FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY • FEBRUARY 8, 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.
† Please stand as you are able
PRELUDE
Fantaisie-Impromptu — Frédéric Chopin
GREETING
INTROIT
In the Lord I’ll Be Ever Thankful — TAIZÉ
In the Lord I’ll be ever thankful, in the Lord I will rejoice. Look to God, do not be afraid, lift up your voices, the Lord is near.
†CALL TO WORSHIP
(from Psalm 105)
Oh give thanks to the Lord and call upon his name, Make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! He is our God; his judgments are in all the earth. He remembers his covenant forever, the word He commanded for a thousand generations. Let all the earth proclaim his goodness!
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#128 He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought — HE LEADETH ME
†AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
We are not alone, we live in God’s world.
We believe in God: who has created and is creating, who has come in Jesus, the Word made flesh, to reconcile and make new, who works in us and others by the Spirit. We trust in God. We are called to be the church: to celebrate God’s presence, to love and serve others, to seek justice and resist evil, to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen, our judge and our hope. In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us. We are not alone. Thanks be to God. 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. (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
Awake, My Heart — Jane Marshall Awake my heart, and render to God thy sure defender, thy maker, thy preserver, a song of love and fervor. Confirm my deeds and guide me: my day, with thee beside me, beginning, middle, ending,
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
SCRIPTURE — Matthew 6:25-34
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “Here Be God”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
If You But Trust in God to Guide You — WEN NUR DEN LIEBEN GOTT arr. David Cherwien If you but trust in God to guide you, with hopeful heart through all your ways, you will find strength, with God beside you, to bear the worst of evil days; for those who trust God’s changeless love build on the rock that will not move.
What gain is there in futile weeping, in helpless anger and distress? If you are in God’s care and keeping, in sorrow will God love you less? For Christ who took for you a cross will bring you safe through every loss.
Be still, be still, and wait God’s pleasure, in cheerful hope, with heart content, trusting that grace which knows no measure will by unbounded Love be sent; nor doubt our inmost wants are clear to One who holds us always near.
The congregation will be invited to stand and sing:
Sing, pray, and keep God’s ways unswerving. Offer your service faithfully. And trust God’s words, thou undeserving, There find the truth to set you free; God will not fail to guide and bless Those who embrace God’s faithfulness.
†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
#526 What a Friend We Have in Jesus — CONVERSE
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
The Lord Bless You and Keep You — John Rutter
The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. Amen. (Numbers 6: 24-26)
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
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
Children’s Creative Arts Experience
Zachary Yohannes, piano
CRUCIFER
Jojo Johnson
TORCHEBEARERS
Beverly Douglas
McCall
Stanley
FLOWERS
The Chancel flowers are given in loving memory of Dr. & Mrs. Beverly N. Jones Sr., Mr. & Mrs. James E. Holmes Jr., Dr. Beverly N. Jones Jr., Jewell Voss Jones Mickey, and Judy Jones Belville by Dr. Beverly & Mrs. Janet Jones, III and family, and Elizabeth & Jim Holmes and family.
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 • 9:00 am • Memorial Auditorium
• Worship • 11:00 am • 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 11:00 am 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 8, 2026
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-event or scan our QR code.
SCOUTING MINISTRIES SUNDAY
Celebrating 100+ Years of Scouting at Centenary! Today is Scouting Ministries Sunday in the United Methodist Church, and we welcome Troop 920 to our 11:00am worship as they assist in worship leadership. Since 1919, Troop 920 has proudly called Centenary home. This Scout-led troop remains active in camping, outdoor skills, and community service, living out the Scout Oath and Law. This past year, five Scouts earned their Eagle rank, with five more on the way. Troop 920 will host a Recruiting Night on April 6 for interested 5th–7th graders; contact liaison Tammy Pollock for details. We are also excited to soon welcome a Cub Scout Pack to Centenary, serving boys and girls in Kindergarten through fifth grade. Meetings begin soon. Contact Lee Coan to learn more. All families are warmly invited.
ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP
February 18 • Noon & 6:15PM • Sanctuary
Our Lenten journey begins with worship in the Sanctuary. Kevin Garrity, Assistant Director of Youth Ministries, will be preaching. We will be invited into the Lenten discipline through the imposition of ashes.
ADULT FORMATION
Nourish Resumes Wednesday • February 18 Dinner at 5:15PM • Studies at 6:00PM Reservations due by Monday at 5 pm. Learning opportunities start at 6 pm. Scan the QR code for the menu, reservations, and details.
Learning Opportunities:
•Feb. 18: Ash Wednesday Worship (Sanctuary) •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.
Thrive! Women’s Retreat
April 24–26, 2026 • Lake Junaluska
If you haven’t registered for the 2026 Women’s Retreat, now is the time! This special weekend is designed for women of all ages to step away from daily routines, rest, and reconnect with God and one another. Our keynote speaker, Rev. Lara “Willis” Greene, Centenary’s Senior Minister, will lead us in exploring what it means to cultivate a thriving spiritual life. Scan the QR code above to register.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Created by God: February 27 & 28
This year’s Created by God session for 4th and 5th graders and their families will be held Friday, February 27 (5:30–8:00 pm) for kids and parents, and Saturday, February 28 (9:00 am–2:00 pm for kids; 2:00–3:30 pm for parents and kids). The program helps preteens learn about their growing bodies through a Christian lens. Registration is open through February 17. Space is limited. Contact Kate May for more information.
Share your Gifts at Vacation Bible School
June 15-18 • 9 am-Noon
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.
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).
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.
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.
MISSIONS
Blood Drive
Tuesday • February 17 • 12:30PM-5:00PM Community Room
Centenary is partnering with the Red Cross to host a blood drive If you would like to sign up to donate blood, you may do so by scanning the QR code or visiting our website. If you cannot give blood but would like to volunteer, please contact Holly Gilliam, or check the website.
Western North Carolina Mission Work Team
March 1-7
You have an opportunity to put boots on the ground in the recovery process from Hurricane Helene. We will spend the week repairing homes that were damaged. We will return either Friday, March 6 or Saturday morning, March 7. Cost: $100/person. We have space for 12 people beyond our leadership team. If you would like to be a part of this effort, please use the QR code to register. You must be at least 18 to go. Space is limited- there will be a wait list if we exceed 12.
20th Annual Love Thy Neighbor Fundraiser
February 22 • 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 hining 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. Questions? Contact Kevin Garrity.
Sixers!
February 20 • 5:00PM-8:30PM Spare Time Greensboro
All 6th graders are invited to join us for an evening of laser tag, video games, and lots of pizza. Meet us at the 4½ Street entrance by 5:15 pm to load up on the bus and head to Greensboro -- we will return by 8:30 pm. You can register via Realm, or by scanning the QR Code above. If you have any questions, contact Kevin Garrity.
All-Youth Family Game NIght March 29 • 5:00-7:00 pm • 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
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
Sunday Morning Book Study:
The Church We Carry for Those Affected by Disaffiliation and Other Church Hurts
Now - April 12 • 10:00AM • Room 111
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.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
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 February 15. Thank you for your care and compassion.
Future trips are also in the planning. An orientation meeting will be held on Feb. 9 to familiarize you with our trip. Please email Kathy Chaney (mchainee@aol.com) or John Markle with questions.
SENIOR ADULTS
Luncheon
Thursday • February 19 • Noon • Auditorium
February’s guest speakers will be Rebecca Sink, Director of Community Relations and Sarah Orpurt, Volunteer Team Lead from Trellis Supportive Care. 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, Feb. 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 before the luncheon.
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.
