Through Centenary Windows • September/October 2025 by Centenary United Methodist Church

To learn more about and all of the ministries at Centenary, visit our website ( www.centenary-ws.org ) or scan our QR code.

Image from the 2025 11am Worship service on Easter Sunday.

FROM THE EDITOR

It's been a minute. After a long pause in our magazine, we are back and I am thrilled to reintroduce to you "Through Centenary Windows."

I’ll see you at Centenary.

Doug Peninger Director of Communication

FOR EVERYONE

Dear Friends....

wgreene@centenary-ws.org

Thank you for the warm

and generous welcome! You have made me feel at home with your many acts of kindness and I am profoundly grateful. It is a joy and a privilege to join you in ministry at Centenary. I am deeply honored to serve this historic and beloved congregation. Centenary has stood as a landmark - not just in architecture, but in mission, faith and witness. I step into this role with a deep sense of calling, recognizing that I am one pastor in a long and faithful line of pastors, each having brought their own gifts and hearts to this community.

First Citizens Bank in Raleigh. He enjoys golf, tennis and supporting the Wolfpack. As a family, traveling is one of our favorite shared pastimes. In May, Liz and I toured Greece and Turkey (pictured in Istanbul) In June, Carter and David explored Germany (pictured in Berlin). Despite living apart from our children, we make time to be together as a family, so don’t be surprised if you occasionally see them in worship (and me with a more noticeable smile!)

Henri Nouwen writes, “Gratitude... goes beyond the ‘mine’ and ‘thine’ and claims the truth that all of life is a pure gift.” I believe life is a gift and I see my appointment here as just that: a gift—not earned, but received with open hands and an open heart. My prayer is that I will be a good steward of that gift and I trust that God will guide us together as we move into the future.

 WILLIS' FAVORITE THINGS 

FAVORITE SNACK OR DESSERT

White cheddar popcorn or strawberry iced doughnut with sprinkles from Dunkin :)

FAVORITE COLOR

Lemon Yellow

FAVORITE SONG/GROUP/STYLE

I have eclectic taste in music so challenging to narrow it down. Goodness of God - Cece Winans to Let's Go Crazy - Prince. Currently enjoying Drew & Ellie Holcomb and packing boxes to hits from the 70's (Billy Preston, Jim Croce, Carole King)

OFFICE SUPPLY

Blue Tul Gel-ink Fine tip pens

As I begin this new chapter with you, it seems fitting to share a bit about my family. With my husband, David, serving as the Senior Pastor at Jamestown United Methodist Church and both of our adult children living and working outside of Winston-Salem, it’s unlikely you’ll have the chance to see them often. They are the light of my life! Elizabeth, a graduate of Emory University, works for the Georgia Association of County Commissioners. She lives in Reynoldstown, just east of downtown Atlanta and enjoys photography and hosting independent movie screenings. Carter recently graduated from NC State University and works for

With preaching being one of my main roles as the Senior Minister, I would like to share with you how I approach this privilege. A wise mentor taught me that preaching is a gift-giving enterprise. In my sermons, I attempt to give something to you that God has graciously given to me. Before I have anything to share from the pulpit, I must be humble enough to receive something from God. My prayer is that I remember this in my sermon preparation and delivery. This realization shifts the burden of responsibility from Willis alone to a shared ministry with the Holy One. And once the sermon is preached, I relinquish what I’ve been given and trust it to reverberate as God and the listener choose to respond. One of the themes you will hear over and over again in my preaching is gratitude. It orients how I see the world and helps me stay centered.

Thank you again for graciously welcoming me into the Centenary fold. My sincere hope is that we will be a church rooted in God’s love and faithful to the mission which God is calling us to. My door is open, my heart is full, and my hands are ready to serve alongside you.

With joy and gratitude, Willis

life is a gift

REV. LARA "WILLIS" GREENE

Willis & Elizabeth in Turkey. David & Carter in Germany.

Carter, Willis, David & Elizabeth in Wenatchee, WA.

HAVE YOU MISSED A RECENT SERMON?

Below are links to Willis' first five sermons at Centenary. You can always or listen via our YouTube page or the Sermon Archives page onthe Website.

July 13

"The Next Faithful Step" Genesis 12:1-5a & Hebrews 11:8-12

July 20

"The Middle Seat" John 1:35-41

July 27

"Five O'Clockers" Matthew 20:1-16

August 3

"How Much Do You Have? " Mark 6:30-44

August 10

"The Stream Diverted Still Makes It to the Sea" Acts 16:6-10

We are called to be disciples—followers of Jesus. Growing in faith takes time, intention, and a supportive Christ-centered community. Adult Faith Formation offers opportunities to deepen your relationship with God and others through Sunday groups, studies, small groups, retreats, and personal spiritual practices.

SMALL GROUPS AND STUDIES

Our offerings include a mix of Bible and topical studies, along with opportunities for fellowship and mission. New groups begin throughout the year, so scan the QR code or watch church communications for details and registration information.

• Eat, Learn, Grow: Women’s Luncheon and Small Group

• SALT Women's Weekday Book and Bible Study

• Disciple Bible Fast Track

• Young Adult Women's Small Group

• Young Adult Monthly Gathering

• Sawdust Gang 9:45 AM CLASSES O

INVITATION TO PERSONAL PRACTICE

Centenary periodically offers invitations to practice spiritual disciplines that help us grow closer to God. In 2025 we are reading one chapter of Luke or Acts each week.

If you have questions or are interested in learning more about Adult Faith Formation at Centenary, please contact Mary Ann Wexler (Executive Director) (336.724.6311 ext. 1346/mwexler@centenary-ws.org)

...learning to live and love like Jesus...

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES

These welcoming groups meet on Sunday mornings and cover a wide range of topics, from Bible study and theology to contemporary Christian living. Most are discussion-based, led by members, and open to all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're seeking deep theological reflection or a come-as-you-are group to support you through life’s seasons, there's a place for you here.

9:45 AM CLASSES OFFERED

CHAPEL CLASS

In the Chapel • Central Building

Senior adults rooted in tradition and engaging Scripture, theology, church history and current events. Open to all ages.

WHITFIELD/ FOUNDATIONS

Room 111 • Central Building

Deep theological conversation with diverse authors and intellectually curious members.

10:00 AM CLASSES OFFERED

CELEBRATION CLASS

Room 314 • Central Building

Member-led, we utilize books and videos by Christian authors to help grow our faith through discussion, fellowship, and mission.

COME AS YOU ARE (CAYR)

Room 411 • Central Building

Supportive community for parents of tweens and teens, with open conversation on faith, family, and parenting.

MISSION POSSIBLE

Room 107 • East Building

Multi-generational, discussion-led class exploring a range of Christian books and seasonal studies.

PARENT FOUNDATIONS

Room 310 • East Building

Parents of young children exploring faith and parenting through flexible book studies and shared support.

PATHFINDERS

Room 307 • East Building

Adults in mid-life exploring Scripture and faith topics with no prep required.

SYCAMORE TREE

Room 115 • Central Building

Senior adults reading Christian authors from different perspectives with class discussion and mission projects. Open to all ages.

KICKOFF

September 3

As we kick off the fall season of Nourish from 6- 7pm on Wednesday, September 3 we will enjoy an “interview” with our new senior minister Willis Greene giving us all an opportunity to get to know her better and to help her to continue to get to know our church family. Following the interview we will have the opportunity to hear about the classes that will begin the following week, September 10.

"THE SUM OF US" DISCUSSION GROUP

September 10, 17 & 24, & October 1

This book identifies for us the consequences of decades of race-based policy making in our nation. Through three guided discussions grounded in Scripture, we will identify the cause of these systemic issues, seek to understand their consequences in our community, and challenge ourselves to respond accordance with Jesus’ example. Led by Colby Cunningham and Nicole Johnson.

Join our community around the table as we break bread together. You will find faith formation opportunities for children, youth, and adults whether in classes or children's music and art programming. Nourish is an easy entry point into the life of Centenary. We hope you will invite your friends to join you as we journey together as a community of faith.

Childcare for those who might be too young or not participating in Children's Music & Arts programming will be available on the first floor of the East Building from 5:30-7:30 pm each Wednesday that Nourish is taking place.

To learn more about all of prograom offerings and to register for dinner, please scan our QR code which will take you tot the Noursih page on the church website.

CREATIVE ARTS EXPEREINCE FOR CHILDREN

August 27-December 3

Creative Arts Experience meets on Wednesdays during Nourish. It immerses young people in a wide-range of programs including singing, ringing, Orff, Kindermusik, drumming, visual arts, drama and more!

4:30-5:15 pm Kindermusik for ages 2 through 3 years old in room 303 (parent accompanied)

6-7 pm Creative Arts Experience for 4 year olds through 5th graders on the 3rd floor of the East Building

GROWING FAITH THROUGH ART

September 10, 17 & 24

The Holy Spirit has inspired many great artists to express their faith through amazing works of art. Using video and discussion we will explore the work of 3 great artists and see how God speaks to us through these beautiful paintings. Led by Rev. Kate May.

YOUTH BOOK STUDY

September 10-October 29

"Together for Teens: Community that Marked the Acts 2 Church" by Ben Mandrell

Have you ever heard someone say that your generation is the "future of the church"? Even though you are the highest level of leadership, you aren't just the future of the church - you are the church of today!

Join us this fall for our Nourish study to explore how God has designed the church and how you are already a part of it. And, our church, is a place to be you, to be loved, and to belong!

GAME NIGHT

October 1

ill Vialet said, “Play matters because people matter.” So let’s spend time letting one another we matter and play together! Join us for a game night on Wednesday, October 1. We’ll start with table team trivia and then have options throughout the room for card games, board games, puzzles, and more!

FALL DISCIPLE BIBLE FAST TRACK

September 10-November 19

This group will cover major themes of the Old Testament using the Disciple Fast Track study material designed to give busy people comprehensive engagement with the Bible over time. Group participants will spend about 30 minutes a day reading and reflecting on scripture in preparation for weekly group meetings, led by Kathy Chaney & Rev. Marilyn Weiler. Cost is $20 for the study guide and you may also want to purchase a recommended study Use our QR code to register.

BIBLE STUDY ON THE BOOK OF JAMES

October 8, 15, 22, 29

This Bible study will explore the book of James and focus on practical Christian living and the connection between faith and action. Participants will examine themes such as perseverance, wisdom, humility, discipleship, and the power of words. Through discussion and reflection, the study will encourage participants to seek a deeper walk with God that is marked by authentic faith and everyday obedience. Led by Rev. Oliver Helsabeck

LEARN MORE

ABOUT NOURISH BY VISITING THE CHURCH WEBSITE OR SCANNING THE QR CODE.

Our Menus

Each week, please register for dinner by 5:00PM on Monday afternoon.

 SEPTEMBER 3 

Hamburger/cheeseburgers

Tater Tots

Salad Bar

Chicken Nuggets Cookies

 SEPTEMBER 17 

Crab Cakes

French Fries

Salad Bar

Chicken Nuggets Cookies

 OCTOBER 1 

Potato Bar

Salad Bar,

Chicken Nuggets

French Fries Cookies

 OCOTBER 15 

Soup & Salad Bar

French Fries

Chicken Nuggets

Cost

$10 (ages 13 and older)

$7 (ages 4-12)

Free for those 3 years and younger

 SEPTEMBER 10 

Chicken Tenders

Mashed Potatoes

Green Beans & Salad Bar

Chicken Nuggets Cookies

 SEPTEMBER 24 

Hamburger Steak

Scalloped Potatoes

Salad Bar

Chicken Nuggets Cookies

 OCTOBER 8 

Chicken Alfredo

Steamed Broccoli

Salad bar

Chicken Nuggets

Tater Tots & Cookies

 OCTOBER 22 

Fried Chicken

Mashed Potatoes

Salad Bar

Tater Tots

Chicken Nuggets & Cookies

 OCTOBER 29 

Hamburger Steak

Scalloped Potato

Salad Bar

Chicken Nuggets

French Fries & Cookies

Thank you to our torchbearers and crucifers for your helping lead us in worship each Sunday.

Our 4th and 5th graders have the opportunity to serve as worship leaders in our 11 AM service by bringing in and taking out the light of Christ. We call these worship leaders “torchbearers." 4th and 5th graders should be

on the lookout for an invitation to our Worship Leader Celebration on September 21 following the 11 AM worship service. This is a time when those who are already serving as torchbearers and crucifers can celebrate their awesome leadership and those who are new can learn how to be a torchbearer!

Crucifer & Torchbearers for July picture below.

Nourish Book Discussion

This fall, as part of Nourish, one of our offerings will be a facilitated small group discussion based on the themes of the book "The Sum of Us" by Heather McGhee which argues that our society would benefit from a more inclusive approach to how we do life together. The author will be a featured speaker at the Bookmarks Festival in September. Get a copy today wherever you purchase books.

BAPTISMS & NEW MEMBERS

We celebrate baptisms and new members by welcoming you in Christian love as you grow your faith every day.

...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.

Malcolm & Kathy Chaney

Colby Cunningham

Cathy Cole

Spencer & Rebecca Breeden Ward & Brooks

Chris & Rebecca Donald

Lana Hedgecock Lana

Adam Houston & Courtland Windborn Randon Reid and Campbell Houston

Elizabeth Helsabeck

Ken Kumpke

Phil & Torie Lackey

Brian & Syndney Lewis Christian and Merritt

Craig & Leigh Longhurst Whit & Warner

McKay & Sarah Alice Mathews Murph and Walt

Randy & Becky Miller

Chris & Amber Nguyen Holly

MEMBERSHIP AT CENTENARY

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.

Travis & Anne Whitfield

Elizabeth Whitt

Robert & Charlotte Works

Harris Thompson & Katie VanDorsten Jamie and Miller

Senior Adult Missions

HOMEBOUND OUTREACH

Senior Adults serve other senior adults by visiting homebound members. Gift bags are prepared and given to the homebound for their birthdays. Also, at the beginning of the Advent season, poinsettias are delivered by the senior adults to the homebound members.

Senior Adult Luncheon

The Senior Adults enjoy a luncheon on the third Thursday of each month with programs that are interesting, informative, and entertaining.

The Senior adults are a very active ministry of Centenary United Methodist Church, in both the church and the local community. With multiple volunteer opportunities, planned trips, luncheons, and numerous other ways to come together the Senior Adult Ministry works hard at forming new bonds among themselves, in the church, and in the community.

If you have any questions about this ministry please contact, Rev. Oliver Helsabeck .

MEALS ON WHEELS

A mission undertaken by the Senior Adults is “Meals on Wheels,” a service to persons, mostly senior adults, who live at home and have difficulty arranging for nutritious meals. This ministry is provided primarily to persons who are not members of Centenary, but who live in the Winston-Salem area.

LEARN MORE

ABOUT SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY AT CENTENARY BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE OR SCANNING THE QR CODE.

Images below are from the June picnic.

REV. OLIVER HELSABECK ohelsabeck@centenary-ws.org

THE HEALING WORK OF CENTENARY’S CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRIES

As you read though the gospels and the stories of Jesus, you quickly see that most of Jesus’ ministry was about healing and restoration. Jesus is seen healing people physically, releasing people from their burdens mentally, restoring people, recognizing their worth, or calling them to deeper relationships with God and with one another.

Congregational Care at Centenary UMC is about restoration, redemption, and

healing. We participate in this redemptive work as we love like Jesus loved – and as we live like Jesus lived. Centenary strives to be a church for everyone, to ensure that everyone knows that they matter and that they belong and are in community.

Effectively, Jesus’ healing work through us IS congregational care. Ensuring that everyone knows that they matter to God, that they have infinite worth

to God, that they matter to God and to the church, and that they are claimed by God. To make a large church in a way feel smaller – as people are noticed and cared for and receive the restorative and transformative healing that we all need, in any of its forms. I hope you will join with me to share the healing and redemptive work of Christ through our Congregational Care ministries at Centenary.

This ministry exists to bring education, comfort, and support, not only to church members but to the community at large along the subject of mental health. Shining Light on Mental Health collaborates with ministries in the church and community to provide educational opportunities throughout the year.

One facet of SLMH is our 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.

CENTENARY CARES

Sometimes we go through challenging circumstances that are outside our control. When those times affect us (as individuals or our families) and involve challenges of mental health, and we want to remain private, it is still vitally important that we know we are cared for, prayed for, and loved by our church family. Centenary Cares, as a ministry of Shining Light on Mental Health, is a simple way that care and encouragement are extended from Centenary UMC. All ministry contacts through Shining Light on Mental Health are confidential. Privacy and confidentiality are crucial to build trust and to ensure that families are protected. The mission of Centenary Cares is to extend love and prayerful concern – and to remind recipients that they are never alone, and most importantly, that they are loved by Christ. If you know of someone who could benefit from a Centenary Cares bag, please contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck .

Prayer shawls are tangible signs of solidarity and care which may be shared with individuals who are experiencing hardship in their lives, due to illness, grief, loneliness, or other life circumstances

On the first Monday of each month, from 10-11 AM, a group of servants meets in the Gathering Room to knit prayer shawls and other handwork. Whether you love to knit or want to learn, join these servants as they knit, pray, and have fellowship.

If you need a prayer shawl to share, please select one from the cabinet in the Gathering Room. For more information, contact Dianne Moore.

Wednesdays • Noon • Sanctuary

STEPHEN MINISTRY

Stephen Ministers are lay persons who have completed a minimum of 50 hours of training for the purpose of listening to and helping people sort through and cope with transitions in life, critical diagnosis, facing grief, and other chapters in our lives.

Stephen Ministers are assigned by the same gender. Confidentiality is paramount. If you are, or if you know of, someone who might benefit from a Stephen Minister’s help, please contact Judy Ingram (336-407-3986) or Wilba Brady (336-723-6236).

Join the Refresh Prayer Ministry for a mid-week service of reflection, music, and prayer. From Noon-12:15 pm there will be a time for quiet reflection with music, and then the service will begin at 12:15 pm and finish by 12:45 pm. Parking will be available in the Fifth Street parking lot, and you may enter from the Fifth Street entrance to the Sanctuary. SFor more information, contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck (336.724.6311 ext. 1357) or Becky Tate. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

GriefShare provides support and healing for individuals who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Periodically, Centenary facilitates GriefShare support groups and seminars; these events are open to the community.

The mission of Centenary UMC’s Congregational Care Ministries is to provide compassionate and holistic support to individuals and families within our congregation and community. We seek to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can find comfort, healing, and spiritual guidance during times of joy, sorrow, and

transition. Through active listening, prayerful discernment, and practical assistance, we aim to meet the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs of those entrusted to our care. Our ministry is grounded in love, empathy, and the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported on their journey of faith.

EASY STEWARDSHIP TIPS TO START TODAY

REDUCE

• Consume less overall. Do more with what you already have.

• Reduce your plastic use by choosing items packaged in glass, metal, or paper. Buy soap in bars, laundry detergent in powder or sheets, toothpaste and mouthwash in tablets, kitchen oils in glass bottles, etc.

REUSE

• Try consignment/thrift/resale stores before buying new.

• Repurpose empty containers to store small items.

RECYCLE*

• Winston-Salem accepts clean paper and cardboard (no greasy pizza boxes), and empty and rinsed glass, metal, and plastic (excluding plastic bags) in their recycling carts. No sorting needed, and do not bag the items.

*Recycling should always be considered last in the “three R’s.” Only a small portion of items recycled are actually turned into new items because of the limited capacity of our recycling infrastructure. Attempt to reuse before recycling.

Stay Connected with Centenary

REV. KATE MAY kmay@centenary-ws.org

What Is on Your Back to School List?

“There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

I sometimes struggle with this verse from Ecclesiastes because it seems like I am always wishing I had more time. Our lives are filled with many things that sometimes make it hard to cherish and live fully in every moment. I have an app on my phone that I have a love/hate relationship with. It’s called Parent Cue and I love it because it gives great weekly resources for how to have faith conversations at home and on the go and the resources are curated to be age appropriate for the age and stage of your kids. However, it also has a feature where it shows the approximate number of weeks you have with your kid(s) until their high school graduation. With my own kid starting high school this year this number is becoming more and more bittersweet. Today it sits at 203 weeks! It encourages me to use my time with him well, but it also has my mom heart reaching for the tissues!

This is why I was particularly drawn to an article from parents.com recently, “Working Parents Who Have A Strong Bond With Their Kids Do These 10 Things.” Even if you don’t work outside of the home, I bet there are things that feel like they get in the way of bonding with your kids, grandkids, or the other children in your life so keep reading!

Use commuting time to have open ended conversations about their day. Maybe it’s not commuting time, maybe it’s bath time or meal time, but use the time that you have to engage in meaningful conversation. Did you know that each week we post questions for conversation on social media based on the week’s Sunday school lesson?

Make family meals a priority even if it is just 1-2 times a week. Perhaps consider using our Nourish Wednesday night dinners as an opportunity to work your way into this practice. This gives you an opportunity to sit down as a family without having to cook or clean up, plus you can connect with your church family for fellowship and support! Learn more about Nourish HERE

CLICK ON SOCIAL MEDIA ICONS TO BE KINKED

Engage in fun family activities together. pCheck out the list of upcoming events in Children’s Ministry this fall and prioritize them in your calendar. See our list of events located on the right of this page toward the bottom corner.

Incorporate meaningful moments into bedtime routines. Children’s Ministry at Centenary gifts families Bibles and devotion resources at milestone moments to help you to incorporate faith moments at home. If you don’t already, try using these Bibles and devotion books in your child’s nightly routines. If you need new recommendations, please reach out! Also, when we pray with your kids, we ask them two simple questions that you can use at home: what would you like to say thank you to God for? What would you like to ask God to pay extra special attention to? If you are looking for more resources to use with your family check out our Children’s Ministry Resources on the Centenary website. 7

Be intentional about giving your full attention when you can. We all know when someone is distracted while spending time with us and your kids can tell too. Set a great example for them by being as present as you can when spending time with them. If you need to take care of something let your kids know that you are going to take a minute to take care of something because you want to give them your full attention, take care of it and then return.

Are you Interested in the whole list? You can read the entire article by scanning the QR code to the right. In the meantime, be reminded that you are doing a great job, your kids are amazing, it is my privilege to spend time with them, and I am here for you!

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY FALL EVENTS

BIBLE SUNDAY

September 21 • K & 3rd Graders

WORSHIP LEADER CELEBRATION

September 21 • Noon

4TH & 5TH GRADE DISTRICT RETREAT

September 23 & 27 • Camp Hanes

BED & A BOOK

October 4 • 10:00AM - Noon • Truist Stadium

WORSHIP LEADER DEDICATION

October 19 • 11:00AM Worship • Sanctuary

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY AT CENTENARY BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE OR SCANNING THE QR CODE.

A FEW SCENES FROM THE Summer

YOUTH MISSION TRIP TO BAYOU LA BATRE

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

SENIOR ADULT TRIP TO "THE MUSIC MAN"

CHILDREN'S MUSIC & ART CAMP

JONATHAN EMMONS jemmons@centenary-ws.org

For years,

A NEW CHAPTER OF INNOVATION

I've been drawn to the dynamic vitality of this sweeping promise heralded by the prophet Isaiah. For years, I've witnessed the ways in which music and the arts prove themselves to be one of God's most potent gifts for healing and transformation. And for years, I've marveled at the ways this community of faith immerses itself in the transformative beauty that Music & Arts at Centenary strives to create and share.

This year, Music & Arts is poised to enter a new chapter of innovation. Alongside meaningful weekly and seasonal worship and wellestablished music and arts programming for the youngest among us, we're now poised to offer a youth choir festival; a new youth handbell ensemble; a reimagined and immersive Good Friday experience; a week-long national music festival celebrating the artistry of black musicians; a new Music & Arts Council; our ongoing

Art in the Atrium series, and other groundbreaking soonto-be-announced projects, all as we seek to turn toward God's light and God's healing. You can learn more about each of these initiatives and more in our brand new Music & Arts 2025/26 season booklet, available here.

Join us as Music & Arts continues to strive faithfully toward it's three-fold mission: to infuse worship with musical and artistic vibrancy and depth; to utilize music and art as a vehicle for faithand community- building within our body; and to develop outward-facing and mission-driven music and arts initiatives that build bridges across economic, racial, and various other societal barriers.

Join us as we wait for - sing for - the light, the healing, the righteousness of Christ to spring forth in and among us.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MUSIC & ARTS MINISTRY AT CENTENARY BY SCANNING THE QR CODE AND YOU WILL BE REDIRECTED.

REBECCA MCNEELY guest writer

Bayou Blessings

I say this all the time, but teenagers are my favorite people. I realize that this might be an unlikely statement for some, but their wet towels are not on my bathroom floor or my cups all lost in their bedrooms, and their sometimes attitudes don’t live under my roof. So, yes, it might be a bit easier for me to absolutely love them ALL the time. They are, indeed, my favorites.

A few weeks ago in her sermon, Tammy proclaimed from the pulpit that the youth are not the church of tomorrow…that they are the church of right now. And I’ve never seen such an example of that as I did during a week with 20 of them in the very southern part of Alabama, in a small shrimping town known as Bayou la Batre.

We rolled in two buses deep on Sunday, packed with duffle bags and pillows and more gas station snack wrappers than I ever thought humanly possible, and these kids were ready for all that was ahead of them: a week of meeting and living with new friends from other churches and serving those that needed a hand in the Bayou la Batre community. Four work teams for the week, aptly named for seafood – Crawfish, Oysters, Shrimp and Lobsters, if you need a chuckle –were given assignments and took off Monday morning with hearts ready to serve our brothers and sisters.

I am fairly certain that these kids managed to touch every angle of the community, from playing Bingo with seniors to helping run a kids camp, doing yardwork and painting for the elderly and homebound to packing storm kits, building a ramp for a handicapped gentleman to sorting goods at the food bank and the thrift store. It was, of course, HOT, and humid, and sometimes flat-out miserable outside, but not one single time did I hear a complaint from one of our kids. And yes,

the tasks that were there to be done were important, but watching them get to know the people of Bayou la Batre was easily my favorite part. They’d come back together at the end of the day and chatter endlessly about Mr. Peyton telling them about his football career or Ms. Shirley singing gospel music for them. We’d learn about Jordan at Goodwill and her incredible career as a disabled athlete or how much tiny little blond-haired Timmy giggled and squealed while playing parachute games at camp.

And for as much as they loved on the people we encountered and served, watching the love that these kids have for each other made my heart explode. The week was FILLED with offering a helping hand to each other whether carrying a cooler or loading a suitcase, giving encouragement during long workdays, and always, always putting each other first. We were complimented on them every single place we went. They showed Jesus to the people we met and to each other (and to the leaders!) over, and over, and over again. As an adult, it was pure joy to just sit back and watch. To say that the leaders were proud and in awe of them would be a massive understatement.

So, yes, even after living with nearly two dozen of them for every second of a solid week, teenagers are still my very favorite people. And if you need to know what the church of right now looks like, watch THEM.

United Women in Faith seeks to connect and nurture women through Christian spiritual formation, leadership development, creative fellowship and education so that they can inspire, influence and impact local and global communities. At Centenary we offer groups known as Circles, which meet on various days and times for educational meetings, book study, service projects and long term fellowship and support. We invite you to learn more and join us in service and fellowship.

We are a powerful, fearless force driven by God’s love and united in sisterhood. With a focus on women, children and youth, we act for justice and transform communities.

We face the realities we see in the world, even when they are not the ones we would like to see. However, our goal is not to bear witness simply to harms but also to God’s love by acting boldly to change those harms.

If you are looking to join a circle or to learn more, please contact Mary Ann Wexler or Holly Gilliam.

CIRCLE MEETING SCHEDULE

CIRCLE 1

Second Monday of the month at 10:15AM

CIRCLE 3

Second Tuesday of the month at 10:00AM

CIRCLE 5

Second Tuesday of the month at 6:30AM

CIRCLE 6

Second Monday of the month at 11:45AM

CIRCLE 9

Second Monday of the month at 1:30PM

CIRCLE 10

Second Tuesday of the month at 6:30PM

CIRCLE 13

Second Monday of the month at 6:00PM

CIRCLE 15

Meets quarterly at 11:30AM on the first Thursday

NEED PHOTO

THE CENTENARY ORNAMENT

The Centenary ornament.... NEED VERBIAGE

Koinonia

A New Young Adults Group

Koinonia: a fellowship of faith. Young adults are invited to join our new monthly discussion-based 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! Koinonia is open to all adults ages 25-40 and does not require pre-registration. Contact Colby Cunningham or Virginia Sheffield for more information.

Grace in Common

The Young Women's Group at Centenary

Grace in Common offers a space of connection, conversation, and community for women ages 25–40 in a world that can feel overwhelming and isolating. Rooted in friendship and faith, this young women’s group gathers regularly for meaningful discussion and joyful fellowship, sharing life’s highs and lows with honesty, humor, and hope. We invite you to grow together in grace with us, one gathering at a time! Contact Jeanette Juran or Virginia Sheffield for more information.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Let us be in prayer for you. Submit a prayer request by scanning the QR Code. All requests are confidential.

TAMMY POLLOCK tpollock@centenary-ws.org

BE HERE. BE YOU. BE LOVED. BELONG.

“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”

It truly is crazy to me that we are launching into the fall, another school year, and another year of youth ministry. Sometimes I feel as if the world simply spins faster and faster, but when I sit at the table and delight in all the ways the Lord is at work, I am able to see that each moment is alive with good and beautiful things. God reminds me that He is relentless in His pursuit of us and on the move in every circumstance we find ourselves in. How incredible!

As we set our sights on this year, I can’t help but reflect on this last year and all the growth and beauty that we have experienced together. Last year we had a combined total attendance of 1,500 church babies in Sunday school, 500 Youth in youth group, over the course of the school year we saw 120 sixth graders join us for our Sixers ministry, and our Twin City basketball team consisted of 16 senior high school boys. Through our Love Thy Neighbor ministry (LTN), we served approximately 3,000 meals to hungry neighbors who simply needed to be seen and loved and were able to do so with the almost 900 youth volunteers who showed up at various LTN lunches and 200 adult volunteers who support this life-giving ministry. We cared for and reminded our church babies they are loved beyond measure through one-on-

- Psalm 119:103

one meetings, birthday cards, and final exam college and boarding school care packages. We confirmed 22 young new believers and sent out into the world with blessings, blankets, and love 40 high school graduates. This summer we took 25 youth and adults into the bayou of Alabama to serve the Lord in ways we never could have imagined. And there are many, many more ways we loved our youth on behalf of Jesus in hopes of loving them to Jesus. Whew! How amazing is our God?!

With such a firm foundation, movement of the Holy Spirit, and ground swell of love we set our sights on this new school year. We can’t wait to see how God is going to move, remind us that He is near to us always, urge us forward in faith, and pursue us with great love. This year we will begin new ministries with our freshman called “Niner-Niner” as a reminder of who you are and whose you are. Throughout the year we will host “Class Dinners” as a way of helping to connect you with those you are growing up with, and Kevin Garrity (Assistant Director of Youth Ministry) and I will share a monthly podcast with you called “Across the Table” where we will talk about all things youth ministry and what we are learning about the Lord through our teenagers. We are continuing our “Read Along” series for

parents this year with four more new books, Wednesday night Bible Study and Confirmation class, Youth Groups, Sunday school, and, of course Love Thy Neighbor. And, who knows what else will bubble up in the middle of it all...God will do something incredible once again, we believe it.

At our Annual Fall Kick off this year, we focused on Psalm 119. The longest single chapter in scripture. The Psalmist cries out to the Lord about all the hard things in life, the beautiful things in life, and the profound truth that the Word of God is all sufficient. And in almost every verse (of its 176 verses) it reflects the very character of God. That is our hope after all, isn’t it? That God is with us in every moment, every breath, loving us, and longing for us to be in relationship with Him. Our desire in our Youth Ministry is to love our youth on behalf of Jesus in hopes of loving them to Jesus. And we can’t wait to live that out together, once again, this year. We hope you will join us, we need you to pray for us, and we can’t wait to see what the Lord will reveal to us.

Be here. Be you.

Be loved. Belong.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUTH MINISTRY AT CENTENARY BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE OR SCANNING THE QR CODE.