DEPARTMENTS From the Editor EDITOR
Advent at Centenary
3
Stewardship Dr. W. Mark Ralls, Senior Minister
4
Dr. John Ed Mathison
6
Celebration of the Saints
7
United Methodist Women
8
Worship in the Park
10
A Look Back
Lessons & Carols
12
Handel’s Messiah
13
Glad Tidings
14
Poinsettias for Advent Stock Delivery/First Gifts
16 17
Senior Adults Dr. Kenneth P. Carlson
18
Memorials
22
Honoraria/New Members
23
Angel Tree/Love Came Down
25
Winston-Salem Street School
26
Save the Date
28
The Big Silence
29
Children’s Ministry
30
Events & Announcements
32
Youth Ministry
34
2
Do you feel it? Can you sense it? There is a transformation happening in the life of our church. As we continue our journey of “Are You Hungry?” we see great things happening. Our congregation is learning new ways to be involved and learning new approaches to the tried and true components of our life together. As we enter into the season of Advent, our journey only grows. Throughout this magazine, you will find ways to be involved. The calendar of worship opportunities is tremendous and I know you will be moved. One exciting project is the “First Gifts” Sunday on December 1. At each of the four Sunday worship services, we will bring our white bags of food for Loaves and Fishes. These gifts go to feed our neighbors in need. As you bring your gift to worship, I invite you to pray over the food you bring. May it be a rich blessing to those who receive it and may we all be reminded of the gifts we have been given. Be sure to pick uo your bag at various locations throughout the building. It’s a magical time and I hope you will find Christ as he waits to greet you not only from a manger but in every step of your journey. Warmest wishes, Doug Peninger
On the Cover “Poinsettia Tree” Each year, during the season of Advent, the beauty of our Sanctuary is enhanced by the addition of beautiful poinsettias. The image depicted is from the 2012 collection. I hope it recalls wonderful memories as we enter this season of great hope and promise. ~ Doug Peninger
learn
meditate
serve
3
Transformed Giving ● ● Transformed Transformed Giving TransformedLiving Living
Stewardship 2014
Dr. W. Mark Ralls
Senior Minister mralls@centenary-ws.org
Double Our Pledges On September 1, 100% of the lay leadership of our church made a financial commitment to our 2014 budget. On behalf of these individuals, we are excited to issue a challenge to our congregation to double the number of annual pledges from last year’s 791 to 1582 for 2014. We seek to transform our understanding of giving, shifting from an emphasis on monetary goals to a goal that emphasizes participation and invites all of our members to share in the blessing of Christian giving.
Matching Fund Even more exciting: thanks to a group of generous members, a matching fund for all new pledges has been established. When we reach our goal of 1582 pledges, all new pledges, up to a total of $50,000 will be matched., doubling the impact of those new pledges, to $100,000. Every new pledge will help us reach this goal
Transformed Living We live in a world that is hungry, not only spiritually, but physically. Daily we read and hear of children who are food insecure. Some live within
4
walking distance of our church and others within a few miles. This is unacceptable for disciples who seek to follow Christ’s example, and especially for those of us at Centenary who have been blessed with abundant resources. As our budget grows, we can transform the lives of those who are hungry. Children will not go to bed or awaken with stomach pains from being hungry. We ourselves will be transformed as we follow Christ’s example and teaching. We must commit to increasing our funding to local outreach and most especially toward the crisis of food insecurity in Forsyth County. Among the missions that will be supported are Loaves and Fishes and H.O.P.E. (Help Our People Eat). Loaves and Fishes has been serving persons in need for 50 years. H.O.P.E. plans to begin its ministry in November. Every Tuesday, Loaves and Fishes provides food and financial counseling and aid for struggling families. Each Sunday, H.O.P.E. will deliver nutritious meals to children who live in the “food deserts” (where access to healthy food is severely limited) across our county. Each new pledge will move us closer to our goal of 1582 and to the fulfillment of the dream to serve more hungry people in our community. We hope every member of our congregation will participate in this mission to transform the lives of those who are hungry and the lives of those who hunger to serve God.
Special Guest On November 10th, Dr. John Ed Mathison will preach at our 8:45 and 11:00 AM services on our stewardship theme: Transformed Giving, Transformed Living. As president of John Ed Mathison Leadership Ministries, Dr. Mathison trains lay persons and pastors across the country to be leaders who impact the world for Jesus Christ. Under his leadership, Fra-
mralls@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1362
zier Memorial UMC in Montgomery, Alabama, grew from 400 members to more than 8,800 while cultivating one of the most vibrant stewardship programs in Methodist History. Pledge cards were mailed in early October. We need everyone’s pledge card returned as soon as possible, so we can celebrate the faithfulness of our members on Stewardship Sunday, November 17.
Stewardship 17
The date for Stewardship Sunday in November!
2
2014
1582 The number of dollars that will go to missions and ministry for every new dollar pledged.
$1
The year we see our Stewardship giving transformed by focusing on participation.
Our goal for number of pledges this year (double last year).
100
The percent of church leadership who pledged by September 1.
The amount of money our new H.O.P.E. initiative requires to feed one child.
Transformed Giving â—? â—? Transformed Transformed Giving TransformedLiving Living
5
6
Remember
We remember...
On Sunday, October 27, Centenary celebrated All Saints Sunday where we remembered the Saints who have gone before us. May the fire of their devotion light our way. Listed below are those we remembered.* Frances Horne Avera Virginia Benbow “Betty” Baldwin Eric H. Bjork John Tracy Brandon, Jr. Elizabeth Webster “Lib” Brandon David Severn Burkhart Robert Burbage Campbell James Stephens Carpenter Jean Lucy Carr Bea Chapman Robin Parnell Crawley Wilber Rawls Cross Kathryn Deal Elma Starnes Deleot Joseph Wesley Dodson Daniel Dewitt Drummond William Heller Dyar Rebecca Riley Fingarson Doris Ellen Hackler Fowler Elizabeth Roe Glenn Bennett D. Gross, Sr. Helene Halverson Frank Borden Hanes, Sr. Jean Kathryn Wren Higgins Harold Holmes Hilburn Florine Hoy Elizabeth Benson “Lib” Johnson Anne Woodward Kenan Robert Calhoun Kennedy Arthur T. Klinger William Ray “Bill” Lackey Rev. Julian Lindsay Mary Thompson Lucas John Weiser Masten Janice Myers May Mary Anne Satterwhite Maynard Elaine McElroy Avis Shearon McKeithan H. Richard McLaughlin Elizabeth Rogers “Betsy” Millar Rita Mundy
*This list is as of October 23, 2013.
June Wren Myers Hazel Nading Frederick Pfohl Nading, Sr. Dorothy Burkhart “Dot” Peacock Gladys M. Poindexter Flora Redman Raper Robin Redmon Reynolds Jacqueline Rider Edna Tysor Robertson Doris Linville Sale Mike Patrick Sekelsky Conrad A. “Buddy” Sink, Jr. Oneta Fitzgerald Smith Betty McCall Smith James E. Sneeden Edna Stewart Frances Kennedy Stockton Myra Faulkenberry Summers David O’Neal Swaim Ruby Faye Taylor M. Louise Thomas Beatrice “Betty” Tilman
Jane W. Truscott Jack Gilmore Walker Leonard Lee “Rick” Walker Franklin Reid Warren, III Robert Spencer Weidman Robert Allen West
7
United Methodist Women
Our Passion for Missions Continues Pulsing throughout our United Methodist women’s groups is a deep passion for missions. You can just feel this spirit when our UMW women gather at their circle meetings, at our four membership and luncheon meetings, and when we come together to raise money for women, children, and youth!! At the September 9 General Meeting & Luncheon, hundreds of children’s books were donated for the Easton Lending Library Initiative. At the October 19th Table Extravaganza, we eagerly gathered to generously raise thousands of dollars for women, children and youth in our community. Below is a spotlight on additional inspiring mission projects and activities our nearly 500 members continue to make happen!
CHILDREN AND YOUTH MISSIONS Circle Nine Embraces Ministries Greetings from Circle 9 as we share the good news of some of our activities. In the past twelve months, we highlighted three ministries which gave us opportunities to be in mission. In September 2012, our monthly program focused on the BackPack Program. Heather Leach, who is particularly involved in the program at Brunson, and Carol Templeton, who is also a dedicated volunteer, spoke passionately about their experiences and the need that they see. As a result, our circle gave individual monetary gifts which were most appreciated. In November of 2012, we invited Polly Caudle, who is a much involved United Methodist both locally and globally and also president of her UMW at Pine Grove UMC, Winston-Salem. She shared with us about her Ubuntu (which means “I am human because you are human”) Explorer Mission Journey to Russia. She highlighted a recent trip she had taken to Haiti with the UMW Volunteers in Mission. As a result of her first trip to Haiti, Polly learned how much the young girls loved dresses made out of brightly printed pillow cases. Our circle members contributed many pillow cases, trim and buttons to be used for this purpose. In addition, several of our members, who are proficient in sewing, fashioned some of the dresses. In March of 2013, we invited Sylvia Shelton, Development Director of the Winston-Salem Street School, to speak
8
to us about this much needed ministry … a ministry which Centenary is now embracing! The Street School is always in need of school supplies, so circle members were generous in our giving of these items. In addition, we learned that scholarship money was needed for the students to attend an end-of-year “team building” at Camp Hanes. Circle members contributed enough money to send 13+ students! United Methodist Women are strong advocates for children and youth. Circle 9 members are grateful for these opportunities, as well as so many others, to live out our calling as faithful United Methodist Women.
The organized unit of United Methodist Women shall be 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.
United Methodist Women 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 most editions 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. An extremely generous donor has paid all printing costs for the cookbooks; and, now 100% of all proceeds go to the UMW mission of women, youth and children!!! In this issue we present, from the kitchen of Lynette Harrell, Sweet Potato Biscuits with Country Ham. This recipe can be found on page 70 of the cookbook. INGREDIENTS 5 medium size sweet potatoes 1stick butter ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 1 (40-ounce) box Original Bisquick mix or Bisquick Heart Smart mix 2/3-3/4 cup milk 1 pound precooked Virginia Smithfield Country Ham
COOKING INSTRUCTIONS Bake sweet potatoes in oven until done (about 1 hour at 350*). While sweet potatoes are hot, skin and mash them with butter. Add brown sugar and white sugar. Add Bisquick and stir in milk. Flour surface and roll out biscuit dough. Cut out small biscuits and add thinly sliced precooked Virginia Smithfield Country Ham(most grocery delis will have this). Yields about 4 dozen biscuits. The combination of the salty ham and sweet potato biscuits is heavenly! This dish would be a wonderful addition for either Thanksgiving or Christmas festivities. Lynette Harrell
United Methodist Women By Jane Poe Did you know....United Methodist Women is the largest women’s organization in the world organized for missions? Members focus on the areas of spiritual growth, social action, membership nurture and outreach and mission education. Local units of the conference work together to continue an important heritage as a mission organization serving with God’s children around the world and next door. In 2012, the Western North Carolina Conference United Methodist Women gave $1,037,487.55 for mission. And, for the 12th consecutive year, Western North Carolina was the NUMBER ONE Conference in the nation in mission giving!
Participation in Hands-on projects continues to be a huge success! At conference events during 2012, thousands of birthing kits, health kits, layette kits, school kits, bedding kits, sewing kits and cleaning buckets at a monetary value of $88,230.36 were assembled. And more kits were collected at district gatherings and by local units and were delivered to the Mission Response Center. Education has always been important to the United Methodist Women. For the 2012-2013 academic year, the Conference was able to award $27,850.00 in scholarships to assist 10 students. (The recipients attended Pfeiffer University, High Point University, and Greensboro College as they prepared for a career in a church-relat-
ed vocation.) United Methodist Women in their conference, their District, and their local unit...worship together, participate in hands-on mission projects, raise funds to support mission projects all around the world. United Methodist Women make the PURPOSE come alive as they take Jesus’s ministry and mission into the world!
9
O
n Sunday, September 29, close to 600 members of the Centenary family worshiped at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons. The hour featured a blended service of the Simplify. Rejoice and Chancel Choir musicians as well as the Roots Revival Band. Mark Ralls delivered the sermon. As folks gathered on the hillside of shelter 4, there was a spirit of community and joy. There were children playing in the playground and youth were on the volleyball court. Great conversations were being shared as folks greeted one another and spent time in fellowship. We hope you will enjoy the photo essay. Mark your calendars for September 28, 2014 when we will once again worship in the park.
10
12
Messiah
The Centenary Music and Arts Ministry in conjunction with the Winston-Salem Symphony proudly present:
Handel’s
Tuesday, December 17th Wednesday, December 18th 7:30 pm
The Sanctuary at Centenary
The greatest story ever told. The most majestic music ever conceived. Handel’s inspiring Messiah. Experience music’s most affecting message of faith. This is the Messiah of the season – the Twin City’s favorite holiday tradition! Share it with family and friends.
Robert Moody, Conductor
For tickets, call the Winston-Salem Symphony Box office (336) 464-0145 Monday - Friday, 10 am to 4 pm Tickets: $10 - $45
13
E
ach Sunday in November beginning with our Holiday Open House, through December and ending with our Last Sunday of the year, 50% Discount Sale, you will find wonderful gift selections, yummy tastings and loving fellowship in Glad Tidings. Join us because . . . Good things happen in Glad Tidings!
November 3 Holiday Open House November 10 Support our local Ministries with Love Came Down at Christmas November 17 Nativities and Advent Calendars November 24 Nancy O’s Pepper Jelly and Mixes Tasting December 1 Welcoming First Gifts Martha Brown book signing “Holding Sweet Communion” December 8 Harry Underwood book signing “Golf By the Books” December 15 Special Jewelry Event December 22 How Many Days ‘Til Christmas? December 29 Last Sunday of the year 50% Discount Sale!
14
15
STOCK DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS Making a gift of securities to Centenary United Methodist Church is an excellent way to help the church. Such a gift offers tax savings to most donors. Electronic transfer is the most common method of delivering a gift of securities to Centenary. To deliver your gift of securities electronically, please follow these simple instructions. (1)Instruct your broker that your DTC-eligible securities are to be transferred electronically to: Centenary United Methodist Church Federal Tax ID # 56-0552783 (2)Provide Centenary or instruct your broker to provide Centenary with:
1. a description (name of stock) and the amount of your securities to be transferred 2. the name of brokerage firm 3. the name of the fund to be credited or the purpose of the gift
(3)Also, provide your broker with the list of brokerage firms listed below that Centenary has accounts with: Charles Schwab Account # 2184 0742 DTC # 0164 Phone #: 1 800 435 400
Scottrade Account # 20746083 DTC # 0705 Phone #: (336) 794 0044
Stephens, Inc. Account # 160980382 DTC # 0419 Phone # (336) 251 0423
If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to contact: Kristy Eaton Phone: (336) 397-1341 Fax: (336) 723 5840 E-mail: keaton@centenary-ws.org Making electronic transfer? Always be sure to notify Centenary when you authorize an electronic transfer of securities.
A Life of Service
cford@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1353
Senior Adult Ministry
By Charles Monroe
Dr. Kenneth Carlson has been awarded the highest honor given by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, The Gold Medallion Award. The award reads: “Given to Dr. Kenneth Carlson, whose devoted service has contributed greatly in helping youth to achieve a fuller and richer life through the positive guidance and influence of the The Boys and Girls Club, August 8, 2013.” The Boys and Girls Club building located on Reynolds Park Road is named for Dr. Carlson in gratitude for the love and support that he and Mary Jean have given The Boys and Girls Club over the years. It is, indeed, an honor to recognize Dr. Carlson, one of our Senior Adults, for the outstanding service he has rendered to the youth of Winston-Salem. Several members of Centenary serve on the Advisory Board of The Boys and Girls Club: John Brady, Aubrey Kirby, Martha Martinat, Jane Poe, Frank Rayburn, Margaret Tenille, Bob Vaughn, Rob Welch and Win Welch. Thank you, Dr. and Mrs. Carlson, and Board Members, for all that you have done and continue to do for the youth of Winston-Salem. Sincerely, Craig Ford
D
r. Kenneth P. Carlson’s mother, Matilda Runsvold Carlson, wanted Ken to become a minister like his father and grandfather. Ken’s grandfather, a Lutheran minister, had immigrated to Minnesota from Norway. Ken’s father, Carl A. Carlson, following in the footsteps of his own father, became a Lutheran minister after graduating from Iowa State and serving as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army during World War I. Reverend Carlson served several Lutheran churches in towns of northern Minnesota before becoming a chaplain for the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. After World War II started, Reverend Carlson became an Army Chaplain and served in Alaska and several battle locations across the South Pacific. Ken remembers his father advising him: “Son, you are going to find your own way. You are good in the sciences and you may decide to be a physician.” Whatever future ambitions Ken might have been considering, he remembers that “the need to be of service to people” was always emphasized in his family.
18
Church and scouting was huge for Ken as he was growing up in small towns in northern Minnesota. The woods and open spaces provided more than ample attractions for outdoor activities. Music was big in Ken’s family. His mother, the daughter of Norwegian immigrants, was very musical. She was always singing and playing the piano. By the time Ken entered second grade, the family had moved to Bemidji, MI, where Ken joined the drum and bugle corps as a bugler. Later his parents purchased a brass cornet for him. It is still one of his most prized possessions. His older sister, Dorothy became a member of the heralded St. Olaf Choir at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. After finishing his last year of high school at St. John’s Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin, Ken also attended St. Olaf for about eighteen months prior to joining military service. During his time at St. Olaf, he became a member of the choir and performed as a baritone. While Ken was on a tour of the mid-west with the choir in April1945, the nation was stunned by the death of President Roosevelt. The choir modified their plans and presented a memorial concert at the Opera House in Chicago in observance of the President’s passing. Ken remembers the performance as a very solemn occasion. Toward the end of August 1946, just reaching his 19th birthday, Ken entered the US Army and was sent to Camp Polk, Louisiana, for basic training. Following basic training, the Army sent him on to Camp Lee, Virginia, where he would receive necessary training to join an army band. While having the opportunity to further develop his musical talents had some appeal, Ken had other ideas. With the help of an Army Chaplain at Camp Lee, Ken applied for Officer Candidate School. He was accepted and sent to Fort Benning, Georgia, located just outside of Columbus. In January, 1947, Ken began six months of intensive training at OCS. He successfully completed the program during the summer of 1947 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. Three months of advanced infantry training at Fort Benning followed OCS. During his time at Fort Benning, Ken’s best friend in OCS was dating a young woman in Columbus who had a friend
named Mary Jean Kilgore, the daughter of Gladys and Guy Kilgore. Mary Jean had already graduated from the medical technology program at the University of Georgia in Athens and had returned to Columbus, her home town. Ken was introduced to Mary Jean and they began to date. With the completion of his training at Fort Benning, Ken received orders to go to Korea. The couple agreed to stay in touch while Ken served his time in Korea. Ken arrived in Korea in January 1948. Following the end of World War II, the country had been partitioned into two parts: North Korea supported by the Russian military and South Korea supported by the US military. The time between the end of WWII in 1945 and the start of the Korean War in June 1950 was a relatively quiet period. Troops of the two countries and their sponsors faced each other at the demilitarized zone (DMZ) on the 38th parallel and were tasked with preventing infringement into each other’s territory by unauthorized personnel. Ken, barely 20 years old, was assigned to the 7th Infantry Division and assumed command of an Army platoon of about 60 soldiers stationed at the DMZ. Although the two new “countries to be” were not technically at war, fire fights occurred from time to time. Otherwise, boredom was relieved by visits to Seoul and, on a few occasions for Ken, the opportunity to go game hunting much as he did during his youth in northern Minnesota. On several occasions Ken was accompanied by fellow hunter, Major General William F. Dean, a hero of WWII in Europe. General Dean was subsequently captured in August 1950, during the early days of the Korean War by North Korean soldiers and was held captive until September 1953. In December 1948, Lieutenant Carlson completed his tour of duty in Korea and returned to the United States. Having completed his Army obligations, Ken was reunited with Mary Jean and the two were married at First Baptist Church in Columbus, GA, on January 29,1949. The couple moved to Minneapolis and Ken enrolled at the University of Minnesota. Ken and Mary Jean braved the cold Minnesota winter for one semester and one summer term before returning to Georgia that summer. Ken transferred his studies to Emory University, enrolling there in September 1949. By June of 1955, Ken
had completed his undergraduate studies and medical school. During that time, the couple was also blessed with two children, Rebecca Jean (April 18, 1952) and Kenneth P. Jr. (November 22, 1954). The growing family remained in Atlanta for two more years, while Ken finished a one year internship and one year of surgical residency at Grady Hospital. Carolann joined the family on May 15, 1956. In the summer of 1957, Dr. Fred Garvey and Dr. Charles Norfleet convinced Ken to come to North Carolina Baptist Hospital and Bowman Gray School of Medicine for a three year urology residency. Moving quickly to find a home and with very little available rental space in Winston-Salem, the couple settled on a “block” house on Lockland Avenue, only a half block from the hospital. The rent was $125 per month. With a growing family which needed their mother at home, Ken signed onto an Air Force Residency Contract. The Air Force paid him a Captain’s salary during his residency and in return Ken committed to serve as an Air Force MD for five years after completing his residency. It was a winwin situation. After spending a successful three years benefiting from excellent training and experience at Baptist, Ken was called to active duty at Andrews Air Force Base, just outside Washington, DC. The family located comfortable housing in a nearby community and enjoyed the next two years at Andrews. One of Ken’s patients there was the iconic Air Force General Curtis LeMay. Ken periodically visited the General’s home on appointments to evaluate his health status. After two years at Andrews, Ken was notified that he was being transferred to Tachikawa Air Base in Tokyo, Japan. He would be continuing his medical career at the largest military medical facility in southeast Asia. The Air Force moved the Carlson family from their home outside Washington to their new home in Japan. It was an interesting time for all. The children were enrolled in excellent schools. Ken was participating in interesting projects at the hospital in addition to his patient load. Ken and the medical staff were working cooperatively with Japanese medical professionals and all were benefiting from their joint efforts.
19
Conditions in the area was stable and the family was able to enjoy the opportunity to travel in Japan and thoughout Asia, including Hong Kong, the Philippines, Formosa and Thailand. Near the end of their three year tour in Japan, the family was returning from a trip to Thailand and their plane was making a refueling stop in Saigon. As they approached the landing strip, they observed a flight of large bombers flying by – a harbinger of things to come. Ken also noted that by 1965, they were beginning to notice an increase of wounded soldiers arriving from Vietnam. Ken’s five year commitment to the Air Force was nearing completion and he was resisting the temptation to extend his commitment. He was now a Major with a near term opportunity for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel and re-assignment to Lackland Air Base in San Antonio, where the Air Force has their premier medical facility. Winston-Salem was calling and Dr. Charles Norfleet wanted Dr. Kenneth Carlson to join him in a new medical practice, independent of Bowman Gray School of Medicine and NC Baptist Hospital. The Carlson family arrived back in Winston-Salem in July 1965, after being away for five years while Ken served his country. The family moved into the house where they now live at 3108 Buena Vista Road. Becky entered the 8th grade at Wiley School. Kenny and Carol Ann attended Whitaker School, Kenny in 6th grade and Carolann in 3rd grade. Ken joined Dr. Norfleet in the new urology practice. In this practice, Ken would faithfully and diligently serve many patients over the next 28 years. He and his partners would bring the first lithotripter (kidney stone-busting machine) to Winston-Salem, only the second one in the US. Ken was the first to visit Indianapolis for training. They also developed a pediatric urology practice to improve the quality of life for younger people. As busy as Ken was serving the people of Winston-Salem and the area from a medical standpoint, he was not too busy to become involved in other aspects of people’s lives. In the 1970s Ken started participating in volunteer work with the Salvation
Army and became interested in developing recreational facilities for young boys and girls. He has served on the National Board for Girls, Inc. He has been awarded The Gold Medallion Award, the highest honor given by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The Boys and Girls Club building located on Reynolds Park Road is named for Dr. Carlson in gratitude for the love and support that he and Mary Jean have given to the club over the years. Even now he is talking about the need for a new soccer field with bleachers and lights. Ken takes particular pleasure telling about the program which provides after school mentoring for young female students at the club.
In addition to Ken and Mary Jean, the Carlson family now consists of the adult children, Rebecca Carlson Smith, who lives with her husband Andy in Raleigh; Kenneth P. Carlson, Jr., who lives with his wife Melanie in Winston-Salem; and Carolann Carlson Lineweaver, who lives with her husband Dan in Blacksburg, VA. The five grandchildren include Becky’s two sons, Andrew Brandon Smith and Wesley Clayton Smith; and Kenny’s three daughters, Lindsay Marie Veasey, Elizabeth Abbott Robb and Kathryn Louise Carlson. Ken and Mary Jean expect to become great-grandparents in the near future.
In addition to the focused support Ken has given to Boys and Girls Clubs over the years, Ken has also contributed his time and efforts to two other organizations which provide critical services to the citizens of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County: Senior Services and Hospice and Palliative Care. He has served on the boards of both and has been named Director Emeritus at Hospice. Ken’s leadership and infectious enthusiasm has attracted many of his friends and associates to serve in each of the organizations he supports. As a physician Ken has served almost 40 years treating an untold number of patients. He has contributed countless hours and dollars improving the quality of life for the youth of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County, for seniors through Senior Services and Meals on Wheels and for those approaching end of life through Hospice. Before Mary Jean and Ken became members of Centenary United Methodist Church over 10 years ago, Ken was an elder at Highland Presbyterian Church. At Centenary, Ken and Mary Jean are members of the Chapel Class and are active in senior adult activities as members of the Senior Adult Council. Although Ken’s mother hoped he would be a minister, it is very likely that both mother and father would agree that he has fulfilled “the need to be of service to people” as emphasized in his family as he was growing up. Ken has definitely fulfilled his father’s assurance that “Son, you are going to find your own way. You are good in the sciences and you may decide to be a physician.”
“Son, you a way. You ar you may d
Ken Carlson, in the words of some friends and fellow community supporters... It was over 23 years ago that a friend at our church, Louise Kelly, asked me to serve on the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club board. Ken Carlson was the chairman of the board at that time, and I remember how he had such a “welcoming” spirit for me as a new member of the board. I immediately felt a “special place of belonging/ serving” because of his incredible gift of welcoming! The opportunity to serve with Ken through the activities of the Boys and Girls Club has been a tremendous blessing in my life. Ken’s gift of “leadership” is filled with deep grace, mercy, and tremendous compassion for the hundreds of boys and girls he has “walked with” these past years… his incredible discerning spirit, his attentive listening, his “eyes of the heart” have had a tremendous positive impact on the lives of hundreds of children who have come to the Boys and Girls Club. The club is now so beautifully named in Ken’s honor: The Ken Carlson Boys and Girls Club Thank you, Ken, for the inspiring ways you have used your vocational “calling” of healing and helping children in our community! Your loving and joyful manner of leading has been inspiring to all who have served with you! And, a “double blessing” through the years is also getting to know and love Mary Jean, your loving and adorable wife!
Dr. Kenneth Carlson takes the mandate “Do Unto Others” beyond the church doors into the community. Because of his concern for the vulnerable, especially children, in 2002 Dr. Carlson was awarded another prestigious award, “the others award,” given by the National Salvation Board. On the Salvation Advisory Board, he is willing to do whatever is needed, whether ringing the bell at Christmas or helping count the kettle pennies for which we are so grateful. Ken Carlson sets a high bench mark for faith in action toward which we should all aim.
Anyone who knows Dr. Ken Carlson knows that he is always thinking of others. He is very active in The Salvation Army, Boys and Girls Club, Senior Services – Meals on Wheels, Kiwanis Club, The Senior Adult Council at Centenary – just to name a few. He and Mary Jean are true humanitarians, giving of their time and money. We have been witness to their kindness and generosity for years and we are proud to be their friends.
Liz and John Brady
Martha Martinat Ken Carlson is an M.D. (Medical Doctor), but he has consciously expanded the meaning of M.D. to include More Dedicated. Ken has been and continues to be more dedicated to his family, his patients, his friends, Centenary UMC, The Salvation Army and their Ken Carlson Boys and Girls Club, his alma mater (Emory University), the Kiwanis Club and any other need that he can meet. A Minnesotan by birth, he has metamorphosed into my idea of a classic southern gentleman (thank you Mary Jean for bringing him South). Frank Rayburn
With gratitude, Jane Poe
are going to find your own re good in the sciences and decide to be a physician.” 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 21
Memorials Centenary Fund In memory of Elizabeth Webster Brandon by Mary Roufail, Anne Wilkerson, Sue Cooper, Mrs. J. Robert Elster. In memory of Bennett Daniel Gross, Sr. by Henry and Jane Stokes, Bernie Misenheimer. In memory of Frank Borden Hanes, Sr. by Mr. Perry Mitchell, Dr. and Mrs. A.D. Kornegay, Frances and George Newman. In memory of Anne Woodward Kenan by Missy and Leonard McKeand, Sharon Ralston, Mr. and Mrs. Stuart F. Vaughn, Mrs. J. Robert Elster, Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Edwards, George Ragland, Kay and Bill Baldridge, Mr. and Mrs. Henry M. Booke, Vernon Winters, Frances and George Newman, Beverly and Tim Isley. In memory of Mary Hazel Lucas by Mrs. J. Robert Elster. In memory of Edna T. Robertson by Gary and Eleanor Moses and Family, Mr. and Mrs. Henry M. Booke, Mike and Doreen Mabe, Kay and Bill Baldridge, Sandra and Wayne Shugart, Paul L. Moses, Mr. and Mrs. John Hickman, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Edwards. In memory of John L. Barber by Mandy and Fred London. In memory of Doris Velna Linville Sale by Tara Fine Jewelry, Bill and Doris Barrow, Carol and Ron Bird, Rosanelle “Tootie” Barbour, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Rosebrook, BJ Foster, Betty and Jim Brewer, V. Jan Conway, Frank and Becky Foster. In memory of Robert B. Campbell by Sandra Orr, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene G. Wilson, Dr. Robert L. Means, Mr. and Mrs. John B. Brady, Dorothy E. Pritchard, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Coan. In memory of Robert Alan West by Ray Blevins. In memory of Betty McCall Smith by Allan and Bill Womble. In memory of Sandy Gallant by Frances and George Newman. In memory of Doris Hackler Fowler by Ray Blevins, George and Katherine Anderson, Marjorie R. Fisher, Corty and Bill Freeman, Susan Hinkle, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rascoe, Gordon H. Cox. In memory of Janice Myers May by Alice J. Hobbs, Elizabeth Myers. In memory of Elizabeth Benson Johnson by Jean Beam.
Extra Gifts In memory of William M. Robertson, III by Sybil Robertson.
Loaves and Fishes In memory of Elizabeth Benson Johnson by Marianne Bach, Tyson and Judie Swain, Andrea Little, Mr. and Mrs. Phil Kinken,
Ann Lore, Deedee Fenwick. In memory of Robin Redmon Reynolds by Deedee Fenwick.
Scout Troop 920
Sacred Music Fund
In memory of Franklin Reid Warren, III by Jennifer Rollosson.
In memory of Betty McCall Smith by Jean Steelman, Mrs. J. Robert Elster, June Ward, Betsy and Archie Gray Allen, Jr., Marcia and Wilson Russell, Betty and Jim Brewer, Emily Glaze, John and Lacy Butner Hefty, Bruce and Bernice Clapp, Mr. and Mrs. Henry M. Booke, Claire and Hudnall Christopher, Mr. and Mrs. William Maready, Dalton Ruffin, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick P. Spach, Patricia R. Guy, Nancy Spach, Albert Ray Newsome, The Village Tavern, Sharon and Ronnie Shealy, Molly Sexton, Allan and Bill Womble, Frances and George Newman, Kate G. and Frank H. Craver, Wilma Rush, Algie S. Crutchfield, Jeffrey Coltrane, Jr., Dr. Robert L. Means, Mr. and Mrs. John B. Brady, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin L. Slate, Jr., Georgia Eskridge, Martha Martinat, Ann Lore, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stockton, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Coan, Deedee Fenwick, Ileita and Bob Reed, Evelyn and Bob Rickert, James W. Blum, Nina T. Paxton, Mrs. Charles F. Vance, Jr., the Hiram H. Ward Family and the family of the late Margaret Adelaide Lowdermilk Ward, Molly Sexton, Gazebo, Bob and Ellen Cash and Brennan Cash Specia, R. Carolyn Johnson, Clayton and Eleanor Boggan, Michael G. Smith, Henry and Dyeann Jordan, Grover and Jane McNair, Randall W. Sparger, Jr. Sarah Ferrell Sloan and Sarah Sue Ferrell, Tyson and Judie Swain, Anne and Doug Gunnell, Mr. and Mrs. Sam C. Ogburn, Sr. and Elizabeth A. Ogburn, Mary Lou Riggs, Betty W. Alexander, Mr. and Mrs. W. Andrew Copenhaver, Shippey McDowell, Dr. and Mrs. Clay Williams, Harry and Emma Philpott, Mr. and Mrs. Ted H. Koenig, Mrs. Henry Stocks, Jacqueline S. Hunt, Alice J. Hobbs, Grace and John McKinnon, Susan Lemon, Sallie Tucker, Mrs. Gordon Hanes, Elaine L. Muir, W. Grady Southern, Jr., James M. Southern, Kitty Felts, Nella Purrington Fulton, Algie S. Crutchfield, John W. Hunt, Dr. and Mrs. Henry S. Miller, Jr., Mary Lu Whaling. In memory of Elizabeth Webster Brandon by Elaine Muir. In memory of Sara Fountain Lore by Ann Lore. In memory of Pete Warren, brother of Jerry Warren , by Helen Kennedy. In memory of Barbara Little, sister of Linda Meier, by Helen Kennedy. In memory of Martha Ellen Stockton Hancock by Mary Lu Whaling.
Senior Adult Ministry In memory of Robert B. Campbell by Louise and John Campbell.
We extend sympathy to... ...Melanie Barbee on the death of her father, Donald O’Neil Swaim. ...Becky Nutt in the death of her father, John Barrett. ...Julian and Nancy Gibson, on the death of her son, Brantly Brodt Braswell.
In Memoriam Doris Linville Sale August 5, 2013 Robert Alan West August 13, 2013 Betty Tilman August 14, 2013 Robert Burbage Campbell August 17, 2013 Betty McCall Smith August 18, 2013 Avis Shearon McKeithan August 29, 2013 Doris Hackler Fowler September 8, 2013 Elizabeth Roe Glenn September 14, 2013 Dorothy Burkhart Peacock (Dot) September 20, 2013 Virginia Benbow Baldwin (Betty) September 23, 2013 Frances Horne Avera October 8, 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.
Honoraria Centenary Fund
We celebrate the birth of...
In honor of Caroline Gall by Leslie H. Nelson.
...Jack Walker Neal to parents Brian and Katie Neal on July 28, 2013.
Children’s Ministry
...twins Alexander Buchanan Stubbs Jr and Sheldon Ann Mangum Stubbs to Meredith & Z Stubbs on July 31, 2013.
In honor of Harold Leo Welch by Edwin and Sue Welch.
Music and the Arts In honor of Kenneth Smith by Molly Sexton. In honor of Betty McCall Smith’s brother and family by Molly Sexton. In honor of Carl and Mimi Hein by Gary Hein.
Radio Ministry In honor of Harold Leo Welch by Edwin and Sue Welch.
Congregational Care In honor of Reverend Craig Ford by Gail Tucker.
Welcome
We celebrate the baptism of...
... Harper Jane Sutton (Harper) daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Scott William Sutton (Scott and Darien) and granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Sutton (Roger and Jane). ...Hannah Esther Walton (Hannah), daughter of Drs. Perry James Walter and Nicole Roberts Walton (Perry and Nicole).
We celebrate the marriage of...
...Borden McClellan Douglas son of Mr. and Mrs. Sandlin Millaway Douglas (Sandlin and Hunter), grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson Douglas (Jim and Marian) and brother of four year old Mills.
...Noelle Jordan Scott and Richard Fisher
...Caroline
... Lauren Everett and Tommy Minta on September 14, 2013.
Ragan Gall (Caroline), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Patillo Gall (Brandon and Holli) and sister of two year old Margaret. ... Brian Joseph Holden Jr. (Brian), son of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Joseph Holden Sr.(Brian and Kara) and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Norbert Holden III (Chip and Carol). ... Bailey Thompson Johnston (Thompsie) daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tompson Johnston, Jr. (Joe and Candice) , and sister to Lolly (6) and Holt (4).
on June 4, 2013 (now Mr. and Mrs. Richard Scott).
... Jane Dudley Bremer and George Dee Smith on September 20, 2013. ... Jennifer Lynn Eshelman and David Edward Conrad, Jr. on September 21, 2013. ... Ashley Brooke Pace and Gray Early Reavis on September 29, 2013.
New Members We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love. Kate Lambert, pictured with husband, Trey.
Jo Ann Testo-Curlee, pictured with husband, Robert.
Not pictured: Melissa Fender, Tommie Jackson, and Lauren Williams
23
24
Opportunities to Give this Christmas Angel Tree & Love Came Down at Christmas During the Christmas season, we take particular care to remember Jesus’ words in Acts 20:35—“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” If you are looking for ways to give back to our church, community, and world, consider supporting both the Angel Tree project and the Love Came Down at Christmas program. In our Angel Tree program, we receive requests from families who are in need of extra help at Christmas; usually, the requests we accept come from United Methodist ministries in the area. These requests are placed anonymously on the Angel Tree, and people from our congregation buy and return the needed Christmas items. Trees will be set up at the beginning of November. All gifts need to be returned by December 1 for distribution. For any questions, please contact Rev. Kate May (397-1331)/kmay@centenaryws.org. Love Came Down at Christmas is Centenary’s missions giving program. It allows members to give to specific ministries and projects, with 100% of gifts going directly toward serving others. You can designate your gift for church ministries like Love Thy Neighbor and DAYBreak Respite Care, local mission projects like the Food Bank Garden and the Children’s Home, and international mission activities in Haiti and elsewhere. For each $5 donation, you are entitled to a Christmas gift card to send to friends and family members.
Angel Tree
For more information about Love Came Down at Christmas please contact Rev. Sarah Howell (397-1348)/showell@centenary-ws.org.
Winston Salem Street School By Judy Jones On September 17, at noon, 260 people gathered in support of the Winston Salem Street School at Forsyth Country Club. Winston Salem Street School is a faithbased non denominational accredited high school where students have a last chance to earn their high school diplomas. Guests were treated to beautifully decorated tables, delicious food and the opportunity to learn about this school that proves to be life-changing to its students, helping them break the cycle caused by limited education. Dr. Mark Ralls delivered a thoughtful message about our place in the world to help others as the situation presents rather than turn away immersed in our own lives. David, the Director of the Winston Salem Street School emotionally helped us understand the development and purpose of the school as well as its accomplishments. David had the attention of the entire room, but as students came to the podium and individually testified how their lives had been saved because of the Winston Salem Street School, guests were touched and moved to be a part of this commitment to their community. The fundraising luncheon was underwritten by Glad Tidings books and gifts of Centenary. Eleven of the twenty-eight tables were captained by Centenary members and several of those team captains serve on the WSSS board. Sylvia Shelton, Director of Development at the WSSS, discussed a goal of $35,000 to be raised at the luncheon. As of today, $50,000 has been raised and they are still counting! Glad Tidings books and gifts was able to give a check for $10,000 to David and Sylvia on behalf of the Centenary UMC Congregation.
26
All profits over operating costs in Glad Tidings are donated to ministries and missions. After research, the Glad Tidings Volunteers decided the funds should be invested in the WSSS, moving students towards their educational goals. Various Centenary Sunday School Classes, Small Groups, UMW Circles and staff are providing Monday morning breakfast to the Winston Salem Street Students throughout the 2013 and 2014 school year and the Glad Tidings Volunteers are providing and serving a Thanksgiving feast for the students on November 26th. If you feel you would like to be involved in ministry at the Winston Salem Street School, please let us know. We would love for you to join us in this gratifying ministry.
27
28
THE BIG SILENCE Stumbling into the Heart of Christ February 16-20, 2014 St. Francis Springs Prayer Center Stoneville NC
If you hunger for a deeper experience of God through prayer, then join us for this special four-day guided retreat. Sunday afternoon through Wednesday afternoon, will have big spaces of silence so that we might experience the gift of God’s transforming grace. Inspired by the documentary The Big Silence (see link on our webpage), this retreat will be grounded in the modern classic The Way of the Heart by Henri Nouwen. There are only 16 rooms available. If you would like to view a PDF flyer/registration, go to www. centenary-ws.org/SF or contact Rev. Jonathan Brake, Minister of Adult Spiritual Formation & Education, jbrake@centenary-ws.org.
29
kmay@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1331
Children’s Ministry By Kate May
I
have heard it said and sung that Christmas is for children. At centenary that is definitely the case! All through Advent and Christmas we have a whole variety of events for children and their families. I hope you’ll mark your calendar and plan to participate.
Christmas Craft Night Sunday • November 24 4-7 pm
Christmas Craft Night makes a return appearance. We will have the whole first floor filled with all kinds of fun Christmas Crafts that folks of any age or crafty ability can do and feel good about! We’ll also have 2 dinner seatings at 5:30 and 6 p.m. featuring a delicious pasta bar. Sign ups will begin Sunday, November 3. Make sure to sign up early as there are a limited number of spots for some crafts. You’ll want to make sure you don’t miss having your picture made with Mary and Joseph while you’re here! Start your Advent season off with a bang at Christmas Craft Night!
Front Porch Day Caroling at Love Thy Neighbor Sunday • December 8
Our December service opportunity will be singing carols with our neighbors at Love Thy Neighbor. As we focus on love as a congregation what better way is there to experience and share God’s love than by serving our neighbors and bringing Christmas joy to each other?
30
Kids Day In
Saturday • December 14 9:30 am - Noon Your kids want a special Saturday at church just for them right? This morning will include games, crafts, storytime, snacks, and even “shopping” for presents for their parents! Kids in fifth garde and younger are invited to spend the morning at the church having fun with
friends and remembering the meaning of the season! Cost is $5/child and reservations are necessary. RSVP to Ashley Maner (amaner@centenary-ws.org, 3971332) by Monday, December 9.
Impromptu Christmas Pageant Sunday • December 22 10-10:30 am
Everybody loves a good Christmas pageant! As we make our final preparations to again celebrate Jesus’ birth we will meet in the sanctuary for an impromptu Christmas pageant. No rehearsals necessary, no lines to memorize, and we’ll even supply the costumes! There will be no children’s Sunday School this Sunday and we encourage adult Sunday School classes to come and watch and even participate if you want to! We’ll meet in the sanctuary at 10 a.m. to give instructions and enjoy watching the story of Christmas come to life before our eyes!
Christmas Eve Pajama Party
December 24 • 9:30 am
Children, Youth & Families Christmas Eve Worship Tuesday • December 24 4:00 pm
Spending Christmas Eve together as a family and worshipping together is one of the things that makes Christmas for me! I hope your entire family will plan to join us for this family-friendly Christmas Eve service. It is filled with music and surprises and will be a delight for children of all ages. We are excited this year to move this service one hour earlier. We will begin at 4 p.m. which will hopefully make this service even more family friendly!
Christmas Eve is such an exciting day! From the moment you wake up you begin to countdown to all of the special things planned for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. To get your day started off right we will be having a Christmas Eve pajama Party with our preschoolers especially in mind. This party will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Children’s Museum. Everyone is encouraged to wear pajamas, come and enjoy the festivities, and then spend some time exploring the Children’s Museum. It’s a great way to spend the day and you won’t want to miss it!
Images from 2012 Christmas Craft Night Pictures with Mary & Joseph
31
Events & Announcements POINSETTIAS FOR ADVENT It will soon be time to decorate our sanctuary with beautiful poinsettias for the Advent season. Donate a poinsettia in honor or in memory of your loved one. They will be $15.00 each and will be available for pick-up after the last service on December 29, 2013 or during the following week (please note we are closed on New Year’s Day). Each poinsettia must be paid for at the time the order is placed. Fill out a request form, available around the church and in publications, and mail to the church with your check or credit card information. You may also call the reception desk during business hours at 724-6311 to place your order before November 15, 2013. LONGEST NIGHT A Service of Healing and Comfort December 21 • 7:00 pm • Chapel We sing about the holidays being the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it can be the most difficult. For those suffering loss or grief of any kind, it may be difficult to connect with the joy of the season. In recognition of this, many communities observe a Longest Night service in order to provide space for those who need to mourn to do so. We will follow this tradition on the night of the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, symbolizing both the darkness of grief and the persistence of hope that the dawn will come. Join us for an intimate service of music, prayers, and anointing with oil (a practice traditionally associated with prayers for healing) as we seek God’s strength and comfort together. Our Stephen Ministers will be participating in the service and will be available afterward should you wish to connect more with their ministry of bringing God’s love and care into the lives of others. A light reception will be held in the Dining Room following the service in the Chapel. Contact showell@centenaryws.org with any questions. STEPHEN MINISTRY “Pull Yourself Together!” You’ve heard it a million times. Others may have said it to you or you may have said it to yourself. But things just aren’t coming together. You’re still hurting. You still feel like things are falling apart. Our Stephen Ministers are trained caregivers who will
32
walk with you, listen to you, and provide confidential one-to-one care, as you search through the pieces and find what is truly in your heart.If you are experiencing a situation that you just can’t find your way out of, talk with Mark Ralls at 397-1362 or Craig Ford at 397-1353 to find out how you can receive help from a Stephen Minister. All calls are confidential. NURSERY CARE Nursery care for infants through prekindergarten is offered during every Sunday morning worship service. During the 11:00 am worship service, 3’s and 4’s in the nursery have a time of engaged Bible storytelling led by children’s ministry staff. Our nursery classrooms, staffed by professional childcare workers, are located on the second floor of the children’s building. ROOTS REVIVAL Roots Revival is a midweek worship service grounded in Americana/roots-based music featuring Martha Bassett and friends. Each service is centered around one or two “focus songs” and an accompanying Scripture passage. For October 30 we will have a little fun with our service being the day before Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve) as we build our worship around Martha’s song “Wicked Witch” and Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition.” We meet each Wednesday at 7:30 pm in Memorial Auditorium. Learn more at www.rootsrevivalws.com. CHILDREN’S MINISTRY Children’s Worship 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, kindergarteners through third graders are invited to join Rev. Kate May in the dining room. Children will return to the sanctuary after the sermon, and 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. Christmas Craft Night November 24 Registration for Christmas Craft Night begins November 3 in the Reception
Narthex at the 4½ Street Entrance. Front Porch Day November 17 • 2-4 pm We will be packing Thanksgiving meals at Loaves & Fishes. YOUTH MINISTRY November 3 8:45, 9:00, 10:10, 11:00 am: Worship 9:45 am: Sunday school 11:00 pm: Love Thy Neighbor (LTN) set up 12:00-2:00 pm: LTN & Medical Clinic HOOPS4HIM 2013-2014 It’s back!!!!! One of our favorite things about fall and winter is our HOOPS4HIM Basketball season. Player signups will be open on November 1st. Next week I will include a link in our weekly email for you to register on one of our teams. Centenary will host 3 teams again this year: Intermediate Boys, Girls, and Senior High Boys. HOOPS4HIM is a city wide church basketball league that’s sole purpose is for teenagers to play basketball within a community of people who have a heart for Jesus. If you play basketball, or never have, and have a desire to play with a great team of people, HOOPS4HIM is for you. Contact Tammy if you have any questions. 2013-2014 Love Thy Neighbor Dates November 3 December 8 January 12, 2014 February 2 February 22 (Runway Show and Silent Auction) March 2 April 13 May 4 ADULT ED. / SPIRITUAL FORMATION A Silent Retreat Opportunity February 16-20 • St. Francis Springs Center Space is limited and filling up for the 2014 Big Silence Retreat at St. Francis Springs Prayer Center. Our own Rev. Jonathan Brake will co-lead this retreat again. Come learn about the role of silence in our spiritual growth and prayer life. Teaching sessions, small group discussions, praying the hours, and a variety of spiritual practices will enhance large blocks of silence in this beautiful setting. Details and registration information can be found at www.centenaryonline.com/sf or contact Jonathan Brake (397-1334)/jbrake@ centenary-ws.org.
Prayer Practices: Prayer Journaling November 3 • 5:00 pm • Chapel The first Sunday of each month throughout the “Are You Hungry?” theme, we will hold a prayer service in the chapel, focusing on a different prayer practice each month. For November, we will encounter a generous God through the gift of the written word. This isn’t about how good of a writer you are but about learning how we can connect with God and with our own needs and desires through the act of journaling. Come see if this practice might be one you could integrate into your own spiritual life. Services are led by Revs. Sarah Howell and Jonathan Brake, using the book Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals to frame our prayer time. SENIOR ADULTS Veterans Day Breakfast November 11 • 8:30 am • Auditorium Military veterans and their spouses are invited to this event which occurs each year to honor our veterans for service to our country. Friends who wish to join in this event are welcome. Chuck Deleot (Captain, US Navy retired) will be our speaker. Chuck, the brother of Centenary member Tom Deleot, retired after 34 years of military service and is currently President and Chairman of the Patriot Foundation. The Foundation, located in Pinehurst, NC, was organized in 2003 to “provide support for the families of Ft. Bragg Airborne and Special Operations Soldiers and other selected warriors.” Although there is no charge for breakfast, please make reservations by emailing chasmonroe@yahoo.com or telephone 773-0446. If no answer please leave a message, indicating name, telephone number and number of people. Deadline for reservations is 12:00 noon on Friday, November 8. MISSIONS November & December Food of the Month The November food of the month is canned fruit and cereal. The December food of the month is small canned hams, canned potatoes, canned fruit, dessert mixes (complete). Please bring your food donations to the Missions bins, located in the Reception Narthex at 4½ Street.
MUSIC AND THE ARTS
Handel’s Messiah Centenary members who wish to usher at Winston-Salem Symphony performances of Handel’s Messiah in our sanctuary should email Susan Melville now for important details (sumelville@yahoo.com). Include day and date you can serve (Tuesday, December 17, or Wednesday, December 18). For volunteering, the Symphony will give you a ticketed seat at the performance. Faith in Films Series • February Butter Birkas returns in February to show three films which deal with the theme of “visions.” The films will present characters whose visions inspire actions that push them beyond the norm. Films will demonstrate the best in story line, direction, cinematography, and acting. One of the three films will be The Man Who Would Be King, directed by John Huston in 1975 and starring Sean Connery, Michael Caine and Christopher Plummer. Mark your calendars for Sunday afternoons February 9th, 16th and 23rd from 2:00-5:00 in the Fellowship Hall. YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY Second Sundays at Seven Each month on the second Sunday @ 7:00 p.m. we gather at a member’s home for a potluck and conversation. This is a time to share delicious food, get to know one another, and talk about issues connected with the “Are You Hungry?” theme. Sometimes we’ll watch part of a documentary, other times we might discuss a current issue or a subject weighing on someone’s mind—but we’ll always enjoy one another’s company! Email centenaryyam@gmail.com for each month’s location, to suggest a topic, or to join our email list for updates. UNITED METHODIST WOMEN Luncheon December 2 • Noon •Auditorum
28 to Mary Ceile Ogburn at 725-7573. If you are not a member of a circle, feel free to call on your own... there is always a spot for everyone and we love having new faces and friends. There will be a board meeting at 10:30 am in room 115 prior to the luncheon. For any questions you may call Judy Smith at 724-7232. STEWARDSHIP November 12 • 7:00 pm • Auditorium You are invited to an exciting event surrounding the 2014 Stewardship campaign. On November 12, join the stewardship leadership team for coffee, conversation and communion. To RSVP for either event, contact Thad Lewallen (3971352)/tlewallen@centenary-ws.org. We Need Your Help! If your children are members and live outside of the home (college students, adult children out of town) please send us their mailing address. In order to meet our participation goal, we need all members to pledge. Please send information to John Rogers (397-1356)/jrogers@centenary-ws. org. CHURCH OFFICES CLOSED During the busy holiday season, the church offices will be closed on the followinfg dates: Thursday, November 28 Closed for Thanksgiving Friday, November 29 Closed for Thanksgiving Tuesday, December 24 Closing at Noon Wednesday, December 25 Closed for Christmas Thursday, December 26 Closed for Christmas Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Closed for New Year’s Day
Come and enjoy Robert Moody, Music Director of Winston-Salem Symphony, at noon on Monday, December 2. What a way to “jump start” the Christmas spirit!! There will be lots of surprises and giveaways from our cookbook. The December luncheon is always one of our largest gatherings and it is essential that everyone makes their reservation in a timely manner. Your payment of $7 is collected at the luncheon entrance. Please let your circle leader know if you are coming as they need to forward their total number of reservations by THURSDAY, November
33
Youth Ministry
Worth It
NOTHING COULD BE MORE
R
By Tyler MacDonald
eflecting back on my first year here at Centenary, I am amazed by all that has happened. Tammy, the youth and I have gone through confirmation, ski trips, two mission trips, a rest retreat, fed thousands of our neighbors and participated in many youth groups- just to name a few. While each of those events was very special to me in its own way, the truly amazing part of being with the youth has been to watch them grow and change throughout this past year. I have witnessed the youth participate in acts of kindness and love which have truly inspired me. Whether they are sharing a meal with our neighbors at Love Thy Neighbor or spending time with one another at youth group, they are always demonstrating their desire to fulfill the two greatest commandments: love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:27-40). If you have never witnessed our youth in action I encourage you to pay attention to the many ways they live out God’s commandments. They serve in the Simplify band, at Love Thy Neighbor, on mission trips, at front porch days and at our summer of service events. They seek to grow deeper in their knowledge of God and their faith by attending worship, Sunday School, Confirmation, youth group and other events Tammy and I plan for them during the year. If you’ve ever questioned if our young people long to know God and obey his commandments, I can assure you that they demonstrate these desires on a daily basis. Their hunger to grow closer to their Savior and to love others is contagious. It is impossible to be around the youth and not be encouraged by their passion and faith.
tclark@centenary-ws.org 336-397-1337
When I am teaching Sunday School, Confirmation or youth group I am reminded of the passage where Jesus says, “Out of the mouths of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise for yourself.� (Matthew 21:16) Our youth may not like being called babies or infants but the fact is the truths that come out of their mouths are astounding. Their insights and questions stick with me and challenge me to grow deeper in my own walk with God. They have questions and doubts but they also have a desire to know more. Youth are in a transitional period between the exuberance of childhood and the skepticism of adulthood. They struggle to work out what their faith means and how it applies to their daily lives. It is a joy and an honor to walk alongside them through this stage of their lives- even if it is not always easy. There are days when I go home exhausted, and there are days where I just want to rest. But it is all worth it. When I came home from our mission trip to Queens I was on the point of physical collapse. A long week of getting up early, serving the community, keeping track of twenty youth and driving a bus in New York City will do that to you. But come that next week when Tammy, Garrison, the youth and I started serving in Vacation Bible School I found myself energized and excited to be back with the youth serving God. That is a microcosm of what youth ministry is like, sheer exhaustion due to serving followed by pure joy at the opportunity to get up the next day and do it again. As I reach the end of my first year at Centenary I may be tired, and I may have grown a few gray hairs but nothing could be more worth it than to have the opportunity to share the love of God with our youth and to witness them share that love with others.
Images are from youth events over the last twelve months.
35
(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
Periodicals Postage Paid at Winston-Salem, N. C.