Local pastor prepares for overseas mission trip
As a member of China Academic Consortium/Educational Resources and Referrals China, Jeff Richards, who lives in Salisbury and pastors Statesville’s Covenant AR Presbyterian Church, has been asked to teach at Peking University, Beijing, China. The University has the second highest ranking in Asia and internationally is about 30th.
In the late 19th century, Hudson Taylor founded the China Inland Mission and Christian missions became a viable field, especially in central China. But in the 20th century and to the present, political allegiances dramatically shifted to the point where Christianity is now suppressed.
Dr. Richards’ assignment is to teach English grammar, writing and speaking to the students at the University. His appointment is through the Chinese government. He expects that Facebook may be blocked, but other means of communication will be possible using the Virtual Private Network.
Dr. Richards is a veteran of numerous overseas mission trips, but this will be his first one to Asia. The trip will take place July 8-23.
Those who would like to give a contribution to help with the costs, send to Covenant Church, 120 N. Greenbriar Road, Statesville, NC 28625. An acknowledgement of your gift will be sent to you.

Dr. Richards can be reached at jeffrichards7@gmail.com

Programs at Cedar Grove AME Zion
A musical program sponsored by the Cedar Grove Gospel Choir is Saturday at 6 p.m. On program will be the Pilgrimaires, Keith Holland & Friends, J Soul & God’s Creations, Echoes for Christ, Revelations and others.
The Cedar Grove AME Zion Church Varick Children will observe Children’s Day on Sunday during the 11 a.m. service on the theme of “Passport to Greatness.” Master Marcus P. McCombs, son of Marcus Sr. and Tanetra McCombs will be the guest speaker. Marcus is a rising 4th grader at Cornatzer Elementary School in Advance where he is where he is a straight A student.
The Varick Children will also participate in the worship service. Margaret Ellis is the Varick Children Director at Cedar Grove. Rev. Dr. Bertha E. Pittman is host pastor.

Don Herbert to speak at Resurrection Life
Gospel singer and recording artist Don Herbert will be in concert on Sunday at 10 a.m. at Resurrection Life Church, 627 Newsome Road, sharing in song and testimony. Once a full-time professional wrestler who went by the name of John Savage, now he’s a tenor gospel singer, sharing how God has brought him through kidney failure and ongoing kidney dialysis for the rest of this life. A love offering will be received. Host pastor is Rev. Jerry Snipes. 704-638-0002.

Moore-Mitchell to sing at First UCC
On Sunday at 11 a.m. First United Church of Christ welcomes Teresa Moore-Mitchell as guest musician during worship. Moore-Mitchell is assistant professor of voice at Livingstone College. Her singing styles range from opera to spirituals. She has sung throughout the United States and Europe and has performed at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall.

Fifth Sunday at Guiding Light
The Guiding Light Missionary Baptist Association will hold Fifth Sunday service at Henderson Grove Baptist Church on Sunday at 11 a.m. . There will be a canned food drive and attendees are asked to bring unexpired food items. Association moderator is Rev. John E. Jones.

Music service and youth events at Luther’s Lutheran
RICHFIELD — Luther’s Lutheran Church, at the corner of Stokes Ferry and Richfield Roads, will have contemporary music worship on Sunday at the 11 a.m. service.
At 2 p.m. on Sunday is the youth’s End of School Year party featuring water activities. Come prepared to get wet.
On Sunday evening is Family Meal and Movie night. The meal is at 5 p.m. and the movie begins at 5:30 p.m.

Lilly’s Chapel observes Men’s Day
Lilly’s Chapel church of God, 618 W. Thomas St., will hold its annual men’s Day service on Sunday at 3 p.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Edward Holloway, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Concord. Host pastor is Dr. Doris Clawson. Music provided by the First Congregational Church Choir.
Coordinator is Corbett Rawls.

All American Celebration and Car Show
Startting at 4 p.m. on Sunday, everyone is invited ti bring cars, trucks, bikes, tractors to show. There will be hot dogs, popcorn, cold drinks and ice cream provided at this free, kid-friendly birthday party for the United States.
Held at Landmark Church, 1910 Mooresville Road, 704-633-8200.

The Kingsmen
The Kingsmen Quartet will be in concert at First Baptist Church of Salisbury, Friday, July 5 at 7 p.m. This is a free concert . A love offering will be taken.

NAMI offers family classes
NAMI Rowan county is hosting Family-to-Family classes at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1908 Statesville Blvd. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-noon Wednesdays and Fridays for 6 weeks starting June 19. For information call Connie Morris at 704-798-0895.