Advent 2024

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Holiday Schedule

Advent Wreath Creation

December 4th at 4:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center

Join us on Wednesday, December 4th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Oak Street Center for our free Advent Wreath Creation! Come any time during the event to decorate your own wreath and prepare your home for the season. There will be a Prime Time Wednesday meal at 5:30 p.m. for those who would like to dine together; please remember to register for the meal separately.

To ensure we have enough supplies, please RSVP by clicking the link below and filling out the form. 
We can’t wait to kick off Advent with you!

First Kids + Shouting Stones Christmas Camp

December 6th at 5:00 p.m. in the Student Center

Get ready for an evening of holiday cheer and fun! First Kids Christmas Camp is happening on December 6th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Student Center. This festive event, open to kids 5th grade and under, is filled with Christmas-themed activities and games to celebrate the season!

Not only is this a chance for the kids to have a blast, but it’s also a fundraiser for the Shouting Stones Youth Group Mission Trips. Our youth can sign up to volunteer and help make this night memorable!

Cost: $15
Register now to secure your spot by clicking the link below and filling out a form!

Holiday Harbor Dinner

December 9th at 6:30 p.m. in Mohney Hall

A dinner for bereaved parents in a comfortable space during an uncomfortable season.

The holiday season can be challenging for parents navigating grief. On December 9th, we invite you to join us for a heartfelt evening at the Holiday Harbor Dinner in Money Hall. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., this dinner offers a welcoming space for bereaving parents to share a meal, find comfort, and gather together during a difficult time.

Please RSVP to Rev. Michelle Hunter at mhunter@firstcentenary.com or 423-756-2021 by November 26th.

The United Women in Faith Christmas Dinner

December 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102

You’re invited to a joyful evening of fellowship at the United Women in Faith Christmas Dinner on December 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102! Join us as we welcome Bishop Richard Looney and enjoy his reflections on his Favorite Joys of Christmas.

The evening will feature a delicious meal catered by Southern Star and sweet treats from Cakes by Karen. Don’t miss this special holiday gathering – we’d love to celebrate with you!

Registration deadline is December 4th. You can register by clicking the link below or by calling Sally Richardson at 423-785-7748.

Christmas Sing-Along

December 11th at 6:30 p.m. in The Vine

Join us for a festive Christmas Sing-Along on December 11th at 6:30 p.m. in The Vine! Bring your holiday spirit and your voice as we sing some of our favorite Christmas carols together. If you’d like to enjoy a meal before the event, our Prime Time Wednesday meal will be available with separate registration required. Don’t miss this wonderful evening of music, fellowship, and holiday cheer!

The No Rehearsal Nativity Pageant

December 15th at 10:45 a.m. During Both Worship Services

On Sunday, December 15th, join us for The No Rehearsal Nativity Pageant during the 10:45 a.m. services in both The Vine and the Sanctuary! Children are invited to dress up as their favorite nativity character and participate in this joyful procession, walking down the aisles during the service.

No rehearsal is needed, and costumes will be provided—just come ready to celebrate the story of Christmas!

Families are invited to meet us in the Sanctuary at 10:40am, and sit in the pew labeled with your child's character of choice.

We will begin in the Sanctuary and travel as a group to The Vine.

Younger children's families are invited to walk with us during the pageant; elementary children may walk by themselves.

Crafts & Carols

December 17th at 7 p.m. at Hutton & Smith Brewing Co.

Meet us at Hutton & Smith Brewing Company  (431 E M.L. King Blvd #120) on December 17th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to celebrate the season! Raise a glass and sing along to your favorite carols in a cozy, festive atmosphere.

For ages 21 and older only.

Bring your friends and holiday cheer, we'll see you there!

Blue Christmas Service

December 21st at 2:00 p.m. in The Vine

Join us for a time of comfort and reflection at our Blue Christmas Service on December 21st at 2:00 p.m. in The Vine. This special service is open to all who seek a moment of peace and solace during the holiday season. Together, we’ll find hope and healing, honoring the complexities of this time of year.

All are welcome.

fcUNITE Holiday Party

December 21st at 6:00 p.m. Meet at the Student Center

Join the College Ministry for their fcUNITE Holiday Party on December 21st at 6:00 p.m. We’ll gather at the Student Center before heading out for a night of festive fun. The evening will include either a special Christmas dinner or a trip to enjoy the Rock City Lights. Don't miss this chance to celebrate the season with your fcUNITE family. Details on the evening’s plans will be shared soon—so stay tuned and bring your holiday cheer!

Lessons & Carols

December 22nd at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary

Experience the magic of the season at our Lessons and Carols service on December 22nd in the Sanctuary! Enjoy a beautiful time of caroling beginning at 10:30 a.m., followed by our traditional service at 10:45 a.m. Come and let the sounds of the carolers fill your heart with joy as we celebrate the story of Christmas together.

Christmas Eve Services

December 24th
3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in The Vine and Sanctuary
11:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Celebrate Christmas Eve with us at First-Centenary! Join us on December 24th for a time of worship and reflection as we celebrate the birth of Christ. Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in both The Vine and the Sanctuary, and at 11:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Each service will offer inspiring music, meaningful messages, and a warm atmosphere to share with loved ones. All are welcome to experience the joy and hope of the season with our church family. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Ways to Give this Season

The Gift of Christmas Coffee

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the coffee lover in your life? Give the gift of Christmas Coffee! Each purchase of our delicious, freshly roasted coffee supports The Vine Hospitality Coffee Ministry.

Order by December 8th to receive your coffee in time for Christmas. Each pound bag costs $10 and you can place your order at the coffee counter in The Vine Lobby during the 10:45 a.m. worship services.

Share Your Christmas with The Centenary's After School Program

Angel Tree Ornaments
Would you like to share your Christmas with a child in The Centenary? Angel Tree ornaments will be located in the Lobby of The Vine, the Narthex, and the First Floor Lobby at the base of the stairs on November 3. Each ornament gives the name of a child and full instructions for sharing your Christmas.

Sponsor a Family in Need
Contact Mary Grey Moses at mgmoses@fistcentenary.com or Monique Strickland at mstrickland@firstcentenary.com or call 423-266-3345 to select the size of family you or your group would like to shop for or sponsor.

Donate to The Centenary
• Centenary Discretionary Fund – Goes to the greatest need.
• Student Need Fund – Provides clothes, shoes, books, and other needed items directly to students.
• Student Launch Fund – Prepares students for college and life after graduation.
• Summer Camp Program Fund – provides Scholarships to Camp Lookout and a 7-week summer program which includes daily academic enrichment, physical education, field trips, and summer reading.

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