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July 8, 2026

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In the Spotlight

Pastor Ben Manning finds peace 


Rev. Ben Manning was called to eternal glory earlier this week, after a several year battle with pancreatic cancer. Rev. Manning most recently served Boonsboro Christian Church. A memorial service will be held on July 18th at 2:00 pm at First Christian Church of Hagerstown, 1345 Potomac Avenue in Hagerstown. Obituary.

A rabbi and an imam reflect on antisemitism and Islamophobia


By Robin Young, Scott Tong, Indira Lakshmanan

NPR


The rise of violence against Jews around the world has made armed security guards a common sight at synagogues. Rabbi Andy Green of Congregation Or Tzion in Scottsdale, Ariz., reflects.

From Christian Prayer Circles to Sujood, Religion is All Over the 2026 World Cup


By Madhiha Anis

Interfaith America


When Lamine Yamal, Spain’s teenage star, dropped to his knees after scoring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he wasn’t just celebrating a goal. He was performing sujood — an Islamic public expression of gratitude to God — in front of millions of viewers who may never have seen the Islamic prayer before.

Stay Informed

Seeking Lead Pastor


St. James Brethren Church in Fairplay, Maryland, is prayerfully seeking a Bible-centered Lead Pastor who is passionate about faithfully preaching God's Word, shepherding His people, and leading our congregation in Christ. We desire a pastor committed to sound biblical teaching, discipleship, and long-term ministry. If you feel God may be calling you to serve, we invite you to learn more about this opportunity and join us in seeking His will for the future of our church. Flyer.

Save a Life Day 2026


Washington County Health Department (WCHD) is seeking houses of worship to participate in the Save a Life Day 2026 on September 24. This national event brings communities together to provide free naloxone, overdose prevention education, and lifesaving resources. Last year, thousands of events were held nationwide, distributing more than 130,000 doses of naloxone in a single day. To learn more about hosting WCHD on this date to save lives and strengthen our community's response to the overdose crisis, contact David Washington at  david.washington@maryland.gov or 240-313-3310 .

Volunteer Opportunities Available


The Hope Center at Hagerstown Rescue Mission Community Needs YOUR Help They have one meal service this month that still need volunteers. July 20: Meal Preparation: and Meal Service. Whether you're a business team, church group, family, group of friends, or simply one person willing to step up and help, your support matters. If you're interested in filling one of these opportunities, please reach out to them as soon as possible. 301-7391165 or email volunteer@hagerstownhopecenter.com 

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Summer Activities Calendars available. August info needed.


HARC's July calendar of free and low-cost children's activities is ready! It is full of VBS and other fun programs. See our website for the latest version. Programs for August still wanted! Please send information to Charlotte at harcnewsflash@gmail.com as soon as possible.

Add Your Voice

HARC & Member Events

Stories In The Round - Misty Mator

Mon., July 20 | 7:00 pm

Unitarian Universalist Church of Hagerstown

13245 Cearfoss Pike, Hagerstown


Misty Mator brings us timeless tales that highlight historic events, celebrate culture, inspire creativity and promote explorations of ethical values. She draws on her study of traditional folktales, and her experience as a mother-of-four to entertain, educate, and amuse audiences of all ages. $15 paid in advance by 9"00 am Monday, July 20 or $20 at the door. Children 12 years & older welcome when accompanied by a parent or group leader. Contact: Fanny Crawford, 301-730-1638 or fanitsky@hotmail.com.

Food Drop

Tue., July 21 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Otterbein United Methodist Church

108 E. Franklin Street, Hagerstown


This is a one-time, food “drop”. Bring sturdy grocery type tote bags to carry your food/produce home. Recommended especially for those who fall within the WIC Income Guidelines - (Example: Family of 4 with income less than $40,793). For More Information Call Maryland Food Bank – Western Branch, 301-733-4002 OR Otterbein United Methodist Church, 301-739-9386.

Community Events

Free Hagerstown Municipal Band Concert

Sun., July 12 | 7:00 pm

City Park Bandshell

Hagerstown


Enjoy FREE live music from the Hagerstown Municipal Band at City Park. Featuring David Wenard, Trombone Soloist. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a Sunday concert!

Community Block Party

Thu., July 16 | 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Wheaton Park

449 Sumans Avenue, Hagerstown


The City of Hagerstown is coming to a neighborhood near YOU this summer! The first of FIVE community block parties will kick off at Wheaton Park. Members from the neighborhood are invited to attend this FREE event. Connect with neighbors, elected officials, city staff, and local resources.

Help with the next SHP Bed Build! 

Fri., July 17 | 8:30 am

Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown


Join Sleep In Heavenly Peace for the first Badges Building Beds & Bridges in partnership with the Maryland State Police, Hagerstown Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Maryland. The goal is to build 125 beds for children in Washington County. No experience needed! Click on flyer and use QR code to sign up.

Walking to Wellness

Every Wednesday | 12:00 pm

ARCC at Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown


Looking for a free cool place to walk in this heat? Join Primetime for Women for Walking to Wellness! More than just a walk, it's a chance to connect with an incredible group of people, build meaningful friendships, share encouragement, and take a step toward a healthier you—both physically and mentally. They celebrate over 4 years of walking every week as a group. Some start at 11:30 am and you can even get a $5 quarterly pass from the college to walk when the gym is open and free from scheduled activities. Each week they also have a community speaker to give a short motivational talk before they start walking.

Free Outdoor Movies

Fri., July 17, 31, Aug 7 | 7:00 pm

City Park Bandshell

Hagerstown


Join Hagerstown Parks & Recreation for free outdoor movies presented by Maryland Physicians Care! Fun activities planned before each movie starting at 7:00 pm. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, or enjoy the band shell benches, and treat yourself to concessions and a fun evening under the stars! Movie starts at dusk. July 17, Zootopia PG / July 31, Lilo & Stitch PG / August 7, Ferris Bueller's Day Off PG-13

Keep up-to-date with potential weather cancellations on Parks & Rec's Facebook page!

Braver Angels: Skills for Disagreeing Better Workshop

Sat., July 18 | 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Middletown Library

31 E. Green Street, Middletown, MD


Braver Angels: Skills for Disagreeing Better Workshop. This workshop focuses on practical skills for having constructive, respectful conversations across political differences. Given the challenges you described with community tensions and the difficulty of engaging folks across the aisle, we thought this might be of interest to you or others in your network who are looking for tools to navigate these dynamics. Registration page.

Share & Discover

We hope this News Flash is helpful to you. Please contact us if you know someone we should add to the email list or if you would like to be removed.

 

Blessings!

Kathy Powderly

Executive Director

David Brechbiel

News Flash Editor

P.O. Box 1158

Hagerstown, MD 21741

301-842-HARC

HARCCoalition.org

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