2014 November/December WINDOWS

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Departments

Advent at Centenary

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Stewardship The Big Silence

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Lessons & Carols

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Creation Care

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Poinsettias for Advent

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Glad Tidings

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All Saints Sunday

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Senior Adults

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All Saints Vespers

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Worship Elements

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Stocks/The Centenary Survey

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New Members

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Angel Tree

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Memorials

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Honoraria

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Children’s Ministry

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Impromptu Christmas Pageant

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Children’s Christmas Reading

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Events & Announcements

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Youth Ministry

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EDITOR

From the Editor

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! You know what that means? Advent and Christmas are right around the corner. As I am writing this, my Halloween witch candy dish is sitting on my desk and all of the ravenous ministers enjoy stopping by for a quick candy break. I know she will soon be replaced with Christmas decorations and the winter coats will come out of storage. I have to remind myself to stop, take a deep breath and enjoy this time of the year. As always, there is much to do at Centenary. The calendar is full of worship and service opportunities and you are invited to “GO” to as many as possible. One item of note from the Communications Department is The Centenary Survey. You are invited to take the survey either online or find a printed copy in the information centers or fellowship folders at the church. This important survey helps church ministers and leadership plan for our future as well as get to know our congregation better. (See ad on page 15) Also, it’s Stewardship season. Be sure to read how you can particpate in making ministry happen on pages 4 & 5. Your gifts make it possible to GO and meet the Kingdom at our doorstep. See you at Centenary! Doug Peninger

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Stewardship

tlewallen@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1352

GO: The Kingdom of God Is Right at Our Doorstep Stewardship is an integral part of the life of the church and it enables ministry to happen. Three Stewardship Cabinet members share with us their thoughts regarding the imporant role and opportunity each of us have in stewardship at Centenary.

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really can’t remember a time in my life that did not include church. My family went to Sunday School and Worship every Sunday, choir and mission activities on Wednesday nights and, later, youth group on Sunday nights. I went on choir tours, mission trips and everything in between growing up in my small Baptist church. When I came to Wake Forest University, I became involved with Young Life and attended a local church in town. Years later, when I married my husband David, we began attending Centenary, the church he had grown up in with his family. Our first years of marriage, we came to Worship when we could but we were out of town a lot as my mom was sick and dying in my hometown of Oxford, NC. A year after her death in 2006, we welcomed our oldest daughter, Joanna, and when we had her baptized here, it was then we decided to become more involved at Centenary. I wanted my girls to grow up with church as a big part of their lives,the same way I had, because it had truly been a big factor in molding my faith. I became involved with Children’s Council and eventually chaired Children’s Council for two years and also helped start Circle 15. David had also become involved in the church on Finance Council and we both were learning so much about our church. Through all of this, our love for this church and its people grew and I knew it was where I wanted to grow my own faith and that of our girls. It is where I have found some of my closest friends and where I have continued my own faith journey. I am so excited about everything going on here from our thriving children’s programs to Wonderfilled Wednesdays with a large children’s choir program, a packed VBS, the SALT women’s bible study, monthly men’s ministry, the mission opportunities, 5 worship services, and the prospect of Children’s Building renovations that will benefit our whole church. These are all things that let me know for sure that the kingdom of God is truly on our doorstep and all we have to do is GO!

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One of my favorite Centenary events over the past year was the weekend with Glennon Doyle Melton. When she was here Glennon commented that Centenary was doing what she thought a church should be doing in so many ways. Afterwards, Mark Ralls said to me “Now we have to go be the church she thinks we are.” Centenary is doing that and I am ready to be a part of those next steps with all of us considering our Stewardship Pledge for 2015, so Let’s GO! ~ Shelley Holden

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ur finances tend to be the key area that people refer to when speaking of stewardship. I think the main reason is that often money is one of the most difficult things for people to give. That was not the case for me. It was easy to write a check and believe that an obligation had been fulfilled. I was assuming that the organizations would use the money well, I was not becoming involved, or even informed, in how that money was used or how it might affect a life. I was also not giving much thought to the amount written on those checks. Many organizations ask for contributions. I could continue to try to give a little to all, or I could become involved in how money is used and become more intentional in my giving. To make this story short, I found the opportunities to give at Centenary are many, not just financial: We can volunteer to help our children see Jesus and his lessons as pertinent to their worlds through our staff’s creative instruction. We can support our Youth in interacting with our downtown neighbors - feeding them often and regularly, getting to know them “up close”. We can volunteer to help keep the Loaves & Fishes pantry full and open every week. We can become Stephen Ministers and serve those that need encouragement and/or support through difficult times.

We can attend our worship services and classes to thank God for all that he gives us and to learn how to give back. This allows us to enjoy fellowship with thoughtful, giving and responsive individuals. After investigation, reflection, and involvement of your time, talents, and service, your head will tell your pocketbook where dollars should go. Based on my experiences, I choose, and encourage others to choose, to make their churches (Centenary for my family) their first priority in giving.

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~ Lee Hanes

am very excited about our “GO Campaign.” It is an opportunity for our entire church to take a detailed look at what our giving priorities will be in the coming year. Life is very busy for all of us. Sometimes I think that we make our church commitment without enough thought; what is most important to us? Of all organizations, is it not more important that OUR CHURCH receive top priority? Religion is under attack in America. For the Christian church to remain viable, we must invest our resources to make it happen. Is there a more important way to invest our money? I think not!! Please help your Stewardship Campaign Cabinet accomplish the task at hand. We are asking our membership to consider a 10% collective increase in giving. Some will be able to do this and some will not. The important point is that we ask you to prayerfully consider making Centenary your number one giving priority in 2015. If all of our members will do that, we are capable of great ministry in our church.

~ Glenn Orr


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REASONS TO GIVE TO CENTENARY

STEWARDSHIP 2015

The Kingdom of God is right at your doorstep.

For More Information or Questions

Mary Ann Wexler Executive Director 336.397.1346 mwexler@centenary-ws.org

Ministries Supported by Your Gifts • Pastoral Care • Congregational Care • Adult, Youth & Children's Programs

Thad Lewallen

• Love Thy Neighbor

Director of Stewardship & Planned Giving 336.397.1352 tlewallen@centenary-ws.org

• Loaves and Fishes

C

entenar y

go

• Winston-Salem Rescue Mission • Children's Home • Ezekiel Center • Medical Clinic for the Homeless

• Music & the Arts

• Wesley Foundation

• Vacation Bible School

• Bethlehem Center

• UMAR

• Open Arms

• Trinity Center

• Potter House

• Aids Care Services

• Winston-Salem

• Community Care Center

Street School

• Shepherd's Center

• Forsyth Prison Ministries

• Family Services Shelter

• Hispanic Ministries

• Samaritan Ministries

• Green Street Initiative

• Bethesda Center

• Habitat for Humanity • Stop Hunger Now • Missionary Support • Disaster Relief • Children of Vietnam • Respite Care • Stephen Ministries • Elk Shoals Camp • World Service Fund • Black College Fund • Africa University Fund

Will you make Centenary your top giving priority? 5


The Big Silence Stumbling into the Heart of Christ January 25-28, 2015 St. Francis Springs Stoneville, NC Rev. Jonathan Brake, Retreat Co-Leader

If you hunger for a deeper experience of God through prayer, then join us for this special four-day guided retreat. Sunday afternoon through Wednesday afternoon, will contain big spaces of silence so that we might experience the gift of God’s transforming grace. Inspired by the documentary The Big Silence (see link on our webpage), this retreat will be grounded in the modern classic The Way of the Heart by Henri Nouwen. There are only 16 rooms available. Information & Registration forms can be found at: • Glad Tidings books and gifts • The box outside of Rev. Brake’s office (Room 317) • Online at www. centenary-ws.org/SF • Contact Rev. Jonathan Brake, Associate Minister, jbrake@centenary-ws.org.


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Creation Care

jbrake@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1334

Suggestions for Honoring God’s Creation

CHRISTMAS

Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. LUKE 2:10-11 •

Agree as a family what you’re going to do for Christmas gifts. One family decided that each person would receive three gifts each year to symbolize the gold, frankincense, and myrrh the wise men gave Jesus. They each received one thing they need, one thing they want, and one small surprise.

Pick names out of a hat for extended family, so each adult only gets one special Christmas gift. Or opt for giving presents to children only.

Spend less. It takes an average of six months for a credit card user to pay off holiday debt.

Skip paper Christmas cards. If everyone sent just one less card per year, we could save 50,000 cubic yards of paper.

Reduce the trimmings. If every family reused just 2 feet of holiday ribbon, the 38,000 miles of ribbon saved could tie a bow around the entire planet.

Wrap in reusable material, such as cloth bags or reusable gift bags. If every household in America wrapped just 3 presents in reused materials, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields.

Celebrate close to home. If each family in America consumed one less gallon of gasoline this holiday season (cutting out about 20 miles of travel), we’d reduce greenhouse gas emissions by one million tons.

Consider purchasing a live tree from a local nursery and replanting it after the holiday. Or purchase an artificial tree and save gas on annual trips to a tree farm; also artificial trees do not require pesticides.

Instead of adding new ornaments this year, opt for edible or compostable items like stringed popcorn or cranberries for garland. Making Christmas decorations can also be a fun family activity.

Switch to LED holiday lights. They cost about $8 more per strand than standard lights, but use up to 100 times less energy and will last about ten years or one hundred thousand hours when used indoors.

Give purposeful gifts this Christmas. Everyone appreciates homemade, personalized gifts more than storebought options. Another idea is to give an “environmental starter kit” filled with items such as highefficiency lightbulbs, a battery recharger, refillable bottles, canvas shopping bags, etc.

Combine shopping trips to use less gas. And remember to bring your reusable shopping bags.

Blessed Earth is an educational nonprofit that inspires and equips Christians to become better stewards of the earth. Through church, campus, and media outreach, we build bridges that promote measurable environmental change and meaningful spiritual growth. Centenary is a partner with Blessed Earth, an educational non-profit inspiring us to be better stewards of God’s Creation. Together, we remind you that this season of faithfulness includes all of Creation. Take note of one or more ideas listed here and put them into practice with your family this year. We are also putting together a group to attend the 2015 UMC Creation Care Conference this Spring. If you would like to know more, contact Rev. Jonathan Brake or come to one ofwww.BLESSEDEARTH.org our monthly meetings. The Centenary Creation Care Ministry Team meets on 2009. the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm in Room 222. We plan together © BLESSED EARTH, MAY REPRINT WITH PERMISSION for educating, raising awareness, and offering active ways for the church and our members to participate in creation care.

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Glad Tidings

Calendar

November ~ December

November 2, 2014 | Wind and Willow Tastings November 9, 2014 | See’s Candy Promotion and Tastings November 16, 2014 | Pepper Jelly Tastings with Nancy Michael November 23, 2014 | Author Book Signings in Reading Room November 30, 2014 | Advent Calendars and Nativity Event December 14, 2014 | Finding the Perfect Gift Bring your list, 10% off entire order.

December 21, 2014 | The Greatest of These is Love December 28, 2014 | You know there will be SURPRIZES in Glad Tidings!

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We remember...

On Sunday, November 2, Centenary will celebrate All Saints Sunday when we will remember the Saints who have gone before us. May the fire of their devotion light our way. *

William Whitehead Avera Dale Eugene Bodenhamer John Rodney “Rod” Bullard Richard “Dick” Tenney Bynum, Sr. Ella Sue Carter Patricia Grimsley Chatham Wade Hampton Clayton, III David Thomas “Tom” Dance Mary Ellen Hill Davis Sarah Reynolds Dixon Virginia Ruth Connor Dyar Edward Vernon Ferrell, Jr. Frances Perry Fitzgerald Helen Day Foushee Mary Carter Fulton Doris Anita Spainhour Gibson Helen Copenhaver “Copey” Hanes June Powell Hauser-Holmes Louise Carson Highsmith Susan York Hinkle Lucy Foard Greene Hubbard John Wayne Jones Dr. William Arnold Lambeth, Jr. June Stouffer Marsden Maxine McKaughn Mathis Dr. J. Gaylord May Betty Burke May Henry Sigmon Mingus Elaine LaForce Muir Ruth Howard Mundy

*This list is as of October 15, 2014

Elam Arrington Myers P. Jeffrey Newton Marilee Conrad Pardue June Pfefferkorn Ruth Myers Pleasants Alexander Lee Rickabaugh Fred Turner Robinette, Jr. Bettye Balthrop Shehan Rose Mary Williams Slate Richard Simpson Ann Lenox Gore Spencer Laura Beth Smith Spivey Berkley Moore Stephens, Jr. Wendel Hill “Bunky” Stockton Kitty Tally Marguerite B. Taylor Margaret Rose Tennille Louise Vann Tronnes William “Bill” Charles Voiers Louise Gauldin Idol Wall Franklin Reid Warren, Jr. Juanita Willis Kitty Lee Thomas Wilson Rita Wrenn Yancey

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Senior Adults

cford@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1353

The Power of Appreciation valuable. We want to thank John Anthony for his attention to the Handy Helpers Ministry of the Senior Adults. I recall that some time ago, when residents from Arbor Acres were being moved to different locations, John was there providing a helping hand.

By Rev. R. Craig Ford

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n the year of 2014, as in other years, the Senior Adults have had the good fortune of having outstanding leadership, which has made for an effective program. We are all certainly indebted to everyone who has made a contribution of any kind. First, I would like to thank all who have attended the Senior Adult Programs and participated in the different activities. Our attendance has been excellent and many have brought friends. A large majority of our senior adults have participated in visitation of the homebound, hospitalized, and others who have had special needs. Keeping in touch and offering oneself is the key to the care of our congregation, and gratitude is extended to all who have participated in this very important aspect of the care of senior adults. Janice Dockery and Jean Steelman have recorded the visitations as the information has been provided to them. Francis Wilson has been faithful in the preparation of the altar flowers following the worship services so that the beautiful arrangements can be shared with others, usually the homebound and hospitalized. The Senior Adults have been active in the delivery of Meals on Wheels. The persons who have devoted their time to this very important ministry deserve thanks for all of the time, expense, and effort they have given. Donna Smart has been diligent in monitoring the participation, and we commend her for the attention and care she has given to the food program.

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Every time we enter the auditorium for our luncheons, we find that the tables are beautifully arranged and decorated with flowers. Thanks to the custodial staff for setting up the tables, chairs, and microphones; to Sarah Rohrbaugh and her committee for placing the silverware and dishes; to Nancy Warren for providing the flowers and centerpieces; and to Lynnette Harrell, Ellen Hall, and Nancy Culp for menu planning. It is our goal that the detailed preparations will indicate to all who come that they are appreciated and welcomed. Each month, birthday bags are delivered to our homebound. The preparation of those bags is no easy task. We are indebted to Gene and Joan Lewis for the shopping and preparation of the gift bags which our homebound receive with delight. Likewise, each Christmas, poinsettias are delivered to the homebound. Many of our senior adults help with this delivery, and your help is really appreciated. Prior to the delivery, Nancy Warren makes and places bows on the plants. Because of the cutback of the staff, our daughter Andrea volunteered to make the personalized cards for the poinsettias. All help with his project is appreciated. Three more committees make a tremendous impact on the senior adult ministry: Health and Wellness, Travel, and Program. Dr. Bob Means and Dr. Bob Gibson, who refer to themselves as “The Two Bobs,� provide the Senior Adult Council with information about health issues, especially those of concern to older adults. They advise on such issues as lifestyle, food, and exercise, along with other concerns which we all find to be

Our Travel Committee, consisting of Terry and Evelyn Johnson, Bob and Ann King, and Aubrey and Barbara Smith, have arranged and led some very interesting and entertaining trips. Both the day trips and trips involving multiple days have been very enjoyable. For the last two years, Jean Burroughs has chaired the Program Committee. She has arranged informative, educational and entertaining programs ranging from university and college presidents to musicians, writers and others. All of the programs have been very interesting and we are indebted to Jean for making the arrangements. I hope that I have not overlooked anyone. If I have, I certainly did not intend to do so. All who have contributed in any way are appreciated. Now, last but not least, we all must thank Charles Monroe and Susan Melville. Charles has compiled a list of almost 400 e-mails to which he regularly sends communications. He has sent hundreds of e-mails on behalf of the senior adults. When we had the cutback of staff, Charles immediately said that he and Susan would take the registrations for the luncheons and that has been a tremendous help. In addition, he has chaired the Senior Adult Committee and served as the Master of Ceremonies at the Senior Adult Luncheons. Perhaps even more important, he has been a friend to all of us and has spent hours on the phone with me. For all the above and for work that you have done that I might have overlooked, please accept our sincere thanks and gratitude. We plan to take the meeting in the month of December to thank all who have been so very helpful to the Senior Adults. At that meeting, we will be honored to have Kristen Schwecke present a beautiful program of special Christmas music. Once again, allow me to say thanks to one and all for all your help.


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Worship Elements

showell@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1348

The Light of Christ By Sarah Howell

wore. I would use the heavy knot at the end of the cincture to turn this liturgical garment into something resembling a nunchuck—a feat that elicited dirty looks from the altar guild and talkings-to from my parents. These memories came back with a smile when we began to re-incorporate child and youth torchbearers and crucifers into our 11:00 worship service. Thanks to the hard work of Lynn Lilley, Rev. Kate May, and others, our young people now have a new opportunity for worship leadership. Older elementary and middle school children serve as torchbearers, and students who have gone through confirmation may serve as crucifers.

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have fond childhood memories of my time as an acolyte at Davidson United Methodist Church. I took my responsibility of carrying the light in and out of the sanctuary very seriously, carefully measuring the amount of wick exposed on my acolyte stick (no one seems to know the technical liturgical term for those things!) and pacing gingerly down the aisle, intent on making sure the little flame didn’t go out. Of course, I wasn’t so serious that I could resist spinning the loose ends of my cincture, the rope tied around my waist over the white robe, called an alb, that I

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The torchbearers carry the light of Christ into and out of the sanctuary. (A note on terminology: acolytes carry an acolyte stick with which they light stationary candles located by the altar; torchbearers carry the candles themselves, in the form of torches, and place them by the altar. When our youth carry torches down the aisle during the processional and recessional, they are serving as torchbearers. When one participates in the baptismal liturgy and lights the baptismal candle with an acolyte stick, he or she is serving as an acolyte. That’s just a fun fact—we won’t correct you if you use a different term!) The symbolism is simple but profound: the torches coming in represent the light of Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit, present with us in worship. And as the torches go out, we see God’s light going out into the world, reminding us that when worship ends, our service begins. The crucifer leads the procession, carrying the cross of Christ to remind us that Jesus died for us while we were sinners. The cross is at the center of worship, pointing both to Jesus’ suffering and death and to his resurrection, which we will one day share.

Here at Centenary, our torchbearers and crucifers have another important role: they act as communion servers when we celebrate the sacrament in our 11:00 service. This has proven to be deeply meaningful to our youth as well as to congregation members who receive the body and blood from a young person answering the call to serve the church. Let me stress something: we do not place children and youth in worship leadership roles because they are cute. They serve in these ways because they are part of the body of Christ and members of this church—not only members but also leaders! Our baptismal liturgy refers to “all, of every age and station.” We stand in need of grace, old and young, clergy and laity. Our torchbearers and crucifers play a special role in the giving and receiving of the means of grace, in particular worship and the sacraments.


Stock Delivery

keaton@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1341

Making a gift of securities to Centenary United Methodist Church is another way to contribute to the church. Such a gift offers tax savings to most donors. Electronic transfer is the most common method of delivering a gift of securities to Centenary. To deliver your gift of securities electronically, please follow these simple instructions. (1) Instruct your broker that your DTC-eligible securities are to be transferred electronically to: Centenary United Methodist Church Federal Tax ID # 56-0552783 (2) Provide Centenary or instruct your broker to provide Centenary with: 1. a description (name of stock) and the amount of your securities to be transferred 2. the name of brokerage firm 3. the name of the fund to be credited or the purpose of the gift (3) Also, provide your broker with the list of brokerage firms listed below that Centenary has accounts with:

Charles Schwab Account # 2184 0742 DTC # 0164 Phone #: 1 800 435 4000

Scottrade Account # 20746083 DTC # 0705 Phone #: (336) 794 0044

Stephens, Inc. Account # 160980382 DTC # 0419 Phone # (336) 251 0423

If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to contact: Kristy Eaton (336) 397-1341/keaton@centenary-ws.org Fax: (336) 723-5840.

Making electronic transfer? Always be sure to notify Centenary when you authorize an electronic transfer of securities.

The Centenary Survey

dpeninger@centenary-ws. org 336-397-1368

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Welcome

New Members

Paul & Jane Daniel Wes, Hudson & John

Mike & Pamela Harris

Greg & Becky Fox Joshua & Jackson

Frank Hass, Cameron & Connor (Pictured with Ida Jiminez, Courtney & Chesson Hass

Ken Keuffel

McAllister Stowe

Not Pictured Vic & Caroline Copeland (Griggs) Will & Kaite Henderson Betsy Sawyer Piliana Schamens

Paden & Stacy Verner Jack & Josh

Clint Wood (Pictured with Emily Wood)

We give thanks for all that God has already given you and 16 we welcome you in Christian love.


Angel Tree

kmay@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1331

W

Be an Angel

hat is your first reaction when you come home or come to your office and you see that you have a phone message waiting for you? If you are like me, and I hope that at least some of you are because it will make me feel better, you probably dread listening to the message because you have no idea what the content is. It could be a volunteer who has had a conflict come up at the last moment, it could be someone reminding you of the deadline you’ve missed, it could be someone having a crisis that requires you to join them in that place of crisis… Or it could be the call I got the beginning of September, “Kate are you in charge of the Angel Tree? If you are could I make a request? I was shopping this weekend and found the greatest

presents for a six year old girl. When you get the angels organized could you reserve a 6 year old girl for me?” I almost fell out of my chair with delight and surprise. Should this have surprised me though? Looking back I don’t think it should have. I have experienced tremendous love and generosity from our Centenary families poured out in the form of our Angel tree ministry each Christmas and so the fact that one of our members already had it on her mind and heart in September should absolutely not have surprised me.

go up in the second floor gallery area the beginning of November and gifts should be returned to the church by Wednesday, December 3. This allows us time to organize the gifts and distribute them to the sponsoring churches and organizations. For more information on the Angel Tree please contact Kate May at 397-1331/kmay@centenary-ws.org. Thank you for being angels to so many of our local children this Christmas.

I invite you and your family to consider adopting one or more of our angels this year. These children come to us from some of our local ministries and agencies and their churches, families, and mentors look to us to help share God’s love during this season of giving. Trees will

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Memorials Centenary Fund

Loaves and Fishes

In memory of Richard Tenney “Dick” Bynum, Sr. by Bill and Allan Womble, John and Patsy Burwell, Ray Blevins, Kenneth and Mary Carlson, Sara Long Spencer, Ann Lewallen Spencer. In memory of Dr. William Arnold Lambeth, Jr. by Dean, Jane, Rich and Deanna Ramey, Joel and Judy Jeffcoat, Dr. and Mrs. Clay Williams, Charles Gunn, Jr., Dan and Gwynne Taylor, Dr. and Mrs. Dean Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Spach, Alice Stanfield, Kathleen and Tom Barber, Emily Lambeth, Sandy and Art Rogers, Rana Warren, Bill and Allan Womble, George and Susan Ragland, Davey and Ellen Herring, Meezie and Bob Childs, and Dr. Carter and Melissa Childs, Chris and Bob Johnson, Mary and Deanes Gornto, Jere and Barbara Carter, Margaret Phillips, Kathy and Lee Stokes, Van and Meredith Barnette, Mark and Valerie Yoffe, Amy Clement, Robert and Susan McConnell, the Medical Staff of Forsyth Medical Center, Ruby Shryock, Kenneth and Mary Carlson, Rob Shore, Adrian Shore, Calvin and Shannon Wells, Angela and Edison Elkins, Mr. and Mrs. William Goodson III, Peter and Diana Hellebush. In memory of Wendel Hill “Bunky” Stockton by Mrs. F. Reid Warren, Jr., Brenda and Bill Maready, Stephanie and Keith Evans, Kenneth and Mary Carlson, Ann Lewallen Spencer, Bishop and Mrs. Tom Stockton, Joellen Parks. In memory of Franklin Reid Warren, Jr. by Jack and Treva Trivette, Jim and Charlyn Stuart, Cotton, Pam, and Adam Crowder. In memory of Margaret Rose Tennille by Bill and Allan Womble, June Ward, Lee and Bill Hanes. In memory of Virginia Ruth Connor Dyar by Sandra and Wayne Shugart. In memory of Mary Anne Satterwhite Maynard by Kenneth and Mary Carlson. In memory of Margaret Alice Williamson Gibson by Kenneth and Mary Carlson. In memory of Doris Anita Spainhour Gibson by June Ward, Martha Martinat, Paul and Mary Rumple. In memory of Louise Vann Tronnes by The Chapel Class, Ray Blevins. In memory of Louise Carson Highsmith by Roxie Joyner Tate and Betsy Joyner Jarratt. In memory of Bettye Balthrop Shehan by the Markey and Gudger families, Nell and Jim Cavenaugh, Warren and Susan Jones. In memory of Dr. J. Gaylord May by Marjorie T Hoots. In memory of Linda Jo May by Jean Beam.

In memory of Emmett H “Sonny” Lacy, Jr. by Sally Lacy. In memory of Doris Anita Spainhour Gibson by Janie and Jarman Jenkins.

Sacred Music Fund In memory of Richard Tenney Bynum, Sr. by Richard Stockton, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Spach, David, Erica, Monica, Steve, Temple, Teri, Carly, and Lori Felthaus, Joe, Elly, and Ashley Webb, Paul and Judy Jordan, James Southern, Dewey and Betty Chapple, Mimi and Carl Hein, Fillmore Williams, Martha Martinat, June Ward, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Ogburn, Sr., Norwood Robinson, The Lazenby Family, Mr. and Mrs. James Cavenaugh, Jr., Cortlandt “Corty” Freeman, Robert and Janice Dockery, Anne and Doug Gunnell, Jane and Ed Callis, Bille and Alan Payne, Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Shough, Mr. and Mrs. J. Aubrey Kirby, Nancy and Jule Spach, Aubrey and Barbara Smith, Anne Oakman, Phyllis Bernstein, The Chapel Class, Julia Hardy, W.M. and Audra Foil, Elizabeth Fenwick, Dr. and Mrs. Jack Rogers, Barbara Fenimore, Patricia and David Guy, Betsy Bynum Miller, Mary Sams Hill, Henry and Jean Taylor. In memory of Mary Ann Satterwhite Maynard by Phoebe and Bill Satterwhite. In memory of Sara Fountain Lore by Betty Ann Lore. In memory of Laura Beth Smith Spivey by Robert and Janice Dockery. In memory of Sylvia Davis Robinson by Robert and Janice Dockery.

Radio Ministry In memory of Maxine McKaughn Mathis by Clay / Chandler Sunday School Class. In memory of Doris Anita Spainhour Gibson by Clay / Chandler Sunday School Class.

Respite Care In memory of Wendel Hill “Bunky” Stockton by Jane and Frank Niven. In memory of Elizabeth Roe Glenn by Jane and Frank Niven. In memory of Doris Anita Spainhour Gibson by Sherry Rickard, Mary Copeland. In memory of Louise Sawyer Harris by Elizabeth Fenwick.

H.O.P.E. In memory of Margaret Rose Tennille by Elizabeth Fenwick, Rev. Craig Ford.

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In Memoriam Louise Vann Tronnes August 22, 2014 Bettye B. Shehan August 27, 2014 Jessie Gaylord May August 30, 2014 Henry Sigmon Mingus September 17, 2014 Alexander Lee Rickabaugh September 22, 2014 Mary Ellen Hill Davis September 27, 2014 The ministers and members of Centenary Church extend their deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and pray they may know the comfort and peace of our Heavenly Father.


Honoraria Respite Care

We celebrate the baptism of...

In honor of Janet Sawyer by Elizabeth Fenwick.

...Walker Windham Sessions son of Ben & Cristen, borther of Viv (2 1/2 years old), grandson of Ann Windham, and great grandson of Ann Lewallen Spencer.

Sacred Music Fund In honor of Dr. George Robinson by Robert and Janice Dockery. In honor of Nancy Phelps and Gene Garner’s wedding by David Arnold and Rob Paris. In honor of Jean Steelman by Kate and Frank Craver.

Love Thy Neighbor In honor of the marriage of Tammy Clark and Eddie Pollock, Jr. by Mike and Stephanie Bridges, Jim and Jennifer Bocrie, Larry and Jane Shives.

...William Philip Lawrence son of Greg and Christine Lawrence. ...Griggs Allen Copeland son of Vic and Caroline Copeland. ...Vida Jennings Kennedy, daughter of Brian and Brenn Kennedy, and granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. William F. Maready. ...Thomas Hanes Pierce, son of Nicholas & Lara Pierce, and grandson of Eldridge Copenhaver, Jane Hanes& Copey Hanes.

Senior Adult Ministry In honor of Craig and Janet Ford’s 45th Wedding Anniversary by Don and Julia Golding.

Vacation Bible School In honor of Kate May by Heather, Matthew, Grady, and Ellie Phillips.

Youth Ministry In honor of Eddie & Tammy Pollock’s Wedding by the Hettingers.

Three Little Angels The cover image was captured during the Impromptu Christmas Pageant in 2014. These three, precious children speak to the beauty of the event. You are invited to attend the pageant on December 21 at 10:00AM in the Sanctuary. Doug Peninger

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Children’s Ministry

kmay@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1331

What Part Will You Play? By Rev. Kate May

None of us went by the name Mary but we all have felt, and I still feel, a deep connection to my family knowing that I am a Mary. My mother took this very seriously as a child and felt entitled to the role of Mary in the Christmas pageant. However, year after year, someone else was chosen to play this role and she was asked to play a different part, one that did not resonate as deeply with who she knew herself to be. I imagine that in some ways none of us is so very different

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ne of my favorite movies is Center Stage. In this movie the viewer follows a group of dance students who get accepted to a prestigious ballet school and work towards the crowning achievement of receiving a spot as a professional ballet dancer. When it comes time for them to receive their roles in the annual recital you see them clambering around a woman holding a piece of paper and walking as quickly as possible to post this sheet of assignments and get out of the way of the onslaught as fast as she possibly can. Maybe this is not how your experience of Christmas Pageants was, but I think we can all empathize with the overwhelming desire of having one part that you know you were meant to play. I feel as though I live this experience every Christmas with my mom. Many of you may not know that I was born into quite a line of Marys. I am Mary Katharine, my mom is Mary Gwendolyn, my grandmother was Mary Emily, and my great grandmother was Mary Elizabeth.

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from my mom. Each year as you read the Christmas story whose experience speaks to your soul? Last year we held the first annual Impromptu Christmas Pageant. What this meant was that everyone got to choose the role they most wanted to play and that is who they dressed up as and became. We had children of all ages who chose to be shepherds, wise men, cows, and angels. And it was beautiful. The smiles on the faces of the children were infectious. The pride in the faces of the parents as they watched their children take their places as a part of this beautiful scene brought tears to my eyes. And our children lived into the love of God in a brand new way because they didn’t have to imagine themselves as a part of the story. They knew they were a part of it.

So we’re going to do it again and I hope you’ll join us. This year on Sunday, December 21, you are invited to the 2nd Annual Impromptu Christmas Pageant at 10 am in the Sanctuary. Everyone is welcome to watch and there is no age limit for participation. I hope you will join us and claim your place in the story of Christmas.


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‘Twas the Night Before Christmas… By Rev. Kate May When the children are tucked all snug in their beds, what do you like to read to them? Christmas is such a child-like celebration that I think all of our hearts and minds return to and are drawn towards the memories of our childhood Christmases and anything that elicits those feelings of being a child still. With that in mind we would like to share with you some book recommendations for this Christmas season. Maybe these are some of your current favorites, or could become new traditional reads for your family. Stop by Glad Tidings and check out these and other wonderful titles.

Who is Coming to Our House? By Joseph Slate

Recommended by Sarah Lycan In this simple book, especially good for toddlers, the animals of the stable prepare to share their space with special guests. By the time evening comes the animals welcome Mary and Joseph. Sarah shares, “Matthew loved pointing and naming animals as well as making animal sounds. When he got older he loved the rhyming.”

Santa’s Favorite Story By Hisako Aoki

Recommended by Kate May

The Santa Mouse By Michael Brown

Recommended by Ginna Vest

Mouse lives all by himself in a big house, where he often dreams of having friends and a name. As he’s getting ready for bed on Christmas Eve he realizes that no one gives Santa Claus presents, so he gets out his piece of cheese and leaves it for Santa. Santa appreciates it so much that he names the mouse Santa Mouse, and gives Santa Mouse a job as his helper. Ginna writes, “As children, our parents read this story to us and we’ve read it throughout the year to Abby, Andrew and Christopher! Keeping Christmas alive everyday!!

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In this beautiful little book Santa shares with all the animals of the forest that his favorite Christmas story is the story of Jesus’ birth on Christmas. As a children’s minister I often struggle how to talk with kids about both Santa Claus and Jesus. This book gives a great way to connect the two!


Christmas Tapestry By Patricia Polacco

Recommended by Michelle Walters In the book a minister’s family moves from a happy life at a rural church to an untested existence at an urban church. The children are sad, but supportive of their father’s calling. While on a Christmas errand they meet and extend kindness to an elderly Jewish woman. Their kindness results in the woman being reunited with her husband whom she thought had died in a concentration camp many years ago. Michelle likes this book because “it is just the sort of thing that happens when kindness is extended - wonders emerged. I also like that it addresses multiple faiths. Beware though, reading it always makes me cry.”

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas

By Jane O’Connor

Recommended by Ashley Maner Nancy is a spunky little girl who makes everything fancy. This year, Christmas is of course no exception. Ashley tells us, “I love this book because it has a wonderful combination of beautiful pictures, humor and moral teachings. The author does a great job teaching kids new vocabulary words in a ‘fancy’ and fun way. If you like the Fancy Nancy series of books, this is a fun one as you get ready for the Christmas season. The younger children can enjoy the colorful pictures while the older children of reading ages can follow along with this easy to read book.

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Events & Announcements In addition to other events advertised in Through Centenary Windows, please make note of these announcements.

POINSETTIAS FOR ADVENT Poinsettia order forms are now available in the information centers around the church campus. All orders and payment are due by November 15. DIVORCE CARE Wednesdays • 6:30 pm • Room 116 We begin with a 30 minute video followed by conversation to help you navigate the rough waters of separation and divorce. If you have any questions, please contact Pink Willis (306-4236)/pinkwillis@gmail. com or Frankie Perry-Oates (816-5234). STEPHEN MINISTRY Our Stephen Ministers are Ready to Care for You! We all go through times in our life when we could benefit from a little extra care and attention. That’s what Stephen Ministers are for. Stephen Ministers are members of Centenary who have been trained to provide confidential, one-to-one, Christian care to people who are going through a difficult time. They will listen, care, encourage, pray with you and for you, and provide regular support for you as your need persists.If you would like to find out more about Stephen Ministry for yourself or someone you know (possibly a friend, neighbor, coworker, or relative) talk with Mark Ralls (397-1362), Craig Ford (3971353) or Deena Morgan (764-4239) to find out how you can receive help from a Stephen Minister. All calls are confidential.

Worship Bags As you and your family enjoy worship together please know that we have worship bags available during all services on Sunday mornings for children ages 3-5th grade. The bags are located outside of both the auditorium and the Sanctuary. If you have trouble locating them, please ask an usher. You will notice that the bags are different colors for different aged children. We ask that at the end of the service you replace the bags with their contents on their racks so that we can refresh them for the next week’s worship. Feel free to take home the children’s bulletin inside and use it for activities during the week with your child

SENIOR ADULTS Veterans Day Breakfast November 11 • 8:30 am • Auditorium

YOUTH MINISTRY

The annual veterans breakfast sponsored by the Senior Adult Council will be held November 11, 8:30 AM. The speaker will be Major General Charles Swannack. General Swannack is a MARK YOU CALENDARS! graduate of Reynolds High School where he November 4: Summer Missions registration excelled in athletics and academics. Following graduation he attended and graduated from West open Point. He served several different assignments November 14 & 15: Youth Hand Bell Festival throughout his military career in the army, retiring as a Major General. One of his most in Roanoke challenging duties was the invasion of Iraq. He December 10: Confirmation Parent was in the first invasion of Iraq, fighting along and beside the troops on the ground. orientation HOOPS4HIM BASKETBALL

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Hoops4Him is a citywide interdenominational basketball league designed as a tool by local churches to reach out to the youth of WinstonSalem/Forsyth County, North Carolina with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. If you are interested in playing on Centenary’s Youth Team please contact Tammy Pollock (tpollock@centenary-ws.org ) or Tyler MacDonald (tmacdonald@centenary-ws.org) Join us for the 2014-2015 Season! Registration for Hoops4Him teams begins in October with games starting in December. Watch for more information and registration forms in the mail!

Nursery Care

YOU CAN HELP IN WORSHIP!

Nursery care for infants through prekindergarten is offered during every Sunday morning worship service. During the 11:00 am worship service, 3’s and 4’s in the nursery have a time of engaged Bible storytelling led by children’s ministry staff. Our nursery classrooms, staffed by professional childcare workers, are located on the second floor of the children’s building.

The youth have faithfully served as youth ushers for the 8:45 worship service for over 30 years. This meaningful mission gives our youth an opportunity to grow in their faith as they actively greet and serve and are part of the worship service. This makes Centenary their church and helps establish a commitment to service that will follow them into adulthood. It also provides them an opportunity to meet other youth in our church. It gives them a place to belong. Being involved as a youth usher reflects well as your young person endeavors to earn scholarships and apply for college. Many of our faithful have

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graduated and unless we have new ushers sign up, we will not be able to continue this wonderful involvement for our youth. Please talk with your young person and together make a commitment for service. If it is important to the parents then it will be important to our youth. If ushering is something your youth would like to do to help serve Centenary, please contact Dianne Cox, our youth usher coordinator, at rcox33@triad.rr.com or (336)768-6878.

General Swannack will share many of his experiences and give insight into the issues that are currently being faced. This will be a very timely program in view of the military activity and problems that the United States and other countries are confronting. General Swannack will also share his personal faith that has sustained him throughout his military career. You may register for the Veterans breakfast by contacting Charles Monroe (773-0446)/ chasmonroe@ykahoo.com. Please note that you do not have to be a veteran to attend the breakfast. All are welcome. ADULT ED. / SPIRITUAL FORMATION Food for Thought (Lunch and a Lesson) Fall Series: “Indispensable Relationships” Noon • Wednesdays from September – November • Memorial Auditorium $7 includes lunch, drink, dessert, music and message You’ve heard it said that life is a journey, which means that there is a destination we’re headed toward. But how are we going to get there? Or more importantly, WHO will be with us on this journey? Rev. Jonathan Brake will introduce us to the people we need in our life to reach our


destination, to release the dynamic power of traveling together and to draw us beyond ourselves. Pulling from Leonard Sweet’s book, “11 Indispensable Relationships You Can’t Be Without,” we will learn from various relationships in the Bible. Food for Thought is open to the community and is a great place to come for employees working downtown! MISSIONS Poverty Simulation Will you start out the month with only a $10 bill — or will you be one of the unlucky ones? The Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) is a unique opportunity to experience the virtual realities of poverty. CAPS will be led by Crisis Control Ministry volunteers, as well as volunteers. During the simulation, participants role-play the lives of lowincome families and have the stressful task of providing for basic necessities and shelter on a limited budget during the course of four 15-minute “weeks.” You will interact with human service agencies, grocers, pawn brokers, bill collectors, job interviewers, police officers and others. On Wednesday, November 5, Centenary will co-sponsor this program at Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church. CUMC members are encouraged to join their weekly fellowship dinner from 5:30-6:15, then the simulation will run from 6:308:30. Registration, which includes dinner, is $10/person. To sign up, contact Libby at (765-5561)/ libby.craven@mttaborumc. org. November/December Food of the Month The November food of the month is canned fruit and cereal. The December food of the month is small canned hams, canned potatoes, canned fruit, dessert mixes (complete). Please bring your food donations to the Missions bins, located in the Reception Narthex at 4½ Street. OPEN FINANCE MEETING The next open finance committee meeting will be December 16. The meeting will be held in the Dining Room at 5 pm.

JOHN WESLEY SOCIETY

GLAD TIDINGS

Why should I make a planned gift to Centenary?

Our friends in Daybreak/Respite Care have a new treat for your taste buds! This season they have assembled jars containing Toffee Blondies mix. Take the mix, add butter, eggs and vanilla, bake for 20 minutes and you have delicious brownies worth fighting for! Pick up a jar for only $7.50 and have a great hostess gift for the holidays or family get together! ALL proceeds from sales go directly to Daybreak/Respite Care allowing you to support the ministry.

Planned giving is a wonderful way to leave your legacy for generations to come. When you remember Centenary, you ensure the vibrancy of our ministry and its longterm financial success. When you make a planned gift, you become a member of The John Wesley Society, and join over 80 other Centenary members who have also remembered Centenary through a planned gift. MUSIC AND THE ARTS All Saints Vespers November 2 • 7:00 pm • Sanctuary The Chancel Choir will present Duruflé’s Requiem at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary as part of the annual All Saints Vespers service. This offering of Duruflé’s Requiem will feature instrumentalists from the WS Symphony Orchestra, soprano soloist, Kristin Schwecke, and baritone soloist, Joshua Conyers. This service is free and open to the public, and a free-will offering will be collected for the Joshua Ray Hudson Choral Scholarship, established in 2006. This scholarship serves as an outreach to unusually talented music students. The purpose of this outreach is to give professional development opportunities to young musicians whose careers may involve sacred music performance. Please join us as we remember the saints who have passed recently and gone before us.

And while we are talking about good food, do not forget to look at the NC BBQ Maps which make a very neat and unique gift for the BBQ lovers in your family! This is the last week of our $10 scarf sale, so make sure you don’t miss out on the beautiful, soft textured scarves from Two’s Company. You will not find this deal anywhere else in town! Good things happen when you shop Glad Tidings! Judy Jones, Manager (918-0346)/jjones@ centenary-ws.org. BOOKS AT CENTENARY Glad Tidings enjoys being able to help Sunday school classes and individuals search out books for their use and place orders offering competitive prices. Centenary Church Administration completely supports Glad Tidings’ efforts in providing sound Christian literature for its members. Come view our collection in the new reading room and if you don’t find what you need, let us know. We are happy to place an order.

ROOTS REVIVAL Wednesdays • Memorial Auditorium Roots Revival is a midweek worship service grounded in Americana/roots-based music featuring Martha Bassett and friends. Each service is centered around one or two focus songs and an accompanying Scripture passage and theme. We meet at 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Auditorium. Learn more at www.rootsrevivalws.com.

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Youth Ministry

tclark@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1337

“Without love, the outward work is of no value; but whatever is done out of love, be it ever so little, is wholly fruitful. For God regards the greatness of love that prompts a man, rather than the greatness of achievement.” ~Thomas a` Kempis

By Tammy Pollard

S

ince the very beginning, the earliest Christians took seriously Jesus’ call to go out to love and serve others. As followers of Christ we are invited to be present to the poor, sick, imprisoned, lonely, grieving…to all people in need. Jesus led by example; that to serve is to be about the Kingdom of Heaven and that through service, the Kingdom is revealed on earth. In our youth ministry we refer to this kind of service as Authentic Action. Just as Jesus came out of prayer and solitude to heal the sick, welcome the outcast, and celebrate with friends (Luke 4:18-19; John 12:1), so we also seek to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in a way of life, rooted in the Beatitudes, that witnesses to Christ’s love, passion, and joy. Communal practices of Sabbath, prayer, discernment and accompaniment find their fulfillment in actions with our youth that make visible the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Our youth desire opportunities to participate in Christ’s healing and liberating activity within the world (mission trips, Love thy Neighbor, etc.). Our desire is to encourage our youth and adults to become instruments of God’s grace who courageously resist the principalities and powers that oppress life and creatively reveal the reality of God’s love. Throughout the year we have some very intentional ways to be in service to our neighbors and one another. Our youth become beacons of light to those who have very little hope by simply offering a meal, a smile, a listening ear. It is a powerful thing to be in service alongside Jesus and know that all who are gathered are experiencing the powerful love of God.

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Love Thy Neighbor (All Youth in Mission) November 2 & December 7, 2014 January 11, February 1, March 8, April 12th, & May 3rd, 2015 Love Thy Neighbor is our youth’s ministry of outreach to the homeless and marginally housed population of downtown Winston-Salem. We invite our neighbors to the church for food, fun and fellowship once a month during the school year. Typical gatherings include a meal, an activity (BINGO, Checkers, art project, etc.) and a chance to come together as God’s children. Alongside our LTN lunches, we have our LTN Medical Clinic and Pharmacy. Through generous physicians who volunteer their time, we are able to give medical care to those who would otherwise go without. We share this ministry as an expression of Christ’s unconditional love. Born out of a transformational experience at GLIDE church in San Francisco, our hope is for this ministry to transform our community and draw others into the presence of the living God and into serving Christ


Hinton Rural Life Center (All Youth in Mission) June 21-26, 2015 Hinton, a mission agency of the United Methodist Church, creates opportunities for work teams from all over the country to experience the rich mountain culture and to serve with others in repairing or building new homes with families, and to grow in their understanding of faith in action. The work includes repairing porches, painting homes, fixing leaky roofs, building ramps, replacing rotten floors and other similar home repairs that greatly improve living conditions. In doing this good work, teams build relationships with the family/agency and develop Christian community.

Those who come to serve will stay in the guest rooms of the Hinton Lodge or in one of the cottages, share meals together in the dining room and utilize any and all of the meeting facilities. Hinton also offers a chapel, an outside porch and deck area with rocking chairs, lakeside recreation (including swimming, picnic, and campfire areas), basketball and volleyball courts. Middle High & Senior High youth are all welcome for this super mission week. During the week, evenings are free for self-led devotions, discussion time, fun adventures, games and relaxation. Plus, we will finish off the week with a trip white water rafting!

YouthWorks! Toronto, Canada (Senior High Mission) July 18-26, 2015 Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and the fourth most populous city in North America. It is an urban center with a diverse economy and population. What makes Toronto a truly global city is the diversity of its population. Nearly half of its residents were born outside of Canada. There are 140 languages and dialects spoken within the city; 30% of its residents speak languages other than English or French. This large immigrant population is a blessing to Toronto, but it also presents unique challenges as the city attempts to meet the needs of its large foreign born population. Toronto is the tenth largest economic center in the world, it houses the seventh largest stock exchange and more than half of Canada’s manufacturing occurs within Toronto and its surrounding towns. While the city prides itself in a strong economy, not all residents are enjoying prosperity. As with all major cities, there are many people living in Toronto who struggle to get by. Despite strong economic growth over the last three decades, Toronto’s homelessness rate has increased dramatically. Currently the city’s child poverty rate is nearly 30%. Our group

will share the love of Jesus and serve Toronto residents by partnering with local homeless shelters, children’s ministries, food banks and senior centers. For the sixth time, we will be partnering with an organization called YouthWorks! Quite simply, their purpose is to provide life-changing, Christ-centered mission opportunities. They do this by crossing borders of race and culture. By placing students outside their comfort zones, they find something wonderful happens: God gets our attention! YouthWorks! Essential core values are being youth minded and relationship oriented, focusing on servant leadership, and believing in the life-change that Christ offers us all. Jesus was very clear about the example that He set for us. It is an incredible thing to give of oneself for another. We hope that you will be moved and hear the call from Jesus to serve the least and the lost. Whether it be right in your neighborhood, in a school, in a food bank garden, or maybe with one of these opportunities mentioned here.

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(USPS 628-480) Published By: Centenary United Methodist Church PO Box 658 Winston-Salem, NC 27102-0658 Church Office: (336) 724-6311 Fax: (336) 723-5840 Website: www.centenaryonline.com Postmaster Send Address Changes to: Centenary United Methodist Church PO Box 658 Winston-Salem, NC 27102-0658 A Stephen Ministry Congregation Printed on recycled paper

Periodicals Postage Paid at Winston-Salem, N. C.


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