October 1, 2023 • Worship in the Park

OUR MISSION

PARTICIPATING IN WORSHIP

PREACHING

The Reverend Dr. P. Glenn Kinken III

LITURGIST

The Reverend Meg Peters

The Reverend Susannah Pittman

The Reverend Kate May

Tammy Pollock

MUSIC

Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music Ministries

The Chancel Choir

Children's Music & Art CAE (Creative Arts Experience)

“The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”

COVER PHOTO: "Easter Morning" by Doug Peninger

THE COMMUNITY GATHERS

PRELUDE GREETING

CENTERING MUSIC †OPENING PRAYER

(Barbara Dunlap-Berg, U.S.A., 20th Cent., Alt.)

†HYMN

(found on pages 8-12)

Come, All You People — Uyai Mose

Come all you people, come and praise your Maker; come now and worship the Lord.

O God, we join with our sisters and brothers around the world in remembering Christ’s sacrifice for us. For the opportunity to eat and drink together and for the life we have received, we give you thanks and praise. In the abundance of your many gifts, grant us grace to fill one another’s lives with love. Redeem, restore and remold us until we are made new. Transform our daily bread into the bread of life, and the cup that we drink into the cup of salvation. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

#369 Blessed Assurance — ASSURANCE #400 Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing — NETTLETON #733 Marching to Zion — MARCHING TO ZION

†AFFIRMATION OF FAITH

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation or distress, or persecution or famine, or nakedness or peril or sword?

No! In all things we are more than conquerors through the One who loved us. We are sure that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Thanks be to God! Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

After each prayer, the leader may conclude: Lord, in your mercy. All may respond: Hear our prayer.

SCRIPTURE Matthew 21:23-32

When he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them, “I will also ask you one question; if you tell me the answer, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why, then, did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we are afraid of the crowd, for all regard John as a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things. What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ He answered, ‘I will not,’ but later he changed his mind and went. The father went to the second and said the same, and he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him, and even after you saw it you did not change your minds and believe him. (NRSVUE)

This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.

WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT

WE CELEBRATE HOLY COMMUNION

INVITATION TO COMMUNION CONFESSION AND PARDON

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.

Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God's love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!

In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms — arr. Eric Nelson

RECEIVING OF ELEMENTS & CONGREGATIONAL SINGING

(found on pages 13-17)

CLOSING PRAYER

The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise.

The pastor gives thanks appropriate for the occasion, remembering God's acts of salvation, and concludes:

And so, with your people on earth and all the company of heaven we praise your name and join their unending hymn:

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

The pastor continues the thanksgiving. The institution of the Lord's Supper is recalled. The pastor concludes:

And so, in remembrance of these your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, we offer ourselves in praise and thanksgiving as a holy and living sacrifice in union with Christ's offering for us, as we proclaim the mystery of faith.

Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.

The pastor invokes the present work of the Holy Spirit and then praises the Trinity, concluding:

All honor and glory is yours, almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

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.

#618 Let Us Break Bread Together — LET US BREAK BREAD

#620 One Bread, One Body — ONE BREAD, ONE BODY

#419 I Am Thine, O Lord — I AM THINE

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.

THE LORD'S PRAYER

†HYMN

(found on pages 18-19)

†BENEDICTION

†BLESSING

WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD

#374 Standing on the Promises — PROMISES

#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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS • OCTOBER 1, 2023

Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-events

CELEBRATIONS & CONCERNS

IN MEMORIAM

Norma Jean Craig

September 4, 2023

The ministers and members of Centenary Church extend their deepest sympathy to the bereaved family and pray they may know the comfort and peace of our Heavenly Father.

SAVE THE DATE

“NOURISH”

Our all-new Wednesday evening dinner and programming night has begun! Learn more about programming and sign up by scanning the QR code.

To learn more about “Nourish” programming and register for dinner, please scan our QR code or visit www.centenary-ws.org/nourish.

UPCOMING CHURCH-WIDE EVENTS

• Blessing of the Animals

October 8 • 3 pm • North Lawn

• Mission Fair

October 15 • 10 am • Memorial Auditorium

ADULT FORMATION

SALT WOMEN’S BOOK AND BIBLE STUDY

1ST & 3RD WEDNESDAYS • 9:30 AM-11 AM

COMMUNITY ROOM

All women are invited to join us as we delve into the Bible study, “Romans: Good News that Changes Everything” by Melissa Spoelstra. Facilitated by Amy Lawson, this six-session study explores the Good News found in Romans to encourage and transform us. Participant workbooks can be purchased through Cokesbury or other online retailers. For questions or more information, please contact Rev. Susannah Pittman

POP UP GROUPS

Join us in October for a 3-week small group experience focusing on fellowship, faith, and outreach. For more information about the groups, including dates, selected outreach projects, and registration, please visit the Nourish page on our website. For questions, please contact Rev. Susannah Pittman

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

JOIN THE CHILDREN’S MINISTRY TEAM! Are you looking to get more involved here at Centenary? Our Children’s Ministry has endless opportunities to use your gifts and volunteer. We have created a “Volunteer Menu” that outlines different volunteer opportunities. We have tons of one-time events, seasonal ministry opportunities, we need lots of behind the scenes help and we are always looking for those who love working with kids! If you are interested or have questions, reach out to Kate May (kmay@centenary-ws.org/ext. 1331) or Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org/ext. 1332) and check out the volunteer menu by scanning the QR code.

TOUGH QUESTIONS

OCTOBER 15 • 5-6:45 PM

“Where are the dinosaurs in the Bible? Are the people in the Bible real people? Why did my dog die?” Kids ask great questions about faith, but they are not always easy to answer! We are inviting parents to a night where Glenn Kinken and Kate May will help you tackle some of these tough questions of faith so that you can feel empowered to have great conversations with your kids. The evening will include dinner and table conversation. Dinner and activities will be available for kids at the same time so you won’t need to get a babysitter! Cost is $10/grown up, no cost for kids. Register now through Realm or by using the QR code.

CONGREGATIONAL CARE

REFRESH MIDDAY PRAYER SERVICE

TUESDAYS IN OCTOBER

NOON-12:30 PM • CHAPEL

Through Scripture and prayer, this service offers a time to be refreshed and renewed through God’s grace. For more information, please contact Rev. Susannah Pittman

SHINING LIGHT AND STEPHEN MINISTRY: “THE GRACE OF ANGER”

SUNDAY • OCTOBER 22 • 5 PM MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

The Shining Light on Mental Health committee and Stephen Ministry invite you to this special program, as Dr. Gary Chapman speaks on his new book, Anger: Taming a Powerful Emotion. Please register for childcare by October 15 with Rev. Susannah Pittman. For questions or more information, please contact Rev. Susannah Pittman

STEPHEN MINISTRY

The Aging process is different for everyone. It can be a time filled with peace, or it can be a time of worry as life changes. A Stephen Minister, through a Christ-centered relationship with you, can bring a peaceful presence by providing a listening ear and walking alongside you when life transitions for you or a loved one can become difficult to handle.

If you or someone you know could benefit from Stephen Ministry, please contact Deena Morgan (336-692-2314), Wilba Brady (336723-6236), Rev. Craig Ford (336-724-6311 ext. 1353) or Rev. Susannah Pittman (336-724-6311 ext. 1357).

MEN'S MINISTRY

THEOLOGY ON TAP

TUESDAY • OCTOBER 3 • 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

The Men’s Ministry of Centenary invites all men to a gathering for prayer and local ministry focus. Our October gathering will be hosted by David Caudle at his office at Tandem Senior Living Advisors at 301-A S. Liberty Street.

MEN’S MINISTRY THURSDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP

OCT 5 • 7:30AM-8:30AM • COMMUNITY ROOM

We meet the first Thursday of every month as we gather for coffee and biscuits and fellowship. Then we move to the Community Room for prayer, announcements and a speaker. You may enter the East Building from the 4 1⁄2 Street or 5th Street entrances. To learn more about Men’s Ministry at Centenary, contact Chris Munnelly, Tanner Robinson, Michael Rogers or Tom Lawson.

MISSIONS

SAMARITAN MINISTRIES

Centenary has partnered with Samaritan Ministries to volunteer for their dinner shifts from 4-7:30 pm every Sunday during the month of November. Each shift needs three volunteers, so ask a few friends to join you for a fun filled afternoon of volunteering at Samaritan! Scan the QR code to pick a Sunday and see more information about the opportunity. Email Rev. Meg Peters (mpeters@centenary-ws.org), if you have any questions.

CREATION CARE BIG SWEEP

Join the Centenary UMC Creation Care Team as we partner with Keep Winston-Salem Beautiful for the Big Sweep on Saturday, October 7 from 9 am-12 pm at Shaffner Park! Let us know you’re coming by emailing Rev. Meg Peters (mpeters@centenary-ws.org) or Frank Hassell (c_frank_hassell@yahoo.com)!

MUSIC & THE ARTS

CONSPIRARE IN RESIDENCE

SUNDAY • OCTOBER 15

11 AM IN WORSHIP • 4 PM IN CONCERT

Join us as Grammy-award winning professional choir Conspirare presents a FREE concert on October 15, at 4pm. The program will include a collaboration with nearly 100 additional singers including the Chancel Choir and Centenary’s new Youth Choir Collective. A small group drawn from the full choir will join us in worship at 11am. Don’t miss a day full of transformative choral singing!

SUBSCRIBE TO SIGHTINGS & SOUNDINGS

The newest issue of Centenary’s monthly Music & Arts magazine is out this Thursday! Subscribe via the QR code to receive your copy in your inbox each month. You can also find Sightings & Soundings on Centenary’s website (Music & Arts’ page) or pick up a printed copy from the magazine racks around campus or in the Music Suite.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!

The Music & Arts Ministry invites submissions from both youth and adults for our upcoming community exhibit, “Peace, Hope & Joy: A Neighborhood Showcase.” Art will be displayed in the Atrium and 4 ½ Street Galleries from November 1, 2023, to January 28, 2024. The inspiration for this holiday season showcase is Galatians 5:22: “Among the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy and peace.” Contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenaryws.org), for submission instructions.

SENIOR ADULTS

OCTOBER LUNCHEON

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 19 • MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

Our keynote speaker will be Major Andrew Wiley of the Salvation Army. We gather at 11:45 am and lunch will be served at noon. Please note our new registration process. 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 Thursday, October 12.

YOUTH MINISTRY

Today No Sunday School

11:00 am: Worship in the Park at Triad Park in Kernersville. All youth and their families are invited to join us for our church wide worship. We will be serving fried chicken...you bring your favorite sides to share.

No Youth Groups TONIGHT!

October 8

10:00 am: Sunday school (4th floor Youth Commons)

11:00 am: LTN set up (Memorial Auditorium)

Noon-2:00 pm: Love Thy Neighbor & Medical Clinc

2:00 pm-2:15 pm: LTN clean up

NOURISH YOUTH BIBLE STUDY

Life is all about questions.

And, WOW, there are so many questions. Questions about the world. Questions about the past. Questions about the present. Questions about the future - and more pointedly YOUR future.

Join us each Wednesday this fall to explore all these questions and learn to embrace them.

Put it in your calendar now to be a part of this awesome question asking and answer seeking Bible study each Wednesday night at part of Nourish (our church’s new Wednesday night program) dinner is from 5-6pm in the Auditorium followed by our study on the 4th floor (@senior high room) from 6-7pm.

All are welcome!!

LOOKING AHEAD

October 20: Sixers! Goes to Alpha & Omega Corn Maze

October 22: Scarowinds/Carowinds annual trip!

November 26: Youth Friendsgiving

December 6: Confirmation Parents Orientation

January 3, 2024: Confirmation begins!

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.

LOVE THY NEIGHBOR

VOLUNTEER PROVIDERS NEEDED AT THE LOVE THY NEIGHBOR MEDICAL CLINIC NOON - 2:00 PM • SEPTEMBER 17, OCTOBER 8, NOVEMBER 5, DECEMBER 3

You may volunteer for any one or all of the events. Let Patsy Dwiggins know if you are interested in being on our volunteer list. For more information contact Dr. Eddie Pollock (kagamac@msn. com) or Patsy Dwiggins (patsydwiggins@gmail.com).

MONDAY • OCTOBER 2

Leviticus 8-10 & Psalm 32

TUESDAY • OCTOBER 3

Leviticus 11-13 & Psalm 33

WEDNESDAY • OCTOBER 4

Leviticus 14-15 & Psalm 34

THURSDAY • OCTOBER 5

Leviticus 16-18 & Psalm 35

FRIDAY • OCTOBER 6

Leviticus 19-20 & Psalm 36

SATURDAY • OCTOBER 7

Leviticus 21-23 & Psalm 37

SUNDAY • OCTOBER 8

Leviticus 24-25 & Psalm 37 & 38

STAY CONNECTED WITH CENTENARY