LITURGY/PRAYER
Clinton — The Sisters of St. Francis invite the public to join them at Vespers — evening prayer — on each of the Sundays of Advent beginning at 6 p.m. in the chapel of The Canticle, their home in Clinton. The four prayer services, will be Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, 13 and 21. Participants will join in song, in reflecting on the Scripture readings of the Advent season, and in praying together for the blessing of Christmas. For more information, call (563) 242-7611. Advent Vespers last about 45 minutes. Parking is available in front of The Canticle. Directions to The Canticle are available at www.clintonfranciscans.com/canticle%20directions.htm.
Iowa City — On Sunday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m., people in Iowa City will gather at Faith United Church at 1609 Deforest Ave. for a candlelight vigil to mourn the loss of a child. After a few remarks, music and a moment of silence, the attendees are invited to leave a candle at a replica of a statue in remembrance of children. The vigil is one of many that will take place nationwide. For more information, call Bruce Titus of St. Patrick Parish in Iowa City at (319) 337-6096.
RETREATS
Blue Grass — A Centering Prayer Advent retreat will take place at St. Andrew Church, 333 W. Lotte St., Blue Grass, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 5. The retreat is for people who have attended an introductory workshop in Centering Prayer or who have experience using the form of prayer. The day will include Centering Prayer, Lectio Divina, an Advent video and time for solitude. Coffee, tea and muffins will be served from 9-9:25 a.m. Cost is $15 per person. Bring a sack lunch; beverages will be provided. Register by Dec. 4. For more information, call (563) 285-7242.
Clinton — An Advent retreat will take place at The Canticle Friday evening, Dec. 4, at 6:30 p.m. through 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. It will include presentations, silence, creative sharing, and contemplative prayer. Participants will explore the gift of God’s coming and the meaning of Incarnation. They also will explore ways to prepare themselves for the grace of gratitude for the past while creating a vision for tomorrow.For more information or to register for the Advent retreat, call Sister Mary Smith at (563) 242-7609, ext. 1369. Costs vary from $30 to $60 depending on lodging and length of stay. Participants may come as early as 9 a.m. Friday morning for eucharistic liturgy and to spend the day in quiet. They also may attend the presentations without staying the night. Scholarships are available.
SOCIALS
Buffalo — A cookie walk will take place at St. Peter Church’s rectory, 406 Fourth St., Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. to noon. Cost is $8 for a large container and $5 for a medium container. Patrons may bring cameras to take photos with Santa.
Harper — The Clear Creek Heritage Association will sponsor a dance at the Knights of Columbus hall Nov. 27 from 6:30-11 p.m. Food will be served; a DJ will provide music, and families are welcome. The evening will include a raffle at 9 p.m. and silent auction. Freewill donations will be accepted.
Iowa City — St. Wenceslaus Parish, 630 E. Davenport St., will hold a holiday bazaar Dec. 5 from 8 a.m. to noon. Kolaches, cinnamon rolls, booths to browse, attic treasures, a silent auction, complimentary coffee and Scrip will be available.
