Old-fashioned fun will be in the spotlight when Ruhl's Church hosts its annual community picnic. The fun will take place at the church's picnic grove, 2766 Newport Road, Manheim, on Saturday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"Our church picnic is a long-standing tradition that started over 100 years ago," said Gail Ruhl, a member of the picnic planning committee. "We feel that it is important to honor the traditions of generations gone by. It is our hope that our church and community will embrace this tradition and that it will continue on for many years to come."

The picnic will feature homemade chicken corn soup, following a recipe that has been used for generations. Takeout soup sales will begin at 9 a.m., and people are encouraged to bring their own container or buy the soup by the quart.

A full lunch menu will also be offered, including soup, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, hot sausage sandwiches, homemade desserts and beverages.

"There is space to enjoy lunch either at picnic tables under the trees outside or inside the pavilion," Ruhl said, adding that a playground is also on-site.

In addition to the picnic, the church will host worship services in the grove on Sundays from July 14 through Aug. 18.

"We will gather each night for a time of gospel music, worship, Bible-based messages and great fellowship for all ages," Ruhl shared. "All are welcome." Speakers will be the Rev. Blaine Wenger on July 14, pastor Tim Fray on July 21, the Rev. Rob Timlin on July 28, Seth Achey on Aug. 4, the Rev. Rick Rimert on Aug. 11 and the Rev. Joe DiPaolo on Aug. 18.

Ruhl's Church will host vacation Bible school (VBS) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 29, through Thursday, Aug. 1, with a theme of "Everest: Conquering Challenges with God's Mighty Power." VBS is open to children age 4 through fourth grade.

Ruhl hopes people will make time to attend the picnic or other church activities, noting that all activities offer opportunities for fellowship.

"Our annual church picnic is a way to reconnect with friends and meet new people in a casual environment," she said. "Grove services are a way to step back in time and worship as our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents used to."

For more information on upcoming events at Ruhl's Church, visit http://www.ruhlschurch.org or call 717-665-3400.