Aquebogue-Jamesport: Spiritual events and an 11th generation speaker

The Save The Grange Nature Talk Lecture Series is ongoing at The Grange in Northville. The lectures for this week are: March 11, “Spirituality in the Garden, Preparedness for the Future,” presented by John Macfarland; March 18, “Biodynamics,” presented by Steve Storch. For more information, call Jeff Frank at The Nature Lyceum at 728-0218. Donations for The Grange can be sent to First Parish Church, P.O. Box 898, Jamesport NY 11947. Checks can be made payable to First Parish Church (write “Save The Grange Campaign” in the memo).

As I mentioned last week, this Saturday, March 12, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., I will begin offering a series, with one spiritual theme each week, at Grange Hall entitled “40 Days to Focus,” which integrates nutritional cleansing, resources for healthy living and scriptural meditations for prayer. “40 Days to Focus” is a booklet I wrote that offers resources and suggestions toward balancing body, mind and spirit. It also includes 40 days of prayer meditations and an appendix of resources for books and websites that have inspired me along the way. The sessions will conclude with group and individual prayer time and will be offered free of charge. Free-will offerings for the Save The Grange project will be appreciated. Call or e-mail me for further details.

Old Steeple Community Church’s monthly lunch meeting entitled “Young at Heart” will be held in the church’s Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, March 16, at noon. Lyle Wells, an 11th-generation farmer, will speak on the current state of agriculture in Riverhead Town, as well as the broader picture nationally. Those who are interested in the pleasures and problems of farming are invited to attend. Bring a bag lunch; coffee, tea and dessert will be provided.

This past weekend I went on a women’s retreat with Magnificat Ministries, an international ministry to Catholic women. It was very cool. There were women from other denominations as well, including our worship leader, who serves at a nondenominational church. If you are curious about this type of spontaneous worship, Living Waters Church on Shade Tree Lane in Aquebogue is hosting a “Night of Worship” this Sunday, March 13, at 6 p.m. All are welcome. Call 722-4969 for more details.

Best wishes for a very happy 50th birthday today, March 10, to Allison Pressler from your husband, Michael, your daughter, Melissa, and all your family. Happy birthday and many more to come.

Steve and I missed Jazz on the Vine last weekend because I was on retreat and he knows better than to go out on a date without me! So, just as a reminder, there are only two more weekends remaining for the series. Many of the concerts have been selling out, so you might want to consider purchasing tickets ahead of time. We are professional wine tasters, packing a picnic of cheese and crackers. Sometimes we make our own infused olive oil and bring the olives, and bread to dip. There are many creative ways to enjoy our life on the North Fork! Check out the Jazz on the Vine series by visiting liwinterfest.com.