FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT • FEBRUARY 22, 2026 • 11:00AM
THE COMMUNITY GATHERS
Welcome to worship at Centenary! We are a church for everyone. As you prepare for worship, we invite you to greet your neighbor and share the love of Christ. Please silence all mobile communication devices.
PRELUDE
Wade in the Water — arr. Arnold Sherman
GREETING
INTROIT
Kyrie (from Messe Sollenelle, Op. 16) — Louis Vierne Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
†CALL TO WORSHIP
We enter the season of Lent, a journey of repentance and renewal. We come seeking God’s mercy and grace. Yet we gather with praise and thanksgiving, for the Lord is steadfast in love.
Come, let us walk this Lenten path together. With grateful hearts, let us worship the Lord!
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#605 Wash, O God, Our Sons and Daughters — BEACH SPRING
†AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
† GLORIA PATRI
#71 Glory Be to the Father — GREATOREX Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
BAPTISM
BAPTISMAL RESPONSE
Do you as Christ’s body, the church, reaffirm both your rejection of sin and your commitment to Christ? We do.
Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life and include Everett now before you in your care?
With God’s help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround Everett with a community of love and forgiveness, that he may grow in his service to others. We will pray for him, that he may be a true disciple who walks in the way that leads to life.
HYMN
#191 Jesus Loves Me — JESUS LOVES ME
(Following the baptism, children, kindergartners through third grade, are invited to exit the Sanctuary for Children’s Worship. Children will return to reserved pews in the Sanctuary at the close of worship.)
CANTICLE
Thou Knowest, Lord (from Requiem) — Bob Chilcott Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts; shut not thy merciful ears to our prayer; but spare us, Lord most holy, O God most mighty, O holy and merciful Saviour, thou most worthy Judge eternal, suffer us not at our last hour, for any pains of death, to fall from thee.
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
SCRIPTURE — Luke 23:32-34
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “Father, Forgive Them...”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
Kyrie — Cathy Moklebust
†DOXOLOGY
#95 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow — OLD 100th Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below; praise God above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
†PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
†HYMN
#294 Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed — MARTYRDOM
COMMISSIONING
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
A Clare Benediction — John Rutter
May the Lord show his mercy upon you; may the light of his presence be your guide: may he guard you and uphold you; may his spirit be ever be your side. When you sleep, may his angels watch over you; when you wake, may he fill you with his grace: may you love him and serve him all your days, then in heaven may you see his face.
†POSTLUDE
SERMON NOTES
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene
Senior Minister
LITURGIST
Tammy Pollock Director of Youth Ministries
MUSIC
Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music & Arts
Joshua Sobel, Organist
The Chancel Choir
Carillonneurs: Camille Jones, Director
CRUCIFER
Marianne Rowland
TORCHBEARERS
Blair Grdina
Beau Rowland
FLOWERS
The Chancel flowers are given to the Glory of God and in honor of Janet Ford as a celebration of her birthday by her husband Craig, their children and grandchildren.
WELCOME!
The congregation and staff of Centenary welcome you to today’s worship.
It is our honor to have you with us! Our ministers, staff, welcome team and ushers are happy to assist you with any questions you may have. We hope our worship will inspire, comfort and challenge you as we hear God’s message proclaimed through preaching, music, prayer and liturgy.
SUNDAY MORNINGS AT CENTENARY
• Worship • 9:00AM • Memorial Auditorium
• Worship • 11:00AM • Sanctuary
• Sunday School for all Ages • 9:45AM or 10:00AM (Based on Classes & Ministry Area)
• Nursery is available for infants through pre-kindergarteners during both worship services and Sunday school on the first floor of the East Building.
MEMBERSHIP
We are eager to share Centenary’s story with you. If you are interested in learning about church membership, please contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck (336-724-6311 ext. 1357/ ohelsabeck@centenary-ws.org) to schedule a time to meet.
WATCH
Each Sunday morning, our 11:00AM worship service is broadcast on the Internet through our Live Stream. Visit www.centenary-ws.org. Once there, click on the Live Stream link at the top of the home page.
HEARING LOOP
Our Sanctuary is fitted with a Hearing Loop system. Please switch your hearing device to T-coil. If you need a listening device, please contact one of our ushers. Be sure to sit in the pews located on the floor of the Nave.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTENARY
There is always something happening at Centenary and we invite you to join us. To learn more about Centenary ministries and events, visit our website at www.centenary-ws.org. You may also contact our receptionist who will guide you to the appropriate ministry area.
STAY CONNECTED
Reception Desk • 336-724-6311
CENTENARY LEADERSHIP CONNECTIONS
336.724.6311 + Extension (for the Minister on Call • Option 2)
Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene ext. 1362 Senior Minister wgreene@centenary-ws.org
Mary Ann Wexler ext. 1346 Executive Director mwexler@centenary-ws.org
Jonathan Emmons ext. 1339 Director of Music & Arts jemmons@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Oliver Helsabeck ext. 1357 Associate Minister for Congregational Care ohelsabeck@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Kate May ext. 1331 Associate Minister with Children kmay@centenary-ws.org
ANNOUNCEMENTS • FEBRUARY 22, 2026
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-event or scan our QR code.
CELEBRATIONS & CONCERNS
Today we celebrate the baptism of Everett Michael Calva, son of Cole and Meredith Calva, brother of Easton Calva.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Share your Gifts at Vacation Bible School
June 15-18 • 9:00AM-Noon
PRAYER OPPORTUNITY
Last Sunday Willis encouraged us all to pray without ceasing. If you are looking for a tool to help you with that or you are looking for a way to make a difference for our local community join WinstonSalemPrays today! Using the QR code at the top of the page you can learn more about this multi-church collaboration to cover our community in prayer 24/7! Use the sign up link on the website to choose a 30 minute block when you commit to praying for our community. Have questions or want to know more? Connect with any of our ministry team members.
Website: winstonsalemprays.com
ADULT FORMATION
Join Us for Nourish This Wednesday Wednesday • February 25 Reservations due by Tuesday, February 24 at 5 pm. Learning opportunities start at 6 pm. Scan the QR code for the menu, reservations, and details.
Learning Opportunities: •Feb. 25–March 25: The Mystery of the Cross with Dr. Christopher Franks, Associate Professor of Religion at High Point University. Drawing from scripture, theology, and modern interpreters, Dr. Franks will help us explore what Christians believe about the cross to deepen our wonder at what God has done for us and illumine how God is re-making us through God’s cross-shaped love.
Sunday Morning Book Study: The Church We Carry for Those Affected by Disaffiliation and Other Church Hurts
Now - April 12 • 10:00AM • Room 111
Tammy Pollock ext. 1337 Director of Youth Ministries tpollock@centenary-ws.org
Stacy Holley ext. 1359 Executive Assistant sholley@centenary-ws.org
John Markle ext. 1347 Director of Operations jmarkle@centenary-ws.org
Doug Peninger ext. 1368 Director of Communication dpeninger@centenary-ws.org
John Rogers ext. 1356 Director of Information Technology jrogers@centenary-ws.org
CENTENARY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
646 W. FIFTH STREET • WINSTON-SALEM, NC 27101
WWW.CENTENARY-WS.ORG • 336-724-6311
Refresh
Wednesdays • Noon-12:45PM • Sanctuary
The Refresh Prayer Ministry invites you to be refreshed in a mid-week service of worship, reflection, and prayer in a sacred space. Parking is available in the Fifth Street parking lot; enter from the Fifth Street entrance to the Sanctuary. For more information, contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck or Becky Tate.
SENIOR ADULTS
Luncheon • Thursday • March 9 • Noon
Memorial Auditorium
The Whitfield/Foundations Sunday school class offers this study by Will Willimon, which reflects on the disaffiliation of his home church, Buncombe Street UMC in Greenville, SC. The study offers a thoughtful, compassionate space for reflection and healing for those impacted by the trauma of disaffiliation and other church wounds and for those seeking to support them. All are welcome.
At Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School this summer, kids will explore what it means to be rooted in relationship with God—their creator and a safe place in life’s storms. These young explorers need guides, and we invite you to share your gifts so they know God loves them, and so do we. There’s a place for everyone!
Save the dates and contact Marty Coan, Diane Eshelman, Ashley Maner, or Kate May to join our team.
Easter Candy Collection
Through March 22, we will be collecting candy to fill our easter eggs for our annual Easter Egg Hunt (April 5). Please bring individually wrapped, non-chocolate candy to the buckets at either the 4½ Street Reception Desk or the 5th Street Reception desk.
You Can Help Feed Hungry Students In our Area
Centenary partners with Second Harvest Food Bank’s Backpack Program to provide weekend meals for 80 students at Brunson Elementary and Wiley Middle School. Each food bag costs $6, totaling $480 per week. Your support helps make a real difference in these students’ lives. To get involved or learn more, Contact Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws. org/336.724.6311 ext. 1332).
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Shining Light on Mental Health
Peer Connector Ministry
If you experience a crisis of mental health, it’s important to know you are not alone. Our Peer Connector Ministry establishes a confidential connection between you and someone with similar experiences. Peer Connectors serve as supportive friends and listening ears, can provide prayerful, emotional support, and can help to direct you to additional support or resources. Send a confidential message to Rev. Oliver Helsabeck and he will connect you with a Peer Connector.
Support Group Interest Survey
We invite you to complete a brief, anonymous survey to help us discern which support groups would be most helpful in our congregation. Your input will guide how we can best meet needs and care for one another. Scan the QR code in the bulletin or pick up a paper copy at the welcome desk and place it in the “Prayer Concerns” box in the Narthex. Please respond by March 1. Thank you for your care and compassion.
MEN’S MINISTRY
Theology on Tap Tuesday • February 24 • 6:30PM–7:45PM Centenary UMC Men’s Ministry invite all men to join them for the Winter Theology on Tap gathering at 3491 Waterwheel Circle. Call or text Tom Lawson (336-577-2223) to let him know you’re attending or to learn more details
Thursday Morning Fellowship
March 5 • 7:30AM-8:30AM • Community Room
All men of the church are invited to our Thursday morning gathering on March 5. Join us in the Community Room for coffee, biscuits, and fellowship followed by a brief program.
MUSIC & ARTS
Lenten Noontime Series
Tuesdays • February 24–March 31
Noon–12:30PM • Sanctuary
Join us each Tuesday in Lent for a 30-minute musical presentation as we center our hearts during this season of reflection and contemplation.
• February 24: Liquid Fire! Piano Duo, Barbara Lister-Sink & Jonathan Blake Borton
• March 3: Corine Brouwer, violin & Jonathan Emmons, piano
• March 10: New Day Singers
• March 17: Elektra Winds
• March 24: Virginia Sheffield, soprano & Jonathan Emmons, piano
• March 31: Joshua Sobel, organ
Art in the Atrium Presents: Lenten Expressions Opening Reception • Today • Noon
Exhibit Dates • February 22–April 5
Art in the Atrium invites you to immerse yourself in the works of Dr. Stephen D. Martin, artist, minister, and former chair of Centenary’s Music & Arts Committee.
Children’s Creative Arts Experience
6:00PM–7:00PM • East Building
There’s still time for children ages 4 through 5th grade to join CAE this spring! Come explore the arts, deepen your faith, and help lead worship together as a community. Register using the announcements’ QR code or by emailing Virginia Sheffield. We look forward to seeing our CAE children next lead worship on Palm Sunday, March 29!
Our guest speaker will be Rev. Dr. Chris Donald, University Chaplain at Wake Forest University. We gather at 11:45 am and lunch will be served at noon. To register, send an email to seniorlunch@centenary-ws.org or call the church office during business hours. Luncheon cost is $12.00 and the signup deadline is Wednesday, March 11. If you need a ride to the luncheon, please let Rev. Oliver Helsabeck know. The Senior Adult Council will meet briefly in the choir room at 11:00 am before the luncheon.
YOUTH MINISTRY
20th Annual Love Thy Neighbor Fundraiser Tonight • 6:00PM-8:00PM • Auditorium
Join us for the 20th annual Love Thy Neighbor Dinner, Live Auction, and Paddle Raise supporting LTN’s youth-run outreach ministry, medical clinic, and pharmacy serving our downtown neighbors. Reserve a seat or table via the QR code. Dinner is prepared by Chef Donald and served by our youth. Questions? Contact Kevin Garrity (kgarrity@centenary-ws. org /336.724.6311 ext. 1349).
Listen Event: Mary Ivon Montgomery March 1 • 5:00PM-7:00PM • Memorial Auditorium Shining Light on Mental Health & Youth Ministry will again partner to host our next community-wide LISTEN event with Mary Ivon Montgomery, a renowned therapist specializing in disordered eating and body image. Join us— and bring friends and family—for a presentation, conversation, and open Q&A on supporting teens who struggle. Register by scanning the QR code. This event is free and open to the public. Questions? Contact Tammy Pollock.
All-Youth Family Game NIght March 29 • 5:00PM-7:00PM • Youth Commons
This is the night to bring your family to Youth Group -- for our second annual BIG GAME NIGHT! Join us for an evening of fun, games, friendly-competition, food, and faith! All parents, younger siblings, and friends are welcome. Please just be sure to register guests ahead of time via Realm or by scanning the QR Code above. If you have any questions, contact Kevin Garrity.
Niner-Niner Goes Ziplining April 18 • 10:30AM-5:30PM Niner-Niner, harness up and get ready for a ziplining good time! Our all-freshman ministry’s spring adventure is a full-day’s outing to French Broad Adventure in Western NC. For all details about the trip and to register, scan the QR Code above or head over to Realm. If you have any questions, contact Kevin Garrity.
