United Methodist plans to say farewell to pastor

The congregation of Spokane Valley United Methodist Church will bid farewell to the Rev. David Johnson during a special combined worship service at 10 a.m. Sunday. Johnson has led the church since 1999 and is leaving for Oak Harbor, Wash.

During Johnson’s tenure the church began a contemporary worship service with a new choir, the church was remodeled in 2004 and the congregation became involved in Upward Basketball.

Sunday’s service will be followed by a potluck lunch. Those attending are asked to bring a salad or main dish to share. There also will be a basket to collect thank you cards from those who would like to bring them.

Johnson will be replaced by the Rev. Mike Graef. He will take over leadership of the church on July 1.

Vacation Bible schools

•The congregations of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection will team up the week of June 28 to July 1 to offer vacation Bible school. The theme of the event is “Baobab Blast” and will include crafts, Bible stories and other activities.

Sessions for students in grades K-2 will be from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. daily at Good Shepherd, 810 S. Sullivan Road. Students in grades 3-5 will meet daily from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Mary’s, 304 S. Adams Road. The cost is $10. Call St. Mary’s at (509) 928-3210 for more information or to register.

•“High Seas Expedition” is the theme of the vacation Bible school session being held June 28 to July 2 at Opportunity Presbyterian Church. The session is open to children age 3 through the fifth grade. Classes will be from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. each day and will include lunch.

The cost is $10 per child or $30 per family and scholarships are available. Children also will receive T-shirts. Call the church at (509) 924-9750 to register or for more information. The church is at 202 N. Pines Road.

Rummage sale

Hope Lutheran Church, 17909 E. Broadway Ave., will host its annual rummage sale today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.