Upcoming Events
Sunday Worship
The Sanctuary (Traditional): 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
The Vine (Contemporary): 10:45 a.m.
Join us for worship in the Sanctuary and the Vine! We offer contemporary and traditional services.
Women's Pumpkin Painting Party
October 29th at 7:00 p.m. at the Wesley Center
Join us for a fun and creative evening at the Pumpkin Painting Party on October 29th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Wesley Center! Hosted by the college ministry as part of our women's small group meeting, this is a great chance to connect, unwind, and embrace the fall spirit while painting pumpkins together. Whether you're an artist or a beginner, all women are welcome. Come for the creativity, stay for the fellowship—you don't want to miss out!
Fall Festival
October 30th at 5:00 p.m.
Save the date: October 30th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. is our annual Fall Festival! Join us for an evening full of fun and festivities. Enjoy delicious food, exciting games, Trunk or Treat, inflatables, and so much more. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate the season with us. It’s going to be an event you won’t want to miss, we can't wait to see you there!
Candy Donations Needed!
We’re collecting candy for the festival, and we need your help! Please drop off your candy donations in the bins outside the worship spaces or in the welcome center. All types of candy are welcome! Let’s make this year sweet for everyone!
Volunteers Needed!
Our Fall Festival is coming up, and we need YOU to help make it an incredible event for the whole community! There are so many ways you can pitch in, whether you're available before, during, or after the festival. Here’s how you can get involved:
• Activity Booth Hosts: Run fun and simple games for kids. You’ll help spread smiles and keep the fun going all day!
• Inflatable Supervisors: Keep an eye on the bounce houses and obstacle courses, ensuring that kids enjoy themselves safely.
• Trunk-or-Treat Hosts: Decorate your car and hand out candy in a fun and festive way. It’s one of the highlights of the festival, and we need lots of creative trunks to make it special!
• Food Servers & Cooks: Whether you're flipping burgers, grilling hot dogs, or serving snacks, you can help keep our guests well-fed and happy.
• Set-Up Crew: Help us get the festival ready! We need extra hands to set up booths, inflatables, food stations, and decorations before the festivities begin.
• Clean-Up Crew: After the fun is over, we’ll need help taking everything down and making sure the space is clean. Your assistance will help us wrap things up quickly and efficiently.
Join our amazing team of volunteers and help create a fun, safe, and welcoming event for our church and community, sign up today by filling out a form outside each worship space.
Candy Donations Needed!
We’re collecting candy for the festival, and we need your help! Please drop off your candy donations in the bins outside the worship spaces or in the welcome center. All types of candy are welcome! Let’s make this year sweet for everyone!
Volunteers Needed!
Our Fall Festival is coming up, and we need YOU to help make it an incredible event for the whole community! There are so many ways you can pitch in, whether you're available before, during, or after the festival. Here’s how you can get involved:
• Activity Booth Hosts: Run fun and simple games for kids. You’ll help spread smiles and keep the fun going all day!
• Inflatable Supervisors: Keep an eye on the bounce houses and obstacle courses, ensuring that kids enjoy themselves safely.
• Trunk-or-Treat Hosts: Decorate your car and hand out candy in a fun and festive way. It’s one of the highlights of the festival, and we need lots of creative trunks to make it special!
• Food Servers & Cooks: Whether you're flipping burgers, grilling hot dogs, or serving snacks, you can help keep our guests well-fed and happy.
• Set-Up Crew: Help us get the festival ready! We need extra hands to set up booths, inflatables, food stations, and decorations before the festivities begin.
• Clean-Up Crew: After the fun is over, we’ll need help taking everything down and making sure the space is clean. Your assistance will help us wrap things up quickly and efficiently.
Join our amazing team of volunteers and help create a fun, safe, and welcoming event for our church and community, sign up today by filling out a form outside each worship space.
Scenic South District Annual Meeting
November 2nd at 10:00 a.m. in The Vine
Join United Women in Faith for the Scenic South District Annual Meeting on November 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in The Vine, as we come together under the theme "Stay Together," inspired by Ephesians 4:3: “Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together in peace.”
This year's meeting will feature special guest speakers, Rev. Jacqueline Davis-Gines from McFarland United Methodist Church and Madison Rollings, Project Liaison for the City of Chattanooga's Office of Sustainability.
We will also be collecting hygiene kits for UMCOR as a service project. As 2024 draws to a close, we hope you’ll join us for this special gathering!
This year's meeting will feature special guest speakers, Rev. Jacqueline Davis-Gines from McFarland United Methodist Church and Madison Rollings, Project Liaison for the City of Chattanooga's Office of Sustainability.
We will also be collecting hygiene kits for UMCOR as a service project. As 2024 draws to a close, we hope you’ll join us for this special gathering!
Book of Names
November 3 is the day our church
will celebrate All Saints’ Sunday in
the Sanctuary worship services. This
communion service is one of the
most meaningful of the year as we
remember the lives and Christian
witness of those members of our
church who died in the past year, along with the saints of all ages.
In preparation for this year’s service, the Book of Names is
once again available, on a podium in the Narthex outside the
Sanctuary. You are invited and encouraged to stop by the church
to record the names of the loved ones you would like to remember.
Those “named” may be church members, or they may be family
or friends, heroes or heroines from other places and times. If you
cannot get to the church, please call (423-756-2021) or email Rev.
Michelle Hunter (mhunter@fi rstcentenary.com) or Dr. Jan McNair
(jmcnair@fi rstcentenary.com), and we will record the names you
wish to include.
On November 3, the Book of Names will be on the altar as a
reminder of our communion with these precious saints.
All Saints' Sunday
November 3rd During all Worship Services
Join us on All Saints' Sunday, November 3rd, during all worship services as we honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Everyone is invited to bring a photograph or a special piece of memorabilia to place on the altar in remembrance. This is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who have gone before us.
BEYOND Campaign Q&A
November 3rd at 9:45 a.m. in the Kaye Lyle West Chapel
Miss the Beyond Roundtables? Have a lingering question from one of the gatherings? Curious about the Beyond Unified Budget Campaign and how you can get involved? Pastors Jason and Will are going to be available during the Sunday School hour on November 3rd to help. Don't miss this opportunity to get the details and connect. We hope to see you there!
Chili Cook Off
November 3rd at 12:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Join us for a fun and flavorful Chili Cook Off hosted by the fcCollege Ministry! This event will take place on November 3rd from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102. We’re cooking up something special to help raise funds for future our College Programs and Missions!
Competitors:
Do you make the best chili? Anyone can compete! There’s a $20 entry fee, and you’ll need to bring a large crockpot of chili along with an ingredient list for allergy concerns. Compete in three categories: Best Overall, Spiciest, and Most Unique. Prizes will be awarded to the top three in each category! Sign up clicking the link below to let us know you’re in.
Guests:
Come enjoy the chili! Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and kids 4 and under are free. Tickets include tastings from the competitors, a drink ticket, and voting tickets to help decide the winners. We'll also have a large selection of both meat and veggie chili for lunch. RSVP is appreciated, but not required.
There will also be delicious baked goods for sale if you’re craving something sweet. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event for a great cause!
Competitors:
Do you make the best chili? Anyone can compete! There’s a $20 entry fee, and you’ll need to bring a large crockpot of chili along with an ingredient list for allergy concerns. Compete in three categories: Best Overall, Spiciest, and Most Unique. Prizes will be awarded to the top three in each category! Sign up clicking the link below to let us know you’re in.
Guests:
Come enjoy the chili! Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and kids 4 and under are free. Tickets include tastings from the competitors, a drink ticket, and voting tickets to help decide the winners. We'll also have a large selection of both meat and veggie chili for lunch. RSVP is appreciated, but not required.
There will also be delicious baked goods for sale if you’re craving something sweet. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event for a great cause!
Advance Commitment Night
November 7th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary
You're invited to Advance Commitment Night on November 7th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. This special evening is an opportunity for those who feel led to submit their commitment cards early for the campaign. Join us for this time of dedication and reflection as we take a step forward in faith together. Your early commitment helps set the tone for the campaign and inspires others in our church family!
Free childcare is available, please RSVP through the link below.
Free childcare is available, please RSVP through the link below.
Date Night
November 8th at 6:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Join us for the next Date Night on November 8th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102! The evening will feature a panel of four couples, with "Real Marriages, Real Answers" as the topic. With 7 to 45 years of marriage experience, these couples will answer questions submitted by Date Night participants and take your live questions. From balancing responsibilities to handling stress and navigating relationships with in-laws, nothing is off the table. Come for a night of laughter, honest conversation, and real-life wisdom!
• Free childcare is provided and will open no earlier than 6:00 p.m. - must register
• Mock tails: 6:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.
• Dinner will be provided by Il Primo
• Cost is $30 per couple (one ticket = one couple)
For more information, contact the Marriage Enrichment Ministry at marriageministry@firstcentenary.com.
• Free childcare is provided and will open no earlier than 6:00 p.m. - must register
• Mock tails: 6:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.
• Dinner will be provided by Il Primo
• Cost is $30 per couple (one ticket = one couple)
For more information, contact the Marriage Enrichment Ministry at marriageministry@firstcentenary.com.
Devotional Hike
November 10th at 1:30 p.m. at Stringers Ridges
Join us for a peaceful and reflective Devotional Hike on November 10th at 1:30 p.m. at Stringers Ridge. We'll gather at the trailhead for a time of prayer and devotion as we walk through nature, connecting with God and each other.
Optional: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the trailhead before we begin!
Take a break from the busyness of life and recharge your spirit on this special hike. All are welcome!
For more information, contact Rev. Caroline Archer at carcher@firstcentenary.com.
Optional: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the trailhead before we begin!
Take a break from the busyness of life and recharge your spirit on this special hike. All are welcome!
For more information, contact Rev. Caroline Archer at carcher@firstcentenary.com.
Veterans Day Luncheon
November 11th at 11:00 a.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Join us for a special Veterans Day Luncheon on November 11th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Oak Street Center Room 101/102, hosted by fcCollege Ministry and the Wesley Center. All veterans and their families are invited to enjoy a BBQ lunch alongside a college student or young adult, celebrating their service and sacrifice. The lunch is free, and we kindly ask that you RSVP by emailing Kirsten Shipp at kshipp@firstcentenary.com. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Youth Fall Retreat
November 15th - 17th at Camp Lookout
Join us November 15th-17th at Camp Lookout for our Youth Fall Retreat as we dive into this year's theme: Journey to Generosity. It's going to be an amazing weekend of fun, fellowship, and exploring what it means to live with a generous heart.
What to Expect:
Think of it as a mini-conference with a camp vibe! We'll have four powerful sessions filled with music, games, and messages focusing on the theme: "Journey to Generosity." Together, we'll explore what it means to live generously, using Christ as our ultimate example.
This retreat is the perfect opportunity to connect with your peers, deepen your faith, and have an awesome time!
Cost: $125 (Scholarships are available!)
For more information, email Tori Crook at tcrook@firstcentenary.com. When registering, please make sure you fill out the Covenant Form AND Permission Form found in the brochure.
What to Expect:
Think of it as a mini-conference with a camp vibe! We'll have four powerful sessions filled with music, games, and messages focusing on the theme: "Journey to Generosity." Together, we'll explore what it means to live generously, using Christ as our ultimate example.
This retreat is the perfect opportunity to connect with your peers, deepen your faith, and have an awesome time!
Cost: $125 (Scholarships are available!)
For more information, email Tori Crook at tcrook@firstcentenary.com. When registering, please make sure you fill out the Covenant Form AND Permission Form found in the brochure.
Forward Grief Group
Saturdays, October 5th - November 16th, at 10:00 a.m. in the Parlor
Forward is an ecumenical group which offers mutual support for those who have lost a spouse. First-Centenary United Methodist Church in downtown Chattanooga will host a new small group, seven sessions in all, beginning Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in the Parlor. These support groups offer space for the newly and sometimes not so newly bereaved to share experiences and begin to find ways to step Forward into the future. If you or someone you know is interested in joining this group, please contact the Church office at 423/756-2021. There is no charge to participate.
UTC Military Appreciation Home Game
November 16th at 10:00 a.m. Meet at The Vine
Join the College Ministry for the UTC Military Appreciation Home Game on November 16th at 10:00 a.m.! Meet at The Vine before we head over to support the Mighty Mocs as they take on Samford. We'll enjoy some tailgating fun before kickoff, so you don't want to miss out. Be sure to purchase your own game ticket and reserve your free spot on the bus. Let’s show our Mocs spirit and cheer them on together!
Commitment Sunday
November 17th During All Worship Services
On Commitment Sunday, November 17th, our First-Centenary family will gather in worship to celebrate God's grace and generosity as we present our Estimate of Giving cards for the Beyond campaign. This is more than a financial commitment—it's an opportunity to reflect on the deeper "why" of giving.
In today’s world, emerging generations of Christians are less concerned with church-centric needs like balancing budgets or keeping the lights on. Instead, we're invited to view commitment cards as a spiritual check-up.
• What if we thought of them as a way to reassess our gratitude to God?
• What if we saw them as a sign of trust and a joyful partnership in advancing God's Kingdom?
• What if we recognized them as a reminder of the life-giving and family-strengthening joy of being in right relationship with God’s abundance?
We encourage conversations around the breakfast table, during nighttime prayers, and across generations, discussing how your family can steward both its values and valuables for future generations.
On Commitment Sunday, let’s celebrate the joy of giving, not because of what the church needs from you, but because of what God desires for you—a deeper, more grateful connection to His blessings.
You’ll receive your Estimate of Giving card in advance, to complete and bring with you on November 17th. Together, let's reflect on our giving journey and the spiritual growth it brings.
Campus Worship Visit
November 19th at 8:00 p.m. at The House
Come out for a Campus Worship Visit on November 19th at 8:00 p.m. at The House, 650 McCallie Avenue! The College Ministry will be attending The House campus ministry’s worship service and would love for you to come along. If you're interested in serving food to the worship team, please reach out to Kirsten Shipp at kshipp@firstcentenary.com. Let’s gather in fellowship and worship together!
College Student Lunch
November 24th, and December 29th
Meet in The Vine Lobby after the 10:45 a.m. Worship Service
Calling all fcCollege students! Join us in the Vine lobby after the 10:45 service to walk over to one of our favorite restaurants. Enjoy some great conversation, get to know other young adults, and hear about some upcoming events. The best part? Lunch is on us!
fcCollege Friendsgiving
November 29th at 6:00 p.m. in the Student Center
It’s time to celebrate friendship and community with a potluck! Join the College Ministry for Friendsgiving on November 29th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Student Center. Enjoy a nice meal, fellowship, and fun with fcUNITE. Bring your favorite dish to share in our potluck as we celebrate the season of gratitude together. We can't wait to see you there!
Resurrection 2025
January 24th - 26th in Pigeon Forge, TN
Join the Youth Ministry for Resurrection 2025, a powerful weekend retreat designed for youth and their mentors, taking place January 24th - 26th at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN! This year’s theme is "Simply Jesus," focusing on Acts 4:12, which reminds us that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus.
Worship will be led by FRVR FREE, returning for the third year. Their mission is to break the chains of shame and lift people into the freedom found in Christ. This team creates worship experiences that reveal God’s love and purpose for us.
The speakers for the weekend include Tega Taylor and Adam Kersh, who will share their personal journeys of faith and how Jesus transformed their lives. You’ll be inspired to live in the freedom Christ offers!
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with others, grow spiritually, and encounter the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. Experience the love, grace, and freedom that only Jesus can provide!
For more information, contact our Youth Director, Tori Crook, at tcrook@firstcentenary.com.
Worship will be led by FRVR FREE, returning for the third year. Their mission is to break the chains of shame and lift people into the freedom found in Christ. This team creates worship experiences that reveal God’s love and purpose for us.
The speakers for the weekend include Tega Taylor and Adam Kersh, who will share their personal journeys of faith and how Jesus transformed their lives. You’ll be inspired to live in the freedom Christ offers!
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with others, grow spiritually, and encounter the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. Experience the love, grace, and freedom that only Jesus can provide!
For more information, contact our Youth Director, Tori Crook, at tcrook@firstcentenary.com.
fcCollege All Day Coffee
Every Thursday Starting at 7:30 a.m. in The Vine
All Day Coffee with the College Ministry is every Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in The Vine! Grab a cup of free coffee, relax, and enjoy a dedicated study space. Whether you're catching up on coursework or just taking a break, we’ve got you covered!
Coffee with the Pastor
Every Third Sunday of the Month at 9:45 a.m. in the Executive Conference Room
Are you a first time visitor or have been visiting for a while? Do you want to know more about First-Centenary? Are you interested in becoming a member of First-Centenary? Or, do you simply want to get to know the Senior Pastor? Then join Pastor Jason every third Sunday of the month at 9:45 a.m. in the conference room for Coffee with the Pastor!
Join a fcCollege Small Group!
Looking for a place to connect, grow, and explore your faith? Check out our fcCollege Ministry Small Groups! Whether you're passionate about inclusivity, creative Bible study, or connecting with fellow veterans and military members, we have a group for you.
Join a United Women in Faith Small Group!
Put your talents, energy and ideas to work. You’ll find flexible opportunities for spiritual growth and ways to act for social justice, support your community, live your faith and enrich your life right here at First-Centenary United Women in Faith in our small groups/Circles.
Ways To Serve
Trunk - Or - Treat
October 31st Starting at 3:15 p.m. Meet at the Oak Street Center
Join Mustard Tree Ministries for our Annual Trunk-or-Treat!
We’re excited to host our Annual Trunk-or-Treat at the East Lake Courts and College Hill Courts! We'll gather at First-Centenary behind the Oak Street Center and head to these locations together. The event will take place on Halloween Day, October 31st, from 3:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (sunset is at 6:47 p.m.). You’re welcome to join us for part or all of the event! We need as many volunteers as possible so we can send half the group to East Lake and the other half to College Hill.
Volunteers are needed for:
• Trunks for Trunk-or-Treaters
• Bagging popcorn
• Wrapping hot dogs to give away
We also welcome donations of candy, which can be dropped off in the bins outside the worship spaces and in the Welcome Center.
If you’re able to volunteer, please contact Sara Holley at sholley@firstcentenary.com or Pastor Barry at bkidwell@firstcentenary.com. Even if you forget to RSVP, you’re welcome to just show up and join us.
We’re excited for another fantastic event, providing kids with a safe place to Trunk-or-Treat!
We’re excited to host our Annual Trunk-or-Treat at the East Lake Courts and College Hill Courts! We'll gather at First-Centenary behind the Oak Street Center and head to these locations together. The event will take place on Halloween Day, October 31st, from 3:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (sunset is at 6:47 p.m.). You’re welcome to join us for part or all of the event! We need as many volunteers as possible so we can send half the group to East Lake and the other half to College Hill.
Volunteers are needed for:
• Trunks for Trunk-or-Treaters
• Bagging popcorn
• Wrapping hot dogs to give away
We also welcome donations of candy, which can be dropped off in the bins outside the worship spaces and in the Welcome Center.
If you’re able to volunteer, please contact Sara Holley at sholley@firstcentenary.com or Pastor Barry at bkidwell@firstcentenary.com. Even if you forget to RSVP, you’re welcome to just show up and join us.
We’re excited for another fantastic event, providing kids with a safe place to Trunk-or-Treat!
fcCollege - Volunteer with Mustard Tree Ministries
November 13th at 4:00 p.m. in The Vine
College students, come volunteer with Mustard Tree Ministries on November 13th at 4:00 p.m. in The Vine! Mustard Tree Ministries, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) faith-based non-profit organization founded in 2003 and governed by a 12-member board of directors. The organization began as an outreach effort involving several people who were concerned about the need to minister to those who live in the poorest parts of Chattanooga as well as those experiencing homelessness. Mustard Tree Ministries exists to be a ministry that helps people become all that God wants them to be. Thus we call ourselves Mustard "Tree" not Mustard "Seed." In Matthew's Gospel Jesus says the Kingdom of God is like a Mustard seed, and when it grows up it becomes the largest tree where "all" birds can come." Jesus looked at what we can become when we are reconciled to God and growing in his Kingdom. Our main goal is to reconcile people to God through Christ and then to family (if they have any) and to community. We want a holistic ministry. In the past seven years we have helped 300 people get off the street and reconnected with God, family, and the community.
Free Meals Campaign
Each year we ask families of the church to donate money towards our Sunday & Wednesday meals. This is a lot easier than asking parents to sign up to bring breakfasts and dinners and it is cheaper as well.
If 36 of our youth's families donate $150 then we will have enough money to pay for ALL of our meals for the entire school year. Give the full amount or give part of the amount monthly or in whatever way you would like. Some choose to give $50 per month for 3 months or $25 a month for six months. Any amount is helpful. We currently need donations for our kickoff to fall!
To give, you can click the link below or simply write a check, write "Free Meals Campaign" or "Youth Meals" in the memo line and drop it in the offering plate on Sunday or send it with your child on Wednesday night.
If 36 of our youth's families donate $150 then we will have enough money to pay for ALL of our meals for the entire school year. Give the full amount or give part of the amount monthly or in whatever way you would like. Some choose to give $50 per month for 3 months or $25 a month for six months. Any amount is helpful. We currently need donations for our kickoff to fall!
To give, you can click the link below or simply write a check, write "Free Meals Campaign" or "Youth Meals" in the memo line and drop it in the offering plate on Sunday or send it with your child on Wednesday night.
Flood Relief
Responding to Flooding in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
Holston Conference is responding to flooding in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia by asking churches and community members to:
1. Collect cleaning kits
2. Collect hygiene kits
3. Collect water
3. Give financially
4. Pray
God of the wind, rain, and all creation,
We come before you today knowing that you are with us in every situation, including weather-related and other storms of life. We pause in this moment, thanking you that always, whatever the circumstances, you are present, loving, gracious and merciful.
We pray for those whose lives have been upended by Hurricane Helene and the subsequent storms. We ask for peace that passes all understanding, hope in discouragement, and comfort in grief. We especially lift up to you the most vulnerable in our communities who are often disproportionately impacted by catastrophes.
We offer gratitude for first responders and public officials who are the first on the scene to rescue those in harm’s way. We pray for their safety as they do their work.
We thank you for our churches and congregants serving their neighbors, Disaster Response Team leaders, and Holston’s Director of Connectional Ministries Rev. Mike Sluder and other Conference staff as they respond quickly and wisely to this situation. Give them extra measures of strength and grace as they serve and lead.
We request that you inspire us in our response to what has happened. May our compassion, wisdom and generosity reflect your heart as we reach out to others in words and actions.
Thank you for receiving this and other prayers we pray, God. We love, honor, and trust you as we navigate this and other storms.
We pray this prayer in the strong name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Debra Wallace-Padgett
Resident Bishop
Holston and West Virginia Conferences
1. Collect cleaning kits
2. Collect hygiene kits
3. Collect water
3. Give financially
4. Pray
God of the wind, rain, and all creation,
We come before you today knowing that you are with us in every situation, including weather-related and other storms of life. We pause in this moment, thanking you that always, whatever the circumstances, you are present, loving, gracious and merciful.
We pray for those whose lives have been upended by Hurricane Helene and the subsequent storms. We ask for peace that passes all understanding, hope in discouragement, and comfort in grief. We especially lift up to you the most vulnerable in our communities who are often disproportionately impacted by catastrophes.
We offer gratitude for first responders and public officials who are the first on the scene to rescue those in harm’s way. We pray for their safety as they do their work.
We thank you for our churches and congregants serving their neighbors, Disaster Response Team leaders, and Holston’s Director of Connectional Ministries Rev. Mike Sluder and other Conference staff as they respond quickly and wisely to this situation. Give them extra measures of strength and grace as they serve and lead.
We request that you inspire us in our response to what has happened. May our compassion, wisdom and generosity reflect your heart as we reach out to others in words and actions.
Thank you for receiving this and other prayers we pray, God. We love, honor, and trust you as we navigate this and other storms.
We pray this prayer in the strong name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Debra Wallace-Padgett
Resident Bishop
Holston and West Virginia Conferences
MTM Loaves and Fishes for Children
Our Sunday night service has continued to grow and with that, we have had a lot more children join in on Sunday nights. What started out as two or three children and the sweet kitchen ladies starting to teach them Bible stories has become fifteen regular children and the children’s ministry stepping up to help on Sunday nights. There are 1 in 5 children who live in food insecure homes in our country and the majority of the children on Sunday nights come from low income households and face hardships many of us never have to worry about. In order to make life a little easier and enjoyable in their young lives, we have worked together with the children’s ministry to put together snack bags for the children to take home with them on Sunday nights after church. These bags include non perishable things they can snack on during the week, use as a breakfast item, or take to school for lunch. Most of our children do not get the luxury of picking and choosing a snack or something they might enjoy for lunch and often times our children have to just go without. Please keep in mind that this happens year round, not just during the holidays. This ministry plans to continue indefinitely as children need food all year long and not just around the holidays.
If you feel led to donate to this specific snack bag ministry, here is a list of items we could use that will help these kids throughout the week:
• Individually wrapped muffins or muffin bites
• Fruit cups
• Fruit snacks
• Ramen noodles
• Microwavable mac and cheese
• Fruit or apple sauce cups or pouches (Gogo Squeez)
• Pop tarts
• Instant oatmeal
• Individually wrapped danishes or pastries
• Chewy granola bars
• Vienna Sausages
• Individual trail mix of packets of mixed nuts
• Multi pack single serve cereal
• Slim Jims
• Nutri-grain bars
If you prefer to make a monetary donation you can do so by check to Mustard Tree Ministry or First Centenary UMC just write “MTM Loaves and Fishes” in the “for” line or you can find us on Venmo @MustardTreeMin.
If you feel led to donate to this specific snack bag ministry, here is a list of items we could use that will help these kids throughout the week:
• Individually wrapped muffins or muffin bites
• Fruit cups
• Fruit snacks
• Ramen noodles
• Microwavable mac and cheese
• Fruit or apple sauce cups or pouches (Gogo Squeez)
• Pop tarts
• Instant oatmeal
• Individually wrapped danishes or pastries
• Chewy granola bars
• Vienna Sausages
• Individual trail mix of packets of mixed nuts
• Multi pack single serve cereal
• Slim Jims
• Nutri-grain bars
If you prefer to make a monetary donation you can do so by check to Mustard Tree Ministry or First Centenary UMC just write “MTM Loaves and Fishes” in the “for” line or you can find us on Venmo @MustardTreeMin.
Employment Opportunities
Children's Enrichment Center is hiring!
Do you believe children are strong and capable? Want to help them build life skills and promote wonder and inquiry in a warm, nurturing environment? The Children’s Enrichment Center at First-Centenary may be the place for you!
With full and part-time positions available, we are in search of dependable, energetic, and enthusiastic candidates to join our team. Our staff is hired in compliance with the state requirements and qualifications as a base minimum. When hiring educators we take a lot into consideration such as experience, education and dedication as we know every educator brings their own strength and professional growth with them once they are hired. We also believe that one hires not only by education but also by the heart. We believe the Children’s Enrichment Center staff is a family and a team and when an educator is hired they understand this is a profession and a commitment as we are raising the future. We have a strong belief in professional development that exceeds the minimum state requirements.
Benefits
• Thirteen holidays off, as well as spring, (mini) summer, and Christmas breaks.
• Full-time employees receive a benefit package.
• Pay: $12.00 - $15.00 per hour
Required: Must pass a background check and drug screening.
If you are interested, please fill out the employment application and email it to cecdirector@fcumc.org. Call 423.265.9736 or email cecdirector@firstcentenary.com for more information.
With full and part-time positions available, we are in search of dependable, energetic, and enthusiastic candidates to join our team. Our staff is hired in compliance with the state requirements and qualifications as a base minimum. When hiring educators we take a lot into consideration such as experience, education and dedication as we know every educator brings their own strength and professional growth with them once they are hired. We also believe that one hires not only by education but also by the heart. We believe the Children’s Enrichment Center staff is a family and a team and when an educator is hired they understand this is a profession and a commitment as we are raising the future. We have a strong belief in professional development that exceeds the minimum state requirements.
Benefits
• Thirteen holidays off, as well as spring, (mini) summer, and Christmas breaks.
• Full-time employees receive a benefit package.
• Pay: $12.00 - $15.00 per hour
Required: Must pass a background check and drug screening.
If you are interested, please fill out the employment application and email it to cecdirector@fcumc.org. Call 423.265.9736 or email cecdirector@firstcentenary.com for more information.
First Kids is hiring!
We're looking for someone to join our First Kids' team! Email Beth at bspears@firstcentenary.com if you have any questions. Click below to apply!