WELCOME TO WORSHIP
FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST • JUNE 25, 2023 • 11:00AM
THE COMMUNITY GATHERS
The prelude signifies the beginning of worship. You are invited to be in a spirit of prayer and meditation. Please silence all mobile communication devices.
PRELUDE
GREETING
INTROIT
All Things New — Elaine Hagenberg
Light after darkness, gain after loss, strength after weakness, crown after cross: sweet after bitter, hope after fears, home after wandering, praise after tears. Alpha and Omega, beginning and the end, He is making all things new. Springs of living water shall wash away each tear. He is making all things new.
Sight after mystery, sun after rain, joy after sorrow, peace after pain; near after distant, gleam after gloom, love after loneliness, life after tomb. Alpha and Omega, beginning and the end, He is making all things new. Springs of living water shall wash away each tear. He is making all things new.
†OPENING PRAYER
O Lord, make us have perpetual love and reverence for your holy Name, for you never fail to help and govern those whom have set upon the sure foundation of your loving kindness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#152 I Sing the Mighty Power of God — ELLACOMBE
†AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
We are not alone, we live in God’s world. We believe in God: who has created and is creating, who has come in Jesus, the Word made flesh, to reconcile and make new, who works in us and others by the Spirit. We trust in God. We are called to be the church: to celebrate God’s presence, to love and serve others, to seek justice and resist evil, to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen, our judge and our hope. In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us. We are not alone. Thanks be to God. 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.
BAPTISM
BAPTISMAL RESPONSE
Do you as Christ’s body, the church, reaffirm both your rejection of sin and your commitment to Christ? We do. Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life and include Nora, now before you, in your care?
With God’s help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround Nora with a community of love and forgiveness, that she may grow in her service to others. We will pray for her, that she may be a true disciple who walks in the way that leads to life.
†PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Almighty God, giver of every good and perfect gift, teach us to render to you all that we have and all that we are, that we may praise you, not with our lips only, but with our whole lives, turning the duties, the sorrows, and the joys of all our days into a living sacrifice to you; through our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
HYMN
#191 Jesus Loves Me — JESUS LOVES ME
(Children, kindergartners through third grade, are invited to exit the Sanctuary for Children’s Worship. Children will return to reserved pews in the Sanctuary at the close of worship.)
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
SCRIPTURE — Romans 6:1-11
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON
†
OFFERTORY
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
How Great Thou Art — arr. Eric Nelson
DOXOLOGY #95 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow — OLD 100th Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below; praise God above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
†HYMN
#545 The Church’s One Foundation — AURELIA
The Congregation will sing stanzas 1 and 5. Stanza 4 will not be sung.
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
Go Now in Peace — Robert Lau Go now in peace, and may God’s peace go with you. Believe and trust His holy word. Amen.
†POSTLUDE
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
The Reverend Dr. P. Glenn Kinken III
Senior Minister
LITURGIST
The Reverend Meg Peters, Assoc. Minister
FLOWERS
The Chancel Flowers are given in loving memory of our Sommerkamp, Stewart, and Perry family members by Ken and Susan Sommerkamp.
MUSIC Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music Ministries Marya Fancey, Organist The Chancel Choir
WELCOME!
The congregation and staff of Centenary welcome you to today’s worship. It is our honor to have you with us! Our ministers, staff, welcome team and ushers are happy to assist you with any questions you may have. We hope our worship will inspire, comfort and challenge you as we hear God’s message proclaimed through preaching, music, prayer and liturgy.
WORSHIP AT CENTENARY SUNDAYS
9:00 am • Memorial Auditorium
11:00 am • Sanctuary
MEMBERSHIP
We are eager to share Centenary’s story with you. If you are interested in learning about church membership, please contact Rev. Meg Peters (336-724-6311 ext. 1361)/mpeters@ centenary-ws.org to schedule a time to meet.
WATCH
Each Sunday morning, our 11:00 am worship service is broadcast on the Internet through our Live Stream. Visit www.centenary-ws.org. Once there, scroll to the bottom of the home page and click on either Live Stream or the Live Stream arrow.
HEARING LOOP
Our Sanctuary is fitted with a Hearing Loop system. Please switch your hearing device to T-coil. If you need a listening device, please contact one of our ushers. Be sure to sit in the pews located on the floor of the Nave.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTENARY
There is always something happening at Centenary and we invite you to join us. To learn more about Centenary ministries and events, visit our website at www.centenary-ws.org. You may also contact our receptionist who will guide you to the appropriate ministry area.
STAY CONNECTED
Reception Desk • 336-724-6311
CENTENARY LEADERSHIP CONNECTIONS
336.724.6311 + Extension
(for the Minister on Call • Option 2)
Reverend Dr. P. Glenn Kinken III ext. 1362
Senior Minister
Mary Ann Wexler ext. 1346
Executive Director
Jonathan Emmons ext. 1339
Director of Music Ministries
Reverend R. Craig Ford ext. 1353
Associate Minister
Reverend Kate May ext. 1331
Associate Minister with Children
Reverend Meg Peters ext. 1361
Assoc. Minister of Evangelism, Engagement & Missions
Reverend Susannah Pittman ext. 1357
Associate Minister of Congregational Care & Adult Formation
ANNOUNCEMENTS • JUNE 25, 2023
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-events
CELEBRATIONS & CONCERNS
Today we celebrate the baptism of Nora Jade Alston, daughter of Jacob and Susan Alston.
IN MEMORIAM
Constance Campbell Southard
June 5, 2023
Kenneth P. Carlson
June 7, 2023
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.
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
SUMMER FIRST FIFTEEN
The First Fifteen Challenge invites you to take the first 15 minutes of your day and spend it with God by reading and reflecting on God’s Word. Although it involves only a short amount of time, through God’s grace it can transform our entire day! This spring and summer, our First Fifteen will be exploring the journey of the early Church and the travels of Paul. We would love for you to join us! Bookmarks containing the monthly reading plan are available throughout the Centenary campus. To sign up to receive the First Fifteen, visit centenary-ws.org/ church-events and then click the Adult Formation button, where you will find a link to register.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
STEPHEN MINISTRY
The loss of a father can be devastating to a family. We miss his care, support, and guidance always. A Stephen Minister will provide a listening heart and care to help with your healing and walk beside you during this difficult time.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2023: STELLAR! JULY 24-27 • 9 AM - NOON
VBS is approaching quickly, and we are more excited than ever to shine Jesus’ light and learn how Stellar God is! There is still time to register the kids in your life who are 4 years old through rising 6 grade. You can register through the Church website (events page) or the Realm app until July 5. If you’re a grown-up and want to join in on the fun, we would love to have you! You can show our kids what it looks like to shine Jesus’ light by serving as a crossing guard, a small group shepherd, a craft helper, or simply helping with prep work. There is something for everyone to do! For more information contact Kate May (kmay@centenaryws.org/ext. 1331) or Anna Thomas athomas@ centenary-ws.org/ext. 1332)
BE A PART OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL TEAM
THAT LET’S OUR KIDS KNOW, “GOD LOVES YOU AND SO DO I!”
Do you love spending time with elementary aged kids? Are you filled with joy by their questions and observations about the world? Are you energized by sharing God’s love with kids? Then you should consider being a part of our Sunday school team! This team is made up of amazing folks just like you who commit for one school year to serve as a small group or large group leader. Using provided lesson plans, large group leaders share a Bible story in an engaging and hands-on way with a mixed group of kids ages 1st-5th grade. Small group leaders build relationships with one age group of kids while facilitating activities that build on the large group learning. If you are interested or have questions, reach out to Kate May kmay@centenary-ws.org/ ext. 1331) or Anna Thomas (athomas@centenaryws.org/ext. 1332).
MEN’S MINISTRY
THURSDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP
JULY 6 • 7:30 AM-8:30 AM COMMUNITY ROOM
MUSIC & THE ARTS
“THEN SINGS MY SOUL”
SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
Join Music & Arts for the final performance of our Summer Music Series! We proudly host Piedmont Wind Symphony on Saturday, July 15 at 7:00 pm. This event is FREE and will take place in the sanctuary.
SING IN SUMMER CHOIR
Do you love to sing but can’t attend weekly rehearsals? Participate in Summer Choir! Each Sunday from July 9 – August 13, come to the choir room at 9:30 am to grab a robe, participate in a short rehearsal and sing for the 11:00 worship. Please contact Director of Music Ministries, Jonathan Emmons (jemmons@centenary-ws.org), if you have any questions. See you there!
SIGN UP FOR CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ART CAMP
JULY 17 - 20, 2023
CMA Camp is offered for infants through rising 5th grade. Offerings include singing, handbells, handchimes, creative movement, art, Kindermusik, and more! Snack is provided daily. The week ends with a camper-led worship service on Thursday at 12:30 pm followed by refreshments. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled week! The QR code below will direct you to the registration form. For more information, please contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws.org).
CALLING ALL ARTISTS!
The Music & Arts Ministry invites submissions 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.
YOUTH MINISTRY
LOOKING AHEAD
July 15-22: YouthWorks Senior High Mission Trip to Denver, CO
July 24-27: Vacation Bible School
August 27: Fall Kick-Off!
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.
CENTENARY NIGHT AT THE DASH
FRIDAY • AUGUST 18 • 7 PM
Join us for a night of baseball and fellowship! We have a block of tickets reserved for $11/ticket and would love to see you all there! Visit the events page on the church website to purchase your tickets. If you have questions, contact Anna Thomas (athomas@ centenary-ws.org/ext. 1332)
OPEN FLOWER DATE
A wonderful way to honor or remember a loved one, friend, group, birthday, or anniversary is by providing flowers in our Sanctuary for Sunday morning services. Our Flower Calendar has an open date available on July 2, 2023. This is a first-come basis, and it can be for one family or shared by 2 or 3 different families who wish to honor or remember different family members or other people. If you are interested, please contact Paige Morgan Foy (pmorganfoy@centenary-ws.org).
Tammy Pollock ext. 1337
Director of Youth Ministries
Rick Gibbons ext. 1342
Congregational Care Assistant
Stacy Holley ext. 1359
Exec. Assistant to Senior Minister
John Markle ext. 1347
Director of Operations
Doug Peninger ext. 1368
Director of Communications
John Rogers ext. 1356
Director of Information Technology
If you or someone you know could benefit from Stephen Ministry, please contact Deena Morgan (336-692-2314), Wilba Brady (336-723-6236), Rev. Craig Ford (336-724-6311 ext. 1353) or Rev. Susannah Pittman (336-724-6311 ext. 1357).
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
FAMILY SUMMER CELEBRATION
TODAY • 4-5 PM
Children’s Ministry is celebrating summer with a giant slip and slide, popsicles, and of course fun on the playground. Bring your whole family and invite some friends for an afternoon of fun on the front lawn. Park in the 5th Street parking lot and wear something that can get wet. If the weather is questionable come anyway because we’ve got a super fun indoor back up plan! For more information contact Kate May kmay@centenary-ws.org/ext. 1331) or Anna Thomas athomas@centenary-ws. org/ext. 1332).
We meet the first Thursday of every month as we gather in the second floor Catering Kitchen for coffee and biscuits and fellowship. Then we move to the Community Room for prayer, announcements and our speaker. Our July meeting will focus on the First Fifteen scripture reading assigned for that day. You may enter the East Building from the 4 1⁄2 Street or 5th Street entrance. To learn more about Men’s Ministry at Centenary, contact Chris Munnelly, Tanner Robinson, Michael Rogers or Tom Lawson.
MISSIONS
LOAVES & FISHES SUMMER STOCK
Loaves & Fishes is once again collecting items for Summer Stock! Anytime in June, July, or August, you can take a brown paper bag located in the Narthex or at the 4 ½ street entrance to fill with needed items or just bring in your donations. This year we are collecting the following canned foods: Chicken, Tuna, Beef Stew, Spam, Vienna Sausages, Ravioli, Spaghettios, Pork and Beans.
Please make sure the canned items are regular sized cans. You can drop your donations off at the 4 ½ street entrance or in the Narthex to the sanctuary. If you have any questions, contact Rev. Meg Peters (mpeters@centenary-ws.org).
Today Mountain TOP Return!
No Youth Tonight!
July 2 5 pm: Summer Sunday Supper and Study!
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Join us every Sunday at 10:00 am on the fourth floor for ALL youth Sunday School taught by our Associate Director of Youth Ministries, Andrew Epermanis. There will be snacks and fellowship before the lesson every week! This week we will be starting our new series on Exodus. Join us as we follow the story of the Israelites escape from Egypt and reflect on the ways in which we encounter God in all the changes and new opportunities in our lives. As well as how we seek out and listen to our callings.
COLLEGE BIBLE STUDY!
Everyone loves Ted Lasso, so why not talk about all the great life lessons the show teaches us? Join us Wednesdays throughout the summer from 5:30 -7:00 pm in the Youth Commons, as we watch different episodes of Ted Lasso, explore how it relates to the bible, and what our lives can look like if we follow God’s most important commandments. Our youth ministry assistant, Andrew Epermanis, will be leading our discussions. Mark your calendars and plan to join this awesome discussion on July 12, July 26 and August 2.
SUMMER SUNDAY SUPPER & STUDY!
Join us for summer bible study in the Youth Commons from 5:00-6:30 pm. Cost is $3 per person, bring your Bible and your friends as we watch The CHOSEN and explore a new perspective of Jesus and the disciples!
