Sherwood library, 467 Upper Ottawa St., holding teen book club meetings third Thursday of every month at 4 p.m. starting Jan. 19. At first meeting, bring a book of your choice and chat with friends about it.

The Alpha course is your opportunity to explore the Christian faith. Some of the questions that will be explored are: How does God guide us? Who is Jesus? Why and how do I pray? How can I develop a relationship with God? The free 15-week course runs Thursdays at 7 p.m. at St. John United Church, 195 East 38th St. For information or to register, contact St. John United Church at 905-387-2135. or see www.stjohnuc.ca.

The Hamilton Mountain Heritage Society kicks off 2013 with Robert Williamson presenting "The Untold History of the War of 1812" on Jan. 17 from 7:30-9 p.m. at Olivet United Church, 40 Empress Ave. Free admission and free parking; see www.hamiltonheritage.ca for more information.

The Hamilton Mountain Heritage Society kicks off  2013  with Robert Williamson presenting "The Untold History of the War of 1812".  In 1812 a tiny Canadian population, with divided national sentiments and generally unwilling to fight against such overwhelming odds, was able to ward off continued invasions by a powerful neighbour. How was this possible? If you do not know the answer, then you need to hear THE UNTOLD HISTORY OF THE WAR OF 1812. The meeting is open to all members of the public.  There is no admission fee and free parking is available.