, dry dog food, puppy food, dog tret cookies, biscuits and snacks (food must be unopened and unexpired), cat litter (clay non-clumping), cat litter (clay-clumping), paper towels, heavy duty trash bags, newspapers (no color inserts); “Carefresh” bedding (for rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters), small fleece blankets.
Concert
Westfield – Jazz Bones will present a music concert on Sunday, Oct. 6 at 3 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church, 487 Western Ave. It’s open and free to the public.
Church concert
West Springfield – First Congregational Church in is offering “Make a Joyful Noise,” a free Community Concert for all ages on Sunday, Oct. 6 at 3 p.m. This afternoon of joyful, light-hearted music will take place in the historic First Church Sanctuary, led by Music Director Kathy Marks-Huber. There is no charge to attend the concert, but a free will offering will be taken to benefit youth music programs at First Church. In addition to concerts, coffeehouses, and the adult choir, First Church offers a free Music Club for children and youth ages 5 and up. It is held on Sundays at noon. At Music Club, kids can sing together, drum, ring bells, and learn how to read music. The church is located at 108 Park Street. For more information, please call 413-739-6608 or visit www.firstchurchws.org.
Church events
Holyoke – Our Lady of the Cross Church, will host a Blessing of Animals on Sunday, Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. in front of the church (Holy Cross Avenue). In case of rain, the bless will take place on Sunday, Oct. 13. All pets are welcome.
On Thursday, Oct. 10, the church will be having a bus trip to Encore Boston Harbor Casino. The cost of the church is $50 per person but each person will receive $20 back for slot betting. The bus will leave the Mater Dolorosa School parking lot (67 St. Kolbe Drive) at 8 a.m. and will arrive back at 5:30 p.m. If you would like to reserve a seat on the bus, call the parish office at 413-532-5661 or email Jason at jwillemain@ourladyofthecross.com.
Pumpkin patch
Wilbraham – Wilbraham United Church presents their pumpkin patch, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. through Oct. 31. The church is located at 500 Main St. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
Women’s club meeting
Wilbraham -The Wilbraham Women’s Club will hold their annual Membership tea on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. The presentation, which will which will begin approximately at 1:15 p.m., will be the director from Christine’s House, providing a home of help for women and their children who are homeless. To reserve a seat, call Maureen Mikuszewski 413-596-8269.
Church community meal
Holyoke – United Congregational Church, 300 Appleton St., is hosting its monthly Community Meal on Friday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. On the menu are chicken enchiladas, Spanish rice, salad and dessert. Bring the whole family; a family movie will immediately follow dinner at 6 p.m. The Community Meal is hosted on the second Friday evening of each month at the church. All Are Welcome to attend, and the meal is completely free of charge. The menu changes monthly. Parents must accompany their children.
Jewish New Year
Longmeadow – Join Lubavitcha Yeshiva Academy for the High Holidays that will include traditional services with meaning and melody. On Yom Kippur, Friday, Oct. 11, Kol Nidrei will begin at 5:55 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 12, Yom Kippur services will begin at 9 a.m. The closing services of the day will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a break-fast following Yom Kippur’s ending. LYA is open to all members of the community regardless of affiliation. A special children’s program will be held at 10 a.m. on Yom Kippur. The children’s program will include games, activities and snack. Services will be held at LYA, 1148 Converse St.
Celtic Services
Longmeadow – St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 335 Longmeadow St., presents their Celtic services for the 2024-2025 season. On Saturday, Oct. 12, theme: “Harvest and Hope” with the Springfield Kiltie Band. All services begin at 5 p.m. For more information visit www.st-andrews-longmeadow.org.
Lasagna and baked goods sale
HAYDENVILLE — Homemade lasagna and a wide variety of baked goods will be on sale Oct. 13 and 14 at Haydenville Congregational Church. The lasagna and baked goods will available both Sunday and Monday of the Oct. holiday weekend. Baked goods will include cookies, brownies, quick breads and assorted cake and pasties. The lasagna will be fully based and ready to heat or freeze. It will be available in either meat or spinach, half-lasagna (4 servings) or quarter-lasagna (2 servings). All pre-orders will be filled first and remaining lasagna will be sold to walk-ins while supplies last. To pre-order go to haydenvillechurch.org.
Sale hours are Sunday, Oct 13 or Monday, Oct 14 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the church at 143 Main St, Haydenville. In honor of Indigenous Peoples Day, a portion of the proceeds will go to support the Ohketeau Cultural Center in Ashfield.
Church trips
Springfield – St. Catherine of Siena presents the following upcoming trips: Monday, Oct. 15, a bus trip to see the Boston Bruins vs. the 2024 Stanley Cup Champion’s the Florida Panthers at 1 p.m. Tickets are $190, seats are in Section 321. Full Payment required to reserve seat. The bus leaves St. Catherine’s parking lot at 9:30 a.m., and approximate return by 6 p.m. For more information Call Betty: 413-896-8801.
A trip to Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, RI. Enjoy Christmas decorations and lights with tours and high tea. Cost is $173 per person. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Blithewold Mansion. This 45-room mansion on 33-acres is a seaside estate that has been charming visitors for years and is filled with family heirlooms and is framed with gardens. Sit back and delight in a cup of tea, freshly baked scones with sweet cream, a 3-tiered tray filled with sweets and savory treats. Next, depart for downtown Bristol.
To book your seat or seats please call Betty. Deposit of $100 is due at booking and final payment is due by Nov. 1 or you can pay the whole amount at time of booking. The bus will depart from the church’s parking lot at 8:00 a.m.
Catholic Women’s Club Oct. Rosary
Agawam – Everyone is invited to join the Catholic Women’s Club of Agawam in praying the Rosary on Tuesday, Oct. 15, in St. John the Evangelist Church at 6:30 p.m. It is located at 833 Main St., Agawam, MA. Members are requested to arrive at church by 6 p.m. Refreshments will follow in the parish center located behind the church, and the club’s monthly business meeting will follow.
Community program
Wilbraham – “Regenerative Farming: Growing healthy soil for climate change”. On Oct. 18 at 7 p.m., Christ the King Epiphany Church in Wilbraham is hosting guest speakers, Alice & Brian Coleman of Stony Hill Farm, to discuss the changing climate and how it is affecting agriculture locally. They will also discuss their efforts to build the health of soil to make farming more resilient to the effects of extreme temperatures and precipitation. This is a free event and refreshments will be offered afterwards. The church is located at 758 Main St.
Mystery, Comedy and dinner
Southwick – The Knights of Columbus Rev. Thomas a. Shea Council #11178 presents Mystery, Comedy and Dinner show on Saturday, Oct. 26, 5 to 8 p.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 224 Sheep Pasture Road. Tickets are $48 per person. Proceeds to benefit K of C charitable works. For tickets, call or text 413-569-8440 or email dinnertheater@KofC11178.org.
Craft fair/holiday bazaar
Granby – Immaculate Heart of Mary, 256 State Street will hold their annual craft fair and holiday bazaar on Sunday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring many vendors, basket raffles, lottery raffles, food and more.
Church events
Springfield – Holy Cross Church is planning a fall trunk tag sale on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the church parking lot. Sellers may secure a spot in the lot for $20. For more information call either Frank at 413-231-7473 or Sue at 413-262-7880.
The church is seeking crafters for its holiday Craft Fair to be held on Saturday, Nov. 30. The fair will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the school gymnasium. For $50 the parish will provide an 8-foot table. For more details, contact Elaine Bloniasz at erbl529@aol.com. Checks should be made out to Holy Cross Church, 221 Plumtree Road, Springfield, MA 01118.
Crafters wanted
Southwick – The Southwick Congregational Church will be having their annual Holly Bazaar on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This is a call for crafters who are interested in being a part of this community event. To rent table space and receive a registration form, please call the church office at 413-569-6362
Church events
Springfield – South Congregational Church, an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ in downtown Springfield, invites everyone to its regular worship services, Sundays at 10 a.m. in person at 45 Maple Street in Springfield or on Zoom. Find the Zoom link and more information about us on our website at www.sococh.org. The church will move its Sunday services from the sanctuary to the air-conditioned Parish Hall for the summer months, through Sept. You will experience their warm welcome, fine music program, and engaging coffee hour immediately following worship. Childcare is also available.
The Bible Study group on Zoom will now take place on Mondays at 7 p.m. (use the Zoom worship link) — whether you are new to bible study or have a lifetime of experience, you are welcome. Other programs include regular knitting and quilting circles as well as an upcoming Lenten Book Group. In addition to church services and events, South is particularly engaged in the downtown community, and many public programs are offered in their spaces. If you’d like to know more, receive our weekly email newsletter, or have any questions, please email admin@sococh.org or call (413) 732-0117. Find them on Facebook or Instagram.
Weekly programs
Holyoke – St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 34 Jarvis Ave., offers the weekly programs. Sunday’s: 9:30 a.m., worship and Sunday school, worship Facebook live; Monday’s: 10:30 a.m., Bible Study at church; Tuesday’s: 6 to 8 p.m., crafts group at church; Wednesday’s: 10:30 a.m., prayers with Pastor, Facebook live; Thursday’s: 7 p.m., worship at church. All are welcome.
Sunday services
Agawam – Agawam Congregational Church, 745 Main St., invites the community to Sunday morning services at 10 a.m. On the first Sunday of every month communion is served. Following all Sunday services, there is a friendship gathering in the church hall. The church is handicap accessible with a large parking lot. The church live stream’s on YouTube each week. Visit https://agawamcongregationalchurch.com. For more information call 413-786-7111 or email at office@agawamcong.com.
Additional adoration times
Agawam – St. John the Evangelist Church, 833 Main St. will offer weekly adoration ceremonies on Wednesdays between noon and 5:30 p.m. The Holy Mass takes place at 6 p.m. Lawn signs are available for Agawam residents announcing the Year of the Eucharist. Contact the parish office to obtain one, 413-786-8105, ext. 101.
Free weekly Veterans lunch
Holyoke – Community Roots Neighborhood Services offers a free hot lunch for Veterans and their adult immediate family (Parents or spouse). The lunches are every Thursday at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 485 Appleton St. Questions? Email Gina Nelson at crnsholyoke@gmail.com.
Crafters wanted
Ludlow – Christ the King Parish is looking for crafters for their annual St. Nicholas Craft Fair that will be held in the parish hall on Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A non-refundable $40 for a 8 foot table, provided by the parish. Make checks out to The Rosary Sodality. To reserve a table(s), contact Debbie Martell at 413-547-8739, Cheryl Orszullak at 413-583-2123. The parish is located at 41 Warsaw Ave.
Crafters wanted
Agawam – The Agawam Congregational Church is seeking crafters and vendors for their Christmas Holly Wreath bazaar to be held on Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To register, pick up an application at the church, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. For more details, call the church at 413-786-7111 or email at office@agawamcong.com. The church is located at 745 Main St.
Vendors wanted
Springfield – South Church is seeking vendors for their upcoming Christmas Fair, to be held on Sunday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 45 Maple Street in Springfield. For info and to apply to be a vendor contact Janice at janicehills110@gmail.com
Church events
Wilbraham – Wilbraham United Church at 500 Main St., welcomes the community to Sunday morning services at 10 a.m. On the first Sunday of every month communion is served with bread and grape juice. Following all Sunday services, there is a Friendship gathering in the Fellowship Hall. Coffee, and other refreshments are served and all are welcomed. Wilbraham United is a merged congregation of the Congregational and Methodist Societies. They celebrate as both a congregation that recognizes the traditions and values of both the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist denominations. Wilbraham United Church is a place where someone from any walk of life can feel comfortable. They are committed to service and sharing their space for the good of the community and to the glory of God. The church is especially welcoming to children, who are gladly received in the worship service. There are church school classes for children who wish to attend for ages 3 through 13 during the worship service time. The church is handicapped accessible with a large parking lot in the rear. For any questions contact the church administrator at 413-596-2511 ext. 100 or email admin@wilbrahamunitedchurch.org.
