February 2026 - Under the Dome - Central UMC

FEBRUARY 2026

Under

The Dome The Dome Central United Methodist Church Central United Methodist Church

ISSUE #32

UPCOMING EVENTS Home Central Digitized Sermon Program February 4 | 6:15-7:00 PM | Spears Fellowship Hall Costa Rica Mission Trip Interest Meeting February 8 | 10:00-11:00 AM | Spears Fellowship Hall Scout Sunday February 8 | 11:00 AM | Sanctuary Children’s Sabbath February 8 | 11:00 AM | Sanctuary Lead Central February 8 | 12:00 PM | Davis CLC Joint Circle Meeting February 10 | 10:00 AM | Sanctuary Board of Trustees Meeting February 10 | 5:15-6:30 PM | Christian Family Conference Rm Masterworks Children’s Choir Performance February 11 | 6:15 PM | Sanctuary Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner February 17 | 5:30 PM | Davis CLC Ash Wednesday Services February 18 | 12:00 PM & 6:30 PM | Sanctuary Lenten Midweek Service February 25 | 12:00 PM | Sanctuary Pinewood Derby February 25 | 6:00 PM | Davis CLC

Masterworks Children’s Choir & Central UMC Junior Choir Wednesday, February 11 6:15 PM Sanctuary

Rev. Thomas Smith Senior Pastor

Dear Friends, This month, we see the beginning of Lent. We know that from the earliest days of the church, Easter was preceded by a season of fasting and spiritual preparation. Lent, these 40 days (excluding Sundays) leading up to Easter, invites us to a time of spiritual introspection. Lent is a season of course correction, inviting us to reorient our lives toward God. One of the most meaningful ways we can go about this reorientation is to undertake a Lenten fast. Many people will give up a luxury, such as chocolate or soft drinks, as an intentional reminder to focus on God. Depriving ourselves of a small indulgence does not make us better, in and of itself. Rather, the act of fasting is a reminder to pray and open the eyes of our hearts to see God with us.

Equally important, many people will take up an added spiritual practice during Lent. For example, people may undertake a special Bible reading plan or begin a new prayer practice. Central’s worship life during Lent offers several opportunities for a spiritual reorientation. On Wednesdays during Lent, we will hold a series of special worship services at noon. A light lunch will follow each week, except on Ash Wednesday. Each service will feature either a guest preacher or musician. Our weekly Service of Prayer and Holy Communion will take place at 11:30 each Wednesday, offering an opportunity for prayer and Communion in an intimate setting. In addition to the regular program of Bible studies, Rev. Rusty Crimm will be leading a special Lenten Bible study on Wednesday evenings. I encourage you to look through the studies going on this month, and if you’re not already involved in a small group study, find one in which to participate.

Lent is a gift to us, offering opportunities for spiritual growth. I hope you will take advantage of what Central has to offer, seeking to grow in God’s love and grace.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Meg Bryce Jiunnies

Rev. Rusty Crimm

Pastor of Faith Formation & Discipleship

Associate Pastor

Dear Church Family,

It feels as if I’ve only just put the Christmas tree away and finally tidied up, and now Lent is nearly here. Many people use Lent as a time to practice self-discipline by giving something up. Traditionally you would fast from eating meat on Fridays, or fast from eating anything for a full 24 hours, but I know people who cut out sugar or carbs or TV or social media for the 40(ish) days of Lent, too.

It’s February—entering the season of Lent with renewed focus on spiritual disciplines, new ministry planning, and excitement over the year’s programs and ministries is an energizing time in the life of Central. Each season brings its wonderful moments, as well as challenges. It is the right time to review our care ministries and think about how we remain connected as we also look outward in our community to meet the needs that harsh winter weather can bring. Planning is crucial for effective ministry!

As we plan, let’s pray to God to help empower us in ministry— and then prepare ourselves to take bold steps and trust in God to be part of things that may not seem practical. When God calls us to action, we simply need to use our gifts and graces to join in God’s work—not figure out how to make events successful, but to make ministry fruitful, and we can’t always see what God has in store for us!

Where will you be called in ministry this year? Start in prayer; continue by asking others to pray for you. Take time to explore the Florence community to discover where the needs lie. Learn about Central’s ministries, as well as where Christians are making a difference everywhere. Read scripture—that is where we most often find clarity and inspiration. Taking these intentional steps will help guide you to your ministry in this season.

Most importantly, commit to spending time each week in praise and thanksgiving to God because we have the great privilege and blessing to be in Christian community with one another!

Blessings and Love in Christ,

Meg

I have tended to have more success “picking something up” for Lent. Whether it’s carving out intentional reading time each day, exercising, listening to music, or things like that, those are things I enjoy that quiet the noise of the world (and my brain) and make it easier to focus, to pray, to study, and so on. So, in the spirit of picking something up for Lent, I want to offer you an idea to try: On Christmas Eve, I told the folks in The Well that “The Christmas story is as simple as telling someone who Jesus is, and how Jesus has changed us.” So, as we enter the Lenten season, the idea I want to challenge you with is to tell someone who Jesus is and how Jesus has changed you. Talking about our faith doesn’t have to be awkward or intense or require a master’s in theology; talking about our faith is no more complicated than reading and talking about scripture or telling someone what God is doing in your life. So, take the chance and tell someone who Jesus is! You’ll never know the impact it might have.

Grace and peace, Rusty

SUNDAYS @ CENTRAL Sunday Worship Times 9:00 AM

Chapel Service - Sanctuary

9:00 AM

The Well - Davis Christian Life Center

11:00 AM

Sanctuary Service

February 2026 February 8 Rev. Thomas Smith (Chapel) Rev. Thomas Smith (Sanctuary) Rev. Rusty Crimm (The Well)

February 22 Rev. Meg Bryce Jiunnies (Chapel) Rev. Meg Bryce Jiunnies (Sanctuary) Rev. Rusty Crimm (The Well)

February 15 Rev. Rusty Crimm (Chapel) Rev. Rusty Crimm (Sanctuary) Rev. Thomas Smith (The Well)

Sunday School All Sunday School classes meet from 10:00 to 10:45 AM on Sunday mornings. If you need help finding a classroom, please visit our Welcome Center in The Commons or ask a greeter at any entrance and they will be more than happy to show you the way.

Children’s Sunday School PRESCHOOL 3K/4K – Malambri Room 145

ELEMENTARY 5K/1st Grade – Malambri Room 231 2nd/3rd Grade – Malambri Room 221 4th/5th Grades – Malambri Room 219

Youth Sunday School

6th-12th Grades – Youth Room 206

Adult Sunday School

Christian Discussion – Room 277 Koinonia for Young Adults - Room 172 New Beginnings – Room 272 New Horizons – Room 279 Sarah Blanton-Philathea – Room 174 Searching Disciples – Room 275 Spiritual Journeys – Room 276 Sunshine Class – Room 164/165 Wesley Fellowship – Room 170

CELEBRATIONS Birth

December 16, 2025

Emerson Swinton Brunson Emerson is the son of Meghan and William Brunson Proud grandparents are Meg and Jay Jiunnies

We want to celebrate you!

Each month in Under the Dome, we love celebrating the life of our church by sharing baptisms and welcoming new members. We also enjoy highlighting joyful moments like birth announcements and weddings. If you have something to share, please contact Philip at pmaenza@centralmethodist.net so we can celebrate with you!

Choir Room organ project completed!

The original Schantz organ console, which served Central UMC since 1988, was replaced in 2022 by a new console built by Orgues Létourneau. The 1988 console still had usable components such as keyboards and pedalboard. It was moved to the third-floor choir room and has since been digitized and outfitted with up-to-date software that allows for sampled (recorded) sounds from various instruments around the world to be downloaded and played. The Harrison and Harrison organ of St. Mary Redcliffe in Bristol, England is the initial instrument we have chosen. The organ will be used as a practice instrument and to accompany choir rehearsals.

WE WANT YOUR

FEEDBACK!

Scan the QR Code below to take our Survey about The Well!

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

Ash Wednesday Services Tuesday, February 17 February 18, 2026 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM 12:00 PM & 6:30 PM Davis Christian Life Center Adults $10.00 We will begin Children $5.00observing the 40 days of Lent with

two Ash Wednesday services.

Both services will include the traditional imposition of ashes and will be led by Rev. Smith, Rev. Crimm, and Rev. Jiunnies.

Ash Wednesday Services February 18, 2025 12:00 PM & 6:30 PM We will begin observing the 40 days of Lent on February 18 with two Ash Wednesday services. Both services will include the traditional imposition of ashes and will be led by Rev. Smith, Rev. Crimm, and Rev. Jiunnies.

LENTEN MIDWEEK SCHEDULE FEBRUARY 25 Rev. Johnny Crouch, Retired Local Pastor

MARCH 4 Rev. Terry Fleming, Florence District Superintendent

MARCH 11 Rev. Tae Park, Associate Pastor, Surfside UMC

MARCH 18 Music for Lent Dr. Sherry Woods and Dr. Benjamin Woods A program of reflective music for viola and piano

MARCH 25 Rev. Tiffany Knowlin Boykin, Wesley UMC, Columbia

All Wednesday services are held in the Sanctuary at 12:00 PM. Please join us for Holy Communion at 11:30 AM in Ingram Chapel.

Following worship, lunch will be served in Spears Fellowship Hall.

The cost is $8.00 per person, and you may register in advance or pay at the door.

WWW.CENTRALMETHODIST.NET/EVENTS

REGISTRATION OPENING SOON AT

Central UMC Preschool

January 26, 2026 Registration began for existing students and siblings February 2, 2026 Registration begins for Central members February 9, 2026 Registration opens to the public Spots are very limited, so don’t miss the opportunity for Central members to apply early!

Come grow with us!

CENTRAL UMC

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY Birds & Bees at First Presbyterian Church March 8 - Save the Date!

The CUMC Children and Youth Committees are excited to help First Presbyterian Church sponsor this parent education talk with Mary Flo Ridley on Sunday, March 8, at 4:00 PM! This informative talk is for parents of children of all ages—from toddlers to teens—and focuses on simple, everyday conversations.

It will teach parents when and how to start age-appropriate conversations and build trust with your child.

Childcare will be provided at First Presbyterian for children in 5th grade and below. $20 tickets admit two adults to this event, encouraging both parents to attend.

Scan the QR code to purchase your tickets!

Upcoming Events Wednesday, February 4 Bible Blast & Choir 6:00-7:00 PM

February 16-20 F1S Winter Break. Have a safe and fun break!

Sunday, February 8 Children’s Sabbath in Sanctuary 11:00 AM *Please plan to have your child at church by 9:45 AM so we can practice during the Sunday School hour!

Tuesday, February 17 Pancake Dinner for Shrove Tuesday

Wednesday, February 11 No Bible Blast or Choir! The CUMC Junior Choir (2nd-5th grade) will sing along with the Masterworks Children’s Choir for our programming following Wednesday night dinner. *Cherub Choir (3K-1st) can either attend the concert with their family or go to 145 with Ms. Lauren and Ms. Beth following dinner.

Saturday, February 14 Happy Valentine’s Day!

Children’s Sabbath in the Sanctuary February 8, 2026 Children’s Sabbath in the Sanctuary will take place on February 8. This is a special morning where the children of CUMC lead the congregation in worship!

We will be preparing for this service on Wednesday evenings, so if your child would like to be a part of it, please plan to have them attend on Wednesday so they feel confident in their roles.

We want them to feel empowered and ready to lead!

Wednesday, February 18 No Bible Blast or Choir this evening. There will be dinner as usual, but no children’s programming afterwards.

Attend the Ash Wednesday service with your family!

Sunday, February 22 Children’s Lay Readers in Sanctuary and Well Wednesday, February 25 Pinewood Derby - No Bible Blast or Choir. Please plan to attend this fun family event!

Happy Birthday!

Anna Reaves Yarborough • February 2 Mary Mac Lucius • February 2 MarthaAnn Johnson • February 3 Carter Rodel • February 6 Hayden Hinton • February 8 Allston McDougal • February 11 Maggie Sherard • February 13 Elizabeth England-Plisiewicz • February 18 Chandler Rodel • February 23 Baker Burch • February 28

CENTRAL UMC

YOUTH MINISTRY UMYF AT BUC-EES

February Birthdays!

Andrew Grantham - February 1 Caroline Peebles - February 7 James Wade Timms – February 8 Clayton Folse – February 12 Laura Crosson – February 16 Wesley Seif – February 20 Alek Reynolds – February 27

Above all, show sincere love to each other because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins.

1 Peter 4:8

Looking Ahead - Youth Sunday - March 22, 2026

Upcoming Events February 8

Souper Bowl Sunday Let’s collect money for The Manna House and have a pre-game lunch for Super Bowl LX

February 11

February 16 – 20

Intersession for F1S - Enjoy your break!

February 19-22

Trinity Winter Break – Enjoy your break!

Jr. High breakfast at Venus – 7:00 AM RSVP to Julie by February 9

February 19 -22

February 15

February 22

No UMYF – due to F1S Intersession

Ski Trip to Snowshoe, WV No UMYF

Souper Bowl Sunday February 8 We will be collecting money for the Manna House at the end of all three services. Join us for a pre-game Super Bowl appetizer lunch at 12:15 pm in the Youth lounge. Please RSVP to Julie.

Central United Methodist Church

SCOUT Sunday FEBRUARY 8, 2026 11:00 AM

For information regarding Scouting, contact Tim Fisher at 843-409-4126.

BLESSING BOX 2026

A MINISTRY OF CENTRAL UMC AND CUMBERLAND UMC

F E B R U A R Y Central UMC Preschool A P R I L Christian Discussion Sunday School Class J U N E Christian Women & Courtney Graham Bible Studies A U G U S T Wesley Fellowship Sunday School Class O C T O B E R Spiritual Journeys Sunday School Class D E C E M B E R New Horizons Sunday School Class

Parking Lot Ministry The next Parking Lot Ministry is on Saturday, February 21, with prep day on Friday, February 20. Contact Mark Adams mark.adams1@ferguson.com, for more information!

Central’s Upcoming Blood Drives for 2026 Thursday, February 19 Thursday, April 16 Thursday, June 18 Thursday, August 20 Thursday, October 22 Thursday, December 17

Spring BEDS BUILD DAY Saturday, March 21 Mark your calendars. As always, thank you for being people who make a difference for Jesus in our world. You are needed.

Bible Studies and Events Online Study of the Gospel of Matthew Led by Rev. Thomas Smith

Courtney Graham Women’s Bible Study

Available on YouTube

Matthew: The Gospel of Promised Blessings

Scan the QR Code to watch!

Led by Ginny Hill and Beth Ann Owen

27:17 Men’s Bible Study 1st and 2nd Samuel

Rooted: Men’s Study

Led by Johnny Crouch, Art Justice, and Hank Leeke

The Book of James

Tuesdays, 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Mondays, 9:30 AM - 11:15 AM Spears Fellowship Hall

Led by Rev. Thomas Smith Wednesdays, 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM

Room 173

Home Central Wednesday, February 4 | 6:15-7:00 pm Join John Frank in Spears Fellowship Hall for an introduction to Home Central—a new program that will help us minister to those who aren’t able to worship with us in person.

Lent in Song Rev. Rusty Crimm Lent in Song is a look at Lent through familiar hymns and spirituals.

Join this class on Wednesday Nights, 6:15-7:00 pm in Room 172 on February 25, March 4, March 11 and March 18. No registration is required.

Room 173

Join us for a Purpose-Based Investing Presentation

by Frank O’Shea, Financial Advisor Wednesday, March 4 | 6:15-7:00 pm Would you like to feel good about how you grow your wealth as a Christian? If so, you may be interested in this purpose-based presentation, which discusses how you can align your portfolio with your purpose as you work toward your goals.

This includes: How to align your portfolio with your personal purpose Two ways to invest with purpose: sustainable investing and valuesbased investing Some suggestions for purpose-based investment opportunities with Edward Jones

Central’s Congregational Care Meals for Families with New Babies It is such a joy to welcome new babies into our church family, and we want to do so with a little gift and a meal. Please contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies if you have a new baby so we can welcome them!

Home Central As a part of our CUMC archive ministry, we are offering a time machine!

OK, not really, but you can now get a USB flash drive full of sermons and Orders of Worship dating back to 1989, featuring the preaching of Bob Faulkner, Steve Brown, Chad Davis, Elise Barrett, Tom Pietila, Will Malambri, and others!

If you would like one of these flash drives—and if you need help figuring it out— stop by the church office and pick one up or call Pastor Rusty and he’ll be happy to get you set up!

John Frank will also be giving a presentation as a part of our Wednesday Night Programming on February 4 at 6:15 PM in Spears Fellowship Hall.

Dementia 201 Short Program As a follow-up program to our first workshop, we are inviting Amy Rushing from the SC Department on Aging back to Central to present a program on Wednesday, March 11 at 6:15 pm.

Dementia 201: Positive Interactions A discussion on best practices for caregivers and loved ones of people living with dementia Topics include: - A short overview of dementia—brain changes, types, stages, symptoms - Effective communication strategies by stage - Methods to interpret verbal, non-verbal and behavioral cues - Best practices to prevent or de-escalate challenging situations Whether or not you were able to attend the first program, you are invited to join us! Please register with Rev. Meg Jiunnies by emailing mjiunnies@centralmethodist.net to make sure we have enough material.

Sponsor Altar Flowers: A Beautiful Way to Give One simple and meaningful way to support the life of our church is by sponsoring altar flowers. Each Sunday, flowers help make our worship space warm, welcoming, and filled with beauty. When they are not sponsored, the church covers the cost, so this is a wonderful opportunity to turn an existing expense into an act of stewardship and love.

Individuals and families are invited to sponsor a Sunday in honor or in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a special occasion, or simply as a gift of gratitude. Sponsoring altar flowers helps cover their cost while also strengthening our community by allowing us to share in one another’s joys, memories, and celebrations.

It’s a small act that makes a big impact—both in our worship and in our care for the church we love.

Costa Rica Mission Trip Interest Meeting February 8 | 10:00-11:00 AM | Spears Fellowship Hall Our dates are set for May 30-June 6, 2026. This is a wonderful trip that you won’t soon forget!

Join us as we help further the Kingdom of God with missionary Wil Bailey and the Costa Rica Mission Project (CRMP). All ages are welcome to attend. A parent must accompany children younger than 14 years of age. No skills are required. The cost is $1,500 and includes airfare, meals, lodging, transportation, construction materials, local labor, and insurance. Scholarships are available! Register now by going to www.centralmethodist.net. Contact David Coker at 843230-3188 for more information.