Numerous community events are scheduled throughout January 2026, offering residents opportunities for fellowship, support, and service. These gatherings include free dinners, blood drives, grief support meetings, and special trips organized by local churches.
Upcoming Community Events
A free community night will take place at the **Norwood United Methodist Church** located at **315 Chester Pike, Norwood** on **January 11, 2026**. Dinner will be served at **5:30 p.m.**, followed by a game night at **6:30 p.m.** This monthly event runs from October to May, inviting neighbors and friends to join in. Free parking is available on Chester Pike, Ridley Avenue, and at **Cavanagh’s Funeral Home** when not in use. Attendees should enter through the Ridley Avenue entrance with double glass doors, with designated handicapped access available.
Additionally, a blood drive at **St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church** at **535 Lamp Post Lane, Aston** will occur on **January 14, 2026**, from **1 p.m. to 6 p.m.** Individuals wishing to donate can register by calling **1-800-RED CROSS** (1-800-733-2767) or visiting **RedCrossBlood.org** and entering the code “St Timothy.”
A grief potluck is also planned for **January 21, 2026**, at the same location, welcoming those who want to share a dish that reminds them of their loved ones. This event is an opportunity to connect with others while honoring memories.
Special Activities and Support Groups
The **Holy Myrrh-Bearers Church**, situated at **900 Fairview Road, Swarthmore**, will hold its annual pierogie sale on **January 14** and **28**, and **February 11** and **25**. Potato and cheese pierogies are priced at **$12 per dozen**, while sauerkraut pierogies are **$13 per dozen**. Orders exceeding five dozen require pre-ordering, and large holiday orders should be made at least two weeks in advance to ensure availability. Additional items such as smoked Kielbasi rings and various homemade soups will also be available, with updates provided on the pierogie hotline at **610-544-1216**.
For bereaved parents, **Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church** at **2 E. Sylvan Ave., Rutledge** offers a monthly grief support group. Meetings occur every third Wednesday, with the next session on **January 21, 2026**, from **6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.** This environment encourages open sharing of feelings without judgment.
Community members seeking social engagement can join a trip to **Mount Hope Winery** for “A Murder Mystery Luncheon” organized by **St. John Fisher seniors** on **February 17, 2026**. The total cost of **$130** includes bus transportation, lunch, wine tasting, and gratuities, with a **$25** deposit due by **January 8**.
Other notable trips include a visit to **Tomasello Winery** and **Resorts Casino** on **April 9, 2026**, and a journey to **Montreal** from **May 18 to 22, 2026**, presented by **St. Gabriel Parish**. This five-day excursion features key sites such as the **Notre Dame Cathedral** and **Montmorency Falls**, with costs starting at **$1,100** for double occupancy.
Ongoing Support Services
**Mary Mother of Captives**, a support group for families with loved ones in prison, meets monthly at **St. Charles Borromeo Parish Hall** on the second Thursday. The next meeting will be on **April 10, 2026**. For more details, contact **John or Sue** at **610-259-3178**.
**Bread of Life Assembly of God Church** has opened a food pantry on the second Saturday of each month from **11 a.m. to 2 p.m.** This initiative aims to support local residents in need of nutritious food, with no registration required.
**Collenbrook United Church** offers free community meals on the last Saturday of each month, providing home-cooked meals and fellowship from **noon to 2 p.m.** For more information, contact **610-789-9590**.
The **Legion of Mary** hosts meetings across various parishes for those interested in spreading faith through community service. Meetings are open to practicing Catholics, regardless of parish affiliation.
These events and services aim to strengthen community bonds, support those in need, and provide enjoyable activities for all participants. For further details on any event, community members can reach out directly to the respective organizations or visit their websites.
