Under the Dome - November 2024

Under The Dome

November 2024

Issue #17

LETTER FROM OUR Senior Pastor Dear Friends, It’s November, which means Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Rather than simply the beginning of “The Holidays,” Thanksgiving comes as an annual reminder of the role gratitude should play in the lives of Jesus’ followers. This time of year offers us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and express our appreciation for God’s many blessings.

My maternal grandmother taught me a profound lesson about gratitude. Before every meal I ever ate in her house, whether the meal was a simple sandwich or a full holiday spread, we would bow our heads as she prayed, “Lord, make us thankful for these and all other gifts. For Christ’s sake, Amen.” This is a traditional prayer, which my grandmother learned by hearing her parents pray before meals, but she prayed it with sincerity. The words of this prayer convey a message we would do well to embody in our daily lives.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to overlook the small miracles and acts of kindness that surround us. Let us be mindful that gratitude is not just a response to our circumstances. Practicing gratitude as a spiritual exercise allows us to draw closer to God and to one another.

Intentional gratitude can transform our perspective. When we focus on what we have, rather than what we lack, we open our hearts to experience God’s presence and blessing in our daily living. Intentional gratitude directs our hearts to God’s goodness and convicts us anew of God’s faithfulness.

Here are some ways we can cultivate a spirit of gratitude: 1. Daily Reflection: In your prayer time, intentionally reflect on what you are thankful for. If you are someone for whom writing helps organize your thoughts, consider keeping a journal as part of your prayer time.

2. Share Stories: As you gather with family and friends, create space to share your stories. We are inclined to nostalgia this time of year. Sharing stories is a way to recall God’s blessings and celebrate them with the people we love.

3. Acts of Kindness: In blessing us, God invites us to pass blessings on to others.

Consider ways you can serve within our community to offer assistance to our neighbors in need.

As we seek to practice gratitude, may our hearts be filled with the knowledge that God is the source of all the good things in our lives. Consider the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

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,

What can I say, I adore summer. I cling to it like a toddler's binky. Sunshine, heat, long days...they are my favorite. So when everyone else is dashing to pumpkin spice, sweater weather, and cold nights, I'm wishing I could halt the sun dipping into the southern hemisphere. I don't like the change, so I practice identifying and enjoying aspects of winter, like a fire in the fireplace, cowboy boots, and snuggly blankets.

I love autumn! I’m excited by the renewed energy it brings, the focus on fun activities: the corn maze with the youth, Trunk or Treating with the whole church, seeing the costumes, new classes of study, a new Confirmation Group, Trick or Treating for Canned Goods, looking forward to Thanksgiving, and events to come.

Mining joy in the transition of seasons is much like how we practice gratitude in the midst of change.

Change is inevitable; the sun will maintain its route and activate the seasons. But gratitude is a choice, and we go at it like miners with a pickax determined to unearth gleaming veins of God's blessings that are all around us, no matter how gray things may appear.

For Central, autumn also means planning for the new year, and helping people explore ministry areas is one of those really exhilarating tasks. I love it when people take on something a little out of their comfort zone because God is calling them to do something new. I love to see people form friendships with one another over shared ministry—people who would not know each other otherwise! I love watching as people use their spiritual gifts and surprise themselves with the good fruit of the ministry. These ideas and enthusiasm are direct gifts from the Holy Spirit when we open ourselves to partner together, with God at the center of what we do.

I pray that as change, grief, or loss comes into your life that you can prospect for gratitude and its twin, joy, enabling you to be a means of grace in the life of someone else who is struggling. That makes for the kind of Christian community God intends, in any season.

So, for those of you who have said “yes” when nominated, for those who have stepped forward to say “God is calling me to do this,” for everyone who has brought a solution forward as we face the needs of the community, thank you for being the very best part of autumn for me. Even better than a good season of Clemson football!

In Christ,

With Gratitude,

Ann

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 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

YOUTH 6th-12th Grades – Youth Room 206 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

Ministry Spotlight: Adult & Family Ministries Our Adult & Family Ministries Team is dedicated to embodying Central’s mission of following Jesus, loving God, and loving our neighbors. This team collaborates with our clergy and staff to organize various events throughout the year and oversees ministries like Wednesday Night Dinners, United Methodist Women, Happy Travelers, and Veterans Breakfasts. We invite you to become a part of our team!

Advent & Christmas Advent Workshop November 24 | 9:30 AM

Florence Area Big Band

Wednesday, December 4 | 6:00 PM

Masterworks Christmas Concert Saturday, December 7 | 7:00 PM Sunday, December 8 | 4:00 PM

Children’s Christmas Program Wednesday, December 11 | 6:00 PM

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols Sunday, December 22 | 4:00 PM Pre-service Recital | 3:40 PM

Christmas Eve Worship Tuesday, December 24 Sanctuary | 4:00 PM The Well | 4:00 PM Sanctuary| 6:00 PM

Stewardship For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:21

Stewardship Season We’ve finished the “season” of stewardship focus, but we all know that stewardship is part of our Christian life every day. So now, as we reflect on the work of the Stewardship Team, the wonderful worship service, Rev. J.T. Brown’s message, the Commitment Celebration, and the beginning of the gathering of ministry commitments, we are ready to start the new year with excitement and intention. If you were unable to participate in the events of our stewardship focus, the good news is that there are still plenty of opportunities to participate. Fill out a financial estimate of giving form for 2025 and visit our website to fill out an online form for using your spiritual gifts. Or, contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies to find out more about practicing the spiritual discipline of stewardship here at Central. Stewardship is ultimately about what God is calling you to do to serve God and others by building up the ministry of the Church. Rather than a duty, it is a joy to respond to the amazing love of Jesus Christ to participate with the Christian Community.

To find the Estimate of Giving form for 2025, please go to the church office or call 843-662-3218 to request that a copy be mailed to you.

To find the Every Member in Ministry form for 2025, please go to the Central website at www.centralmethodist.net under Member Resources, or use this link: www.centralmethodist.net/resource If you would like to have a more in-depth discussion about discovering or using your spiritual gifts, please contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies.

Lay Leadership Team Members: Trisha Caulder, Patty Howard, Jordan Johnson, Mary McDougal Lay Leaders: Frank O’Shea, Beth Ann Owen, Eileen Blackwell Led by Rev. Thomas Smith, Rev. Dr. Ann Kovan, and Rev. Meg Jiunnies Our 2025 Nominations for Lay Leadership slate was voted on by the Church Council at Charge Conference on Monday, October 28, and those folks are ready for service for the 2025 year! Please express your appreciation to the Nominations Team for their hard work, to those serving as leaders, to those who served on our teams and committees for 2024, and to the new team chairs. Our entire slate of teams will be available on the website and in worship in January.

Coming January 12, 2025: LEAD CENTRAL

Each year in January, members of all of our teams and committees come together for an hour or two to launch the new year of ministry! We will have a light lunch, talk about the nuts and bolts of the planning times, and take a picture of the group. Hundreds of people make up teams that lead these ministries. We are the hands and feet of Christ, and every person here at Central is encouraged to participate in some way, whether or not you are officially on a committee. You’ll find countless ways to serve here, your faith will grow, and you’ll be inspired as you serve. Serving together is also the best way to grow meaningful friendships with those you serve alongside of, and those you serve, while witnessing to the gospel and sharing your faith in action. God designed it that way for us.

Developing New Ministry Ideas God often places ideas for new ministries on our hearts and in our minds as we notice needs in the community. One of the ways that we practice discipleship here at Central is to intentionally develop these ideas for new ministries.

Here is how we do this: A yearly budget is set aside for developing new ministries Information history is kept about where people serve so that we can consult together Teams are open to new ideas and are a place to develop them more fully Rev. Meg helps to connect people together with others who share a call to complementary ministries The United Methodist Church’s connectionalism helps us discover pathways of ministry

Upcoming Committee Meetings Preschool Board November 4, 6:00 - 7:00 PM Moody Parlor Rm#166

Stephen Ministry Cont. Ed & Supervision November 11, 6:00 - 7:00 PM Christian Family Conf. Rm#173

Outreach Committee November 13, 8:30 - 9:45 AM Christian Family Conf. Rm#173

Worship Committee November 5, 5:30 - 6:30 PM Christian Family Conf. Rm#173

The Well Team November 11, 6:00 - 7:00 PM Sunshine Class Rm#164/165

Children’s Committee November 17, 9:15 - 10:15 AM Malambri Center Rm#232

Finance Committee November 5, 6:30 - 7:30 PM Sunshine Class Rm#164/165

Board of Trustees November 12, 5:15 - 6:15 PM Christian Family Conf. Rm#173

Faith-Sharing Team November 18, 6:00 - 7:00 PM Moody Parlor Rm#166

Altar Flowers

Contributing Altar Flowers is a beautiful way to enhance the worship services at Central. Honoring or remembering a loved one or celebrating a special occasion brings glory to God. To reserve a Sunday, please reach out to Shay Justice.

Meet The Well Band Members

WARREN COKER Warren Coker is a native of Hebron, South Carolina, where he grew up attending Hebron United Methodist Church and singing in the choir that was directed by his mother, Judy Coker. Since then, he has moved to Florence where he has lived for the past 23 years. Warren became a member of Central United Methodist Church on December 11, 2016, along with his partner of 23 years, Rick Clowney. Warren and Rick are also members of the Searching Disciples Sunday school class.

Warren serves on the Well Design Committee and Church Council as an At-Large member. He is also involved with the BEDS Ministry, and is in his first year as a member of The Well praise band.

Together, he and Rick have 4 children, 5 grandchildren, and two dogs that keep them quite busy.

Warren currently works for Florence 1 School District and teaches and coaches at West Florence High School. He teaches Physical Education (PE) and Unified Sports PE, an inclusion class that is designed to provide a unique opportunity for students with and without disabilities to come together through ongoing educational and physical activities, using the power of Special Olympics.

Coach Coker was instrumental in bringing this program to West Florence and all three high schools within the district. Coach Coker also coaches men’s volleyball and men’s tennis. After the 2024 season, Coach Coker was named the SCACA Tennis Coach of The Year.

ADVENT WORKSHOP

Come and Prepare for the Advent Season An event for all ages! Come and make some crafts and your own Advent Wreath (while supplies last) to get ready for the start of Advent.

This workshop will take the place of Sunday School for Children and Youth. Parents are encouraged to make the Advent Workshop a family activity!

Sunday, November 24 9:30 - 10:15 am

Spears Fellowship Hall

Advent Greenery Central United Methodist Church invites you to remember and honor loved ones during the Advent Season. The dates listed below indicate when items will be placed in the sanctuary and when recognition notes will appear in the bulletin.

4 Vases of Greenery

(2 vases on December 1 & 2 vases on December 15)

2 Advent Wreaths with Candles

(First Sunday of Advent - December 1/Third Sunday of Advent - December 15)

2 Wreaths for the Commons Doors (First Sunday of Advent - December 1)

2 Garlands for the Balconies

(Second Sunday of Advent - December 8)

9 Wreaths for the Garlands & Windows (December 8)

Christmas Tree in the Commons (December 8)

Christmas Tree in the Chapel (December 8)

2 White Poinsettias for Christmas Eve (December 24)

2 White Poinsettias or Arrangements for Epiphany (January 5)

Please call Shay Justice by Monday, November 18, to place your order.

LEARNING! GROWING! GIVING!

Central UMC Preschool The Central UMC Preschool Parent Guild, led by Fletcher Strait, held a drive for children’s items for families in Asheville, NC who were affected

by Hurricane Helene. We are so thankful for Fletcher and the other Guild parents and staff who contributed or helped.

Learning through play!

Working on our motor skills is not a chore!

The Florence Fire Department visited us for Fire Safety Week!

Nursery Ministry Welcome Wigglers

Our 3K and 4K children enjoyed Welcome Wigglers during the month of October! We met our pastors and learned all about church services in the Sanctuary and The Well, learned about the hymnal and the songs we sing, and even got a tour of the organ with Dr. Don! The children also learned about church “manners” as they get accustomed to attending worship before Children’s Church.

Nursery Workers Needed

We are in need of substitute teachers on the nursery hall! It is so rewarding to spend time teaching our littlest church members about God’s love on Sunday mornings. If you are interested in substituting or becoming a nursery employee, please contact Catherine Lucius.

Children’s Ministry 5K-5th Grade Sunday School Review

Theme: Generosity is making someone’s day by giving something away.

November 3: Every Good and Perfect Gift (James 1:17) Key Point: God gives us good things.

November 10: Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16) Key Point: You always have something to give.

November 17: God Loves a Cheerful (Giver 2 Corinthians 9:7) Key Point: Give with a good attitude.

November 24: No Sunday School – Enjoy the Advent Workshop!

Mark Your Calendars: Central’s Children’s Nativity Program

Central’s Children Nativity Program will be held on Wednesday, December 11 at 6:00 pm. The Nativity Program is performed by Central’s 3K–5th graders.

Practices will be held on Wednesday nights beginning in November. We hope everyone will participate! If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Brandie Love.

C5 – Central Fifth Grade Fellowship Trip

Fifth Graders are invited to join us for their first “C5” – Central Fifth Grade Fellowship event on Sunday, November 10 from 11:45 AM to 1:30 PM. We will leave the church after worship and head to Buc-ees! All participants will need to bring money for food, snacks and/or shopping. Please contact Brandie Love to sign up or if you have any questions.

Children’s Ministry SAVE THE DATES Parents Night Out

Central’s Relationship Ministry is holding Parents Night Out on Friday, December 6, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Children up through 5th grade are invited to enjoy pizza, snacks, games, crafts, story time, a movie and more. The purpose of this event is to give parents a night to themselves, and we will provide an optional relationship strengthening exercise for the parents.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful ministry! Please contact Brandie Love to register by November 22! If you do not sign up by the deadline, your child(ren) will not be able to participate.

Christmas Caroling

Children (5K–5th Grade) are invited to join Mrs. Brandie and Mrs. Kristen to go Christmas Caroling on Thursday, December 19. We will meet at 3:30 PM in front of Briggs Elementary and return at 4:30 PM. This is a wonderful way to share Christ’s hope, peace, joy, and love. We hope many of you will join us! Please contact Brandie by Sunday, December 15, to sign up.

Kari Kampakis - Love Her Well

On October 16, Central hosted over 300 mothers and daughters to hear best-selling author Kari Kampakis speak. She shared her wisdom on nurturing relationships, connectivity, and engagement with daughters, as well as navigating friendships and girl drama through the tween/teen years.

Children’s Sabbath in The Well

Children’s Sabbath was celebrated on October 20 in The Well. The Children participated in worship and helped lead by reading scripture, leading prayers, and singing.

trunk or treat Lots of fun was had by all on Sunday, October 20, when the Irby Street parking lot turned into a Trunk or Treat Station. Special thanks to the 37 families and groups who hosted trunks. It was a wonderful afternoon spending time with our church family and members of our community!

Best Trunks: Martina and Ed Love - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation; The Chancel Choir - Phantom of the Opera

Best Family Costumes: Gettys Family - Harry Potter; Strait Family - Humpy Dumpty

Youth Ministry Trick or Treat for Canned Goods

UMYF Trick or Treat for Canned Goods on Sunday, October 27

Youth Secret Destination Youth Fundraiser - Christmas Ornament Sale

UMYF trip to McArthur Farms Corn Maze on Sunday, October 13

Upcoming Events

Y.O.W.

YOUTH ON WEDNESDAYS

November 3

Join us in the Youth Lounge for an hour of fun and fellowship each Wednesday at 6:00 PM.

November 10

November 6 - Movie Night! Grab your dinner and join us in the lounge at 5:30 PM

UMYF at normal times Friendsgiving at Timberlake Farms

November 17

November 13 - Game Night!

UMYF at normal times

November 20 - Fields of Faith at WF Stadium

November 24

November 27 - No YOW - Thanksgiving Break

No UMYF - Thanksgiving Break

Happy Birthday!

November 7 – Max Brown November 11 – Jane Hyman November 12 – George Dawson November 21 – Alex Pace November 22 – Natalie Chase November 28 – Jac Coker November 30 – Jack Hupfer Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand. - Isaiah 41:10

Celebrating 20 Years of Santahatchie

Join us for Santahatchie 2024 as we celebrate 20 years of making homes warmer, safer, and drier!

December 26 - 30, 2024 We need your help!

We have a role for everyone from students to retirees.

Registration is coming soon!

Adult & Family Ministries Central will pay tribute to our veterans in November with two special events.

On Wednesday, November 20, we will recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the Armed Forces by presenting Quilts of Valor to several members and friends. We invite you to join us for dinner in the Davis Center at 5:30 PM, followed by the awards ceremony at 6:00 PM. Then, on Friday, November 22, all veterans and their guests are welcome to join us for our Veterans Breakfast at 8:00 AM in Spears Fellowship Hall. Our guest speaker, Anthony Ramos, will share information about Florence National Cemetery. Please register on Realm or contact Dianna in the church office at 843-662-3218.

Happy Travelers The Happy Travelers will be taking a break in November due to the Thanksgiving holiday, but we’ll be traveling to Columbia in December! Stay tuned to Realm for further updates.

Our Weekly Movie Matinee continues in the month of November! We meet on Tuesdays in Room 232 at 2:00 PM to enjoy good movies, tasty snacks, and great company. This month’s featured films include The Giver on November 12 and City of Angels on November 19. Bring a friend and let the movie magic unfold! For more info, contact Til Morisey or Kathy Flowers.

Scouting Ministry Central's Cub Scouts will participate in several outdoor activities this month, including roasting hot dogs and making s’mores over a campfire, competing in sack races, three-legged races, and tug of war, and participating in an annual favorite—the sawdust hunt! Interested in participating in scouting? Contact Tim Fisher (timwfisher@aol.com) or Adriane Reynolds (areynolds@centralmethodist.net).

Come join the conversation at Central UMC’s Book Club on Sunday, November 24 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at the home of Susie Brown. Our book for November is Gift from the Sea. In this beloved classic, Anne Morrow Lindbergh shares her meditations on youth and age; love and marriage; peace, solitude and contentment as she set them down during a brief vacation by the sea. For more information, contact Ellen Smith (ellenharper@yahoo.com).

Youth Christmas Ornament Fundraiser Central’s youth are now taking orders for a Christmas ornament featuring our Creation Window. Each ornament is $16.00, and preorders will be accepted throughout the month of October. This ornament would make a wonderful Christmas gift for someone special!

Scan the QR code above to order yours today!

Pickup will be on Sunday, November 24, in The Commons.

Faith Formation & Discipleship Methodism 101

Wednesday | November 6 | 6:00-7:00pm | 173 Led by Rev. Thomas Smith Do you have some questions about United Methodism? What do we believe about the sacraments? Why do we change banner colors? What do we believe about the Bible? Any questions are welcome, and Pastor Thomas is an expert at sharing important information about this denomination. Come and share in the conversation!

Caregiving During the Holidays

Wednesday | November 6 | 6:00-7:00pm | Spears Fellowship Hall Led by Corey Remle, Alzheimer’s Association Volunteer The holidays are often filled with sharing, laughter and memories, but they can also bring stress, disappointment or sadness. A person living with dementia may feel a sense of loss during the holidays because of the changes he or she has experienced. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed by maintaining traditions while providing care and adhering to safety precautions. Join us for some tips and ideas for safely enjoying the holidays with family and friends.

Ongoing studies, perfect for joining in: Commons Conversations

Wednesdays | Nov. 6, 13, and 20 | 6:15-7:00pm | Commons Area Led by Central’s Pastors We’ll be discussing family life, parenting, social issues, and answering any questions at this very casual, relaxed gathering time. Join us for fellowship and conversation!

Courtney Graham Women’s Bible Study

Series: Jesus and Women by Kristi McLelland Mondays through December 16 | 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 Bishop Carder’s Visit to Central - A Blessing for All Involved!

Bishop Kenneth L. Carder visited Central for two days in October to complete our study on how the Church can respond in ministry to those affected by dementia. Shockingly, dementia affects 1 in 3 older adults in the U.S. and over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for those with dementia (www.alz.org/facts). For our special Wednesday night program, Bishop Carder presented Ministry with the Forgotten: Dementia through a Spiritual Lens, based on his book, which is the story of his and his wife’s faith journey with dementia, and the blessings of his personal faith growth that this taught him. This event was a time of understanding and hope; Bishop Carder talked specifically on the development of the fruits of the spirit in his life. This was a poignant reminder that every person, regardless of their challenges in life, continues to have a role in the faith growth of others, and that we can find ways to connect and comfort others, even as we grapple with communication.

On Thursday morning, the bishop met with Central’s Stephen Ministers, the Visitation Team, and other interested people, to discuss how Central could respond to the needs of those affected, including care partners. These groups will be working on a plan for the coming year, starting with more education about how to relate to those with dementia. If you are interested in learning more or being part of the new ministry development, please contact Rev. Meg Jiunnies for more information. Also, we encourage you to contact the Alzheimer’s association at www.alz.org for support and information.

Central’s Stephen Ministry Program

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. Jiunnies at 843-662-3218. You do not need to walk alone. All conversations are strictly confidential.

Prayer and Holy Communion Service

Every Wednesday at 12:15 PM all are welcome to gather in the Ingram Chapel for prayer and Holy Communion.

Come and partake in the holy work of praying for our church family, friends, community, and concerns of our souls. Please invite others to join in and open themselves to the Holy Spirit as we grow closer to Christ and one another. During this time, scripture is read, a homily is given, and we are blessed to receive the sacrament of Communion. Come and be filled.

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 in the family, give the church a call. We’d love to print an announcement, bring you a meal, and just reach out to you. You can contact Becky Crawford at 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 would love to announce the birth!

Would you like a visitor, or know someone who would?

Pastoral visits, regular visitors, or Stephen Ministers, we want to stay connected to our congregation. If you would enjoy a visit, are homebound and would like Holy Communion, or just want to talk, please call the church office to let us know!

Faith-Sharing

Be Invitational for Advent Your Faith Sharing team is once again providing you with an easy way to share your faith through the simple act of invitation. This Advent, we will provide cards listing the dates and times of our many Advent services and events for you to invite friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. You'll be sharing Good News to those who need to hear it the most, in a time of year that can be the loneliest.

Central in the Community

BEDS Build Day

Bishop Leonard Fairley visited our BEDS Build on October 12 to see Central’s disciples in action.

Hurricane Relief

Central supplied two truckloads of water and chainsaw fuel to hurricane relief in Augusta, Georgia.

Outreach opportunities One Table

Thursday, November 28 • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM • Timrod Park Join us for the Second Annual One Table Florence Thanksgiving Celebration in Timrod Park on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. This event is centered around a community Thanksgiving dinner and holds the promise of bringing all facets of our diverse community together at one table for one remarkable holiday meal. This event is 100% free to attend. Whether as a volunteer, a guest, or simply as a supporter of this wonderful initiative, your presence and participation will make a significant difference in our community.

To register to attend or volunteer, visit www.onetableflorence.com.

Salvation Army Life Nav Program Needs Volunteers Thursday, November 14 • 10:00 AM There is a meeting on November 14 at 10:00 AM in the Salvation Army Chapel to provide information about their program to help lift people out of poverty into an independent life. They are looking for people to facilitate monthly meetings with families, setting goals in several areas to help change their lives. Please join us for this informational meeting and learn how you can help!

Donate Desserts for Hospice Meals!

Monday, November 25 Central is preparing and donating Thanksgiving dinners to hospice again this year and we are asking for dessert donations. If you can donate a cake or pie, please drop off at the church administrative office on Monday, November 25, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

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Sunshine Class - 9:30 AM Sunday School - 9:30 AM Worship (Sanctuary & The Well) - 10:30 AM

Sundays

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Sundays, 6:00 PM - Disciple 1 New Testament Bible Study Mondays, 9:15 AM - Courtney Graham Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 7:00 AM - 27:17 Men’s Bible Study Wednesdays, 6:00 PM - Financial Peace University Wednesday, 6:00 PM - Commons Conversations

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Church Office Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

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

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Church Office Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

BibleStudies

Church Office Closed for Thanksgiving Holiday

Quilts of Valor 6:00 PM YOW 6:00 PM

23 22 Veterans Breakfast 8:00 AM

Youth Trip

Youth Trip

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Friday

WednesdayNightChoirRehearsal

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM BSA Troop 475 7:00 PM

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Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

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24

Advent Workshop 9:30 AM Pickleball 12:45 PM

Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM

21 Pickleball 12:30 PM

20 Service of Prayer & Holy Communion 12:00 PM UMW Board Meeting 3:30 PM

19 Staff Meeting 9:30 AM Movie Matinee 2:00 PM BSA Troop 475 7:00 PM

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Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

Pickleball 12:30 PM

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Service of Prayer & Holy Communion 12:00 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM YOW 6:00 PM

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM Movie Matinee 2:00 PM BSA Troop 475 7:00 PM

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Red Cross Blood Drive 1:30 PM

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Thursday

Service of Prayer & Holy Communion 12:00 PM Wednesday Night Dinner 5:30 PM Caregiving Program 6:00 PM Methodism 101 6:00 PM YOW 6:00 PM

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Wednesday

Staff Meeting 9:30 AM Circle Meetings 10:00 AM Circle Meeting 2:00 PM BSA Troop 475 7:00 PM

Tuesday

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Men’s Basketball 6:00 PM

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

Monday

Youth Trip Scrapbooking 12:30 PM Pickleball 12:45 PM Cub Scouts (5K-2nd) 2:30 PM Cub Scouts (3rd-5th) 4:00 PM

Pickleball 12:45 PM C5 Central 5th Graders 11:45 AM UMYF Friendsgiving

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Pickleball 12:45 PM Cub Scouts Fall Event 2:00 PM UMYF 5:30 PM Basketball Meeting 6:30 PM

Sunday

November 2024 Saturday

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, Ben Nettles, Ronald Jones Housekeeper Nicole Shaw Safety Officers Marilyn James, Johnny Spears, Billy Brown, Chris Benjamin, Kee’Shawn Mitchell