WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST • SEPTEMBER 7, 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. Please silence all mobile communication devices. PRELUDE GREETING
INTROIT
God Be in My Head — Walford Davies God be in my head, and in my understanding. God be in mine eyes, and in my looking. God be in my mouth, and in my speaking. God be in my heart, and in my thinking. God be at my end, and at my departing.
†CALL TO WORSHIP
Welcome, friends, to this holy day. We come to offer thanks; we come to sing and pray. Welcome, friends, to this time set apart, A time to remember the holy promises of God. Welcome, friends, to this table of remembrance and joy, The table where we are fed, the feast we share with many. Welcome, friends, and let us worship God.
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#57 O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing — AZMON
†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
SCRIPTURE — Mark 12:28-34
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “Prayers You’ll Want to Pray: The Wesley Covenant Prayer”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
We’ll Shout and Give Him Glory — Mack Wilberg I’m on my way to Zion, the New Jerusalem. We’ll shout and give him glory, for glory is his own. I feel teh work reviving, reviving in my soul. Oh, how I love my Savior, because he first loved me.
†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 CELEBRATE HOLY COMMUNION
The congregation is invited to follow the communion liturgy beginning on page 12 of the hymnal.
INVITATION TO COMMUNION
Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess before God and one another.
CONFESSION AND PARDON
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
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.
RECEIVING OF ELEMENTS
MUSIC AT COMMUNION
All That I Am — William Grant Still
All that I am, all I ever can be I owe to You, Lord, for You have molded me. All that I have, all that I call mine I owe to You, Lord, for all things are Thine. You are the source of light: light that’s offered all men. In Your wisdom You give to each his due. You are the source of love: Love that binds in brotherhood. In Your love and mercy I find lasting peace. All that I love, all that’s dear to me, all of my blessings come, my Lord, from Thee. All that I own, all that belongs to me, all I surrender, my Lord, to Thee.
CLOSING PRAYER
Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which you have given yourself to us. Grant that we may go into the world in the strength of your Spirit, to give ourselves for others, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
†HYMN
#399 Take My LIfe, and Let It Be — MESSIAH
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
Amen (from Geistliches Lied, Op. 30) — Johannes Brahms
†POSTLUDE
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
THE WESLEY COVENANT PRAYER
“I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to thy pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen.
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
The Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene Senior Minister
LITURGISTS
The Reverend Kate May Associate Minister with Children
MUSIC
Jonathan Emmons Director of Music Ministries
Joshua Sobel Organist
The Chancel Choir
CRUCIFER
Libby Holden
TORCHBEARERS
Camilla Boehnlein
Chandler Marley
FLOWERS
The Chancel Flowers are given in loving memory of Jenny Kimbrel Bunn by the Bunn family; and in loving memory of John R. Perkinson, Blanche J. Perkinson, Jane W. Perkinson, and H. Gray & Betsy Hutchison by Jay and Becky Perkinson.
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. 1361/ 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 wgreen@centenary-ws.org
Mary Ann Wexler ext. 1346 Executive Director mwexler@centenary-ws.org
Jonathan Emmons ext. 1339 Director of Music Ministries 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 • SEPTEMBER 7, 2025
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-event or scan our QR code.
IN MEMORIAM
Patricia “Trish” Williams August 10, 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.
ADULT FORMATION
New Women’s Group
Sermon Reflection & Discussion
Begins Wednesday, September 17 9:30AM –11:00AM • Room 112
A sermon is like a seed—it often needs a few days in the soil of our hearts before it begins to sprout. Join facilitators Sue Stephens and Tammy Pollock on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month as we respond to and reflect on the previous Sunday’s sermon. No preparation is needed, and you can participate even if you didn’t hear the sermon in advance. Please bring your Bible. Please scan the QR code above to register.
Interested in a Group on the Enneagram & Spiritual Growth?
This fall’s small group is full, and the waitlist has now closed. If you’d like to be considered for a spring group facilitated by Nancy Powell, please email Stacy Holley to have your name added to the interest list.
NOURISH
Nourish Learning Opportunities Begin
This Week • September 10
Dinner at 5:15PM • Programming at 6:00PM
Join us for our weekly fellowship meal and learning opportunities for all ages this week. Dinner begins at 5:15 pm and reservations are due Monday, September 8 at 5 pm. Learning opportunities begin at 6 pm. Try something out this week! Follow the QR code at the top of the page to access the menu, reservation link, and more details about learning opportunities.
Bible Sunday • September 21 9:00AM or 11:00AM Worship
Have you registered your new Kindergartener or third grader for Bible Sunday yet? Scan the QR code at the top of this page and it will take you to the events page. Select Bible Sunday under children’s ministry to register so we know what service you’re planning to attend and to make sure we spell your child’s name correctly in their Bible! If you have any questions, please be in touch with Anna Thomas (athomas@ centenary-ws.org/336.724.6311 ext.1332).
Worship Leader Celebration Sunday • September 21 • Noon • Dining Room 4th – 12th graders, with at least one adult, are invited to enjoy a pizza lunch together while we celebrate all of our Torchbearers and Crucifers. We will spend time learning and being reminded of what it looks like to serve in these roles and why they are so important to our worship service. If you have not received an invitation in the mail with the RSVP information, please reach out to Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org/ext 1332). If you cannot attend but are still interested in being a torchbearer or crucifer, please still fill out the RSVP so we can collect updated contact information.
Students with Full Bellies are More Successful Centenary has the privilege of partnering with the Backpack Program organized by Second Harvest Food Bank. We are currently partnered with Brunson Elementary and Wiley Middle School. This program helps provide food for students who receive free breakfast and lunch at school through the year, but may not have access to food over the weekends. For just $260, you can feed a child on the weekends for a whole school year! If you’re interested in getting involved, please contact Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org/336.724.6311 ext. 1332).
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Refresh
Wednesdays • Noon-12:45PM • Sanctuary
Youth Handbells are Back!
Join the West End Ringers
Thursdays • 6:00PM • Handbell Room
West End Ringers begins this Thursday, September 11! Youth in grades 6 – 12 are invited to join this exciting ensemble this fall as they embark on a season of worship leadership and special outside performance opportunities. Previous handbell/musical experience encouraged. Those who wish to also participate in YCC will be released for handbell rehearsal each week.. Email Director of Handbell Ensembles, Camille Jones, (camillemurphyjones@gmail.com) for more information.
Art in the Atrium Presents Steven Dunn Open House: September 14 • Noon - 2:00PM Atrium Gallery & Commons
Join Art in the Atrium next Sunday as we celebrate our opening exhibit by renowned artist Steven Dunn. Guests will meet Steven and hear about his tremendous work while enjoying his art and some refreshments. The exhibit itself will be on display until October 26. We hope you will attend!
Art Class: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Tuesdays • 6:30–8:00 PM • Atrium Gallery
Beginning September 23, Music & Arts invites you to an in-depth exploration of portraiture and life drawing. Under the instruction of Dr. Stephen Martin, Chair of the Music & Arts Committee this class will focus on the study and reflection of the beauty and complexity of the human form. All are welcome to participate in this meaningful engagement of faith and the arts. No previous experience necessary. Email Dr. Martin (stephendmartin88@gmail.com) to sign up!
SENIOR ADULTS
Luncheon • Thursday • September 18 • Noon
Memorial Auditorium
YOUTH MINISTRY
Youth Fall Sunday School Sundays • 10:00AM - 10:50AM Youth Commons
6th-12th graders are welcome for our Fall Sunday School series! Join us as we consider the unique characteristics of Mark’s Gospel -- which is known for its simple writing style, fast-paced and episodic coverage of Jesus’s life, and emphasis on the actions of Christ more than His teachings.
Youth “Nourish” Bible Study Wednesdays • 5:15PM - 7:00PM Memorial Auditorium & 4th Floor
Join us for church-wide dinner from 5:15-6:00 pm (Memorial Auditorium), with Youth Bible study to follow on the 4th Floor (Middle School Room). Our study this fall uses Ben Mandrell’s book “Together for Teens” as a guide to study Acts 2. Registration for dinner is required via Realm. For any questions about registration, contact Kevin Garrity (kgarrity@centenary-ws. org/ 336.724.6311 ext. 1349)
Niner-Niner
September 13 • 5:00PM - 7:00PM
Top Golf Greensboro
Niner-Niner is a ministry for the newest members of our Senior High Ministry...our fabulous Freshman. Join us one Saturday a quarter to step outside the norm and be together with your other freshman friends to reconnect, build community, and remember you are loved, seen, and heard. To register, scan the QR Code above and heading to the Youth Ministry webpage!
Sixers!
September 19 • 6:00PM-8:00PM
Adventure Landing
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 Communications 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
Learning Opportunities available this week:
•Together for Teens (Youth offering)
•Old Testament Disciple Bible Study (make sure to register ahead of time!)
• The Sum of Us Discussion Group
• Growing faith through Art
• Children’s Creative Arts Experience for children 2 years through 5th grade
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
No Children’s Worship Today, rather than leaving for children’s worship, K-3rd graders will remain in the service with their grown-ups to participate in worship and communion together. If you did not pick up a worship bag on your way in, they are available in the narthex and outside the East transept. We look forward to having your child join us for children’s worship next week!
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.
MUSIC & ARTS
Music & Arts 2025/2026 Season Booklet
Music & Arts is delighted to share our brandnew year-long Program Booklet! Inside, you will find a full season of inspiring worship opportunities, events, concerts, and more that will fill Centenary with music, creativity, and community. Pick up a copy from the magazine racks around campus or explore the digital version by clicking the link on the Music & Arts page (p. 27) of Through Centenary Windows!
Come join Senior Adult Ministries as we “kickoff” for Fall 2025! This month’s guest speaker is our very own Senior Minister, Rev. Willis Greene! We gather at 11:45 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 $10.00 and the signup deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 10th. 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.
YOUNG ADULTS
Join Koinonia: A New Young Adults Small Group Next Sunday • September 14 • 6:00PM
The Gathering Room
Koinonia: a fellowship of faith. Young adults are invited to join our new monthly discussionbased group! Working together to grow in purpose, cultivate our faith, and live with intention, this group will strive to support one another as we deepen our understanding of what it means to embody Centenary’s mission in our everyday lives. Join us for fellowship and discussion as we challenge each other to live our faith out loud! This group is open to all adults ages 25-40 and does not require pre-registration. Contact Colby Cunningham (colbydcunningham@gmail.com) or Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws.org).
A ministry just for our newest youth in the sixth grade! Join us one Friday night a month to go on an adventure with just your grade. We love this ministry that gives us all a chance to build community, grow in our faith, and do some really fun things. Register by scanning the QR Code above and heading to the Youth Ministry webpage!
CHURCH-WIDE EVENTS
Bed and a Book Saturday • October 4 • 10:00AM – Noon Truist Stadium
The organization “Bed and a Book” provides beds to kids in our community who don’t currently have their own beds. We will be partnering with Bed and a Book to do some basic pre-assembly of beds that will later be delivered to families throughout our community. If you can read and follow directions, you are equipped to help! This is a great project for the whole family! There will be a registration for this event because lunch is provided! Scan the QR code above to register.
Blessing of the Animals
Sunday • October 5 • 2:00PM
Bring your leashed or crated pets for a time of fellowship and blessing of our animal companions. We will be on the front steps of the church. There will be a drive-thru option in the Fifth Street parking lot for pets who do better staying in their vehicle.
