March 2025 - Under the Dome - Central UMC

Under The Dome

March 2025

Issue #21

LETTER FROM OUR Senior Pastor Dear Friends, This month, we mark the beginning of Lent and the church’s spiritual preparation for Easter.

In the pages of this magazine, you will find details about our services for the Season of Lent. I encourage you to participate in special worship opportunities, such as Ash Wednesday, midweek Lenten Services, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday.

During the season of Lent, many people observe a fast, such as refraining from certain foods or activities. Many people also adopt a special spiritual exercise, such as a new prayer practice or spiritual reading plan.

This Lenten Season, I am asking every member of the Central family to adopt a specific prayer practice. Namely, I call on all of us to pray that Easter will be an opportunity for Central to reach out to our unchurched neighbors. It is no secret that many people will attend a worship service on Easter Sunday when they are ordinarily not an active part of a faith community. As we gather to celebrate the good news of Christ’s resurrection, we have a golden opportunity to love our neighbors by inviting them to become active disciples of Jesus Christ.

Over these next 40 days, I invite you to join me in specifically and intentionally praying daily for three things: 1. Pray for Easter worship – Let us be united in prayer that our Easter services will be impactful and meaningful to all who participate in them.

2. Pray for our guests – Let us be united in prayer for the guests who will be with us on Easter Sunday. Let us pray that God will lead people to Central and that they may be open to Jesus’ call to discipleship.

3. Pray for guidance on whom you might invite – Easter is a wonderful opportunity to invite your unchurched friends to see what worshiping God is all about. Ask God to lead you to people you can invite to church on Easter Sunday.

At its core, Lent is a season of preparation for Easter. Let us make this Lent a true opportunity to prepare for Easter as a means by which God can use us to share our faith. What better way can we follow Jesus, love God, and love our neighbors than by helping our neighbors hear the good news that the risen Christ invites them to a personal relationship with Him? Yours in Christ,

Messages from our Clergy Rev. Dr. Ann Kovan

Rev. Meg Bryce Jiunnies

Associate Pastor

Pastor of Faith Formation & Discipleship

Dear Central Family,

Dear Church Family,

I recently heard a story where a major hotel chain was hiring for a new location. They interviewed over 5,000 people for 500 positions. One of their major criteria was smiling. Anyone who smiled less than four times in their interview, regardless of their other qualifications, was instantly eliminated from consideration. The person who told me this story asked a room full of clergy, if these criteria were true for our churches, would they get the job?

I am excited to welcome in the month of March— maybe South Carolina will even have some springlike weather before we experience full summer!

A smile changes everything. Smiling, even when we don't feel like it, can trick our brain into happiness.

Scientific studies prove that smiling lifts our mood, reduces anxiety and even improves our immune system, leading to longer life. When we smile, it sends a signal to the brain to release hormones like dopamine and serotonin that increase feelings of happiness and reduce stress. We can literally fake it 'til we make it. Reporting for NBC News, Nicole Spector writes, "the brain is a sucker for a grin."

Your Faith Sharing team needs Greeters. We'd love for you to take that step to officially sign up to greet once a month before Sunday School or Worship. But even more importantly, we are praying for a more welcoming, more smiling church. Be intentional to smile more on Sunday mornings, especially aiming it at others: your neighbor who may be someone hanging by a thread. Smiling isn't just good for you; it will open the hearts of those you don't even know. With Easter and new guests coming, let's be a church that gains by smiles.

In Christ,

Ann

Even more importantly, we begin March by seeing our children and youth participate in worship together as they lead special worship services. We have the chance to gather to commemorate Shrove Tuesday with the traditional pancake supper, thanks to the men of the 27:17 Bible Study, and then Lent begins with our Ash Wednesday services on March 5 in the sanctuary at 12:00 pm and 6:30 pm.

Please take every opportunity to gather together your family and friends to experience the season of Lent in the many ways Central offers. In addition to worship, Bible study, honoring our veterans, and celebrating our Sunshine class this month, there are missions to participate in, especially the big BEDS build day to support North Carolina flooding survivors as well as our local children.

I don’t want you to miss anything, because you are missed when you are absent. Invite people, share your witness to God’s love, connect with us and tell us your needs, all as a part of this busy and thriving Christian community.

Please make plans to now join us for one of our Easter worship services on Sunday, April 20.

Celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and remembering that we are “Easter people” is vitally important to our identity as Christian disciples. It is also an important opportunity to invite others to hear the joy-filled message of Easter.

Blessings and Peace,

Meg

Sundays at Central All Sunday School classes meet from 9:30 to 10:15 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

YOUTH 6th-12th Grades – Youth Room 206

PRESCHOOL

3K – Malambri Room 147 4K – Malambri Room 145 ELEMENTARY

5K/1st Grade – Malambri Room 227 2nd Grade – Malambri Room 225 3rd Grade – Malambri Room 221 4th & 5th Grades – Malambri Room 219

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

Worship Times 8:30 AM - Chapel Service 10:30 AM - The Well - Davis Christian Life Center 10:30 AM - Sanctuary

Ministry Spotlight: Recreation March 9, 2025 Central’s Recreation Ministry provides our members and visitors with opportunities to enjoy recreational activities and maintain their physical fitness in a Christian environment.

Birth Announcement

Margaret Mills Brown January 5, 2025 Kate & J.T. Brown, Parents Missy & Gary Brown, Grandparents

Celebration of Baptism On February 23, 2025,

John Leo Capotosti III was baptized during the sanctuary service.

Leo is the son of Cameron and Lee Capotosti and the grandson of Martha Bridgeman, Sterling and Jeff Zalewski, and John Capotosti.

Central’s Generosity Update On March 7, our thirteen Confirmands will be heading to the Confirmation Retreat at Epworth by the Sea. Joining in with hundreds of young people from SC and Georgia, they will learn what it means to join the Church as a professing member.

For more than four decades Central has sent our Confirmands to this important faith development time as a part of the Confirmation Process. Thanks to the generosity of our church family, cost has never been a deterrent for attending. Thank you for your generosity, and please keep this group of young people in your prayers as they consider making one of the most significant decisions of their young lives.

Save the Date! Confirmation Sunday is May 4, 2025.

Lay Leadership Ministry Opportunities Available

The following ministries are shared as opportunities to serve here at Central. Of course, you are not limited to these opportunities! If you have an idea for a new ministry, please contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies.

Sunshine Class Teaching Team Member

We have an amazing group of people, including youth, who share the responsibility and joy of leading the Sunshine Class on Sundays, 9:30-10:30am. There is always space for another person to serve.

Children’s Sunday School Teaching Team Member

Central offers easy-to-follow lessons and training for our teachers. Even if you have never taught before, you may be sensing that God is calling you to participate in this important ministry. Let’s explore this possibility together!

Children’s Sunday School Helper

Are you willing to be the “2nd adult” helper in one of our children’s Sunday School classes?

No preparation necessary—just participation one or two Sundays a month.

Upcoming Committee Meetings Education & Spiritual Growth Team Sunday, March 2 9:00 - 9:30 AM

Children’s Committee Sunday, March 9 9:30 - 10:15 AM

Board of Trustees Tuesday, March 11 5:15 - 6:30 PM

Faith-Sharing Team Sunday, March 2 9:00 - 9:30 AM

Adult & Family Ministries Team Monday, March 10 5:00 - 6:00 PM

Outreach Committee Wednesday, March 19 8:30 - 9:30 AM

Preschool Board Tuesday, March 4 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Stephen Ministry Team Monday, March 10 6:00-7:30 PM

Youth Ministry Team Sunday, March 30 9:30 - 10:30 AM

Church Picnic with Cumberland UMC

March 16, 2025 immediately following worship Brooks-McCall Park 2001 Mechanicsville Road Florence, SC

HANDBELL

CONCERT March 19 • 6:15 PM

Sanctuary

CENTRAL UMC’S HANDBELL CHOIR WILL BE PERFORMING IN CONCERT! OUR HANDBELL CHOIR, COMPRISED OF ADVANCED RINGERS, SHOWCASES A COMPLETE FIVE OCTAVE SET OF SCHULMERICH HANDBELLS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF BEVERLY HAZELWOOD.

Children’s Books • Easter Love Letters from God by Glenys Nellist (J 394.4 N) • God gave us Easter by Lisa Tawn Bergren (J 394.4 B) • The First Easter by Carol Heyer (J 394.4 H) • Poems and Prayers for Easter by Sophie Piper (J 394.4 P)

Adult • All Shall Be Well: Readings for Lent and Easter (394.4 A) • Blessed is She: Living Lent with Mary by Tim Perry (394.4 P) • Faces at the Cross: a Lent and Easter Collection of Poetry and Prose by Barrie Shepherd (394.4 S) • He Chose the Nails: What God Did to Claim Your Heart by Max Lucado (394.4 L) • A Journey in Song: Lenten Reflections of Hymns by Women by Joyce Sohl (394.4 S) • Lent and Easter Wisdom from Thomas Merton by Henri J.M. Nouwen (394.4 N) • Parables and Passion: Jesus’ Stories for the Days of Lent by John Indermark (394.4 I) • Places Along the Way: Meditations on the Journey of Faith by Martin Marty (242 M)

LENTEN MIDWEEK SCHEDULE MARCH 12

Rev. Grayson Fallaw Pastor, Johnsonville UMC

MARCH 19

Rev. Jennifer Price Pastor, Summerton UMC

MARCH 26

Music for Lent Central’s musicians will present a program of reflective music for the Lenten season that includes vocal solos and ensembles, and instrumental music.

APRIL 2

Rev. Terry Fleming Florence District Superintendent

APRIL 9

Rev. Rusty Crimm Pastor, Lamar UMC

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.

WWW.CENTRALMETHODIST.NET/EVENTS

Sunshine Class Celebration Day Sunday, March 30

Central has led the way in ministering to those with special needs through the leadership and participation of many people. In 1979, under the direction of former Director of Christian Education Olene Civils, an idea for this kind of ministry was ignited. In the decades since, the class has grown and thrived.

Kathy Brown, a special needs teacher at Briggs Elementary, arranged for a small group of her students to come to Central on Wednesday afternoons for Christian fellowship. A group of ladies and youth volunteers met with them. Together they enjoyed singing songs, eating snacks, reading Bible stories, making crafts, playing games and forming relationships.

As these first young students grew, so did Central’s program! Wednesday afternoons expanded into a week of summer day camp at Camp Sexton for even more children in our community with special needs. Soon, these children and families were so familiar with our church that a regular Sunday School Class was established especially for them. The class adopted its name, The Sunshine Class, under the leadership of Ann Ayres Orr in the 1990’s.

Associate Pastor Elise Barrett led members through the Confirmation process during the early 2000’s, and a designated place under the side balcony, which allows for easy wheelchair access and entrance to worship, became “our seats” for the Sunshine class and their families. Often leading each other to the altar rail and helping each other with various needs during communion, these friends continue to demonstrate what loving your neighbor looks like. They have also upheld their vow of gifts and service by collecting their own offerings to donate to missions of their choice, with the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Ministry being a favorite.

Many of those who were originals in the class have since passed away, but others have come along and continued these traditions. Marlene Porter, whose daughter Georgette was part of the class, recalls what a gift the class was, not only to her daughter but also to her and her husband Ralph: Georgette’s time with the class allowed a chance for Ralph and me to connect over a cup of Krispy Kreme coffee or go to our own Sunday School class. For the first time, we were able to feel that we could spend time together and, at the same time, trust that Georgette was in a loving and nurturing place.

Many Central members have worked with the class as teachers, music leaders, and helpers over the years, and members of the class have become more and more integrated into the church. Accompanying them on her guitar, Melanie McMillan shared her musical talent with the class for many years. She also recalls traveling with them on field trips to places like Riverbanks Zoo and enjoying other special events such as an organ demonstration and a special time to play the handbells.

Others have shared their thoughts on this ministry as well.

Ann Ayres Orr: Of all the gifts of opportunity to serve that God has given to me, being a teacher for the Sunshine Class has been the most rewarding.

Those folks have a special spirit that allows them to find joy even in death.

Their unwavering faith assures them that their loved one is with Jesus.

Nothing is more wonderful to them than to be with their sweet Jesus.

Barbara Deas: This is a class of love!

Often members of the class would ask me about my tears, and I always reassured them that these are Happy Tears. Watching Michelle and Kevin collect offering, remembering Julie’s excitement when the class became an “adult class,” hearing April’s take on the Bible lesson—these are all Happy Tears!

Just Wow! I could go on and on.

Reverend Tom Pietila: Upon arriving to Central and learning about the Sunshine Class, I was so surprised because it had been started and run by laypersons in the church and yet it reached outside of the church walls to provide caring and a Christian environment to persons with disabilities.

Belinda Bonnoitt: No one can know the joy that is this class unless they visit it. A living sermon is present there! Working with the class, watching the members’ patience with each other when reading the scripture and sharing thoughts allowed ME to see God at work, one word at a time, one person at a time. God allowed me to see His face!

Today, Central’s Sunshine Class is comprised of about twenty regular members who continue the traditions of worshiping and serving together. Join us on March 30 for an Open House and a reception which will be held in The Commons during the Sunday School hour. Meet the class members and the teaching team and experience the wonderfully creative classroom! Anyone who has been a part of this class through membership or leadership over the years is invited to pick up a special sunshine pin in The Commons and wear it that day.

Collin Brown: I worked with the class one year at VBS. The best part was having a lasting relationship with whatever class member we were partnered with and continuing to see them and talk to them after VBS was over. My partner was Keith.

Dori Beth Hill: I was introduced to The Sunshine Class by my confirmation mentor when I was just a teen and have continued a relationship with them. They welcomed me on Sundays with hugs and smiles. I’ll always remember Sandy singing her heart out and Keith reading from his Braille Bible and Will with his big smile! The personal challenges of those individuals never stop them from loving and learning about the Lord, and I learned from them that no matter who you are or the challenges you face, the love of the Lord can be shared.

Central’s Congregational Care team would like to create a list of those who have been a part of the Sunshine Class as members, leaders, or volunteers. Please share your names and memories of the class with us by emailing Susie Brown (susiebrown1856@gmail.com) or Missy Brown (missyfaulknerbrown@gmail.com).

Music for Lent Central’s musicians present a program of reflective vocal and instrumental music for the season of Lent singers

Sary Jackson Ashlei Jones Dianna Wilson keyboardists

Don Grice Beverly Hazelwood Benjamin Woods A part of the Lenten Midweek Series

March 26 12:00 PM

Meet The Well B

and Members

DANNY BROWN Danny Brown, bass player for The Well Band, is pictured with his wife Jessica and their sons Jack, Sam, and Max. A member of Central for 14 years, Danny works with ACS Technologies. He originally played with Johnny and Sharon in the first iteration of The Well Band and jokes that he’s finally good enough to rejoin.

We’re happy to have him back!

CENTRAL UMC

EASTER

CELEBRATION SUNDAY, APRIL 13 | 3:00 PM

Families with Children ages Infants to 5th grade Join us at the home of Allison & Adam Slice 1063 Gray Kat Lane Florence, South Carolina This event promises an afternoon filled with cute animals, crafts, cookie decorating, and an exciting Easter Egg Hunt. We will also be creating Blessing Bags designed to reach out to the homeless community.

We request that participating families donate one dozen treat-filled plastic eggs per child by Sunday, March 23.

Eggs may be dropped off in designated baskets in The Commons or the Davis Christian Life Center.

Advance registration is required and will open April 1.

Central UMC

Preschool

Grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 3:18

Children’s Ministry Children’s Sunday School Lessons

Hey families! Here’s a look at what we’re covering with your children this month so you can help your children continue to grow at home during the week.

Two-Four Year Olds – Bible Story & Songs March Memory Verse: Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do. ~Ecclesiastes 4:9 March Word: Cooperation is working together to do more than you can do alone.

5K- 5th Grade March 2: Jesus wants us to work together.

March 9: Work together to help someone succeed.

March 16: Work together to solve problems.

March 23: Work together to help someone in need.

March 30: Work together to point people to Jesus.

Children’s Sabbath in The Sanctuary

Children’s Sabbath was held in the Sanctuary on Sunday, February 9. The Children helped lead all aspects of the service from praise and worship to leading the congregation in prayers and scripture readings. Special thanks to Mrs. Kristen and Dr. Jaime for leading the children in song.

Faithful Families

During the Season of Lent, children in BibleBlast will be participating in some activities from the book, Faithful Families: For Lent, Easter and Resurrection.

This book offers practical ways to create "Holy Moments" at home by incorporating ways to celebrate the Easter season with our children. A few copies of the book are available in the Church Library.

Happy Birthday!

Noah Learn - March 19 Madison Williams - March 20 Frances Catherine Granger - March 21 Smith Johnson - March 30 Porter Love - March 31

Vacation Bible School Get ready for exciting faith-filled fun as Central UMC presents

Road Trip: On the Go with God Who: Children who have completed 4K-5th Grade (2024-2025) When: June 16-18, 5:30-8:00 pm Where: Central UMC Registration will open in May!

Safe Sanctuaries – Monthly Highlight Age Rule: No one under the age of 18 will have sole responsibility for, nor be alone with, children or youth. Youth staff, counselors, teachers, and leaders must be “policy certified” and will be at least 18 years of age and 5 years older than the age group they have been recruited to facilitate, unless two other approved adults who are 5 years older than the age group are also present. A youth may assist with children or youth only when two approved adults are present.

Youth Ministry Secret Destination

Upcoming Events March 12

March 2

Breakfast for Youth – 9:30 AM Youth Sunday in The Well – 10:30 AM

March 5

Ash Wednesday Service – 6:30 PM All youth will be sitting together.

March 7 – March 9

High School Breakfast at Venus – 7:00 AM

March 16

Church Picnic with Cumberland UMC Brooks McCall Park – 12:00 PM

March 19

Junior High Breakfast at Venus – 7:00 AM

Confirmation Retreat Epworth by the Sea

March 23

March 9

Guest speaker – Jon Weiss, House of Hope 8th grade – 12th grade 7th grade will be returning from the Confirmation Retreat No UMYF for 6th grade

Breakfast for Youth – 9:30 AM Youth Sunday in the Sanctuary – 10:30 AM

March 30

UMYF at Regular Times

Save the Dates April 17

April 6

UMYF Year-End Messy Games Party

April 13

Easter Egg Hunt All youth are encouraged to help with this event. This will be our UMYF.

Maundy Thursday Service - 7:00 PM All youth will be sitting together.

April 27

UMYF Flower Fundraiser Begins

April 16

Lenten Spirituality Center in Spears – All Youth

Happy Birthday!

March 1 – Katherine Crosson March 4 – Morgan Coker March 5 – Hannah Marie McKay March 8 – Daniel Thompson March 23 – Hugh Granger

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

Adult & Family Ministries The men of Central will host a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on Tuesday, March 4 at 5:30 pm in the Davis Christian Life Center. Enjoy a delicious meal for $8.00 per adult and $4.00 per child, with options to dine in or take out. Come join your church family for a wonderful evening of fellowship!

Come join the conversation at Central UMC’s Book Club on Sunday, March 23 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at the home of Ellen Smith. Our book for this month is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, a riveting story of the collision between ethics, race, and medicine; of scientific discovery and faith healing; and of a daughter consumed with questions about the mother she never knew.

It’s a story inextricably connected to the dark history of experimentation on African Americans, the birth of bioethics, and the legal battles over whether we control the stuff we’re made of.

Veterans and friends, join us for our Veterans Breakfast on Thursday, March 20 at 8:00 a.m. in Spears Fellowship Hall. Our guest speaker will be Lauri Winburn who will recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the Armed Forces by presenting Quilts of Valor to ten local veterans. Breakfast is complimentary, and guests are welcome to attend. Please register on Realm or by calling the church office.

Last month, our Scouts took part in the nationwide "Scouting for Food" service project by collecting and delivering 817 pounds of canned goods to The Manna House. Thank you, Scouts, for your service to the community!

“Farm livin’ is the life for me!” Join the Happy Travelers on Thursday, March 27, as F1S Farm to School Coordinator Jeff Murrie gives us the grand tour of The Farm at Florence One. Along with row crops, the Farm features a teaching kitchen with space for students and teachers to prep and cook, raised garden beds, a greenhouse with a hydroponic system, outdoor classroom space, and livestock enclosures. Prior to visiting the farm, we’ll enjoy lunch together at Victor’s.

For more information or to register, contact Adriane Reynolds.

Faith Formation & Discipleship BIBLE STUDIES Special Daniel Fast Opportunity for Your Personal Lenten Spiritual Practice!

Our Daniel Fast has ended and, for the individuals who participated, it was a time to give up food ruling our lives, and remember it is God who provides what we need if we focus on His love and His calling for us. It was a hard journey that required sacrifice and work, but we each gained so much in coming closer to the God of the universe. Each of us has renewed our relationship with our Father and grown closer to each other during this time.

We are ready to serve as mentors on how to deepen your relationship with God during Lent. We are willing to partner with you for support and prayer through your own Daniel Fast. Please call Ginny Hill at 843-250-2077 to get more information.

Praying the Bible Wednesdays, March 19-April 2 6:00-7:00pm Spears Fellowship Hall Led by Rev. Smith

Join Thomas as you learn more about Lectio Divina and spiritual practices. This is an excellent Lenten study!

Please register on Realm or by calling the church office.

Save the Date!

Treasured - An Experience for Moms and Tween Daughters Sundays | Coming in June | Spears Fellowship Hall | Led by Brandie Love

Ongoing studies, perfect for joining in: Commons Conversations Wednesdays | 6:15-7:00pm | Commons Area We’ll be discussing family life, parenting, and social issues, and answering any questions at this casual, relaxed gathering time. Join us for fellowship and conversation!

Courtney Graham Women’s Bible Study Series: David, Seeking a Heart Like His by Beth Moore Mondays | 9:00-11:15am | Room 173 Led by Ginny Hill and Beth Ann Owen 27:17 Men’s Bible Study Series: The Gospel of John Tuesdays | 7:00-8:00am | Spears Fellowship Hall Led by Johnny Crouch, Art Justice, and Hank Leeke Join the men of Central and friends for a verse-by-verse study of the Gospel of John.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens the wits of another.” Proverbs 27:17

CONGREGATIONAL CARE Central’s Stephen Ministry Program – Spiritual Care When Life is Challenging

Stephen Ministers are lay congregation members trained to provide one-to-one care to those experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, or relocation. They come from all walks of life, but they all share a passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need.

If you or someone you know needs a Stephen Minister, please call Rev. Meg Jiunnies at 843-662-3218.

You do not need to walk alone. All conversations are strictly confidential.

“My Stephen Minister is a gift from GOD. She was an acquaintance that has become a trusted friend. We have a real connection. She is caring, a good listener, and an encourager. She is empathetic and validates my feelings. She provides emotional and spiritual support. She also is good at brainstorming solutions to my problems. She prays for me and my situation and asks for a response from the Holy Spirit for guidance. She understands that this is a unique situation that I am going through. She is so confidential that her family doesn’t know who she ministers to!”

“I’m so grateful for Central United Methodist Stephen Ministry’s bringing us together. You have been a true angel on earth to me during this season of grief.”

Celebrating New Babies with a Meal

We love to celebrate our new babies of the congregation by providing a meal to the family! If you have a new baby, give the church a call. We’d love to print an announcement, bring you a meal, or just reach out to you. You can contact Becky Crawford (becky@garycrawfordlaw.com) or call the church office to give us the good news.

Central grandparents, even if your grandchild isn’t here in Florence, let us know and we will be happy to announce the birth!

Disciples Needed to Visit Homebound Members

In our church family, many are unable to attend due to illness, age, or other circumstances. These individuals often feel isolated and would greatly benefit from the love and companionship of a friendly visit.

We are looking for disciples to visit our shut-ins and bring them a sense of connection and comfort. A simple visit, a kind word, or a prayer can have a profound impact on someone who is feeling alone. It’s a wonderful way to share God’s love and brighten someone’s day.

If you are interested in becoming a visitor for our homebound members, please contact Missy Brown at missyfaulknerbrown@gmail.com. Let’s show our love and care for these members of our church family who may not be able to join us in person but are still very much a part of our community. Thank you for helping make the Body of Christ stronger and more connected!

Growing Care Ministries at Central The Congregational Care Team would love to add some ministries that specifically address needs in our church and community. To envision and plan each new care ministry, we are looking for at least one person to serve as a representative on the Congregational Care Ministries Team. Some areas of interest might include grief or dementia ministries, but we are certainly not limited to those.

If you have a passion for helping others in a particular way and developing a new care ministry here at Central, please contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies to discuss possibilities!

BETTER EDUCATION DEMANDS SLEEP OUR NEXT BUILD DAY IS

SATURDAY, MARCH 29 IN THE BEDS LOT ACROSS FROM THE CHURCH ON WEST CHEVES STREET

HELP US BUILD BEDS FOR SURVIVORS OF HURRICANE HELENE IN MCDOWELL COUNTY, NC We will be working until approximately 4:00 PM to build extra beds that will go to Hurricane Helene survivors.

Join us at 8:30 AM or 12:00 PM. Lunch will be provided.

Volunteers may come for all or just part of the day.

Outreach Opportunities Packing Bags for Help4Kids

Twice a month, Central disciples gather at the Help4Kids warehouse (2420 Hoffmeyer Road) to pack weekend food bags to help feed food-insecure children throughout the Florence school districts. This month we will meet at the warehouse on March 10 at 2:00 PM and March 24 at 2:00 PM.

If you are interested in helping, just show up and pitch in! If you want more information, please contact Jim Harris (843-229-9004).

Blood Drive Give the Gift of Life – Donate Blood!

March 13, 2025 • 1:30 - 6:30 PM

Donating blood is a small sacrifice that can make a life-saving difference! You can sign up in The Commons, through the Red Cross Blood Donor app, or by calling the church office. If you’re a first-time donor, Red Cross experts will be there to guide you through the process.

A little of your time can mean everything to someone in need!

Faith Sharing Be a Welcoming Presence!

We are seeking volunteers to serve once a month in our Greeter Ministry, helping to welcome both guests and members with warmth and kindness. As we enter a season with many visitors, we encourage everyone to extend a Christ-like welcome—smile, make eye contact, and say hello to those around you on Sunday mornings.

If you see someone who looks lost, kindly guide them to our Welcome Center at the front door of The Commons, where our greeters will be happy to assist them. Let’s work together to make every guest feel at home!

Faith-Sharing Night Wednesday, March 12 – 6:15 PM – Spears Fellowship Hall

Everyone’s faith journey is unique. Join us as two of our members share their personal stories of faith, highlighting the ways God has worked in their lives. Their testimonies can inspire and strengthen our own faith walk, reminding us of our decision to follow Christ and encouraging us to share our own stories. Don’t miss this powerful evening of connection and encouragement!

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Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

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Sunshine Day Open House & Reception 9:30 AM Chapel Service 8:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Pickleball 12:30 PM UMYF 5:30 PM

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Chapel Service 8:30 AM Sunshine Class 9:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship – Sanctuary 10:30 AM Worship – The Well 10:30 AM Confirmation Class 4:00 PM

Preschool Choir Rehearsal 6:00 PM Elementary Choir Rehearsal 6:00 PM Handbell Choir Rehearsal 6:15 PM Junior Choir Rehearsal 6:30 PM Chancel Choir Rehearsal 7:15 PM

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Saturday

Wednesdays, 6:15 PM Commons Conversations

Tuesdays, 7:00 AM 27:17 Men’s Bible Study

BibleStudies

Mondays, 9:15 AM Courtney Graham Women’s Bible Study

BEDS Build Day 8:30 AM

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Friday 28

WednesdayNight ChoirRehearsals

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Midweek Lenten Service 12:00 PM Happy Travelers 12:00 PM Lenten Lunch 12:30 PM Pickleball 12:30 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM Praying the Bible 6:00 PM

Sundays

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM

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Help4Kids Packing 2:00 PM Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

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Youth Sunday - Sanctuary Chapel Service 8:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Pickleball 12:30 PM CUMC Book Club 4:00 PM

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Red Cross Blood Drive 1:30 PM

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Pickleball 12:30 PM

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Thursday

Midweek Lenten Service 12:00 PM Veterans Breakfast 8:00 AM Lenten Lunch 12:30 PM Pickleball 12:30 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM Praying the Bible 6:00 PM Handbell Concert 6:15 PM

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Staff Meeting 9:30 AM

Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

17

16

Chapel Service 8:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Church Picnic 12:00 PM Pickleball 12:30 PM Scrapbook Group 12:30 PM

10

9

12

Midweek Lenten Service 12:00 PM Lenten Lunch 12:30 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM Faith-Sharing Night 6:15 PM

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM

Chapel Service 8:30 AM Help4Kids Packing 2:00 PM Sunday School 9:30 AM Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM Worship 10:30 AM Pickleball 12:30 PM UMYF (8th-12th Grades) 5:30 PM

11

5

Circle Meeting 4:00 PM Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

Youth Sunday - The Well Chapel Service 8:30 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Pickleball 12:30 PM Ash Wednesday Service 12:00 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM Ash Wednesday Service 6:30 PM

4

3

2

Wednesday

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM Circle Meetings 10:00 AM Circle Meeting 2:00 PM Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper 5:30 PM

26

25

Tuesday

24

Monday

23

Sunday

March 2025

Clergy & Staff

Senior Pastor Thomas Smith, tsmith@centralmethodist.net Associate Pastor Ann Kovan, akovan@centralmethodist.net Pastor of Faith Formation & Discipleship Meg Bryce Jiunnies, mjiunnies@centralmethodist.net Pastor Emeritus Tom Pietila Retired Pastors Dannye Bragdon, Mel Flail, Alice Hocking, Julian Lazar, Leon Wagnon, DeVere Williams Director of Music/Organist Don Grice, dgrice@centralmethodist.net Worship Director of The Well Lance Hatchell, lhatchell@centralmethodist.net Music Associate/Director of Handbells Beverly Hazelwood, bhazelwood@centralmethodist.net Director of Children’s Choirs Jaime Martinez Director of Preschool Choir Kristen Hardaway Director of Nurseries Catherine Lucius, clucius@centralmethodist.net Director of Children’s Ministries Brandie Love, blove@centralmethodist.net Director of Youth Discipleship Julie Knight, jknight@centralmethodist.net Director of Adult & Family Ministries Adriane Reynolds, areynolds@centralmethodist.net Facilities Manager Dan Rogers, drogers@centralmethodist.net Business Manager Tara Ballenger, tballenger@centralmethodist.net

Church Office Phone: 843-662-3218

Pastoral Emergency Care: 843-662-3206 Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Physical Address: 167 South Irby Street Florence, SC 29501 Mailing Address: 265 West Cheves Street Florence, SC 29501

www.centralmethodist.net

Director of Media Philip Maenza, pmaenza@centralmethodist.net Office Manager Shay Justice, sjustice@centralmethodist.net Receptionist Dianna Wilson, dwilson@centralmethodist.net Media Associate Kathryn Velicky, kvelicky@centralmethodist.net Director of Central UMC Preschool Jennifer Walters, jwalters@centralmethodist.net Kitchen Manager George Hicks Caretakers Jason Taylor, Charles Beaufort, Ronald Jones Housekeeper Nicole Shaw Safety Officers Marilyn James, Johnny Spears, Billy Brown, Chris Benjamin, Kee’Shawn Mitchell, Jared James