EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST • JULY 19, 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
Royal Oak — Albert L. Travis
Rise and Shine
So rise and shine and give God the glory, children of the Lord.
GREETING
INTROIT
The Storm — arr. C. Penney
†CALL TO WORSHIP
May your love and mercy be upon us, O Lord.
Cleanse and refresh us from all our sins.
Wipe away every failing.
Restore and deliver us.
Let your joy and gladness dawn in our spirits, and the recreating power of your Spirit make us new.
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#147 All Things Bright and Beautiful — ROYAL OAK
†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.
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 this family, now before you, in your care?
We give thanks for all that God has already given you and welcome you in Christian love. With God’s help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround Roman 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
CANTICLE
Rainbow Is My Favorite Color — Melanie Collins Raindrops, sunbeams, God made them all. He made the green things, the trees that grow so tall. When the earth is thirsty, He sends the rain, and when He knows we need the light, He sends the sun again. Raindrops, sunbeams, when they are alone, we don’t see their beauty, but our God has shown, when they come together in His ordered space, a rainbow! God’s promise, to always be a friend. (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.)
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
SCRIPTURE — Psalm 51
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “Can You Preach on Sin?”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God — Carl F. Mueller Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. Create in me a clean heart, O God!
†DOXOLOGY
#94 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow — LASST UNS ERFREUEN Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below: Alleluia! Alleluia! Praise God, the source of all our gifts! Praise Jesus Christ, whose power uplifts! Praise the Spirit, Holy Spirit! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
†PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
†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
Festival Fanfare — Robert Hebble
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene
Senior Minister
LITURGIST
Reverend Oliver Helsabeck
Associate Minister for Congregational Care
MUSIC
Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music & Arts
Tate Addis, Organist & Associate Conductor
The Chancel Choir
Children’s Music & Art Camp Participants
Jonathan Blake Borton, piano
CRUCIFER
Sloan Bonsall
TORCHBEARERS
Clark Bonsall
Christopher Frye
FLOWERS
The
†HYMN
#365 Grace Greater than Our Sin — MOODY (stanzas 1, 2, and 4)
†BENEDICTION
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
Tammy Pollock ext. 1337 Director of Youth Ministries tpollock@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 Dianne Lawhorn ext. 1361
Associate Minister of Outreach & Adult Formation dlawhorn@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Kate May ext. 1331
Associate Minister with Children kmay@centenary-ws.org
ANNOUNCEMENTS • JULY 19, 2026
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-event or scan our QR code.
CELEBRATION
Today we celebrate the baptism of Roman Royce Askew, son of Jared and Rebecca Askew.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Shining Light on Mental Health
Peer Connector Ministry
CHANCEL FLOWERS
A chancel flower sponsorship is available for Sunday, August 2, 2026. The cost is $450 for two altar arrangements and may be shared among multiple individuals or families. To sponsor or learn more, contact Paige MorganFoy at 336-724-6311 ext. 1358 (Mondays and Tuesdays) or pmorganfoy@centenary-ws.org.
SUMMER CAMP MAIL
Headed to Summer Camp? Let’s Stay Connected! Do you have an elementary-aged child or youth heading off to summer camp this year? Let us know where they’ll be and how long they’ll be away! We’d love to brighten their day with a note or card from their church family while they’re at camp. Please send us their camp mailing address and dates of attendance:
• Elementary Children: Contact Rev. Kate May
• Youth: Contact Tammy Pollock
A little mail from home—and from your church family—can make a big difference. Help us share some encouragement and camp-time smiles!
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Backpack Blessing & Open House
Sunday • August 9 • 5:30PM-7:00PM
As the new school year approaches students of all ages along with their whole family are invited for an evening to check out their new Sunday school room, enjoy a pizza dinner, play games, and have their backpack blessed. Enter through the 5th Street East Building entrance and join us in the Community Room. RSVP to help us plan by using the QR code above. Questions? Contact Kate May.
Summer Sunday School
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
On Sunday’s through August 9, rising 1st - rising 6th graders are invited to gather in the community room at 10 am! We’ll enjoy playground Sunday school and kitchen Sunday school (July).
Fall Children’s Ministry Events
Kindergarten Worship Readiness
August 9 • 10 am
Backpack Blessing & Open House
Sunday • August 9 • 5:30-7 pm
Promotion Sunday & Parent Open House
Sunday • August 16
Bible Sunday
Sunday • September 20
4th & 5th Grade District Retreat
September 25-26
Mark your calendars and more info coming soon
MUSIC & ARTS
Register for Children’s Creative Arts Experience 2026/2027
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.
GriefShare
Centenary is exploring offering a GriefShare support group this September for those grieving the loss of a loved one. This Christcentered program provides encouragement, practical support, and hope through videos, discussion, and personal reflection. If you may be interested, please contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck. Expressing interest does not commit you to attend; it simply helps determine whether there is sufficient interest to offer the program this fall.
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.
MISSIONS
Blood Drive
Tuesday • August 4 • 12:30PM-5:00PM Community Room
Centenary is partnering with the American 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.
Fall Mission Opportunity
There’s more work to do! As we go about our daily lives, there are people in Western NC who are still struggling with the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Centenary is planning to help the week of October 25. We will be heading north to Ashe County to work on homes. If you would like to be a part of this team, mark your calendar and look for future info and sign-ups. If you can only come for a few days, that’s ok as well. All levels of skill can be used so don’t be afraid to sign up to share Christ’s love through our caring actions. Questions? Contact Rev. Dianne Lawhorn.
Did your kids love CMA Camp? Keep the creativity, joy, and friendship going all year long with the Creative Arts Experience! We invite children ages 2 through 5th grade to join us when CAE resumes on September 2! CAE’s multi-faceted model engages children with various levels of musical and artistic interests, all while cultivating worship leadership opportunities for Centenary’s youngest! Register via the Announcements QR Code. Email Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenaryws.org) with any questions.
SENIOR ADULTS
Trip to Barter Theater • July 23
Join us for a day trip to see “Guys and Dolls!”
We’ll depart by chartered Holiday Tours bus at 9:00 AM from the Fifth Street parking lot and return by approximately 8:00 PM. Lunch from Salem Kitchen (sandwich, chips, and dessert) is included.
Cost is $50 per person. Optional cash for the bus driver tip is appreciated. For registration assistance, email seniorlunch@centenary-ws. org or call the church during business hours.
YOUTH MINISTRY
What’s Faith Got to Do With It?
Summer Sunday School • 10:00AM-10:50AM Weekly-August 9 • Youth Commons
Did you know, even during the summer months, we continue to have our fantastic Youth Sunday school hour? Join us as we share brunch and welcome some incredible guest speakers who will share with us “What’s Faith Got to Do With It?” Come listen as our guests share their hearts about who they are, what they do, how they got to where they are, and how they live out their faith in the jobs and lives they have.
Mission Mondays
August 3 • Project Times Vary
For August, we will complete our half-day group mission opportunities by working with Imprints Cares. Meet us at the church for morning prayer before we set out by bus for the day’s service project. After a morning of work, we’ll stop on our way back to church for lunch, fellowship, and devotional reflection. You are welcome to sign up for one project or sign up for them all! Scan the QR Code above, or head on over to Realm for all the details! If you have any questions, please contact Kevin Garrity.
Waffle Wednesdays
Weekly-August 5 • 5:00PM-6:30PM
Youth Commons
Join us mid-week for a summer-long film & Bible study series as we explore Christian themes in The Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of The Rings Bring your appetite for thought-provoking exploration, and of course, an appetite for a waffle-bar and other breakfast-for-dinner foods!
Youth Save the Date
• August 14: 6th Grade Promotion Pool Party
• August 16: Youth Sunday School Open House & Fall Kick-Off
• August 23: First Love Thy Neighbor
• August 30: Class Dinners
DIETRICH
Germany • May 17-29, 2027
Join tour guides Rev. Lara “Willis” Greene and husband, Dr. David Greene, on a 12-Day tour through Germany as you encounter a story of courage, faith and conviction that still speaks today. Along the way, we’ll wrestle with one of history’s most urgent questions: how a deeply Christian nation became the setting for profound moral tragedy. For more information, contact Stacy Holley.
