DEPARTMENTS From the Editor EDITOR What is a volunteer? Is it your neighbor? Is it you? Is it that aloof person off in the distance you always see making things happen? Lake Junaluska Singers
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Reflections Dr. W. Mark Ralls, Senior Minister
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Summer Art Gallery Exhibit
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Mid-Week Recharge
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Tastings
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United Methodist Women
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The truth is, it’s all of the above. I would say that each of us possess a desire to be involved in particular projects, societies, emphasis groups or focused activities. They complete us. They make us a more rounded individual and they allow us to give back a small portion of the gifts which were freely given to us. They also allow our great heritage to continue in teaching a new generation how to give back. Only when we give back can we see the full circle of the amazing life which has been given to each of us.
Are You Hungry?
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Loaves & Fishes
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The Food Bank Garden
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Glad Tidings
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The Gardens at Centenary
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Memorials & Honoraria
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Departures
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Lake Junaluska
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New Members
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Reading Inspiration for Summer
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Children’s Ministry
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Events & Announcements
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Adult Small Groups
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Congregational Care
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On the Cover
Divorce Care
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Youth Ministry
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Each Sunday at the 8:45 am worship service, the Centenary youth serve as ushers. This image features Jackson Smith as he greeted worshippers on Pentecost Sunday. It reminds us that we each have a role here at Centenary and in our community.
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As you read through the July/August edition of Windows, we are placing a special emphasis on the role of the volunteer in the life of Centenary, which, when you think about it, is the life of our faith and our greater community. These people would say that recognition is not the goal. They would challenge each of us to find our place, at Centenary, to be involved, make an impact and share our time and talent. Our vows of membership speak so clearly to this important aspect. What will be your involvement? Centenary has a place for you and we cannot wait to celebrate your participation. * Doug Peninger *To learn more about becoming a volunteer at Centenary, contact Judy Jones, Ministry Coordinator (397-1361)/jjones@centenary-ws. org.
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Reflections
mralls@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1362
The Sower Dr. W. Mark Ralls
Senior Minister mralls@centenary-ws.org
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he Christ’s Ministry window in our sanctuary features a silent figure patiently at work. No fanfare. No applause. Just one lone figure quietly going about his task. No one knows his identity but his fame justly echoes across the ages. He is the sower. He is the sole character of one the most inspiring parables of Jesus. “Behold, there went out a sower to sow.” Jesus admits that not every seed “takes root” but he adds optimistically that if you and I drop enough seeds, there will one day be a bumper crop.
ground. Often those who sow are not present to see the full impact of their gifts of service. They trust in the creative power of God.
When I think of the incredible cadre of volunteers – the Stephen Ministers and the Altar Guild, those who provide assistance at Loaves and Fishes and who offer hospitality on Sunday mornings, the Sunday school teachers and Senior Adult council, and of course those who tend the Holmes Food Bank Garden – I am reminded of this ancient sower. And of course, those mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. Centenary is blessed with remarkably generous volunteers in every area you can imagine. Each of them displays the virtue of the sower Jesus spoke about – trust. Every act of mercy and hospitality, of care and compassion, is a seed planted in the
Thank you Centenary Volunteers for the many seeds you have sown!
In that sense, everyone who volunteers provides a timeless witness – as did the ancient sower depicted in our window – of faith, hope and love. Like him, their service often goes unrecognized but its impact is deeply felt. For this and so much more, we are deeply grateful.
Warmly,
Top Center Medallion: The dove as a symbol of the Holy Spirit sets the tone of the ministry of Jesus. “ ... and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form, as a dove ... “ (Lk. 3:22). The dove with the tri-radiant nimbus is one of the earliest forms used to represent the Holy Spirit. Projecting from the central figure of the dove are seven rays, each tipped with a smaller dove. Seven is the perfect number and is associated with the seven gifts of the spirit.
“lilies of the field.” Quoted is one of the beatitudes: “Blessed are the pure in heart.” (Matt 5:8). Jerusalem is in the background. The trees are the cedars of Lebanon.
Ribbon quote: “The Time is Fulfilled. The Kingdom of God is at Hand” (Mk.1:14).
Middle right medallion: The first parable- the sower. “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.” (Lk. 8:11). Items from the parable are visible: the sower, the path, the birds, the rocky ground, the thorns and the tares, the sun and the one healthy plant from the good soil.
Upper left medallion: Jesus is seen rising from the River Jordan having been baptized by John the Baptist who is kneeling. John’s staff is in the shape of a cross. His clothes are the rough wear typical of his desert ministry. On the ground is a shell, another symbol of baptism since it symbolizes life born in water. The Holy Spirit is symbolized descending upon Jesus. Behind Jesus is the simplified fish form, the vesica. This shape is the same form that dominates the chancel window and the kneeling cushions. The baptism marked the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Upper right medallion: Calling the Disciples. The brothers Peter and Andrew were the first disciples. They are seen in their fishing boat: “And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” (Matt. 41:19). Again there is the connection of Jesus’ ministry with water and fish. The rising sun in the left symbolizes the new beginnings: a new ministry, a new calling, a new kingdom, a new way of life. Jerusalem is pictured on the right. Upper Center: The Sermon on the Mount represents the body of Jesus’ teachings. Notice the variety of people gathered and the crowd seen coming up the mountain. At his feet are the
Photo: courtesy Rick Gibbons ~ Studio104
Middle left medallion: The first miracle- Jesus changed the water into wine at a wedding feast in Cana. “This, the first of his signs . . . “ (Jn. 2: 11). The bride, groom and parents are at the table. A servant is pouring wine into an urn.
Lower Center: The Transfiguration symbolized the imminent end of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The appearance of Moses and Elijah represent the Law and the Prophets as they were fulfilled and superseded in Jesus. Moses was the mediator of the old covenant. Notice the tablets with the commandments. Jesus was the mediator of the new covenant. Elijah was expected to reappear as a forerunner of the Messiah. The disciples, Peter, John and James, were with him at the Transfiguration and at Gethesemane (Lk. 9:28;30). At both places they were heavy with sleep. Quote: “This is my beloved Son. Hear Him.” (Mk. 9:7). Lower left medallion and lower right medallion: The shaft of wheat and the cluster of grapes are symbols of the bread and wine. They represent the body and blood at the Last Supper, the inauguration of Holy Communion. At the close of his earthly ministry, Jesus shared with the disciples a common meal as a token of their sharing the continuation of his ministry. (The description of the window is from Centenary United Methodist Church: Symbols: The Story Told in Glass, Stone and Fabric, 1989.)
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Mid-Week Recharge by Martha Bassett
(Left to right: Pat Lawrence, Martha Bassett, Sam Frazier)
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ello Centenary friends. I’d like to share with you some exciting news from Roots Revival (RR). If you’ve attended a service, you know that we meet in the auditorium on Wednesday evenings at 7:30. I lead the music with the help of band-mates Sam Frazier on guitar and Pat Lawrence on upright bass. Roots Revival is the newest service at Centenary and we’ve been drawing visitors from various churches and organizations who’ve caught wind that something special is happening. As a result, the Roots Revival band has been invited to lead the music for the closing service at this year’s Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska in June. Shortly after that invitation came, we were invited to lead the music for all of the services of the 2013 Duke Convocation on the Rural Church Conference at Myrtle Beach in August. The planning of RR began last June when Reverend Sarah Howell and I
artists such as The Dan River Girls (a young bluegrass sister trio) and Pinkerton Raid (a Durham-based rock band). Every few weeks we host a free concert for the public featuring nationally known artists. So far we’ve presented Grammy winner Rhiannon Giddens (of the Carolina Chocolate Drops) and Jonathan Byrd (indie-folk singer-songwriter), bringing full house crowds to our beautiful new auditorium. Despite (and perhaps because of) the heavy focus on music, what makes RR so meaningful to me is its intimacy. People have expressed enjoying the quietness and contemplative qualities of RR. Although the atmosphere is casual, the worship is meaningful with a message bringing us in closer communion with God and each other. After our church’s series on Sabbath, I’ve come to think of RR as a respite, a way to refuel. Roots are by nature underground, dark, slow, quiet and vulnerable. Our logo is based on the Shaker Tree of Life, full of beautiful fruit. Time spent developing strong roots is necessary for the tree to grow and bear fruit. So if you’re in need of a mid-week respite or recharging, I hope you’ll visit us. More info at www.rootsrevivalws.com, and like us on Facebook at http://www. facebook.com/rootsrevivalws.
began meeting weekly to brainstorm about what we wanted in a worship service and how to create a community within a church. As we both love Americana/Roots music, we wanted all aspects of the service to be built around a musical idea and inspire the worship. At the beginning of most services we have a short musical rehearsal to learn unfamiliar music and encourage part-singing. Once the service begins we use a chosen hymn before, during, and after prayer. The band plays a “focus song,” followed by scripture and sermon, followed by a second “focus song.” We almost always have communion and end with more congregational singing. We’ve had guest
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Tastings
for Faith & Fellowship
Through Centenary Windows is proud to bring to you the incredible recipes from the United Methodist Women Cookbook Be Present at Our Table. We feature a recipe for each edition as we share not only faith, but our love of good food and the fellowship it brings around our table. Be sure to visit Glad Tidings Books and Gifts on the Centenary campus to get your copy of the cookbook. This month, from the kitchen of Kristen Zaks, Artichoke Tortellini Salad. This recipe can be found on page 172 of the cookbook.
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ummer is here! The perfect time of year for afternoon picnics and evening potlucks. My Artichoke Tortellini salad is the perfect dish for a summer gathering, especially since it doesn’t require refrigeration.
Kristen Zaks
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This tortellini salad is simple and very light tasting. It’s wonderful to serve over lettuce and you can add grilled shrimp or chicken to make it more filling. I also love to use fresh herbs and delicious summer tomatoes in the recipe.
When I was first married and gathering recipes, my mother passed this one along. A close family friend had made it for an annual Labor Day picnic years before and my Mom said it had to go in my own personal recipe book. I have probably made it hundreds of times since I received the recipe. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
United Methodist Women
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edication and service are key components to the life of a volunteer. This year, at the May United Methodist Women’s (UMW) annual spring luncheon, service pins were presented to outstanding volunteers who selflessly gave of their time, talent and resources. The recipients for 2013 are Jane Poe, Sarah Rorbaugh, Janette Griffin, Andrea Little and Janice Dockery. ( Janice Dockery and Andrea Little were not able to attend the luncheon)
Jane Poe
Sarah Rorhbaugh
Janette Griffin
General Meeting & Luncheon September 9 • Noon • Memorial Auditorium
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Dr. Gail O’Day
ome and enjoy our UMW General Meeting that will be Monday, September 9 at noon in the auditorium. Dr. Gail O’ Day will speak on “Friendship as Christian Practice: Living Together in Jesus’ Love.” Dr. O’Day is Dean and Professor of the New Testament and Preaching at the Wake Forest University School of Divinity. She is a graduate of Brown University and earned a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School and a Doctorate in New Testament from Emory. She is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. Please
RSVP to your circle leader by Tuesday, September 3. If you are not in a circle, you may call Mary Ceile Ogburn (7257573) by the same deadline. We always welcome new faces! Please note that the board meeting will be held at 10:30 am in room 115 prior to the luncheon. For any questions call Judy Smith (7247232). Come and connect with friends after summer and sign up for lots of surprise give-aways.
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very Tuesday, Centenary opens its doors to those in need. Hundreds of people call each month, and Loaves & Fishes (Centenary’s community ministry) assists around 150 people. Mimi Hein has volunteered with Loaves & Fishes since 1997. Why do you serve at Loaves & Fishes? It has just been such a worthwhile ministry for me personally to interact with clients whom I would not normally meet in my daily life. I get to know them on a person-to-person, face-to-face basis. Also, throughout my life the most important scripture to me has always been Matthew 25— serving “the least of these.”
A Community Ministy of Centenary United Methodist Church
who had been helped by Loaves & Fishes; she said that she had gotten her feet back on the ground, and she had indeed helped someone else. If you could tell people one thing about the ministry of Loaves & Fishes, what would you tell them? I wish that everyone had the chance to know the clients as I know them—as fellow children of God. For more information on how to get involved with Loaves & Fishes, contact Marianne Bach (407-1772).
Why do you think that Loaves & Fishes is effective? I think it’s a unique opportunity to serve a segment of the population that is underserved, and whom we probably wouldn’t reach through many other channels. I also think it’s a nice corollary to the Love thy Neighbor ministry that the youth do. What has been your most memorable experience at Loaves & Fishes? I remember one particular woman whom we interviewed and helped. She said, “How can I pay Centenary back?” My answer to her was, “Someday when you get your feet back on the ground, turn around and help someone you know who is in need.” A few months later, I remember Michael Brown saying from the pulpit that he had received a letter from a woman
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Planned Giving
jbrake@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1334
Growing Love for 15 Years
The Betty & Jim Holmes Food Bank Garden (on the campus of The Children’s Home)
HISTORY OF THE GARDEN It all began when Jim Holmes Jr. started the Food Bank Community Garden in 1998. In a simple discussion between Holmes and his son as they drove past The Children’s Home, Jim Holmes III remembers his father saying “What a shame we aren’t cultivating some of that land to grow food for hungry people.” Jim’s wife Betty became a partner in the implementation of the plan. Many tell stories of how she would play with the children of families who came to the garden and bring food for the volunteers. It wasn’t long until Mr. Holmes set up a meeting with Nan Griswold, then the director of Second Harvest which provides food for hungry people in 18 counties. That was fifteen years ago and the garden is still going strong today. Although, according to Holmes, the volunteers from Centenary UMC have led the effort, he said, the garden truly is a “community garden” and welcomes support from other congregations and organizations. Many volunteers have worked tirelessly to make sure the legacy of Jim and Betty Holmes, Jr. continues into the future.
WHY WE CONTINUE TO GROW FOOD
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The mission of the Food Bank Garden is to grow fresh food to meet emergency needs of hungry people. With recent economic distress and unemployment, the number of people needing emergency food has dramatically increased in the last few years. The Food Bank of Northwest NC serves 18 counties, including more than 80,000 children. Ten percent of Americans are considered “food insecure” meaning they cannot
be certain where their next meal is coming from. This affects students in school and adult work productivity. Yet, hunger remains fairly hidden in our communities. Many are skipping meals or eating less than is healthy, often consuming lower nutrition foods because they are less expensive. This reality affects all Americans and can have devastating effects on our entire society.
Having an all-volunteer community garden drastically reduces the cost of healthy food, raises awareness of food issues in Forsyth County and connects members of the community to one another in tangible ways. Partnering with the Food Bank provides an efficient distribution system to quickly get these perishable items into the hands of the people who need them most. Having our fields on the campus of The Children’s Home also raises community awareness of the needs being met by this wonderful organization. The Children’s Home and its staff have been extremely helpful in providing the place and services that make the garden possible.
WHERE THE GARDEN IS HEADED Through the years the garden has grown in size, number of participants (see the 2012 list of volunteer groups below), and amount of food produced (over 10,000 lbs last year). We currently grow tomatoes, peppers, okra, squash, watermelons, cantaloupe, beans, cabbage, broccoli, collards, greens, cucumbers, zucchini and sweet potatoes. Under wonderful leadership, the Food Bank Garden grows food in an organic and a sustainable direction. There is a drip irrigation system to conserve water, a test garden for determining which varieties will produce best in our climate, and composting bins to return nutrients to the soil without using chemical fertilizers. You will also discover crop rotation, cover crops, and truckloads of leaves from the Wake Forest University Campus. We attract pollinators by growing a variety of flowers and benefit from beehives in The Children’s Home farm fields. Sunflowers attract birds which also assist with pest control. Centenary has been a proud sponsor throughout the lifetime of the Food Bank Garden and we are now making plans to put even more effort behind the great work happening there. Church staff and leadership are working on ways to increase our members’
hands-on involvement and invest in the infrastructure of the garden to move from a summer project to a true “3-seasons” garden, growing spring and fall cool weather plants in more abundance than we have been able to do previously.
IT’S A TRUE COMMUNITY ENDEAVOR As a “community garden,” we are open to any individuals or groups who are looking for a way to give back to the community. From school groups to scout troops, families to office coworkers, churches to temples, garden clubs to day camps, it takes a whole community to feed the hungry people of our community. We have even found that newcomers to Winston-Salem search online for “community garden” and then show up ready to get to work! All ages are welcome and no gardening experience is necessary.
Here is how you can find all the information you will need: Website: JimAndBettyHolmesFoodBankGarden.Shutterfly.com (volunteer schedule, directions, & more) Blog: FoodBankGarden.blogspot.com Email: harvest.tomatoes@gmail.com (send a message here to subscribe to the email list) Phone: 336-922-7195 Harvest Times: Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30-7:00pm; Saturday, 9:0010:30am We look forward to seeing you soon.
ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES THIS SUMMER It takes many hands to grow and harvest thousands of pounds of food each year. And we can always use more volunteers. We are now fully into the harvest season. In addition to picking vegetables and melons, we can use volunteers to mow grass, stabilize plants heavy with food, pull weeds, collect seeds, repair damaged items and plant fall crops. Tell your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members. Plan a special day in the garden and come have fun, sharing love with each other and our neighbors in need. We have several volunteers who come regularly, such as once a week. You don’t have to register, just come. Gloves and tools are provided on site. The Jim and Betty Holmes Food Bank Garden has been featured in The Winston-Salem Journal, the book American Grown by Michelle Obama (see photo of signature) and on an NPR radio show!
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Ministry with a Smile Volunteers at Glad Tidings not only help you find the perfect gift for a loved one or a favorite book to read; they provide ministry to our congregation by providing a place for conversation, engagement and compassion. All proceeds from sales benefit the mission opportunities at Centenary.
(Pictured: Back Row Left to Right: Susan Armstrong, Louise Kinken, Judy Jones, Anne Pierce; Front Row: Bob & Ileta Reed, Geri Milner and Anne Matthews)
Volunteering in Glad Tidings gives me a chance to see so many members of Centenary who might not be in my Sunday School class or go to the same service I attend. It makes Centenary smaller. The part I love the most is seeing how excited people are to come in, see the beautiful store and know that they can find great gifts while helping the church. Whether they buy or not, they have been touched by the fabulous Judy Jones—a blessing we’re all thankful for.
~ Marianne Bach
For the past three years, I have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at Glad Tidings. It is a lovely gift and book store. I have met many new friends from Centenary and other places, and I
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have enjoyed helping people while they are in the shop. Most important, all Glad Tidings profits go to missions which is very important to me. What a wonderful service and asset this little special shop is for Centenary. ~ Ann Matthews Glad Tidings is a happy, cheerful place. Love abounds. There is a sense of belonging to all who enter. It is truly a ministry not only for missions, but for all who visit the shop. It is a blessing to be a part of this ministry. ~ Louise Kinken
Just a few steps from Centenary’s beautiful sanctuary is a “sanctuary” of another kind: a place of sunlight and beautiful things, shelves of books that inspire and enlighten and a meeting place for friends. Did you also know that Glad Tidings is also a sanctuary that gives back? The modest profits from this special shop support missions. When we shop, we contribute to the work of the church..........talk about a “win-win”! To help at Glad Tidings is to enjoy it all: being part of our faith community’s outreach, spending time in a beautiful place and visiting with shopping friends! ‘Hope to see you soon at our own Glad Tidings! ~ Nancy Stallings Glad Tidings provides an incredibly valuable ministry to Centenary members, prospective members, and those who are visiting the church for any number of reasons, including dropping by to visit a family member in Centenary’s Daybreak program. Glad Tidings offers a means for people to not only find the perfect gift at a great price (something we hear quite often), but a means for people to meet others they may not otherwise have an opportunity to meet, learn about events going in the church, or taste a delicious treat from one of the recipes in our cookbook. One thing you will notice is that everyone in Glad Tidings is wearing a smile: volunteers, customers, or those just passing through to see what this place is all about. If you want an opportunity to experience Christian love in action, stop by Glad Tidings anytime. It’s right there! ~ Terry Hutchens “I began volunteering for Glad Tidings because I wanted to be involved in a ministry for the church and I thought it would be a good fit for me. Over the last two years my time in Glad Tidings has given me so much more. The biggest benefit for me is the people that I meet and work with every week. Glad Tidings allows me to use my skills for a higher purpose, while being part of a great group of volunteers and staff. “ ~ Geri Milner
I chose to volunteer in Glad Tidings because I am so blessed every day that I feel compelled to give back in whatever way I can. What better way than to help my “faith family.” ~ Nancy Michael
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cford@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1353
Senior Adult Ministry
The Gardens at Centenary by Kitty Felts
(Kitty Felts adds new plants to one of the raised berms on the West lawn at Centenary.)
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ardens have played an important part in our religious heritage as reflected in both music and scripture. In keeping with our heritage, today the gardens at Centenary expand in every direction across the grounds of our church. The plantings represent the inspiration and labor of many individuals and groups. Mixtures of annuals, perennials, bulbs, flowering trees and ornamental shrubs are massed in several beds.
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Each collection is a reminder of the beauty of God’s creation and His promise for new life. For many years, the Centenary campus was a green carpet dotted with a few well-placed trees, but today there are garden areas that stretch from the rock wall at our southern border on Fourth Street to the Gail Dunning Memorial Garden by the front entrance ramp near Fifth Street. What are these plantings and how and when did they get there?
The Centenary gardens began with the completion of the columbarium in1997 which from its beginning contained two garden areas, a pool with a fountain and several stone benches. The two garden areas within the columbarium were initially commercially planted. A shrub border was added outside along the West wall of the columbarium and a liriope bed was planted to the North. That same year the Environmental Council was formed at Centenary.
Kitty Felts and Ruth Deudney were co-chairs of the newly formed council and the Rev. Ed Ritter served as its ministerial counselor. One of the goals of the Environmental Council was to increase awareness and appreciation of God’s creation. To help achieve that goal as well as beautify the campus, Environmental Council member Bob Gibson, a retired physician turned landscaper, suggested that one of the Council’s projects should be to build gardens on church property. Permission and funding for this project were obtained from the Property Committee and Church Council. In the fall of 1997, Dr. Gibson and Jim May along with commissioned landscaper Ryan Gitter, built and planted the three gardens outside the columbarium. The beds were constructed as raised berms to provide a visual separation between the church and library. The berms were filled with perennials and blooming shrubs such as fothergilla and viburnum with ample space left for adding seasonal annuals and bulbs. Three zelkova trees were planted along the border of the berms with room remaining for benches at some future date. Liriope was planted as an edging to the garden and has been trimmed yearly by Harry Corpening.
5. A garden area on Fourth Street behind the parking lot. (Originally, this was an open area with beautiful stone steps that led from Fourth Street to the rear entry of the church.) 6. A redesign of the columbarium planters, done in 2008 by landscaper John Newman to include stone mosaics inspired by Centenary’s stained glass windows and designed by Ian Byers. 7. A plan by Nancy Warren to fill the flower planter built into the slope between the children’s building and adjacent parking lot and to plant nearby containers with herbs for use in the church kitchen. The gardens at Centenary are primarily a volunteer effort of the congregation. Over the past 16 years, groups of faithful Centenary members too numerous to list have met to use their time and talents as they have planted, weeded, trimmed, fertilized and removed plants when the season dictated.
(Ground cover of petite blue wood iris and pink dianthus bloom in the Gail Dunning Memorial Garden beside the ramp near Fifth Street.}
As you walk around Centenary, take time to enjoy the plantings, and if you are interested in helping with the gardens, please contact me, Kitty Felts (765-7993).
During the next several years other plantings were installed in several different locations: 1. A shrub and flower bed in front of the children’s building. 2. A flower border around the Centenary sign on the front lawn. (This planting was abandoned when the sign was moved and enlarged.) 3. Sidewalk cuts on the city-owned 4 ½ Street sidewalk which held Armstrong maples. (In recent years the City of Winston-Salem replaced these with crepe myrtles. These are watered regularly by city watering trucks.) 4. A row of crepe myrtles between the two church parking lots on Four ½ Street.
(All images courtesy Dan Culp)
Senior Adult Contact Information: Craig Ford: 397-1353 / cford@centenary-ws.org Handy Helpers: John Anthony • 765-3804 Senior Adult Chair: Charles Monroe • 773-0446 Programming: Jean Burroughs • 759-2387 Church: 724-6311
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Memorials Centenary Fund
Children’s Ministry
We extend sympathy to...
In memory of Harold Holmes Hilburn by Mrs. G.H. Burgess, Gerard and Anne Currier, and Celeste Beron. In memory of Kathryn McCall Deal by Pamela and Robert Cain. In memory of Hazel Newman Nading by Janie and Jarman Jenkins.
In memory of Sandra Jones Archer, mother of Laura Bland, by Evan and Mark Dunnagan, and Circle 15.
...Diane Baker in the death of her mother, Bee Chapman.
Sacred Music Fund
In memory of Arthur Townsend Klinger by Mary Lib McCachern, Pitts Appraisal and Associates, and NCDOT Winston-Salem Appraisal Office.
In memory of Harold Holmes Hilburn by Dr. Frank and Ann Randall.
Stephen Ministry Fund
...Lydia Clark and Noelle Scott in the death of their father, Maurice H. Cain, of Falkville, AL. ...Susan Sommerkamp in the death of her mother, Edna Stewart.
Missionary Friendship Fund In memory of Gladys M. Poindexter by Mr. and Mrs. H.E. Shoaf. In memory of Betsy Millar by Circle 3.
Honoraria Centenary Fund In honor of the Keith Norman Family by Mrs. Maurice Sponcler.
Georgia Gray Elliott on May 15, 2013 to parents Scott and Mary Ellen Elliott (grandparents Larry and Sara Jane Elliott).
Loaves and Fishes
We celebrate the baptism of...
In honor of Morris Marley by Disciple Class 3, Dale Box, Anna Mae Barbee, Charles Chatham, Sally Burns, James Bunn, Priscilla Robinette, Mary Sperry, Beverly Marley, and Ronnie Lee Willard. In honor of Kathy Battle by her Discipleship Class, Nell Cavenaugh, Trisha Chatham, Barbara Gerber, Judy Halverson, Mimi Heim, Bea Johnston, Carol Leinbach, Bill Noah, Nancy Smith, Gene Wagoner, Jerry and Nancy Warren.
...John Whitaker Kelly (Whit) and Robert
Respite Care In honor of Drs. Bill and Candyce Leonard and Stephanie Leonard by Shelmer Blackburn, Jr.
We celebrate the birth of... ...Hannah Esther Walton on March 28, 2013, to Perry and Nicole Walton (big sister Abby).
George Kelly, II (Bo), sons of Doctors Elizabeth and Jonathan Kelly (Libby and Jonathan), brothers of Amory, Lila, and Eve Kelly, grandsons of Mr. and Mrs. John C. Whitaker, Jr (Betty and John) and Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kelly (Maxine and Robert). Also celebrating with Whit and Bo are their extended family: the Pollard, Welch and Johnson families. ...Madeleine Claire Norman (Mary Claire), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Keith Norman (Lisa and Keith), sister of Ellie, Jack and Hamilton. ...Susanne Chandler Marley (Chandler), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jason Morris Marley (Jason and Elizabeth), granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Morris Duncan Marley (Mo and Beverly) and Mr. and Mrs. David Bennett Blanco (David and Sally) and the late Susanne Hall Blanco.
We celebrate the marriage of...
...Caroline Ragan Gall on April 3, 2013 to Parents Brandon and Holli Gall (big sister Margaret).
...Calen Michael Butler and Elizabeth Marie Garner on May 11, 2013.
...Brian Joseph Holden, Jr. on May 6, 2013 to parents Brian and Kara Holden.
...Brett Matthew Lowenthal and Caroline Kristen Doud on June 1, 2013.
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In Memoriam Robert Calhoun Kennedy December 9, 2012 Kathryn Deal March 9, 2013 Robin Parnell Crawley April 1, 2013 Harold Holmes Hilburn April 18, 2013 Arthur T. Klinger May 8, 2013 Flora Redman Raper May 16, 2013 Elizabeth Rogers Millar May 24, 2013 Helene Halverson May 30, 2013
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.
Departures United Methodist Church in Morganton, where I look forward to my new congregational ministry of missions, youth, visitation and worship leadership.
Dear Friends, I know that it is a season of change here at Centenary, and I too must now bid a fond farewell to my many friends and colleagues at this church, where I have been so privileged to be affiliated for more than 20 years. Bishop Goodpaster has recently reappointed me to be the Associate Pastor at First
After I joined Centenary in 1990, both of my children were baptized here, and I was pleased and proud to participate in vital ministries as a member and lay leader for many years. This congregation also nurtured my eventual call to ordained ministry, and nearly four years ago now, it was one of the great privileges of my life to preach my ordination sermon from the pulpit of this great church, which holds such a place of prominence in the history and heritage of Methodism. In recent years, I have also been immensely grateful for Centenary’s unflagging support of our Methodist Children’s Home during the time I have served there as Chaplain, and thanks to all of you who have shown God’s love in such great measure to the young people
we serve and their caregivers. I know that you will continue to support them long after I have gone, just as you did long before I ever arrived there. As I depart this hallowed ground, I am more profoundly thankful than ever for the legacy of this congregation both within our own walls, and more importantly, out there in the community and the world. To each of you as friends, colleagues, and fellow congregants, I wish to say a word of gratitude for every act of worship, every season of spiritual formation, every ministry of missional outreach, and every moment of fellowship together that we have shared. These treasured memories of you are now irreplaceable flagstones marking the path of my journey along the way. “I thank God for every remembrance of you,” - Phillippians 1:3 Blessings & Godspeed, Laura Elliott
Director of Operations, Sherry Tumlin, has retired from Centenary. After her years of service and dedication, we extend to her our prayers and affection as she enters this new chapter in her life. We send her forth with tremendous thanks and appreciation. John Markle has assumed the position of Interim Director of Operations. His contact information is (397-1347)/jmarkle@centenary-ws.org.
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An Invitation
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his year, 2013, is the 100th Anniversary of the Lake Junaluska Assembly. The Board of Directors and Staff have planned all kinds of events, happenings and celebrations to mark the Centennial of this hallowed place to United Methodist in the Southeastern Jurisdiction. The purposes of the “birthday celebration” are (1) to remember with gratitude the rich memories of the last 100 years and, perhaps more important, (2) to launch the next 100 years of ministry in order to be more creative and effective in resourcing the conferences, districts and churches for living into their ministries during the next 100 years. During that first gathering in 1913 at what was to become the Lake Junaluska Assembly an offering developed from Saturday, June 28 until Monday morning June 30 that amounted to $152,000. Bill Lowry, in his History of Lake Junaluska Assembly, writes that “The first offering amounted to $57,000 then it grew to $106,000. The woman in attendance had a meeting and caused it to grow to $115,000. When the worship services ended Sunday night the offering had grown to $150,000. Then a telegram from a group in Birmingham on Monday morning, June 30, 1913,pushed the total to $152,000.”
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The Junaluska Associates Board of Directors decided that during 2013 there needed to be an offering for Lake Junaluska Assembly across the Southeastern Jurisdiction. The impetus for this was twofold. First, it is the
Centennial of this place and in various ways and times during this year there will be a BIRTHDAY PARTY and everyone who has been touched by Lake Junaluska, directly or indirectly, should be invited to bring a gift to the PARTY. Second, remembering that first offering in 1913 of $152,000, which the Consumer Price Index indicates would be almost $3,500,000 in current dollars, it caused the Associates to consider an “offering” as an appropriate and “almost must do” part of any Centennial/ Anniversary/Birthday Celebration. SO, THIS IS AN INVITATION TO EVERY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TO MAKE A CENTENNIAL OFFERING FOR THE LAKE JUNALUSKA ASSEMBLY. Some churches are using benchmarks such as $50 per year times 100, others are using 50 cents per member and others are using at least $100 as their goal. Whatever the amount, every church is invited to make a gift. Some churches are planning to have a Lake Junaluska Day and take a special centennial offering in addition to their regular offering. If you need some material related to such a day and offering, go to the Lake Junaluska website. How ever and whatever your do, please “just do it” and share in this special time in Methodist History. Consider inviting Sunday School Classes, United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men and Youth Groups to share in this offering.
If possible make your response before Thursday, August 1, because offerings at the Lake August 3 and 4 will be the high point of this effort and it will be great to have your church’s gift counted in the totals that weekend. Checks need to be made payable to: The Lake Junaluska Centennial Fund or L J C F Funds need to be mailed to: The Junaluska Associates, POB 67, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 Remember that any kind of appreciated assets can be given, too. (such as stocks, bond, paid-up life ins, real property, etc.) If there are questions, please contact: The Associates Office POB 67- 828-452-2882 ext. 725 or associates@lakejunaluska.com Or The Development Office POB 67 – 828-452-2881 ext. 680 or development@lakejunaluska.com Or Ernie Porter, Centennial Gift Chair POB 1268 – 828-456-4982 or 5068285 or ernieporter@chartner.net
Welcome
New Members
The 2013 Confirmation Class Huntley Allen, Joseph W. Baicy, Lacey Boss, Nathan Clark, Mark B. Cordell Jr., Andrew Cox, Staten DeBruhl, Jack Dew, Abby Dwiggins, Andrew Epermanis, Drew Fansler, Spencer Faircloth, Jordan Fant, Linden Fisher, Samantha Nicole Foster, Alex Fus, Kate Ginn, Joyner Allison Gross, Abby Hettinger, Baker Kenan, Matthew Mottesheard, Jack O’Brien, Noah Peebles, Mclain Ralston, Emma Rowe, Henry Seitz, Carver Semans, Thomas Setzer, Matthew Shealy, Katie Sohmer, William Sutton, Stephen Thomas, Thatch Townsend, Tatum Tucker, Katherine Watts, Fleet Wilson, Stephen M. Wilson
We also celebrate new members who are not pictured: Scott & Mary Lynn Copus (Kimberly and Josh)
We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love.
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ooking for inspiration this summer? Wish you could be in a book club but just don’t have the time? Here is your chance! Our ministry staff members have each selected a book recommendation for this summer – the variety of options is as wonderful as our staff themselves. Just five simple steps to enjoy your summer reading: 1) Choose a book or two from this list 2) Pick up your copy at Glad Tidings Books & Gifts 3) Sign up for updates/correspondence (at Glad Tidings) 4) Read your book by the pool, on the sand, in a hammock (or anywhere comfortable) 5) Come share at the covered dish Book Discussion on Sunday, August 18th at 6:00pm in the auditorium Dr. W. Mark Ralls, Senior Minister The Life You Save May Be Your Own: An American Pilgrimage by Paul Elie Do you enjoy the place where great literature and faith meet? A pilgrimage is a journey taken in light of a story and in this book Paul Elie recounts the pilgrimage from a God-obsessed literary past with Dante and Dostoevsky out into the thrilling chaos of postwar American life. And it is a story about the ways we look to great books and writers to help us make sense of our experience, about the power of literature to change—to save-our lives. Thomas Merton was a Trappist monk in Kentucky; Dorothy Day the founder of the Catholic Worker in New York; Flannery O’Connor a “Christ-haunted” literary prodigy in Georgia; Walker Percy a doctor in New Orleans who quit medicine to write fiction and philosophy. A friend came up with a name for them—the School of the Holy Ghost—and for three
decades they exchanged letters, ardently read one another’s books, and grappled with what one of them called a “predicament shared in common.” Rev. Jonathan Brake, Associate Minister of Adult Spiritual Formation & Education The Shack: Where Tragedy Confronts Eternity by Wm. Paul Young I will be reading The Shack this summer and I invite you to join with me. This book was a bestseller a few years ago and I found it difficult to put down. What struck me was the way the author introduces the concept of the Trinity, the Love of God, and how much God truly cares for us. Even in some of the darkest places of life, when we are asking “God, where are you?” we find that God is closer than we ever thought. Recording artist, Michael W. Smith, said “The Shack will leave you craving for the presence of God” and I fully concur. Read the book, and let’s share our discoveries at the covered dish Book Discussion in August! Rev. Craig Ford, Associate Minister of Pastoral Care & Senior Adults
chosen ten words which, when applied, will enhance relationships, help to build a better community, a more peaceful world and a better life. The words are: Kindness, Caring, Honesty, Respect, Collaboration, Tolerance, Fairness, Integrity, Diplomacy and Nobility. Rev. Kate May, Associate Minister of Children Spiritual Formation & Education Praise Habit: Finding God in Sunsets and Sushi by David Crowder Crowder’s premise in this book is that praise is something we are and not something we do. By reading this light and enjoyable book you will find, through psalms and stories, the way that praise can and should be a way of life and not simply an act we participate in on Sunday mornings. This book can be read as a daily devotional or in a few short sittings. I enjoyed the easy and entertaining way that Crowder engages readers. He has a gift for using everyday encounters to make points that will reach into the depths of your heart. Turn on some David Crowder Band tunes and start reading!
Granddad’s Farmhouse Porch Stories: Stories of New Beginnings Beyond Old Endings by Rev. Don Davis Rev. Davis, a retired UM pastor, has taken biblical stories that were shared with him by his grandfather and woven them into messages that are very current. He has
(see next page for more reading options)
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Rev. Sarah Howell, Assistant Minister of Worship & Young Adults The Wounded Healer: Ministry in Contemporary Society by Henri J. M. Nouwen Henri Nouwen combines ministry case studies and stories from diverse cultures and religious traditions to create a new model for ministry, connecting the suffering of the world to a minister’s own suffering (remember – we are ALL called to be ministers, so we aren’t just talking about pastors here!). He says that when we are able to acknowledge and tend to our own wounds, we are able more authentically and faithfully to minister to the wounds of others. Nouwen advocates an approach to service that is about finding commonality and compassion by connecting to the universal experience of suffering and healing. This book is deeply meaningful on a personal level as well as on a church-wide, community-wide, world-wide level, showing how our individual hunger for healing and restoration is shared by all humanity. Dr. Robert Frazier, Director of Music & the Arts My Only Comfort: Death, Deliverance, and Discipleship by Calvin R. Stapert J. S. Bach has been touted as the greatest church musician in the history of church music. A devout Lutheran, with tremendous knowledge of Scripture and
theology, Bach’s music is filled with exquisite expressions of Christian faith. My Only Comfort provides a powerful point of reconnection for 21st century listeners to Bach’s sacred compositions, and also opens a window of understanding into the mind of the greatest composer/theologian, J. S. Bach, who gave us a timeless and tremendous musical legacy with great transformational power. Why not use the sacred music of Bach as a daily devotion? The word coupled with music is a unique and wonderful way to experience the transformational power of God. Susan Bates, Organist & Music Associate Jesus Today by Sarah Young Daily Light by Samuel Bagster Many have been blessed by Sarah Young’s daily devotional, Jesus Calling. Her new devotional book, Jesus Today is more freely designed with numbered reflections not tied to a certain date. These poignant reflections on scripture minister encouragement and deepen faith, especially in times of suffering and challenge, lifting our spiritual eyes to the infinite love and care of our Heavenly Father. Samuel Bagster’s Daily Light is a rich feast of scripture for morning and evening daily devotions and prayers as well as for celebrations and the trials and tribulations of life. Scriptures alone are compiled that not only bless and edify but also reveal the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies in the New Testament. These revelations from a committed Christian living in the 18th century speak so profoundly to the heart today in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Tammy Clark, Director of Youth Spiritual Formation & Education The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence For three centuries the writings of Brother Lawrence have taught Christians that God is as present in the kitchen as in the cathedral and as accessible in the living room as He is around the Lord’s table. This simple, yet profound teaching will empower you to seek the joy of God’s presence in the midst of every moment and circumstance. Ashley Maner, Resident of Children Spiritual Formation & Education The Big Red Tractor and the Little Village by Francis Chan This is a great children’s book by Francis Chan, the wonderful author of Crazy Love, and speaks to themes of giving, love, service and even rest (Sabbath). Sometimes it is so easy for us to be complacent with the way things are, but if we have faith and perseverance, we can do so much more! This is a great book to read together with your child and discover ways that your family can help feed others both physically and spiritually.
Doug Peninger, Director of Communications Saint Francis by Marie Dennis For all of you nature lovers, you surely will find a kindred spirit in the life of St. Francis of Assisi. However, his life was much more than that. For the summer, take a journey of transition and change as you discover the transformation of St. Francis from a life of privilege to one of complete self-sacrifice and service. This book features the artwork of John August Swanson as he illustrates different aspects of St. Francis’ life. You will be challenged to contemplate your own journey through each chapter and painting.
Save the Date Saturday, October 19 Two Thousand and thirteen at nine-thirty in the morning for the Table Extravaganza presented by the United Methodist Women Centenary United Methodist Church Memorial Auditorium
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Children’s Ministry
kmay@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1331
Volunteers
are the key by Rev. Kate May
A
successful children’s ministry hinges on a great team of volunteers. I have been overwhelmed by the level of talent, love and commitment I have found serving in Children’s ministry since joining the Centenary staff a year ago. One of those committed volunteers is Shelley Holden who with this great team has done a tremendous job leading children’s council through a few years of transition. The enthusiasm I have encountered is a testament to a long line of great leadership and I am so grateful to be able to
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© Doug Peninger
stand on the shoulders of such giants. But no one can say better than Shelley herself what all of these many volunteers mean to her and to the children and families of this church: “Serving as the Children’s Council Chair for our church for the past two years has been such an honor and a meaningful experience. What a blessing it has been to see the children of our church learn about Jesus and experience His love through
special Sunday School activities, the fun sing along music at Vacation Bible School, the special crafts at Christmas Craft night or proudly holding their new bibles on Bible Sunday. These events, and many more, could not take place without our dedicated and caring Children’s Ministry staff, Reverend Kate May and our new Resident in Children’s Ministry, Ashley Maner and the MANY volunteers who help implement the programs in our children’s ministry.
Volunteers are key to everything we do in Children’s Ministry. We are so thankful for the church members and parents who give of their time to teach Sunday School, organize our mission opportunities for our children, plan events like our Fall Festival or Easter Egg hunt and man stations at the Lenten Fair. These generous volunteers live out the love of Christ by serving our children and showing His love. We are so grateful to each and every one of them. These volunteers are making a difference in the lives of our children and the future of our church. I have heard many of these individuals say that the love and joy they have received from the children makes this as special for them as for the children they serve. I know I have certainly found this to be true!” This fall and holiday season, we have many exciting events happening in Children’s Ministry and we would love to have you volunteer. Children’s ministry, like all of our ministry areas, benefit from a great variety of gifted folks, some who work directly with the kids like our wonderful Sunday School teachers and Children’s worship volunteers, and others who work behind the scenes like the precious women who come every week to refresh our worship bags. If you are feeling that God might be calling you to share your gifts in some way in the area of children’s ministry please call, email or just stop by and©say “Let’s talk…” No matter what your gift Doug Peninger or time availability might be we have a place for you in children’s ministry!
“These generous volunteers live out the love of Christ by serving our children and showing His love and we are so grateful to each and every one of them.”
~ Shelley Holden
© Doug Peninger
(Photos this page are courtesy Rebecca McNeely)
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Events & Announcements Stephen Ministry
on the second floor of the children’s building.
Vacation Bible School July 28 - August 1
Stressed? Discouraged? Lonely? Sad? Don’t Suffer Alone. Help is Available.
You can be a part of children’s ministry at Centenary this summer. We have a number of opportunities for you to serve.
Two-year-olds (potty-trained) and up can join us for Kingdom Rock, the epic adventure that empowers kids to stand strong. God’s victorious power isn’t a fairy tale—it changes kids forever! Registration is now open at www.centenary-ws.org/ VBS.
Sometimes we fall into a trap where we think it’s a sign of weakness to ask for help. So when we’re stressed, discouraged, lonely, or sad, we try to keep our struggles hidden and are reluctant to ask for help. However, that’s not God’s plan. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” God wants us to care for others—and allow others to care for us in our time of need. If you’re sad or struggling inside, don’t suffer alone. Ask for help. We’ve got a team of Stephen Ministers who are ready to provide confidential one-to-one care, encouragement, and support to help you through a tough time. Find out more about Stephen Ministry by talking with Craig Ford (3971353) or Mark Ralls (397-1362). Roots Revival Wednesdays • 7:30 pm • Auditorium Roots Revival is a midweek worship service grounded in Americana/roots-based music featuring Martha Bassett and friends. We meet each Wednesday at 7:30 pm in Memorial Auditorium unless otherwise noted. This week people are welcome to start coming around 7:00 to share in food and fellowship. Learn more at www. rootsrevivalws.com. CHILDREN’S MINISTRY Children’s Worship and Nursery Care We offer children’s worship each Sunday during the 11 am worship service. After beginning as a part of the larger worship service with their families, kindergarten through third grade are invited to join Rev. Kate May in the Dining Room. Children will return to the Sanctuary after the sermon. Parents are asked to pick up their children from their reserved pews once worship concludes. Attending children’s worship is optional; children are always welcome to remain in the adult worship service. 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
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1. Summer Sunday School needs teachers. Sign-up outside of Kate May’s office door (Room 212), or contact Leigh Howell for K - 2nd grade or Cameron Jordan for 3rd - 5th grade. 2. Children’s Worship needs a volunteer each week to be an extra set of hands when needed during the 11:00 worship service. Contact Elizabeth Spires to serve. 3. Vacation Bible School could use your help. Contact Kate May if you are interested in volunteering and being a part of such an awesome God filled week! Family Movie Night July 11 • 6:00 pm Join us for Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs in the dining room! Feel free to bring your dinner to the movie, along with a blanket to spread on the floor or a comfy chair. The church will provide popcorn! Can’t make it this month? Not a problem because we will also have movie night on August 15! Summer Sunday School Schedule Combined classes will begin Sunday, June 16 (5th grade will run on normal schedule through the month of June). K - 2nd grade: Room 310; 3rd - 5th grade: Room 304. Hungry for Music Day Camp June 24-28 • Rising 1st - 3rd graders. It will take place at Mt. Tabor United Methodist, and teach kids about many different aspects of music including choral, instruments, chimes, hand bells, and liturgical movement. For more information email kmay@centenary-ws.org Mission Week July 9 -11 • Rising 3rd - 6th Grades We’ll be working with some of our older adults, and around Winston-Salem for three days of service projects, games, Bible study, and team building activities.
YOUTH MINISTRY July 7 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school 5:00-6:30 pm: Summer of Service! (SOS!) July 14 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 11:00 am: Commissioning of the Queens Work Team 9:45 am: Sunday school 5:00-6:30 pm: SOS! July 20-28 Senior High Mission trip to Queens New York July 21 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45am: Sunday school NO YOUTH GROUPS tonight! July 28 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school 6:00 pm: All youth welcome home party for the Queens Mission Team (TBA) July 29-Aug 1 Vacation Bible School August 4 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school 5:00-6:30 pm: SOS! August11 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school 5:00-6:30pm SOS! August 18 8:45, 9:00, 9:45, 11:00am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school Noon - 2:00 pm: Love Thy Neighbor (LTN) August25 PROMOTION SUNDAY 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school Fall Kick-off (TBA)
ADULT ED. / SPIRITUAL FORMATION Fall Small Groups It’s only June, but summer will be gone before you know it. How will you grow your faith this fall? Why not try out one of our wonderful small groups? From prayer to Bible study, personal finances to Sabbath rest, creation care to discipleship to the history of how our faith developed – we’ve got something for you! Find out all the details and register at www.centenaryonline.com/smallgroups or pick up a small groups booklet at an information station around the church. For more information on any of our small groups, contact Rev. Jonathan Brake. Chapel Class Guest Speakers for July Sundays • Room 216 • 10:00 am The Chapel Class invites you to join them as they host guest speakers during the Sunday school hour. Speakers for the month of June and July are as follows: July 7: John Trulove July 14: Rev. Dr. Cecil Cave July 21: The Reverend Sarah Howell July 28: The Reverend Jonathan L. Brake Tornado Response Opportunities We are wrapping up our emergency relief efforts in response to the tornado in Oklahoma. Here are three ways you can participate by being the hands and feet of Christ: •Volunteer at the Mission Response Center Warehouse – Saturday, July 6, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. We are taking a church bus to Terrell, NC ,to deliver buckets and health kits assembled here at Centenary. Come along with us to help sort, pack and load items being sent to the mission field. We can take up to 20 people and you have to be at least 12 years old to volunteer at the warehouse. Contact Judy Jones if you would like to go (397-1361). •Go to Oklahoma for Disaster Response sometime this summer/fall. We are in contact with the United Methodist Committee on Relief to take a team to Oklahoma (or any disaster that may still happen). As they set up the plans and projects, we will let you know when and where. Contact Judy Jones (397-1361) to place your name on the list of those interested. Summer Service Opportunity! Last year, the Betty & Jim Holmes Food Bank Garden produced over 10,000 lbs of fresh, healthy, wholesome vegetables
and fruit to help feed hungry families in Winston-Salem. Such an endeavor takes a lot of volunteer hands to accomplish. This summer, we are asking that you spend some time in the Food Bank Garden as your ministry of service through Centenary. All ages are welcome, so come as a family, a group of coworkers, or just on your own. Summer harvest times are usually Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:307:00 pm; Saturday, 9:00-10:30 am. For volunteer hours and more information, go to JimAndBettyHolmesFoodBankGarden. Shutterfly.com.
MUSIC and the arts
MISSiONS
The Music and Arts Ministry invites you to be a part of our fall 2013 writing class. Kathy Watts returns to facilitate this group. The focus will be writing prose or life stories. Class will begin Wednesday. September 4 at 11 am and continue each Wednesday through the month. The class will have 10 participants. A $50.00 fee is payable by the beginning of the class. Please plan to attend and express yourself by this learning experience. For questions, you may contact Barbara Byrd (748 1629).
July & August The July food of the month is Spaghettio’s, ravioli, rice. The August food of the month is cacaroni and cheese Please bring your food donations to the Missions bins, located in the Reception Narthex at 4½ Street. UNITED METHODIST WOMEN The United Methodist Women are a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship, and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church. Not yet a member of UMW? Would you like to learn how UMW can help you connect with other women at Centenary through monthly meetings and various projects throughout the year? Take a look at our Circle Profiles page. See which circle, or circles, appeals to you. If you need help connecting, contact the membership coordinators, Anne Priester (407-4699)/anne.priester@goLRB.com or Frances Mundy (760-3303)/frmundy1@ aol.com. Easton Lending Library Initiative UMW announces our Easton Lending Library Initiative which will help supply books for each Friday’s book swap at the Easton Elementary School this coming school year. Students at Easton have few resources for books to read at home. They are allowed four library books a week but this is not enough to encourage young readers. UMW is part of the Reading Initiative initiated by Jill Tackabery and Maria Edmonds King in 2012. We are calling all circle members to collect new or used books K-7 during the summer to bring to our General Meeting on September 9th; or, a check donation may be written to the school and earmarked for Book Swap. Paperbacks and hardbacks are acceptable. Contact Dianne Iseman (659-4252)/dianneiseman@aol.com.
Spring Art Show Now - July 11 • 4½ Street Gallery The Music and Arts Ministry is happy to bring you the Spring Art Show entitled, “Blessings of Nature.” The exhibit runs through July 11, 2013. The spiritual reference for this show is All Nature Sings. Kathy Watts Writing Class Wednesdays in September • 11 am
GIVING MADE EASY Don’t like writing checks, don’t carry cash? Prefer to do your church giving using a credit or debit card? Monthly giving at Centenary makes it easy. There are two ways: 1. You can make a recurring gift or a single donation online through the Centenary website: -Go to: www.centenaryonline.com -Under the “Resources” tab click on “Online Giving”and follow instructions 2. Use the new Giving Kiosk in the Reception Narthex just beside the handicap ramp. Once you set yourself up the first time you can then just swipe your credit or debit card and make a contribution or pay for certain functions going on at church such as Centenary Table. For assistance or details contact: Kristy Eaton (397-1341)/keaton@centenary-ws.org. Legacy Giving Have you ever thought about endowing your annual gift to the church forever? An Estate or Current Legacy Gift to Centenary will endow your annual gift long after your lifetime. For more information or if Centenary is currently part of your estate plan, please let us know. Contact Thad Lewallen – Director of Stewardship and Planned Giving (397-1352)/ tlewallen@ centenary-ws.org.
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Adult Small Groups Why Small Groups? Living the Christian life involves many layers of spiritual growth. We usually think first of Sunday morning corporate worship and perhaps Sunday School classes. However, small groups offer an aspect of spiritual development that cannot be found in other settings. Small groups are composed of about a dozen participants engaged at a deeper level of learning. In the New Testament, we find that Jesus chose a dozen disciples to be his small group participants. There are many references to wider groups that followed Jesus and listened to his teachings, but the apostles are the small group members who grew the most. John Wesley built the Methodist movement by developing small groups across England and in the New World. Here at Centenary we have a long tradition of small groups and continue to develop creative ways to grow this ministry. If you have not yet participated in one of our small groups, please prayerfully consider one of these fine opportunities listed in this booklet. I promise you will grow in faith and knowledge of yourself and your God. As always, these small groups are open to the community, you do not need to be a member of Centenary to participate. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me (397-1334)/ jbrake@centenary-ws.org.
Small Groups Doing Service Small Groups are a place where we learn the faith and build relationships with others on the faith journey. And we realize that living out the faith is often easier in a group. One important aspect of Christian faith is serving others. Each semester, our small groups choose a hands-on service project to do together. It may range from stocking shelves across the street at Loaves & Fishes to working with a UMAR Home here in Winston-Salem. Here is what one group had to say last year about their service project … Today we visited The Winston-Salem Street School, which is less than a five minute walk from our sanctuary steps. We could go on and on about their needs - food, clothing, medical/dental
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jbrake@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1334 This 4-week study will meet Sundays, September 8, 15, 22, 29 (6:00-7:30 pm) / Rev. Jonathan Brake, facilitator Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity
care, tutors, friends, bus passes, jobs. Our small group left with non-stop ideas and passion for being a part of what is happening there. We mentioned this event to a member of another small group, and now she wants to bring their group. They have around 45 students who are trying to get their high school diploma, and the students are there for all sorts of reasons, referred from a number of different people/areas. ... And to think, it exists literally in the shadows of our church building! Thank you again for encouraging us to look beyond ourselves to others. FALL SMALL GROUPS – 2013 SHORT-TERM STUDY GROUP The Circle Maker: Trusting God With Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears If you hunger for a closer walk with God, come discover a more powerful and effective prayer life through making circles. Drawing powerful insights from the Legend of Honi the Circle Maker, a first-century Jewish sage whose bold prayer ended a drought and saved a generation, we will learn how to draw circles of prayer around our dreams, our families, our problems and God’s promises.
Based on Rev. Adam Hamilton’s book by the same title, this is an invitation to rediscover the Bible’s wisdom for financial practices. With recent changes in the economy even the most prudent, thoughtful people have found themselves facing a new reality that is not what they planned or hoped for. This course could change your life by changing your relationship with money. Learn about the six basic financial planning principles and more. (Feel free to bring dinner to eat during class, and even stay for Roots Revival afterward) This 5-week study will meet Wednesdays, Sept 11, 18, 25, Oct 2, 9 (6:00-7:30pm) / Thad Lewallen, Don Dwiggins, Patsy Dwiggins, facilitators 24/6: A Prescription for a Happier, Healthier Life First offered during our 2013 Lenten Small Groups, we are offering again this study about Sabbath for those unable to participate in the spring or who would like to go through the study again. We have heard from so many of our members who would like to have this study offered again, there is obviously a hunger for finding spiritual nourishment through holy rest. This 4-week study will meet Thursdays, September 12, 19, 26, October 3 (6:30-8:00 pm) / Debra Scott, facilitator God’s Invitation: Why Worship Matters Have you ever wondered why we do things a certain way in worship? This
small group is an introduction to the basic pattern and content of Christian worship in a variety of forms. Why do we follow the order of worship that we do? Why do we sing certain hymns? How do things like location, musical genre, and congregational participation affect the worship experience? We are blessed at Centenary to have a wide range of worship styles at various times, and part of this small group experience will be visits to each of the different services. Beyond simply learning, group members will have opportunities to contribute to worship as we learn about and put into practice writing congregational prayers, reading Scripture, and more. As we focus on the motif of “Presence” within the broader “Are You Hungry?” theme, we will learn how creating sacred time and space can help us notice God’s presence with us and make us more present to God and to one another, thereby feeding our deep hunger for spiritual and relationship nourishment.This 4-week study meets Sundays, October 6, 13, 20, 27 (6:00-7:30 pm), Rev. Sarah Howell, facilitator SEMESTER-LONG STUDY GROUPS Faithful Stewards of God’s Great Gift “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” is how the Bible begins. God is the Great Creator and we are his children. We have inherited this earth and all that comes with it, but what exactly does that mean for how we are to live on this planet? Hungering for a greater connection between faith, justice, God’s Kingdom and this world, we will learn how to adjust our thinking and actions as individuals, families, congregation, and community to live more sustainably and faithfully. We will read two books: 1) Serving God, Saving the Planet: A Call to Care for Creation and Your Soul by Dr. Matthew Sleeth; and 2) Making Peace with the Land: God’s Call to Reconcile with Creation by Fred Bahnson from Wake Forest Divinity School. Bring your lunch with you to eat while we share our thoughts. This 10-week study will meet Tuesdays, September 10, 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12 (12:00-1:00pm) / Rev. Jonathan Brake, facilitator Women’s Bible Study This is a new group designed to connect women who want to explore ways to grow in their faith as a spouse, parent, woman, and more in the wild world we live in. We will begin with The Christ-Centered
Woman: Finding Balance in a World of Extremes by Kimberly Dunnam Reisman. No matter your stage in life, we will discover how to use scripture to help us contemplate, sort, and prioritize, while experiencing Christ as Rock, Solace, and Guide. (Childcare will be provided with advanced request) This study will meet six times on 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, September 10, 24, October 8, 22, November 12, 26 (9:15-10:30 am) Bible Study: Women of the New Testament This women’s study group will use Strong Was Her Faith by J. Ellsworth Kalas focusing on several women of great faith who were crucial, in ways both obvious and understated, to the story of the New Testament. Kalas looks into the life and times of eleven different women. With his signature style, Kalas examines the Scriptures to see what we can learn about these women and what we can learn from them, and how each woman fit into as well as shaped the New Testament story. This 10-week study will meet Wednesdays, September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6, 13 (9:30-11:00am) / Helen Barnhardt, facilitator A Disciple’s Path There are time-tested practices that feed the deep spiritual hunger within helping us grow in God’s love and grace as we take the next step in discipleship, becoming dynamic, engaged followers of Jesus Christ. In this small group, we will discover our unique gifts, find the ministry that truly fits, and bring about transformation in our lives, others and the world. Come learn about being United Methodist and how our Wesleyan way leads us down the Disciple’s Path. This 7-week study will meet: Sundays, October 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17, 24 (6:00-7:30pm) Rev. Jonathan Brake, facilitator YEAR-LONG STUDY GROUPS Disciple IV: Under the Tree of Life In this last of the four Disciple Bible Study groups, we will dig into the Old Testament books not in the Torah or the Prophets. We will also explore the Gospel of John and the book of Revelation as we learn to be radical disciples. This 32-week study group will begin:Wednesdays, September 4 (9:3011:30 am) Morris Marley, facilitator Bible Study: Koinonia This is a casual group, no homework or pre-reading prior to class. Come as you are, bring your Bible … all ages welcome!
Childcare is available for preschoolers. This study meets on Thursdays, beginning September 13 (9:15-10:30 am) Christian Believer: Knowing God with Heart & Mind It has been two millennia since the books of the Bible were written. And over this time, our understanding of scripture has continued to develop. We will learn from ancient and modern sources about the development of Christian faith – the central teachings, connections between believing and living, 2000 years of questions – and find ourselves more equipped for living faithfully, passing on the faith to others in this third millennium. Join us as we explore basic beliefs of the church, dig into creeds and confessions from Augustine and Hildegard, to Calvin, Luther, Wesley, and more. This 30-week study group will begin: Wednesday, September 11 (9:30-11:30 am) Tom & Nancy Cannon, facilitators Discipling Small Groups In addition to the Study Groups, we have begun new Discipling Small Groups. These groups are part of our Innovative Discipleship, a major component of Centenary’s New Vision. We know that Sunday School, Bible Study, and other methods of learning create deeper spiritual hunger. This is the way the Holy Spirit works. John Wesley called it “convincing grace.” Ruth Haley Barton writes, “There are moments in our lives when we cry out inwardly, I don’t care what anyone else says; there has to be more to the Christian life than this!” (Sacred Rhythms, 17). In our Study Groups, the focus is primarily a curriculum, topic, theological concept, etc. However, Discipling Groups take a different approach. The focus is our spiritual growth itself. It has been said that the difference can be boiled down to information vs. transformation. Both methods form us. Yet in the Discipling Groups we are steering for the kind of experience found in early Methodist Class Meetings when scripture and Christian teaching was intentionally put into practice in the lives of the participants – individually and together. Discipling Groups at Centenary are open for new participants year-round. If you would like to know more, contact Rev. Jonathan Brake at jbrake@centenary-ws. org or 336-397-1334. Online small group registration is available at www.CentenaryOnline.com/SmallGroups 31
Congregational Care Volunteers
A Stephen Ministry Congregation
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’ve had an interest and inclination to become involved in Stephen Ministry for many years, but always had good excuses not to do it--until I joined Centenary UMC a few years ago. Upon completing the training program and being commissioned as a Stephen Minister, I was given my first “assignment”...a little apprehensive about the first visit, but definitely looking forward to meeting my Care Receiver. We clicked from the start, and have continued this relationship with weekly visits and phone calls. I’ve been there for her, listening as she talked freely about her feelings and things she didn’t feel comfortable sharing with family and friends. An incredible, trusting relation-
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ship has evolved, and she has become such a blessing in my life. There is a beginning and an end to Stephen Minister’s assignments. She and I will be closing our formal Stephen Ministry relationship, but will start our forever friendship relationship on the same day. Close one door and open another as our lives go on. We have become part of each other’s lives through the caring work of the Stephen Ministry at Centenary, a blessing for both of us! ~Sarah Medlin Stephen Minister
o what’s the deal with Stephen Ministry and how did I get involved? Over the years, I have been active in various areas of church life at Centenary and all have been in their own way, interesting, enjoyable or fulfilling. One day I got an email from Bob Nations inviting me to consider Stephen Ministry. It was one of those emails that, in the course of a busy day, it would have been easy to hit “delete” and move on. However, something made me stop and think about it and the next thing I knew, I was starting Stephen Ministry training. My idea was that it would be great to get to know someone who may be going through a difficult time and to be able to make some small difference in their life. I had no idea what a difference there would be in my own life. I have been visiting a care receiver for nearly a year and it has been a wonderful experience. I have seen God at work in this person’s life and it has been amazing to watch. We have had some very thought-provoking discussions and it has caused me to examine and grow deeper in my own faith and beliefs. I look forward to each visit with my care receiver and we anticipate the new things that will be revealed to us through God’s grace and power. ~Larry Oates
Divorce Care
Comfort in the storm
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ike the recent storms in Oklahoma, divorce leaves behind a trail of destruction...In a moment, everything changes forever. Children, families, homes and finances are all affected. We have a Divorce Care Support Group at Centenary. I asked our members to write a sentence or two about what Divorce Care has meant to them. This is what they sent me ...no names... -” No one can fully understand the loneliness, depression and isolation a newly separated divorced person experiences. To find a group as loving, accepting and caring as my new friends at Divorce Care, has been and continue to be, a blessing from God.” -”Divorce Care friends have been invaluable in assuring me that I was not alone in my feelings of despair/grief/anger/fear of uncertainty, and working through it all to see that bright times are ahead. My new friends have helped me so and taught me so much.” -”Divorce Care is a place of acceptance and love during a time when we most need it.
It is a source of incredible knowledge and resources where I can get advice from others who have been through it and have my best interests in mind. It is a safe, receptive and caring place to air frustrations that others who live with me do not have to always suffer my need to vent. It is a place of friendship and happiness where I can drink in healing laughter and companionship. I am grateful for all these things.” -” Divorce Care has been a Godsend. Nobody understands how devastating a divorce is until they’ve gone through it themselves. Life as you know it has been ripped away from you and being with others who understand that and are in varying stages of the process is like having therapy through the process.” -”Divorce is one of those experiences life doesn’t prepare you for... one that you don’t think would ever happen to you. So when it comes- everything about it is
foreign- the despair, the inability to think straight, the never ending pain in the gut. Divorce Care became my family, my best friends and my knowledge advisors...I always know no matter how bad it got, someone would be there to catch me from my free fall and nurture me to the other side until I was ready to get there myself. Seeing those who go through it and survived gave me hope. Not with hollow words, but through their own demonstrated courage. We share laughs and tears and joys and sorrows and we are always there for each other.” -” It’s a safe haven to look forward to once a week, someone to call when you need to talk, people who have walked the walk, no judgment, just love and understanding... Its God’s way of saving you from yourself” If you have any questions about Divorce Care, please call Pink Willis (306-4236).
Youth Ministry
tclark@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1337
Authentic Action by Tammy Clark
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ne of the greatest joys in ministry is watching our youth live out their faith! Each summer, I have the privilege of seeing what they believe lived out, not only words, but in action. Just as Jesus came out of prayer and solitude to heal the sick, welcome the outcast, and celebrate with friends, so must we also seek to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in a way of life rooted in the Beatitudes that witness to Christ’s love, passion and joy. In our Youth Ministry we call that Authentic Action. Each week throughout the year, we spend time with our youth in prayer, fellowship, worship and study. They come to worship, Sunday school, Confirmation and youth group to learn the ways of their faith, to glean an understanding of who God is and who we are as those who belong to God. The Gospel calls us to give that understanding away, to go out and share the Good News of Jesus Christ, an outward sign of an inward grace. It is a beautiful thing. This summer we will travel with a team of more than thirty to the mountains of North Carolina to do home repair work for those who are in need. We will paint, build porches and repair roofs. We will make new friends at the homes we work on and we will share meals and worship together. We will take another group of 20 to Queens, New York, where we will submerge ourselves in that diverse community and love on children, share the love of Christ, do repair work and build relationships with those who are living in desperate poverty. While at home, in Winston-Salem, each Sunday night we will be serving locally through “SOS pt. 2” (Summer of Service, part 2). For the second summer, we will visit local agencies to serve those who serve as well
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as walk along side them in their missions. Our youth long for opportunities to participate in Christ’s healing and liberating activities within the world. Again, it is a beautiful thing! We can’t wait to share with you stories of our adventures, moments of realization of God’s presence and how amazing the transformation of the world can be by simply authentically living out, through our actions, the love of Jesus Christ. Please pray for us as we seek to live out the Gospel message and help make the Kingdom of Heaven realized here on earth.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come. ~ Luke 4:18-19
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(USPS 628-480) Published Monthly 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
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