Community News

The practice of placing floral groupings in temples began with the Chinese Buddhists in the 6th century.

Flowers have been important symbols of worship for religions worldwide for many centuries, even long before the Christian era.

They can be seen in secular and religious occasions, especially joyful ones like weddings, and in all places of worship and ceremonial occasions, such as churches, temples and synagogues.

Festivals of ancient gods were marked by strewing flowers and their petals, as well as adorning statues with wreaths.

Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist John McCutcheon will perform in Oak Ridge’s Grove Theater this week in a special concert to benefit the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge.

The concert, which starts at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22, will pay tribute to Selma Shapiro, the late long-time director of the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge.

McCutcheon is a folk musician known for his stories, songs, and his virtuosic skill with a variety of instruments.

“Separation of Church and State: Protecting Your Religious Freedom” will be the topic of Paul W. Sharkey’s talk during the next Lunch with the League.

The Oak Ridge League of Women Voters event will start at noon Feb. 19 in Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist Church at 1500 Oak Ridge Turnpike.

Sharkey is a retired professor of philosophy and religion and professor of community health.  

There is no cost to attend, and reservations are not required.

Mid-East Community Action Agency is accepting applications to enroll children in Head Start.

Head Start is a federal early childhood program that promotes school readiness from ages birth to 5 in low-income families by enhancing cognitive, social and emotional development.

It provides a learning environment that supports children’s growth in language and literacy, cognition and general knowledge, physical development and health, social and emotional development and approaches to learning.