Several community events are set to take place across local churches this January, offering residents opportunities for fellowship, support, and service. Notably, the Norwood United Methodist Church will host a free community night on January 11, featuring dinner at 5:30 p.m. and game night beginning at 6:30 p.m.. This monthly gathering, held from October to May, is designed to foster connections among friends and neighbors. Attendees can find parking along Chester Pike and Ridley Avenue, as well as at Cavanagh’s Funeral Home when not in use.
On January 14, St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church in Aston will organize a blood drive from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Community members can register by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting RedCrossBlood.org. Following this, a grief potluck is scheduled for January 21 at 6 p.m., inviting participants to bring a dish that holds personal significance.
The Holy Myrrh-Bearers Church in Swarthmore will continue its popular pierogie sale on January 14 and 28. Prices are set at $12 per dozen for potato and cheese pierogies, and $13 for sauerkraut, with additional sales later in the year. Orders exceeding five dozen require pre-ordering to ensure availability.
A support meeting for bereaved parents will take place at Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church on January 21, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. These monthly gatherings allow parents to share their experiences in a confidential setting, providing emotional support during a challenging time. Interested individuals can reach out to Chris Pearse at 610-952-9856 for more information.
In addition to these events, St. John Fisher is organizing a trip to Mount Hope Winery for “A Murder Mystery Luncheon” on February 17. The cost of $130 covers transportation, lunch, wine tasting, and gratuities, with a deposit required by January 8.
Looking ahead, St. Gabriel Parish in Norwood is planning a bus trip to Montreal from May 18 to 22, 2026. This five-day excursion includes visits to several prominent sites in both Montreal and Quebec City, with costs starting at $1,100 for double occupancy. Reservations can be made by contacting the St. Gabriel Rectory at 610-586-1225.
Ongoing support initiatives include a food pantry at the Bread of Life Assembly of God Church, which will operate on the second Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. This service aims to assist those in need without requiring registration. Community members are encouraged to volunteer and donate to the pantry.
The Christian Church of Chester is also active in community service, offering free meals on Tuesdays and hosting Zumba classes for fitness and fellowship every Wednesday.
Collenbrook United Church is resuming its free community meals on the last Saturday of each month, providing home-cooked meals and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
These events highlight the commitment of local churches to serve their communities, offering both social and spiritual support to residents in the area. For further details on any of the events or to get involved, interested individuals can contact the respective churches directly.
