The University City United Church, located at 2877 Governor Drive, has announced it will hold its annual Mardi Gras celebration on March 8 at 6 p.m., during which families can enjoy games, crafts, King cakes and a pot luck dinner. Children will also get to participate in the New Orleans tradition of shoebox decorating. Participants are urged to bring their own shoe box and special items to decorate with, and the church will provide the tissue paper and beads. All this will be followed by a pancake relay race and costume parade. Costumes should be fun or crazy or just come in the Mardi Gras traditional colors of purple, green and gold Top costumes will win a prize or ribbon. For more information, call (858) 453-3444. — Claire Harlin Upcoming events at University City United Church • Book Discussion Group: “The Heart of Christianity” by Marcus Borg Tuesday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the church library • Blessing of the Pets Saturday, March 26 at 10 a.m. on the church patio All pets are welcome for a special blessing. Refreshments for humans as well as treats for pets will be provided.