Religion

 The excitement was growing as 42 seniors boarded the Cavilla big green bus to head to Branson on Tuesday, June 22.
The group enjoyed seeing old friends and making new as they played “all about me” games, singing and playing bingo on the bus. By the time they reached the Six Flags area, they decided to have breakfast.
After another stop for lunch in Springfield, Mo., for lunch, they arrived at Grand Oakes Hotel, their home away from home for the next four days.

By Charlene M. Jett
Another great day at Evergreen Outreach and First United Methodist Church in Vandalia. Our leader was Beulah Brown (I’ll tell you more about the hidden secrets she brought later).
Our mighty fine and exuberant pianist was Bette Stolte. She came loaded with a touch of dynamite in her fingertips!

St. James celebrating 150th anniversary

St. James Lutheran Church in Vandalia is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and the celebration includes a commemorative book.
The book includes the early history of the church and every baptism, confirmation, marriage and funeral as recorded in the three parish registers from 1871 to the present, as well as membership rolls.