December 29, 2024 • 11AM Worship

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FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMASTIDE • DECEMBER 29, 2024 • 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

Prepare the Way — BEREDEN VÄG FÖR HERRAN

Prepare the Way, O Zion, your Christ is drawing near! Let every hill and valley a level way appear. Greet One who comes in glory, foretold in sacred story. O blest is Christ who came in God’s most holy name.

THE LORD’S

PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

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 Landon, 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 Landon with a community of love and forgiveness, that he may grow in his service to others. We will pray for him, that he may be a true disciple who walks in the way that leads to life.

HYMN

#191 Jesus Loves Me — JESUS LOVES ME

(Following the Baptism, 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 RENEW OUR COMMITMENT † Please

†OPENING PRAYER

Loving God, as we gather to worship, we come with hearts full of gratitude. We thank you for the gift of Jesus, who came to save us and lead us in truth. Just as Joseph and Mary listened to your voice and followed your guidance, help us to be attentive to your call in our lives. May we lean on your wisdom and strength. Fill this place and our hearts with your presence and inspire us to carry your love and light in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

†HYMN OF PROCESSION

#224 Good Christian Friends, Rejoice — IN DULCI JUBILO

†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.

†AFFIRMATION RESPONSE

Come, Renew Your Love for Him — GLORIA Come, renew your love for Him: Jesus Christ, who sets us free! Cast off fear and doubt and shame; live in grace eternally! Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria in excelsis Deo!

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

†BENEDICTION

†BENEDICTION RESPONSE

He is Born — IL EST NÉ

He is born, the holy Child, play the oboe and bagpipes merrily! Hie is born, the holy Child, sing we all of the Savior mild. Thru long ages of the past, prophets have foretold his coming; thru long ages of the past, now the time has come at last!

†POSTLUDE

Thank you for joining us in worship today.

WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED

SCRIPTURE — Matthew 2:13-23

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

SERMON — “God Found in Impossible Plans”

OFFERTORY

Climb to the Top of the Hightest Mountain — Carolyn Jennings Climb to the top of the highest mountain, joyous tidings proclaim to the world, lift up your voice, shout the good news: behold, your Lord comes to you. He will feed his flock like a shepherd, He will carry the lambs in his arms, He will ever keep them safe from harm. Behold, your Lord comes to you. He who made the stars in the heaven, He who fashioned the earth and the sea, from time eternal he was God, the Alpha and Omega, He. Behold, your Lord! He will come in power and glory, He will rule with mercy and truth, Hope of the nations, Light of the world, Light of all the world! He will love the little children, He will hold them in his arms. Love him and trust him as a child. Behold, your Lord comes to you as a child.

†DOXOLOGY

#95 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow — OLD 100th Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below; praise God above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

†PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

God Most High, receive the gifts of our lives as an offering of gratitude for your grace. Overshadow us with your Holy Spirit and let it be with us according to your word, for nothing is impossible with you. Amen.

WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD

†HYMN #251 GO, TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN

PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP

PREACHING

The Reverend Oliver Helsabeck, Assoc. Minister LITURGIST

Tammy Pollock, Director of Youth Ministries

MUSIC

Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music Ministries

Joshua Sobel, Organ Scholar

The Chancel Choir

Sam Howell, Music Ministry Intern

Jonathan Blake Borton, Piano

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, click on the link at the top of the home page.

HEARING LOOP

Our Sanctuary is fitted with a Hearing Loop system. Please switch your hearing device to T-coil. If you need a listening device, please contact one of our ushers. Be sure to sit in the pews located on the floor of the Nave.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTENARY

There is always something happening at Centenary and we invite you to join us. To learn more about Centenary ministries and events, visit our website at www.centenary-ws.org. You may also contact our receptionist who will guide you to the appropriate ministry area.

STAY CONNECTED

Reception Desk • 336-724-6311

CENTENARY LEADERSHIP CONNECTIONS

336.724.6311 + Extension

(for the Minister on Call • Option 2)

Reverend 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 Oliver Helsabeck ext. 1357

Associate Minister for Congregational Care

Reverend Kate May ext. 1331

Associate Minister with Children

Reverend Meg Peters ext. 1361

Associate Minister of Outreach

Tammy Pollock ext. 1337 Director of Youth Ministries

Stacy Holley ext. 1359

Adult Discipleship Specialist & Pastoral Assistant

John Markle ext. 1347 Director of Operations

Doug Peninger ext. 1368 Director of Communications

John Rogers ext. 1356

Director of Information Technology

CENTENARY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

646 W. FIFTH STREET • WINSTON-SALEM, NC 27101

HTTPS://CENTENARY-WS.ORG • 336-724-6311

ANNOUNCEMENTS • DECEMBER 29, 2024

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

CELEBRATIONS & CONCERNS

Today we celebrate the baptism of Landon William Taylor, son of Benjamin Maxwell and Jaclyn Davis Taylor and brother of Rosemary “Rosie” Diane Taylor.

CHURCH-WIDE OPPORTUNITIES

NOURISH RETURNS

CREATED BY GOD PARENT INFO SESSION

JANUARY 16, 2025 • 8 PM

BLOOD DRIVE

TUESDAY • JANUARY 28 • 12:30 - 5 PM

YOUTH MINISTRY

COMMUNITY ROOM

Our Wednesday evening church-wide dinner and spiritual formation classes returns on January 8. We invite you to join us as we begin the new year taking exciting steps in our faith journey. There is something for everyone! For a full listing of courses available and weekly dinner menus, visit www.centenary-ws.org/nourish or scan our QR code.

ADULT FORMATION

This year’s Created by God session for 4th and 5th graders and their families will be held Friday evening, February 28 and Saturday, March 1. This program gives our preteens an opportunity to learn about their growing and changing bodies through a Christian lens. Registration will open January 28, with limited space available. As you are deciding if this is the right year for your child to participate, we invite you to be a part of a Parent Info Session on Zoom Thursday, January 16 at 8 pm. Even if your child is not yet in 4th or 5th grade, you are welcome to join. Contact Kate May for more information.

CONGREGATIONAL CARE

HEALING HANDS MINISTRY

FIRST MONDAYS • 10 AM - NOON GATHERING ROOM

DISCIPLE BIBLE FAST TRACK: NEW TESTAMENT WEDNESDAY NIGHTS AT NOURISH BEGINNING JANUARY 15, 2025 5:45 - 7:00 PM • ROOM 115 • ZOOM

This group will cover major themes of the New Testament using the Disciple Fast Track study material designed to give busy people comprehensive engagement with the Bible over time. You do not need to know anything about the Bible to join this study. We meet for twelve sessions: Jan 15 – April 9. Group participants will spend about 30 minutes a day reading and reflecting on scripture in preparation for weekly group meetings, led by Kathy Chaney and Rev. Marilyn Weiler. Cost is $20 for the study guide and you may also want to purchase a recommended study Bible. Childcare is available. Please click here/ use our QR code to register by Wednesday, January 8.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

BACKPACK PROGRAM

Calling all knitters and crocheters! Join Healing Hands for a time of fellowship, instruction, and service as members create prayer shawls, lap throws, and other handmade items to provide a tangible blessing for people experiencing loss, crisis, or other need for prayerful care. Items are prayed over and blessed to be given away to others in time of need. No experience is necessary. Contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck or Dianne Moore for more information. Look for a Healing Hands opportunity during Nourish on Wednesday evenings starting in January! No experience is required.

REFRESH PRAYER MINISTRY

WEDNESDAYS • NOON - 12:45 PM SANCTUARY

Join the Refresh Prayer Ministry for a midweek service of reflection, music, and prayer. From 12:00-12:15 there will be a time for quiet reflection with music, and then the service will begin at 12:15 and finish by 12:45. Parking will be available in the Fifth Street parking lot, and you may enter from the Fifth Street entrance to the sanctuary. Services will resume on January 8. For more information, contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck or Becky Tate.

MEN’S MINISTRY

THURSDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP

Thank you all so much for your generosity during the holiday season as we sent additional food home for Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. School returns on January 6 and we will resume our weekly food distribution. For $200, you can sponsor a child’s weekend meals for a whole school year! Reach out to Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org) with any questions.

SAVE THESE SUMMER DATES!

VBS: June 16-19; 4 year olds - rising 6th graders

Camp Tekoa: July 6-12; rising 4th – 6th graders

Children’s Music and Arts Camp: July 14-17; 2 year olds – rising 5th graders

Older Elementary Mission Week: July 22-24; rising 4th – 6th graders

Watch for registration information in the new year!

JANUARY 9 • 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM COMMUNITY ROOM

We will gather in the second floor Catering Kitchen for coffee, biscuits, and fellowship. Then we move to the Community Room for prayer, announcements and a brief program. 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

CREATION CARE

MONDAY • DECEMBER 30 • 9 AM SANCTUARY

We are re-purposing and re-gifting our Christmas poinsettias to our friends at Chrystal Towers, Sunrise Towers, and Healy Towers. Please join us! Contact Rev. Meg Peters (mpeters@centenary-ws.org), if you have any questions.

Centenary is partnering with the Red Cross to host a blood drive. If you would like to sign up to donate blood, you may do so by scanning the QR code or visiting our website. If you cannot give blood but would like to volunteer, please email Rev. Meg Peters (mpeters@centenaryws.org).

MUSIC & ARTS

Today 10:00 am: Youth Sunday school 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm: New Year’s Eve, Eve Party (@ Bowlero, 811 Jonestown Rd.) Everyone is welcome to bring friends to bowl, eat (pizza and chicken nugget bar), play in the arcade, and make some New Year’s resolutions! Cost is $20 per person. while we skate! As always, friends are welcome!

JOIN THE CHANCEL CHOIR IN 2025!

Looking to begin the year in the spirit of service? The Chancel Choir is proud to serve our congregation and always eager to welcome those who love to sing! Join us as we kick off 2025 with our annual January Jumpstart (1/10 & 11), which will include preparation of music for Lent, Easter and as well as Mozart’s Requiem. Rehearsals are held each Thursday at 7:00 pm. Come be a part of a growing and increasingly vibrant community of song! Contact Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music Ministries (jemmons@centenary-ws. org with questions or for more information.

SIGN UP NOW FOR CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ART CAMP 2025

JULY 14 - 17, 2024

CONFIRMATION 2025

Starting on January 8, 2025 (through May 18), we invite all 7th graders to join our Confirmation class. We will meet each Wednesday night from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm to learn about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the spiritual life, and how they form us and help us to change the way we live our lives. The hope is that through these experiences, you will come to encounter Jesus in a very real way and that encounter will change the way you live your life! For more information contact Tammy Pollock (tpollock@centenaryws.org).

Register now for CMA Camp 2025! Open to infants through rising 5th graders, this fun-filled week features singing, handbells, art, Kindermusik, and more! The highlight of Camp each year is the camper-led worship service that concludes our week together. Register now via the QR code for a special early bird discount! For more information, please contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws. org).

CHILDREN’S CAE RETURNS JANUARY 8 –

NEW PARTICIPANTS WELCOME!

TRUST

– A RETREAT FOR JUNIORS & SENIORS

Children’s Creative Arts Experience includes activities for children ages 2 through 5th grade each Wednesday during Nourish. CAE’s multi-faceted model engages children with various levels of musical and artistic interests, all while cultivating more regular, more varied worship leadership opportunities for Centenary’s youngest! Register via the QR Code. Current participants need not register again. Email Music Ministries Assistant Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenary-ws.org) with any questions.

SENIOR ADULTS

LUNCHEON THURSDAY • JANUARY 16 • NOON MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

This month’s guest speaker is Cameron Kent, former news anchor from WXII and now best-selling author. To register, send an email to seniorlunch@centenary-ws.org or call the church office during business hours. Luncheon cost is $10.00 and the signup deadline is Wednesday, January 8. The Senior Adult Council will meet briefly in the choir room at 11:00 before the luncheon.

In a world that continues to spin in uncertainty and chaos, we invite all our Juniors and Seniors in High school to retreat away, January 10-11, 2025, to the beautiful mountains at Blowing Rock Conference Center near Bass Lake. We will spend the weekend remembering our Confirmation and how we continue to live trusting the Lord in all things. Together we will rest, remember, and recommit ourselves to the One who reaches out to us in love. The cost of the retreat is $150 per person. For more information contact Tammy Pollock (tpollock@centenary-ws.org)

LOOKING AHEAD

January 5: ALL Youth Ice Skating (@ Winston-Salem Fairgrounds)

January 8: 2025

Confirmation begins January 10-11: Junior/ Senior Retreat to Blowing Rock

January 31: Sixers! Go to the Movies!

February 23: Love Thy Neighbor Annual Fundraiser

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.

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