Hagerstown Area Religious Council Announces January and February Community Events and Outreach Initiatives

The Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC) has announced a series of events and outreach opportunities for January and February 2026, aimed at fostering community engagement, supporting local needs, and promoting interfaith understanding. The organization has also shared news of a loss within the community and highlighted several urgent requests for assistance.

HARC is mourning the recent passing of Reverend Terry King, a long-time community pastor and former leader of Bridge of Life Church. The organization recognized his significant contributions to the community and expressed that he will be deeply missed.

In addition to the somber news, HARC is also seeking community support for several individuals and organizations. A family in need is searching for a converted van equipped with a lift to assist a physically challenged father. Individuals with information about such a vehicle that can be donated or sold are encouraged to contact Pamela at Meritus Health at 240-675-2247. Furthermore, a Hammond organ is available for donation to a church in need. Those interested in acquiring the organ can reach out to Pam S. via text or call at 301-573-0814.

The Washington County Teachers Association (WCTA) is also reaching out for community involvement. Carol Mowen, President of WCTA, has released a video explaining the organization’s mission and the need for stakeholder support for local public schools. Mowen is available to present this video and discuss advocacy efforts with local organizations and congregations. Interested parties can contact her at the WCTA office at 301-797-7682 or cmowen@mseanea.org.

The Parkside Pals Homework Club, operating at the Hagerstown Housing Authority’s Parkside Homes Community Building, is actively seeking tutors for its after-school program. This program provides academic assistance and educational activities for children in kindergarten through third grade. Paid tutoring positions are available Monday through Thursday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, continuing until the end of the school year in June. Those interested in applying can contact Deena Holder at dholder@hagerstownha.com or by phone at 301-733-6911, extension 163.

HARC has scheduled several key events in January. A Martin Luther King, Jr. Service will be held on Sunday, January 18th, at 5:00 PM at Impact Ministries. The theme for this service is “Fortified, Faith & Focus,” and it will feature keynote speaker Dr. Zina Pierre, President of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, along with other presenters including Taj Smith, President of the Washington County NAACP, and Christopher Randall, CEO of Randal Communication & Strategy.

The HARC Annual Meeting is set for Tuesday, January 20th, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. This meeting is open to all HARC members, affiliates, representatives of other houses of worship, and community members. The agenda includes testimonials from HARC programs, recognition of outgoing board members and volunteers, a review of the 2026 budget, and the election of new board members and officers. RSVPs are requested by noon on Friday, January 16th, to help with lunch arrangements.

New Light Metropolitan Community Church is hosting a Drag Show/Brunch Fundraiser on Sunday, January 25th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Aspiring to Serve, Inc. This event promises a lively atmosphere with drag performances and is a fundraiser to benefit New Light MCC. Tickets are available through Eventbrite, and space is limited.

An Interfaith Panel, organized by HARC, will take place on Thursday, January 29th, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Islamic Society of Western Maryland. Leaders from Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths will participate in a discussion comparing and contrasting their beliefs, highlighting both commonalities and differences. A meal will be provided by the Islamic Society following the program. RSVPs are requested.

Throughout January and February, HARC is also offering wellness and educational programs. Tai Chi classes are scheduled for Tuesdays from January 20th to February 24th, with sessions for beginners at 5:00 PM and intermediate participants at 5:45 PM at Otterbein UMC Auditorium. Chair Yoga classes will be held on Thursdays from January 22nd to February 26th, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, also at Otterbein UMC Auditorium. Both programs are suitable for various levels and require a donation.

A book discussion on Kaira Jewell Lingo’s “We Were Made for These Times – 10 Lessons for Moving Through Change, Loss and Disruption” will occur on Wednesdays from January 21st to February 18th at Unity of Hagerstown, meeting at St. Mark’s Fellowship Hall. Participants are asked to read the first two chapters for the initial meeting. A suggested donation is requested.

The Refugee Welcome Network, operating under HARC, is seeking volunteers and will hold an orientation on Wednesday, January 21st, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at Christ’s Reformed Church. This session will provide information on how to support refugees in the community. Interested individuals are asked to email director@harccoalition.org to attend.

Looking ahead to February, HARC is hosting a Listening Workshop on Monday, February 2nd, with sessions from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Unity of Hagerstown. This workshop will focus on developing compassionate listening skills. A love offering is suggested, and pre-registration is required.

A Gratitude Day Retreat is planned for Saturday, February 7th, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM at Unity of Hagerstown. This retreat offers time for reflection, journaling, group discussions, and exploring scriptures of thanksgiving, with a vegetarian lunch provided. The cost is $50, and registration is required. To register email unityhagerstown@gmail.com

Finally, a Valentine’s Day Organ Concert will be held on Saturday, February 14th, at 2:00 PM at Zion Reformed UCC, featuring Claire Marie Moblard on organ and Byron Stay on trumpet. The concert is intended to celebrate various forms of love.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Hagerstown Area Religious Council

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