SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER • MAY 25, 2025 • 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. PRELUDE
GREETING
INTROIT
Hymn of Praise — René Clausen
OPENING PRAYER
O God, you have prepared for those who love you such good things as surpass our understanding: pour into our hearts such love towards you, that we, loving you in all things and above all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#127 Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah — CWM RHONDDA
†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.
†AFFIRMATION RESPONSE
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.)
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
CANTICLE
Jesus, Remember Me — TAIZÉ
SCRIPTURE — Luke 23:32-43
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
Psalm 91 — Craig Courtney
†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
Most holy and gracious God accept these gifts from our hearts. May they be used to share the message of your love with a world that is hurting. May these gifts shine like light in the darkness offering hope, and peace. May we offer ourselves and dedicate our lives to your service this week using our talents and time to build your kingdom. All this we pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
†HYMN
#140 Great Is Thy Faithfulness — FAITHFULNESS
RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS
We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love. As members together with you in the body of Christ and in this congregation of the United Methodist Church, we renew our covenant faithfully to participate in the ministries of the church by our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service, and our witness, that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.
†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)
†POSTLUDE
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
The Reverend Dr. P. Glenn Kinken III, Senior Minister
LITURGIST
The Reverend Meg Peters, Assoc. Minister
MUSIC
Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music Ministries
Joshua Sobel, Organ Scholar
The Chancel Choir
Sam Howell, Music Ministry Intern
CRUCIFER
Chandler Robinson
TORCHBEARERS
MacRae Robinson
Thomas Saxon
FLOWERS
The Chancel Flowers are given in loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. S. V. Lore, Miss Sara Lore, Sara, John, and Jean Jackson by Ann Lore; also in loving memory of Dr. William B. Cashion by Margie Cashion and his family; and in loving memory of Mr. Paul R. (Dick) Webster, Jr. by Anne Webster and family.
The Narthex Flowers are placed to celebrate the anniversary of Robin and Rebecca Miller, and honor the love of their lives shared together.
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.
WORSHIP AT CENTENARY
SUNDAYS
9:00 am • Memorial Auditorium
11:00 am • Sanctuary
MEMBERSHIP
We are eager to share Centenary’s story with you. If you are interested in learning about church membership, please contact Rev. Meg Peters (336-724-6311 ext. 1361)/mpeters@ 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 Dr. P. Glenn Kinken III ext. 1362 Senior Minister
Mary Ann Wexler ext. 1346 Executive Director
Jonathan Emmons ext. 1339 Director of Music Ministries
Reverend Oliver Helsabeck ext. 1357
Associate Minister for Congregational Care
Reverend Kate May ext. 1331
Associate Minister with Children
Reverend Meg Peters ext. 1361
Associate Minister of Outreach
Tammy Pollock ext. 1337 Director of Youth Ministries
Stacy Holley ext. 1359 Adult Discipleship Specialist & Pastoral Assistant
John Markle ext. 1347 Director of Operations
Doug Peninger ext. 1368 Director of Communications
John Rogers ext. 1356 Director of Information Technology
METHODIST
ANNOUNCEMENTS • MAY 25, 2025
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-events
CELEBRATIONS & CONCERNS
IN MEMORIAM
John Charles “Charlie” Thomas
February 9, 2025
Joseph William Stanfield Jr.
February 8, 2025
Dewey Wilmont Chapple Jr.
March 6, 2025
Robert L. Means
March 14, 2025
Nina “Jeanette” Holyfield Millsaps
March 15, 2025
Anne Speas Bradford
March 15, 2025
William “Bill” Thomas Graham
April 12, 2025
William “Bill” Allen Suttle
April 21, 2025
(Betty) Jo Whitten May
April 23, 2025
Gerda Seeland April 28, 2025
Leon Arthur “Art” Milhous Jr. April 28, 2025
Patricia Shore Clark April 30, 2025
John Blake Brady May 7, 2025
The ministers and members of Centenary extend their deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and pray they may know the comfort and peace of our Heavenly Father.
LOVE OFFERING
Sunday, June 1 will be Rev. Meg Peters’ last Sunday with us before she embarks on her new adventure in England. A reception will follow after the 11 am service.
If you would like to make a love offering to Meg in gratitude for her service, we encourage you to provide this gift directly to her. Gifts made payable to the church cannot be considered charitable gifts and will be taxable for Meg.
However, if you prefer, you can visit centenaryws.org, select the Give tab, then “Love Offering Peters” in the dropdown for Fund. An option to make a Love Offering to Rev. Glenn Kinken will be available in June.
SHINING LIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH
Peer Connector Ministry
ADULT FORMATION
SAVE THE DATE! 2026 WOMEN’S RETREAT
April 17–19, 2026
Lake Junaluska Conference Center
Mark your calendar now for a weekend of renewal, connection, and spiritual growth in the Blue Ridge Mountains. More details coming soon—but for now, plan to join us and save the date!
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
PRAY FOR OUR VBS
June 16-19 • 9 am-Noon
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, (ohelsabeck@centenaryws.org and he will connect you with a Peer Connector.
MEN’S MINISTRY
THURSDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP
June 5 • 7:30 - 8:30 am • Community Room
SENIOR ADULTS
SUMMER PICNIC
Thursday • June 12 • Noon
South Fork Park
Senior Adults will gather at South Fork Park (4403 Country Club Road) on Thursday, June 12 (note: second Thursday) for a picnic lunch catered by Grecian Corner. Lunch will be skewers of chicken souvlaki, Greek salad, Tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and baklava for dessert. Lemonade and tea will be provided, or you can bring your own drink. We will enjoy the park and play Bingo with door prizes! To register, send an email to seniorlunch@ centenary-ws.org or call the church office during business hours. Cost is $10.00 and the signup deadline is Sunday, June 8.
YOUTH MINISTRY
Dear God, thank you for going before us as we prepare for VBS. Help us meet any need of supplies, decoration, and volunteers we may have. Provide the opportunity for families far and wide to attend VBS. Thank you for the opportunity to pour into the lives of these kids in deep and meaningful ways. We pray that above all else you are glorified in our VBS.
If you have not registered your 4-year-olds through rising 6th graders yet, there is still room! Register using the QR code through June 4.
OLDER ELEMENTARY MISSON WEEK
July 22-24 • 9 am – 3 pm
We will gather in the second floor Catering Kitchen for coffee, biscuits, and fellowship followed by a brief presentation by Mike and Tanner Robinson who will share their family’s faith journey with the church. To learn more about Men’s Ministry at Centenary, contact Chris Munnelly, Tanner Robinson, Michael Rogers, or Tom Lawson.
MISSIONS
BLOOD DRIVE
Today 10 am: Youth Sunday school (@ Youth Commons)
*NO YOUTH GROUP* Happy Memorial Day Weekend!
June 1
10 am: Youth Sunday school (@ Youth Commons)
5 - 7 pm: Summer Kick Off & 9th Grade Promo Party (@ ROAR)
An amazing chance for rising 4th – 6th graders to serve the community through daily mission projects and spend time in fellowship! $45/ student, t-shirt, daily activities and more included! Please note this is a different week than when we typically have done OEMW. Register using the QR code – we have a limited capacity.
CAMP MAIL
Tuesday • June 10 • 12:30 - 5 pm 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 email Mary Ann Wexler mwexler@centenary-ws. org) or check the website.
MUSIC & ARTS
SIGN UP NOW FOR CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ART CAMP 2025
July 14 - 17, 2024
Do you have a child attending camp this summer? We would love to send them some mail while they are away! If you can let us know when they’ll be at camp and what their address is, we will pop some love into the mailbox and send it their way! Please send information to Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org).
FAMILY SUMMER CELEBRATION
Sunday • July 20 • 4 - 5 pm
Save the date for this amazing afternoon for the whole family! We will have a foam party, slip and slide, playground and popsicles. You won’t want to miss it!
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
REFRESH
Wednesdays • Noon - 12:45 pm • Sanctuary
The Refresh Prayer Ministry invites you to be refreshed in a mid-week service of worship, reflection, and prayer in a sacred space. From Noon - 12:15 is a time for quiet reflection with music, and from 12:15 - 12:45 is a time for prayer, Scripture reading, and meditation. 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.
YOUTH MINISTRY SUMMER KICK-OFF & 9TH GRADE PROMO PARTY
Sunday • June 1
5 - 7 pm • ROAR WS
Calling ALL youth, and most especially you rising freshman! Join us for a summer kick-off party to celebrate the end of school and the promotion of our rising freshman at ROAR WS -- for a night of bowling, simulator games and to chow down on some nuggets, burger sliders and other snacks!
SUMMER IN THE CITY 2025
Only one week left to register! Get ready to bring joy to the world and share festive carols with everyone who will listen at CMA Camp 2025! Open to ages 4 through rising 5th graders, this fun-filled week features singing, handbells, art, Kindermusik, and more! Register by June 1 via the QR code. For more information, please contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws.org).
PROVIDE SNACKS FOR CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ARTS CAMP 2025
We’re decking the halls for Children’s Music & Arts Camp 2025: Christmas in July — and we need YOU to help make it merry & bright! Each day, our campers spend time singing and ringing, painting and playing, moving and grooving: it is hungry work! Snack is a crucial part of our camp day, fueling our little Mozarts and Picassos for the fun they have in store. Help us keep our campers creating and provide a day’s worth of snacks for our kids! Not here the week of camp? No problem! Snack dropoff is Sunday, June 13. To volunteer, please contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws.org).
This summer, for the first time, our Youth Ministry will team up with our missional partners to serve right here in Winston Salem for a local mission week. Plan to spend June 10-12, 2025 at Centenary and serving each day at these various partner organizations, worshiping together, growing in your faith & friendships, experiencing some incredible evening activities, and witnessing God in our midst right in our own ‘backyard’. Cost for this mission experience is $200 per person. Mark your calendar and watch for registration and more details coming soon!
WAFFLE WEDNESDAY’S Wednesdays • 5 pm - 6 pm • Youth Commons We’re mixing things up this summer! Join us mid-week for a summer-long documentary series as we follow along with Morgan Freeman in his production “The Story of God.” Bring your appetite for thought-provoking exploration about God, and of course, an appetite for a waffle-bar spread and other breakfast-fordinner foods!
LOOKING AHEAD
July 19 - 27: YouthWorks! Senior High Mission Trip
August 14: Youth Leadership Team
August 15: 6th Grade Promotion Party
August 17: Sunday School Open House & Fall Kick-Off
August 19: Love Thy Neighbor Leadership Team
August 24: Love Thy Neighbor
For more information or to sign up to receive Youth Ministry updates by email, contact Tammy Pollock (tpollock@centenary-ws.org). Follow us on Instagram @centenary_youth.
