An interesting question was raised recently when a friend overheard a child ask his mother, “Mommy, what’s church?” My friend was expressing her regret that she did not step in and encourage the family to visit some local church services to find out first hand. As I considered the situation, I thought about what church attendance and membership have meant in my life and how they have shaped the lives of all my family. I know that there is so much that is learned and experienced that is spiritual and centered around a personal connection to the Deity. However, there are many life lessons and a sense of extended family, moral support and encouragement, and unmeasurable enrichment to learning that are gained from just one or two hours of weekly church involvement. I am saddened to know that there are those in our community for whom “church” is a foreign concept, and I hope everyone will encourage their friends and family to treat themselves to the joys and satisfaction that can come from such associations. There are dozens of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim congregations and parishes in our area that welcome visitors. Try it out!

Another place kids learn about the concepts of working together and enjoying time with others is through school activities such as chorus, band, drama, and athletics. Some more HHS students have demonstrated their dedication with recent outstanding performances. Congratulations to Gabe Newvine, Jacob Reynolds and Nathaniel Lewis! These three exemplary young men represented Hughesville High at the PMEA district Chorus event and concert in Berwick. After chair auditions, Jacob Reynolds earned a seat in the PMEA Regional Chorus event that will be held in late February.

In the world of scholastic athletics the Boys’ and Girls’ basketball teams are “burning up the courts” with one victory after another! It’s difficult to keep up with which player has had the best week on each team! I will not attempt to single out any players, since the stats change almost daily, but you can see for yourself by checking out the schedules of games and heading over to the HHS gym to root for the Spartans!

I am glad that Old Man Winter is being relatively benign in our area. Do be careful when you travel, since we have had several freeze/thaw cycles that have produced some slippery surfaces.

Enjoy your January!

Hughesville Events:

Sundays in January the Hughesville Methodist Charge will conduct morning worship services at Bethany U. M. Church, 111 South Second Street, at 9:30 a.m., with Sunday School at 10:45.

Wednesday evening worship is always at Christ U. M. Church at 6 p.m.

Mondays, Jan. 23, & 30, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. “Wee Tales” at HAPL for registered toddlers ages 12 months to 3 years and their caregivers. For registration info, visit Hughesville Area Public Library or call 570-584-3762.

Tuesdays, Jan. 24, 31, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. “Wee Play” at HAPL, designed for children aged 3 to 6 and their caregivers.

Thursdays, Jan. 19, 26, & February 2, 10:30-11:15 a.m.: “Wee Make Music” at Hughesville Area Public Library. A “progressive” music and movement activity designed for busy wee ones, ages 18 months-3 years and caregivers.

Fridays, Jan. 20, 27, & February 3, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Pre-School Story Hour at Hughesville Area Public Library, 146 South Fifth Street, for children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers.