News from the Pews: Talent Show, Backpacks and VBS

Starr Member to Launch The Memphis Project

During the June Community Meal, member Janie Castle, a Royal Oak resident, will launch a new, locally based mission.

The Memphis Project, named after a service dog, will be an effort to collect new and gently used backpacks for the homeless.

Memphis is the beloved dog of one Starr’s members, Diane Cole, who passed away last year. Cole’s life passion was to the area’s homeless. Before her death, Cole would bring Memphis with her to Starr while she volunteered during the Warming Shelter.

“In memory of Diane, and in honor of Memphis, we’re collecting the backpacks to be given away during next year’s Warming Shelter,” Castle explained.

Because many students will be ready to give up this year’s backpack in anticipation of a new one, Castle thought it was a good time to start collecting.

“We have a clothing closet, where we pass out items to our shelter guests. The backpacks will be a sturdier way for them to carry their belongings," Castle said. "Our goal is to help the homeless in Diane’s honor.”

The Community Dinner, featuring burgers, roasted potatoes, salad and dessert, will be 4-6 p.m. Sunday hosted by , 1717 W. 13 Mile Rd., in Royal Oak. For those who cannot attend the meal but would like to donate a backpack, a collection bin will be located at the Crooks Road entrance, Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-noon, and Sunday mornings.

For more information, call (248) 288-3230 or visit www.starrchurch.org.

Greenfield Church to Host Talents and Treats 

Stop by Greenfield Presbyterian Church, 2312 Greenfield Rd., in Berkley, for the Annual Talent Show and Ice Cream Social at 6 p.m. Sunday. This is a great time to get together and enjoy members’ talents. From jokes to skits and songs, a fun evening will be had by all. Of course, there will be ice cream, too.

For more information, call (248)544-1800 or visit www.greenfieldchurch.com.

Vacation Bible School begins Monday

VBS is set for the following churches next week:

, 1314 Northwood Blvd., Royal Oak
When: June 27-July 1 from 9 a.m. to noon
Suggested ages: 4 years old through those completing fifth grade
Cost: $30 for the first child; $45/two children; $60/three or more children.
More information: Children and adults will be going on a Prayer Safari to find new ways to understand and remember the Lord's Prayer. Organizers say the kids will learn that God listens, provides, forgives, protects and rules.
Call the church to register at (248) 288-4220 or visit www.fccro.org. 

, 4000 Normandy Rd., Royal Oak
When: June 27-July 1 from 9:30 a.m. to noon plus a Family Fun night on June 30.
Suggested ages: preschool through seventh grade
Cost: A free-will offering will be collected.
More information: Join in the “Gold Rush – Discovering the Rock of Ages.” Call to register (248) 549-5452 or visit www.emmanuelbethel.org.

, 814 N. Campbell, Royal Oak
When: June 27-June 30 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. plus an Ice Cream Social on June 30.
Suggested ages: 3 years through fifth grade
More information: This year's theme is Backstage with the Bible. Call (248) 548-3111 or register online at www.goodshepherdro.org.

If you would like your church's Vacation Bible School or special events to be considered for inclusion in the weekly News from the Pews, email Lynne Cobb at write.lynne@gmail.com.