advent | Programs planned

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Community, 3020 Reeves Road NE, Warren: Tuesdays of Advent, an evening prayer and education series, are scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday and Dec. 11 and 18. The Rev. Bernard “Bob” Bonnot, pastor of Christ Our Savior Parish in Struthers, will share insights on “Vatican II: Fifty Years Later.” He will focus on where the Church has been, where it is today and where it is headed. He wrote two books on Pope John XXIII. All are welcome. Fellowship and dessert will follow. The church also will conduct an Advent reconciliation service at 3 p.m. Dec. 16. The Revs. Thomas Eisweirth and Thomas McCarthy welcome the community to the penance service that will include song, liturgy of the word, examination of conscience and individual confession and absolution. For information, call 330-372-2215.

St. Columba Cathedral, 154 W. Wood St., Youngstown: The annual Advent service of lessons and carols is planned at 7 p.m. Dec. 9. The program will feature the Cathedral Choir directed by Dr. Daniel Laginya, assisted by organist Joseph Petros III and percussionist Dylan Kollat. Light refreshments will be served in the Cathedral Hall after the program. Security and free parking will be provided. For information, call 330-744-5233.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 30 W. Front St., Youngstown: The church will conduct a study group, “Discover Advent, The Season of Anticipation,” and potluck from 6 to 7 p.m. Sundays, starting this weekend, and Dec. 9, 16 and 23. Advent devotions are planned at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday and Dec. 11 and 18 in the Chapel of Friendly Bells. The Rev. Jerry Krueger will offer the devotion. A light lunch will follow for a $5 donation.

Villa Maria Spirituality and Education Center, Villa Maria, Pa., will continue its monthly series of morning seminars, Coffee & Contemplation with “Advent/Antiphons” from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 11. Presenter will be Sister Ardath Blake. Program participants may stay for lunch, but registration is required. Cost for program is $7; program and lunch are $12. Call 724-964-8886 or register online at www.villaprograms.org.