GriefShare is a Christ-centered support group for all people
experiencing grief and loss of a loved one. The next session is scheduled to start Tuesday
afternoons beginning March 5th from 12:00 (noon) to 2:00 PM for 13-weeks and offered by
Living Savior Lutheran Church & Preschool in Asheville. No fees are required. Interested parties
can join this forum at any time through May 28th
.
GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief recovery topics. Seminar sessions
include “Is This Normal?” “The Challenges of Grief,” “Grief and Your Relationships,” “Why?”
and “Guilt and Anger.” Meetings will be held at 301 Overlook Road location in South Asheville
– off of Long Shoals Road.
For more information, email us at [email protected]. Brochures are available to distribute
in your organization.
# # #
About Living Savior Lutheran Church:
Living Savior Lutheran Church’s mission is to share the good news of Jesus Christ with all
people. Started in 1977 with two families meeting in their homes, Living Savior has grown from
a location in Hendersonville to 301 Overlook Road in South Asheville and now a second location
is planned in Hendersonville on 200 Upward Road. Living Savior serves as an important
member in the community, serving those around with camps, study, events, weddings, funerals,
baptisms and worship all centered on the love of God in Jesus Christ our Savior. He and his Word
as written are the focus of all that we do. Through our national church body – WELS, Wisconsin
Evangelical Lutheran Synod, we are able to reach people all over the world. We represent over
370,000 men, women, and children in nearly 1300 congregations in North America alone

This St. Patrick’s Day, Wagbar is not just about the green on land but also about the joy in water! Alongside our festive celebration with wine slushies, drink specials, and delicious food from Trucking Delicious, we’re excited to announce a special treat: our dog swimming pool will be open for one day only before its full-time opening this summer!

Here’s what’s brewing for the day:
– **Wine Slushee Return**: Our beloved Wine Slushees are back for the day. Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleaser!
– **St. Patrick’s Day Drink Specials**: Enjoy themed drink specials all-day to keep the spirits high.
– **Annual Membership Raffle**: Drop by and get entered for a chance to win a year full of unforgettable Wagbar adventures.
– **Food by Trucking Delicious**: From 2:30 PM to 7 PM, indulge in the best eats on wheels.
– **Free Entry for All**: In the spirit of inclusivity, entry is free for both dogs and humans. Come one, come all!
– **Exclusive Pool Preview**: Dive into fun with our dog swimming pool, open exclusively for this St. Patrick’s Day. Get a sneak peek before it opens full time in the summer.

**Entry Requirements for Pooches**:
– Must be spayed and 6 months or older.
– Up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and bordetella vaccines. (Show proof of vaccinations on entry.)

Dress in your festive best, bring your furry friends, and make a splash this St. Patrick’s Day at Wagbar. It’s the perfect place to experience joy, community, and a little luck of the Irish – both on land and in water. Don’t miss this chance to soak up the fun before our pool opens for the entire summer season!

Let’s celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a splash, laughter, and wagging tails. See you and your four-legged companions for a day to remember!

Dog Eggstravaganza: Kicking off the 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends, and will consist of a small and large dog division. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens on March 4 and closes March 20.

Kicking off our 2024 event calendar is the Dog Eggstravaganza, which will be taking place at Buncombe County Sports Park’s dog park on March 23 at 12 p.m. This event will offer some springtime fun for our four-legged friends and will consist of small and large dog divisions. Each division will have approximately 30 minutes to find as many hidden eggs (filled with treats) as possible. In addition to hidden treats, dogs who collect the most eggs will receive a special prize. While admission is free, pre-registration is required as there are limited spots available. Registration opens Monday, March 4. Pre-register here.

Looking to be challenged physically and spiritually?… join us for the 2024 Carry Your Cross 5K, 1K Kid’s Run, and Little Kid’s (Ages 2-5) Fun Run – Saturday, March 30, 2024.  – 5K participants carry a 4ft length of 2×4 lumber across your back for the final 2/10 of a mile – uphill! Come join us for a run that you won’t soon forget. * 5K AWARDS & AGE GROUPS Special Commemorative Awards to: * Top 3 Male/Female Overall * Top 3 Male/Female Masters [40+] * Top 3 Male/Female in the following Age Groups: * 12+ under, 13-15, 16-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 + KIDS 1K AWARDS to the Top 3 Male/Female Overall  Schedule Saturday – March 30th * 7:00 – 8:45    Packet Pick Up and Onsite Registration in the Family Life Center (gym). * 9:00              5K START * 9:45 +/-         Little Kids Fun Run START * 10:00 +/-       Kids 1K START * 10:30            5K Awards Ceremony

The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness welcomes children
of all ages to participate in an Easter Egg Hunt at 10:00am on Easter Sunday, March 31. The
annual event is hosted by St. John's Young Family Ministry. Participants are encouraged to
join the fun in the Rector’s Garden and Parish Hall lawn at 1905 Greenville Highway, across
Rutledge Drive from the church. Parking is available.

"Since our founding, St. John in the Wilderness has been at the heart of fellowship and
community in Flat Rock and beyond,” said Fr. Josh Stephens, Rector. “We invite our friends
and neighbors to join us for Holy Week as we make our journey toward the cross and for
Easter Sunday as we discover that Christ is risen. We also invite children to our Easter Egg
Hunt between our worship services on Easter Sunday. We are so blessed to have such
wonderful neighbors and a beautiful place to live. It will truly be a gift to come together at
this sacred time.

Holy Week begins March 24 with Palm Sunday services at 8:45 and 11:00 a.m. A special
foot washing service is scheduled at 7:00pm on Maundy Thursday, March 28. Good Friday,
March 29 outside and leading to the church, Stations of the Cross begins at 11:00am with
Good Friday Services inside the church at 12:00pm and 5:30pm.
On Easter Sunday, March 31, services will be held at 8:45am and 11am with the Easter Egg
Hunt in between.

Second Gear Celebrates 20 Years of Community and Consigned Outdoor Gear + Apparel on Saturday June 15th with an all day MEGA SALE (biggest of the year!) and a celebratory 20th Anniversary Block Party from Noon-5pm with exciting Raffles, Free Kids Activities, Local Makers, Outdoor Vendors + Educators, Sweet + Savory Treats, Puppy Adoptions and more… Stop by for the savings and stay for the fun as Second Gear says THANK YOU to their beloved WNC community for all the support in making it to this amazing milestone!

Kids Camp is a free event for children who have completed kindergarten-completed 5th grade. Each evening, the kiddos will have a time in music, games, crafts, missions, and Bible. Dinner and snacks are provided with sign-up. Camp will take place on-campus Mon-Thurs with a pool party on Friday. Individual children must be registered to attend.

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) has announced they are
expanding their zero adoption fee promotions to include first responders and education professionals.
These two populations join veterans, and those participating in the seniors for seniors program, who can
adopt from BRHS and pay no adoption fees.
First responders are defined as firefighters, law enforcement personnel, medical personnel, utility
workers and public health professionals. Education professionals include teachers and administrators
who are working in both public and private school sectors.
“We recognize the critically-important work of those on the front lines of public health and safety and
those who serve as educators,” said BRHS Executive Director Angela Prodrick. “Having a pet is proven to
reduce depression, stress and anxiety and provide emotional support,” Prodrick noted. “The comfort of
an animal can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder,” she
added.
Adoptable pets can be viewed on the BRHS web page at https://www.blueridgehumane.org/adopt.
Proof of employment or volunteer card is needed to receive the discount.
The Blue Ridge Humane Society, Inc., is a 501(c)3 animal welfare organization started in 1950 and
dedicated to ensuring the highest quality of life for animals in Henderson County and our neighboring
communities. BRHS cares for pets awaiting adoption at the Adoption Center; offers low-cost vaccine
clinics, animal education programs, pet training classes, and youth education and projects; coordinates
community pet food assistance, emergency vet assistance, and the Spay Neuter Incentive Program
(SNIP), which is a collaboration with Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville, and the Henderson
County Animal Services Center.
If you believe in our cause, consider donating or learning how to volunteer by visiting the Blue Ridge
Humane Society’s website at www.blueridgehumane.org or call (828) 692-2639.

We are delighted to invite you to a special gathering designed exclusively for the women of our community—Reflect: A Ladies-Only Event at Elevation Church AVL Watch Party! Join us on 9/13 at 7 PM (10 Genevieve Circle, Asheville, NC 28801) for an evening dedicated to reflection, renewal, and connection.

This event is sure to uplift and inspire each lady as we reflect on our personal journeys and celebrate our shared faith. Your presence will add a unique and cherished dimension to our gathering.

We can’t wait to share this special evening with you and experience the joy and renewal that comes from coming together in faith.

Flat Rock, N.C. – The Episcopal Church of St. John in the Wilderness will offer a “Blessing of the Animals” on Sunday, October 6, at 4pm in the back parking lot located behind the Parish Hall at 1905 Greenville Highway in Flat Rock.

Furry and feathered companions are invited to this special service to receive a blessing. Cats,
dogs, snakes, chickens, horses, birds, goats, in fact all domestic animals, are welcome! As an option, a stuffed animal or pet photo may be presented to receive a blessing. Our outdoor meeting space will create a lively Eucharist for all creatures involved.

“The more time I spend in Creation, the more I feel connected to the plants and animals that surround us and the God who made it all,” said Rev. Josh Stephens, the Rector of the parish. “We know your pets and farm animals are members of your family so please come out for this special service that honors your animals and asks for God to bless and care for them as they bless and care for you.”

The service comes a few days after the annual Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, a man with a true
spirit of love and peace that could have only come from God. He turned the cerebral,
inward-leaning theology and scholasticism of the Middle Ages, on its head by his radical
commitment to living a life of poverty and service in the pattern of Jesus of Nazareth.

Those who encountered St. Francis were drawn into the peaceable Kingdom of God to know
more fully the Prince of Peace. Even animals, it is said, were attracted to his Christ-like
gentleness. In one story he preaches to a flock of birds. In another he makes peace with a wolf that had been terrorizing a village calling the creature “Brother Wolf” and reconciling him to the village.

As we thank God for the animals in our lives we pray that the reconciling work of Jesus Christ might extend beyond our relationship with God to include all creation. We hope you will join us with your animal companions for this fun outdoor worship service. In the event of rain, the service will be relocated inside the Parish Hall.

For more information call the church office at 828-693-9783 or visit www.stjohnflatrock.org.

The Wooftop Party is a fun yappy hour for dog owners. With sweater weather here, it’s the perfect time for guests & their pups to enjoy The Roof. Botanical Bones will offer dog treats to keep tails wagging all night, and Mountain Pet Rescue will have adoptable dogs in search of their forever homes.

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) invites the community to participate in their 4th Annual Historic 7th Avenue District Pup Crawl, presented by Hunter Subaru, on Saturday, October 19th, from 12-5 pm. Participants will purchase “Pawsports” and enjoy a pet giveaway
or treat and a unique pet-themed activity at participating dog-friendly food and beverage businesses, earning stamps at each stop for a chance to win a grand prize.

Pawsports are available on the BRHS website, https://www.blueridgehumane.org/get-involved/events/pupcrawl or by calling (828) 692-2639 ext. 304.

Blue Ridge Humane Society (BRHS) invites the community to participate in their 4th Annual Historic 7th Avenue District Pup Crawl Paw-liday Edition, presented by Hunter Subaru, on Saturday, December 7th, from 12-5 pm. Participants will purchase “Pawsports” and
enjoy a pet giveaway or treat and a unique pet-themed activity at participating dog-friendly food and beverage businesses, earning stamps at each stop for a chance to win a grand prize.

The event, originally scheduled for October 19th but postponed due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, will now have a holiday theme with a new activity for pets and pet owners: photos with Santa. Pet owners are asked to bring their own cameras. The Brandy Bar + Cocktails, Celtic Creamery, Guidon Brewing Co., M&T Distilling, Southern Appalachian Brewery and White Duck Taco Shop are the host businesses participating in Pup Crawl. The community is encouraged to support these businesses by purchasing food, drinks and/or gift cards regardless of whether they have a Pawsport.

Pawsports are $20 for one dog and $40 for 2 or more dogs from the same household, if purchased by December 4th. After that date, Pawsports can only be purchased on the day of the event and pricing increases to $30 for one dog and $50 for 2 or more dogs from the same household. Human-only Pawsports can be purchased for the same price that will allow participants to collect all six stamps and
be entered into the grand prize drawing. Dogs must be leashed at all times and current on vaccinations. Event will be held rain or shine.

Pawsports are available on the BRHS website, https://www.blueridgehumane.org/get-
involved/events/pupcrawl or by calling (828) 692-2639 ext. 304.

The Asheville Nativity exhibit entitled “Oh Tidings of Comfort and Joy: Christmas Crèches from Around the World” returns to First Baptist Church of Asheville December 6-15, 2024. The eighth annual Asheville Nativity exhibit is a gift to the community coordinated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and First Baptist Church of Asheville. Nativity displays may be viewed in the dining room at First Baptist Church of Asheville beginning Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 15. The exhibit will be open to the public weekdays 5-8PM, Saturdays 10AM-8PM, and Sundays 12PM-8PM.

School groups, retirement communities, or special press visits can be arranged by emailing [email protected]. The complete schedule can be found at www.ashevillenativity.org. Over 250 Nativity scenes from around the world will be on display. This family-friendly event includes a life-size stable with costumes.

A crèche, often called a Nativity scene, is an artistic representation of the birth of Jesus Christ. While focusing on the central figures of the mother Mary and Christ Child, crèche artists often telescope time and place to bring together a host of earthly and heavenly participants—shepherds, animals, wise men, angels, and commoners.
For centuries, the crèche as an art form has flourished in homes and churches worldwide. Whether the crèche depicts 19th-century Italian villagers dressed in silks and jewels or contemporary African animal herders crafted from clay, each representation reflects the unique talents, circumstances and culture of the artist.

This exhibit is an ecumenical effort to highlight the cultural diversity of each crèche on display, while honoring and celebrating the common theme that runs throughout—the birth of Jesus.
Past events have included participation from seven different Asheville area churches and displayed over 250 unique Nativity sets from seventy countries around the world. Thousands of people attend the exhibit each year. Guest comments included: “Awesome!” “Wonderful!” “Lovely!” “Words cannot express the beauty.” “Impressive and beautifully done.”
The event is free to the public. Donations are welcome. Tax-deductible donations can be made by visiting ashevillenativity.org. More information is available on the website or by emailing [email protected]. First Baptist Church of Asheville is located at 5 Oak Street in downtown Asheville.
“Oh Tidings of Comfort and Joy: Christmas Crèches from Around the World”
First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak St, downtown Asheville
Free Admission
Weekdays: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sundays: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

When the Holidays Hurt: The holidays can be difficult. In this season of sparkling lights, festive songs, and our communal efforts to maintain a sense of joy, it can be hard to find a quiet place that acknowledges both our collective grief and our personal struggles.

Please join UU Asheville’s Ministerial Interns and the Pastoral Care Team on December 15, 2024, at 1:30 PM in the sanctuary at 1 Edwin Place Asheville for an annual service that includes music, readings, quiet reflection and healing ritual. All are welcome.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

The 22nd annual Business of Farming Conference, presented by ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project), will be held Feb. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The conference will take place at Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, Henderson County, NC—which is a location change from A-B Tech, as originally announced. The A-B Tech Conference Center is undergoing repairs after serving as a disaster relief location during Hurricane Helene.

The conference focuses on the business side of farming, offering beginning and established farmers financial, legal, operational, and marketing tools to improve farm businesses and make professional connections. This year’s conference will also have a strong emphasis on resilience planning and resources for post-Helene recovery. More than a dozen workshops will be led by innovative farmers and specialists, including You Can’t Do It All: Hiring and Keeping a Productive Team and Planning for Farm Resiliency. A full list of workshops is at asapconnections.org.

Registration is now open at asapconnections.org. The cost is $75 by Feb. 1 and $95 after, with a discount for farm partners registering together. Scholarships are available for limited-resource and BIPOC farmers. The registration price includes a locally sourced breakfast and lunch. Lunch is sponsored by Farm Burger.

Support for the conference is provided in part by Dogwood Health Trust, NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a beloved pastor and theologian whose work has blessed countless people around the world. Christians especially have cherished his practical theology, approachable writing style, and prophetic vision. This Epiphany chapel study will engage Bonhoeffer’s works to help us learn how to be faithful in times of political and social upheaval.

“The Thorn,” a powerful and popular live theatrical event, seen live by over one million people, will bring the passion of Jesus to life this spring at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

The Thorn offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances, and timeless spiritual perspectives. The story spans from creation to the formation of the early church. Watch the trailer here.  For more information, please visit TheThorn.com

Author John Bolin created the show over 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm.

The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.

“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare, and redemption,” said Bolin.

Explore the labyrinth as a practice of deep listening with our hearts and a metaphor for our spiritual path.

10 a.m. – Nature Immersion with Aimeé Bostwick
11 a.m. – Presentation in the Fireplace Lounge with Jaan Ferree
11:30 a.m. – Facilitated Labyrinth Walk at the outdoor labyrinth
12:30 p.m. – Lunch Buffet

Join us for a powerful evening with Massey Campos, a nationally recognized speaker, preacher, and constitutional advocate. In this timely and engaging presentation, Massey will unpack the moral and biblical foundations of our nation, exploring how faith, liberty, and personal responsibility intersect with the U.S. Constitution.

With humor, passion, and deep conviction, Massey challenges audiences to think critically about our role as citizens and the values that make America exceptional. Whether you’re a seasoned patriot or just beginning to explore your civic responsibility, this event will inspire and equip you to stand for truth in today’s cultural climate.

Nourish your body, mind, and soul by experiencing a variety of offerings to bring balance and peace to your life during these times. Ample free time allows participants to nap, hike around the lake, journal, or explore Kanuga. Led by Chantal McKinney, a life-long seeker of the Divine. She is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, coach, consultant, practitioner of community development, and former church planter who walks among the two worlds of faith and spirituality.