Hagerstown Area Religious Council January Events Include Dementia Resources, Musical Performances

The Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC) and its member organizations have announced a series of upcoming events in January, offering opportunities for community engagement, informational sessions, and celebratory services. These events, primarily centered in Hagerstown, include HARC’s annual meeting, a dementia resource information session, a Christmas festival of carols, and an ordination service. Residents are encouraged to participate in these diverse offerings that highlight community support and spiritual gatherings.

HARC will hold its annual meeting on Tuesday, January 20, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, located at 601 Washington Avenue in Hagerstown. The meeting is open to all HARC members and affiliates, with representatives from other houses of worship and community members also welcome. Attendees will hear testimonials from HARC programs, recognize outgoing board members and key volunteers, and acknowledge the organization’s ministry. Business matters, including the voting on the 2026 budget and the election of new board members and officers, will also be conducted. An RSVP is requested by Friday, January 16, at noon to assist with lunch arrangements. Further information and registration details are available.

Prior to HARC’s annual meeting, a free information session on dementia resources will be held on Thursday, January 8, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Otterbein UMC Auditorium at 108 E. Franklin Street in Hagerstown. Hannah Miller, a Speech-Language Pathology student at Lebanon Valley College, will present local dementia-related resources and services. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP to Hannah Miller at hm009@lvc.edu or shenk@lvc.edu by January 1.

On Sunday, January 4, at 5:00 PM, Saint John’s Episcopal Church, located at 101 S. Prospect Street in Hagerstown, will host The Christmas Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This service, scheduled for the Eleventh Day of Christmas, will feature the choirs of Saint John’s Episcopal Church and Saint Luke’s Lutheran Church of Silver Spring, with organists and choirmasters John Sabine and Adam Scott Graham. A festive reception will follow the service. While the Music Series is free to attend, goodwill offerings will be appreciated.

Finally, Hebron Mennonite Church at 13315 Highlane Street in Hagerstown will host the ordination service for Pastor Anna Ressler on Sunday, January 11, at 3:00 PM. Faith leaders and members of the faith community are invited to attend this celebration. Refreshments and fellowship will be available after the service. The ordination will also be livestreamed on Hebron Mennonite Church’s YouTube page.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from the Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC)

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