THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT • MARCH 23, 2025 • 11:00AM
THE COMMUNITY GATHERS
Welcome to worship at Centenary! We are a church for everyone. As you prepare for worship, we invite you to greet your neighbor and share the love of Christ.
PRELUDE
Love So Wondrous — arr. Karen Thompson
GREETING
INTROIT
Love Is Little (from Shaker Songs) — Kevin Siegfried Love is little, love is low, love will make our spirit grow. Grow in peace, grow in light, Love will do the thing that’s right.
OPENING PRAYER
O God, help us to embrace the spirit of generosity and kindness, recognizing that true greatness is found in putting others before ourselves. May we learn to love and invite those who cannot repay us, just as you have invited us into your loving embrace. May our hearts be open to your guidance, our spirits be uplifted by your presence, and our lives be transformed by your holy Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#339 Come, Sinners, to the Gospel Feast — HURSLEY
†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.
†GLORIA PATRI
#71 Glory Be to the Father — GREATOREX Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
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.
(Children, kindergartners through third grade, are invited to exit the Sanctuary for Children’s Worship. Children will return to reserved pews in the Sanctuary at the close of worship.)
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
CANTICLE
Like as the Hart — Herbert Howells
Like as the hart desireth the waterbrooks: so longeth my soul after thee, O God. My soul is athirst for God, yea, even for the living God: when shall I come to appear before the presence of God? My tears have been my meat day and night: while they daily say unto me, Where is now thy God?
SCRIPTURE — Luke 14:1, 7-14
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
I Will Arise and Go to Jesus — arr. Matthew Compton
†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 of all grace, we are grateful for the blessings you have given us. We recognize that every good gift comes from you. Help us to remember the essence of humility as we offer these gifts back to you. May they be a reminder that our true purpose is not to seek recognition or reward, but to serve others with love and compassion. Inspire us to use these offerings to meet the needs of those around us, to uplift the downtrodden, and to share your love with everyone we encounter. May we make a difference in the lives of others, through the power of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
†HYMN
#581 Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service — BEACH SPRING
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
Go Now in Peace — Robert Lau
Go now in peace, and may God’s peace go with you. Believe and trust His holy word. Amen.
†POSTLUDE
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
The Reverend 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 Carillonneurs: Camille Jones, Director
CRUCIFER
Marianne Rowland
TORCHBEARERS Beau Rowland Hank Conrad
FLOWERS
The Chancel Flowers are given to the Glory of God, and in loving memory of Brad Roquemore, Penny Roquemore, and Emmett McCall by Allison & Wayne Roquemore.
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 Live Stream 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 • MARCH 23, 2025
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-events
HOLY WEEK OPPORTUNITIES
PALM SUNDAY • APRIL 13
9 am Worship in Memorial Auditorium 11 am Worship in the Sanctuary
MONDAY • APRIL 14 - FRIDAY • APRIL 18
Holy Week Labyrinth • 9:30 am — 6:00 pm
You are invited into a period of intentional reflection, prayer, and contemplation by walking a labyrinth in our sanctuary during Holy Week. Join us for a time of self-guided spiritual practice as we conclude the season of Lent and journey toward the cross. Enter from 4½ Street and follow signage.
TUESDAY • APRIL 15 • NOON Lenten Noontime Music Series in the Sanctuary
THURSDAY • APRIL 17 • 7:00 PM
7:00 pm• Maundy Thursday Worship in the Sanctuary and Live Stream
FRIDAY • APRIL 18 • 7:00 PM
“The Seven Last Words of Christ” by Theodore Dubois & Tenebrae in the Sanctuary and Live Stream
EASTER SUNDAY • APRIL 20
9 am Worship in Memorial Auditorium 11 am Worship in the Sanctuary
CENTENARY SCHOLARSHIPS
TOUGH QUESTIONS: DEATH AND GRIEF
May 4 • 5:00 pm - 6:45 pm
We hope you’ll join us for Tough Questions as we hear and learn from a panel of experts ways to navigate conversations on death and grief with our children. The cost is $15/ person, dinner and free children’s activities for infants-5th graders are provided! Registration opens April 1.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
REFRESH PRAYER MINISTRY
Wednesdays • Noon - 12:45 pm
Sanctuary
The Refresh Prayer Ministry invites you to be refreshed in a mid-week service of worship, reflection, and prayer in a sacred space. From Noon-12:15 is a time for quiet reflection with music, and from 12:15-12:45 is a time for prayer, Scripture reading, and meditation. Parking is available in the Fifth Street parking lot; enter from the Fifth Street entrance to the Sanctuary. For more information, contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck or Becky Tate.
SHINING LIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH
Peer Connector Ministry
MISSIONS
BLOOD DRIVE
Tuesday • April 15 • 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Community Room
YOUTH MINISTRY
Today 10:00 am: Youth Sunday school (@ Youth Commons)
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
LENTEN NOONTIME SERIES
Tuesdays • Now – April 15
Noon – 12:30 pm • Sanctuary Join us in the Sanctuary each Tuesday of Lent at noon for a 30-minute musical presentation. This week we welcome tenor Logan Webber. We hope you will attend as we prepare our hearts during this season of reflection and contemplation. For questions or more information, please contact Jonathan Emmons (jemmons@centenary-ws.org). No registration is required.
CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ART CAMP 2025: CHRISTMAS IN JULY
5:00 pm: Middle School Youth Group (@ Middle School Room)
6:15 pm: Youth Dinner, $3 per person (@ Youth Commons)
6:50 pm: Senior High Youth Group (@ Senior High Room)
March 26
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Confirmation - Shepherd Bowling Night (@Bowlero Jonestown)
March 30
10:00 am: Youth Sunday school (@ Youth Commons)
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm: ALL Youth & Parents Game Night (@ Youth Commons)
ALL YOUTH & PARENTS GAME NIGHT!
July 14 - 17, 2024
Centenary is honored to offer endowed scholarships made possible by the dedication and generosity of past members. The application deadline is April 28, 2025 at 5 pm. There are significant changes to this year’s application process. To apply, please visit https://centenary-ws.org/ church-events/resources/.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
EASTER CANDY COLLECTION
Through April 2, we will be collecting candy to fill our easter eggs for our annual Easter Egg Hunt (April 20). Please bring individually wrapped, non-chocolate candy to the buckets at either the 4 ½ Street reception desk or the 5th Street reception desk.
MOTHER/SON BOWLING
March 30 • 2:30 - 4:30 pm
If someone in your family is experiencing a crisis of mental health, it’s important to know you are not alone. Shining Light on Mental Health is launching the Peer Connector Ministry, which establishes a confidential connection between you and someone who has experienced a similar situation. Peer Connectors serve as supportive friends and listening ears, and they can provide prayerful, emotional support and can help to direct you to additional support or resources, as needed. Send a confidential message to Rev. Oliver Helsabeck (ohelsabeck@centenaryws.org) and he will connect you with a Peer Connector.
JUSTICE & RECONCILIATION
MAPPING PREJUDICE WORKSHOP
Sunday • March 23 • 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Memorial Auditorium
Register now for CMA Camp 2025! We’ll bring joy to the world with our creative arts and sharing our festive carols with everyone who’s ready to listen! Open to ages 4 through rising 5th graders, this fun-filled week features singing, handbells, art, Kindermusik, and more! One of the highlights 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).
VOLUNTEER FOR CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ART CAMP 2025: CHRISTMAS IN JULY
If you’re a 6th-12th grader, March 30 is the night to bring your parents to Sunday Night Youth Group -- as we host our first ever BIG GAME NIGHT! Join us on the 4th floor for an evening of exciting games, competition, food, fun, and faith! As always, friends are welcome, and so are siblings or other family members (for this event). Please be sure to register any guests ahead of time!
LISTEN EVENT:
“Seen” with Dr. Williams Sunday • April 27 • 5:00 pm
Centenary Youth Ministry & Shining Light on Mental Health welcomes Dr. Chinwé Williams for a community-wide LISTEN event in the Memorial Auditorium. Dr. Chinwé is a highly regarded keynote and workshop facilitator. As a board certified and dedicated mental health professional, Dr. Williams is an authority on topics relating to stress, anxiety, burnout, trauma resolution, the intersection of faith, culture, mental health.
Last Chance to Register! We will meet at Creekside Lanes for a fun time of bowling for mothers and sons of all ages! The cost is $10/person. Includes 2 hours of bowling and a great snack! Register by March 24. Questions? Contact Anna Thomas (athomas@centenary-ws.org/ext. 1332).
THE BACKPACK PROGRAM
Help us finish the school year strong by providing weekend meals for students in Winston-Salem. Please join us in prayer and consider a financial contribution to sponsor a child. For $200, you can sponsor a child’s weekend meals for a whole school year! Reach out to Anna Thomas (athomas@centenaryws.org) with any questions.
This workshop, presented by Dr. Russ Smith and the Spacial Justice Studio, will contribute to a community-based research project that intends to advocate for legislation to remove racially restrictive language in deeds and develop a community fund to provide financial support to distressed communities. This event is free and open to both adults and middle/high school youth. Please note that in order to participate, you must bring a laptop— cell phones and iPads are not compatible.
MEN’S MINISTRY
THURSDAY MORNING FELLOWSHIP
April 3 • 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 presentation by Rev. Meg Peters about the Mission Committee budget and appropriation process. 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.
July 14 - 17, 2024
We’re decking the halls early for Children’s Music & Arts Camp 2025: Christmas in July — and we need YOU to help make it merry & bright! We are looking for volunteers of all ages to serve as counselors, crossing guards, room/activity assistants and snack providers! Whether you wish to help for a day or the whole week, you will make this the holly jolliest camp ever! Please contact Music Ministry Assistant, Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@ centenary-ws.org) to sign up today!
ART IN THE ATRIUM
Lenten Expressions: Glimpses of Grace
Opening Reception: Sunday • March 30 • Noon
Exhibit Dates: March 30 – April 30 • Atrium & 4 ½ St. Galleries
We are proud to announce our Lenten exhibit, Lenten Expressions: Glimpses of Grace. Featuring the art of Centenary’s new Faith & Artistry class lead by Dr. Steve Martin, we invite you to come, engage with and reflect on images inspired by this most sacred of seasons.
SUMMER IN THE CITY 2025
This summer, for the first time, our Youth Ministry will team up with our missional partners to serve right here in Winston Salem for a local mission week. Plan to spend June 10-12, 2025 at Centenary and serving each day at these various partner organizations, worshiping together, growing in your faith & friendships, experiencing some incredible evening activities, and witnessing God in our midst right in our own ‘backyard’. Cost for this mission experience is $200 per person. Mark your calendar and watch for registration and more details coming soon!
LOOKING AHEAD
April 25-26: Confirmation Retreat to Blowing Rock
April 27: Parents’ Coffee & Conversation & “LISTEN” event with Dr. Williams May 11: Graduation Recognition Sunday May 18: Confirmation Sunday June 1: Summer Kick-Off/9th Grade Promotion (@ ROAR) June 10 -12: Summer in The City Love Thy Neighbor Dates 2025: April 6, May 4
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.
