Faith briefs

First United Methodist will begin a church-wide study and sermon series based on the book “In His Steps” by Charles Sheldon

The study and sermon series kicks off Sunday, Jan. 8 and continues through Feb. 12. The Rev. Steve Haines will present the message in the 8:30 and 11 a.m. services in the sanctuary, and this week also in the informal journey@first service in the chapel at 9 a.m.

Classes are offered Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., and Sundays at 9:45 a.m.

Coffee and light refreshments are available on Sundays in the fellowship hall at 9:30 a.m. Dinner is available Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. if a reservation is made with the church office in advance.

Wednesday nights, there are also classes and discussion groups for youth and children. If requested in advance, child care can be provided for the Tuesday classes. To sign up for a class or for more information, contact the church at 704-636-3121.

FUMC is located at 217 S. Church St., at the intersection of Church and Fisher Streets.

Trinity UMC

KANNAPOLIS — Trinity United Methodist Church will have one service on Sunday, Jan. 8, at 10:25 a.m. Fellowship begins at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday school follows at 9:15. Church officers for 2012 will be commissioned.

Trinity is located at 416 E. 1st St., 704-933-1127.

Northside

EAST SPENCER — Northside Church of God of Prophecy, 730 N. Long St., will host a mission program on Sunday, Jan. 8 at 3 p.m.

The theme is “Planting my Garden for the New Year” and features speakers Minister Catherine Bradley of Southern City AME Zion Tabernacle, Minister Erma Jeffries-Dalton of Salem Baptist Church in Lexington, Minister Grace Clemons of Stan Place Church of God of Prophecy of High Point and Sister Natalie Walker, First Lady of Graves Chapel Missionary Baptist Church of Yanceyville.

Center Grove Lutheran

KANNAPOLIS — Center Grove Lutheran Church LCMS, 1601 S. Cannon Blvd., will celebrate their 135th year of ministry on Sunday, January 8 at 3 p.m. followed by a reception in the fellowship hall. The serivce will also celebrate the installation of Pastor Ginn and Center Grove into the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.

Community Baptist concert

On Sunday, Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. “God’s Child” will be in concert at Community Baptist Church, 18 Carolina St. Call 704-636-0984 for details.

St. Matthew’s

St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church will hold their second Sunday singing on Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Clay and Al Lunsford of Union Grove and Paul Hill of Salisbury will be the featured entertainment with an evening of bluegrass, gospel and country music.

St. Matthew’s is located at 9275 Bringle Ferry Road where Gary Coble serves as pastor.

Faith Community Health Promoter training classes

CONCORD — A Faith Community Health Promoter is a layperson serving as a health advocate in a faith community. This training will enable laypersons to educate and motivate a congregation toward health and wellness. No medical background is necessary. One must attend both days to receive the certificate. Cost of the course is $50.

Classes are scheduled Jan. 27 from 5-9 p.m. and Jan. 28 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at CMC-NorthEast, 920 Church St.

Call 704-403-4484 or email donna.harless@carolinas healthcare.org for more information on the program.

St. Ann concert

CHARLOTTE — The Rhodora Wind Trio will be in concert at St. Ann Catholic Church, 3635 Park Road, on Sunday, Jan. 15 at 4 p.m. tickets are $12, call 704-523-4641 or visit www.StAnnCharlotte.org for details.