"The picnic has good food, good fellowship and good atmosphere," said Gail Ruhl, a member of the community picnic planning committee at Ruhl's Church. "People can expect to have lots of fun. Our church picnic grove is a special place where people can relax and enjoy each other's company."

The church will hold its annual community picnic on Saturday, July 15, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. It will be held at the Ruhl's Church Picnic Grove, 2766 Newport Road, Manheim.

"There will be plenty of food available for purchase throughout the picnic," said Ruhl. "Early in the morning, we will begin preparing our traditional chicken corn soup, following the recipe that has been used for many generations." Takeout soup sales will begin at 9 a.m.

A full lunch menu will also be offered, including soup, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs and hot sausage sandwiches with toppings including grilled onions and peppers. "An assortment of delicious homemade desserts and beverages will also be on the menu," Ruhl stated.

Holding the picnic is a tradition for the church members, and the event helps the church stay connected with the community, Ruhl noted. "Church picnics have been around for a long time and are considered a community social event," she said. "(It's) a way for people to gather together, talk and share food. Church picnics are a great place to see old friends and make new friends."

Ruhl's Church will offer vacation Bible school (VBS) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 17, through Friday, July 21, with a theme of "Sky - Everything Is Possible With God."

"Activities each evening will include praiseworthy music, Bible adventures where children experience God's word, fun-filled games, awesome crafts and a yummy take-home snack," said Bev Snavely, who leads the VBS planning committee with her husband, Dennis. "The last evening of VBS, Friday, will be family fun night where parents are encouraged to stay and participate. The evening will end with an ice cream social." Children may preregister for VBS or sign up on the first night.

Additionally, the church will offer services in the grove on Sundays beginning July 9 and running through Aug. 13. Services will begin at 7 p.m.

For more information on upcoming events, to register for VBS or to see a list of speakers for the grove services, visit https://ruhlschurch.org or call 717-665-3400.