MEXICO – The Mexico Congregational Church at 163 Main St. will hold a study group on the three Wednesdays before the election, Oct. 13, 20 and 27, on the theme “Think. Pray. Vote.”

The sessions, designed by Sojourners magazine, will be a nonpartisan look at the issues involved in deciding who people will vote for on Nov. 2. The Rev.

Virginia Snapp-Cunningham will lead the ecumenical discussions. People are welcome to bring their lunch at 11:30 a.m. Coffee and water will be available. Discussions will go from noon to about 1 p.m.

Participants are being asked to call ahead so enough materials will be available.

People may leave a message with a name and phone number on the church answering machine, 364-8603.

The first session is titled “Is the American Experiment at Risk?,” the second is called “Political Forces at Work in the 2004 Elections,” and the third is “A Revolution of Values at the Voting Booth.”

Candle sales to benefit library

MEXICO – From Tuesday, Oct. 12, through Friday, Nov. 12, the Public Library will hold a Village Candle fund-raiser. The Maine-based candle company is in Topsham. The company offers many scents and candle sizes. Along with their candle selection, many different types of candleholders, accessories and gift baskets will offered.

Catalogs will be available at the library until Nov. 12. Orders are expected to arrive in time for Christmas.

All money raised from the fund-raiser will go to the library.

People who would like additional information can call the library at 364-3281.

New 5K trail race planned

RUMFORD – A new Black Mountain of Maine and River Valley Chamber of Commerce Fall 5K Trail Race will be held Sunday, Nov. 14. There also will be a 1K Koch Race for the youngsters.

The trail race will be run through the woods and over the nordic cross country trails. Organizers said it will provide a great competition for fall cross country runners, skiers and others who want to try a trail race.

The competition is open to all age groups. The preregistration deadline is Nov. 9. Registration for the 5K race is $15, $10 for the 1K.

After Nov. 9, the 5K will be $20 and the 1K will be $15. The first 100 registrants will receive a long-sleeved shirt. Online registration available at www.active.com

More information may be obtained by calling Terrie Anne Bennett, 357-3555, or Paul Jones, 562-7172.