South Ward news

The South Ward Playground is currently closed to the public as volunteers begin the huge project of decorating the park for Santa's arrival. The jolly gent from the North Pole is schedule to arrive on Dec. 16, at approximately 6:30 p.m. The park will be open that evening from 6-8 p.m.In addition to a gift from Santa, there will also be four bicycles given away, free refreshments and activities for all ages.Playground officers hope the public will understand the need for the locked gates, especially in light of the vandalism that occurred to last year's Christmas decorations.Calvary EvangelicalThe Rev. Dr. Ed Bean will officiate at the 10:25 a.m. worship service this Sunday in Calvary Evangelical Methodist Church in the Lewistown Valley. Sunday school classes will meet at 9:15 a.m.Also on Sunday, A Christmas candlelight service will be held at 6:30 p.m.An hour of praise and prayer is held Wednesdays at 7 p.m.First MethodistThe Rev. James Cavallero will officiate at the 10:45 a.m. worship service this Sunday in First United Methodist Church. The service will include a new member acceptance. The children's message will be offered by Marge Kropp, followed by children's Sunday school.Also on Sunday, Christmas caroling to the homebound will begin at 2:30 p.m., followed by an open house at Pastor Cavallero's home.Activities for next week will include: Tuesday, quilters meet at 9:30 a.m.; Wednesday, chancel choir rehearsal at 7 p.m.St. Peter's UnionThe Rev. Cheryl Moore will officiate at the 9 a.m. worship service Sunday in St. Peter's Union Church, Mantzville. Sunday school classes meet at 10:15 a.m.Also on Sunday, the church board will meet at 10:45 a.m., the Confirmation class will meet at 1 p.m., the Cub Scout Christmas party will be held at 5 p.m. and the Daisies and Brownies will meet at 6 p.m.Activities for next week will include: Monday, bell choir rehearsal at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, preschool Christmas program at 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, prayer group meets at 4:45 p.m., cherub choir rehearses at 6:30 p.m., junior choir meets at 7 p.m. and the senior choir practices at 7:30 p.m.