Church celebrates peace and community

Music and art festival benefits Haitian orphanage Lafayette — Unity Church is holding an afternoon event called The Rhythm of Peace Festival on Saturday, May 1, with events ranging from music to art, all aimed to create community awareness about the environment and peace. In addition, the church is raising funds to help an orphanage in Haiti. The program begins at 4 p.m., with an introduction by Rachael Paulson and the Rev. Kelly and moves on to include music by Biryukov Academy, Grammy nominated singer 13 hands and John Kweselait. At 5 p.m. a peace ceremony will include peace chants and the unveiling and blessing of a peace pole, along with the entire crowd joining in a circle to sing “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” Other events include an art contest and more musical entertainment. During the day, vendors will selling their items. Spaces may still be available at a fee of $15 for a 12-foot space. Environmental author Rachael Paulson will sign her books. All proceeds will go to Hands on the World Global, founded by Paulson. Festival-goers can help create a mural that will be delivered to the orphans in Haiti. Trees for sale In a related sale, the church is selling Norway spruce saplings, available now for $5 and ready for home planting or at the church during the festival. In lieu of admission, people are asked to bring the following items: Band Aids, Ace bandages, Medical Tape, Gauze, Neosporin, Twin size flat sheets, Blankets for twin size beds, The donated items will be brought to Haiti.

If you go
Saturday, May 1
4 to 7 p.m.
Unity Church of Sussex County
25 Mudcut Road, Lafayette
973-383-6277