Sunday Worship
The Sanctuary (Traditional): 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
The Vine (Contemporary): 10:45 a.m.
The Vine (Mustard Tree Ministries): 5:00 p.m.
Join us for worship in the Sanctuary and The Vine! We offer contemporary and traditional services.
Prime Time Wednesday
Meal at 5:15 p.m. in The Vine
Classes at 6:30 p.m.
Each Wednesday, join us in The Vine for a hot meal starting at 5:15 p.m. followed by activities and small groups for children, youth, college, and adults. Whether you're looking for a midweek spiritual boost, a chance to make new friends, or a way to dive deeper into your faith, Prime Time Wednesday offers something for everyone. Come as you are and be part of our vibrant community!
Creation Care Meeting
September 17th at 6:30 p.m. in Mohney Hall
The next Creation Care Ministry meeting will be on Wednesday, September 17th, at 6:30 p.m. in Mohney Hall. All are welcome to come learn more about this ministry and explore opportunities to get involved in caring for God’s creation.
Sarah, Plain and Tall
September 19th at 7:30 p.m.
September 20th at 7:30 p.m.
September 21st at 2:00 p.m.
September 25th at 7:30 p.m.
September 26th at 7:30 p.m. (Family Night)
September 27th at 7:30 p.m.
September 28th at 2:00 p.m.
in the Flo Summitt Theater
Set in the early 1900s, this play brings to life the charming, heartwarming story of a Kansas farmer, Jacob Witting, a widower with two children—Anna and Caleb, who places an ad in the newspapers seeking a wife. He receives a letter from a Sarah Wheaton of Maine who says she will visit the family for a month to see how things work out: "I will come by train. I will wear a yellow bonnet. I am plain and tall." Narrated by Anna reminiscing on the eve of her wedding, the story unfolds in a fascinating flashback on that often exciting, sometimes tumultuous month when Sarah and the Wittings came to know one another and learned a few things about themselves as well.
FCUMC Family Night – September 26th
We’re doing something special for this production! Join us for Family Night on Friday, September 26th. This evening’s performance will not only be a time to enjoy the show together but also an opportunity to give back—all proceeds from this night will benefit Camp Lookout, our chosen non-profit partner.
Starring:
Sarah Pearce as Adult Anna
Tim Walker as Jacob Witting
Caitlyn Eimers as Anna Witting
Vivian Wyatt as Rose Nordstrom
Micah Wyatt as Caleb Witting
Julienne Walker as Violet Nordstrom
Dylan Vasquez as Ephraim Nordstrom
Daniel Eimers as Matthew Nordstrom
Mae Mitchum as Maggie Nordstrom
Jonathan Cook as William Wheaton, Justin Moffet
Megan Allen as Meg Wheaton
Dana Cole as Sarah Wheaton
Denise Camille Fry as Eben, Miss Titus, Hettie, Levi, Chester
Producer: Jerry M. Draper
Director: Sandy Whetmore
Stage Manager: Emma Veys
Assistant Stage Manager: Alyssa Eimers
Forward Grief Group
Saturdays, September 20th - October 18th, at 9:30 a.m. in The Parlor
October 25th at 9:30 a.m. in the Conference Room
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, September 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in the Church Parlor. These 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.
Sunday School Fair
September 21st Before and After the 10:45 a.m. Worship Service on the Bridge
Join us for our Sunday School Fair on Sunday, September 21st, before and after the 10:45 a.m. worship service on the bridge! This is a great opportunity to explore the variety of Sunday School classes we offer, meet class leaders, and find the group that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for Bible study, fellowship, or a place to grow in your faith, there’s a class for everyone. Stop by, learn more, and sign up to get connected!
Coffee with the Pastor
September 21st, October 19th, November 16th, December 21st
9:45 a.m. in the Small 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 executive conference room located outside the pastor's office for Coffee with the Pastor!
Wesley Heritage Tour
April 22nd - April 30th, 2026 in England
Q&A Meetings:
September 21st at 9:45 a.m. in the Chapel
September 28th at 11:45 a.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Travel to England with Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback April 22- April 30, 2026 to explore the historical sites of the Methodist movement, learn about our history as a denomination, and experience the beauty of the English countryside and London.
Optional five day excursion to Ireland to explore the roots of celtic Christianity available based on interest.
Q&A Meetings
Interested in traveling to England with Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback? Join us for one of our upcoming Q&A Meetings to learn more about this awesome trip!
• September 21st at 9:45 a.m. in the Chapel
• September 28th at 11:45 a.m. in Oak Street Center Room 101/102
For more information or to sign up, email Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback at wlauderback@firstcentenary.com.
Optional five day excursion to Ireland to explore the roots of celtic Christianity available based on interest.
Q&A Meetings
Interested in traveling to England with Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback? Join us for one of our upcoming Q&A Meetings to learn more about this awesome trip!
• September 21st at 9:45 a.m. in the Chapel
• September 28th at 11:45 a.m. in Oak Street Center Room 101/102
For more information or to sign up, email Rev. Dr. Will Lauderback at wlauderback@firstcentenary.com.
Devotional Hike
September 21st at 1:30 p.m. at Chickamauga Dam, Pavilion 2 (4501 Amnicola Hwy)
Join us for our next Devotional Hike on September 21st at 1:30 p.m. We’ll gather at the Chickamauga Dam, Pavilion 2 (4501 Amnicola Hwy) before setting out on a short and refreshing walk together.
This hike is an easy 0.9-mile out-and-back trail with just 72 ft of elevation gain, making it a great option for all ages and skill levels. The trail takes offers a peaceful setting to enjoy both nature and fellowship.
All are welcome, including pets, come ready to walk, reflect, and connect with God’s creation!
For more information, contact Tony Smith at hemingway999999@gmail.com or 423-681-5359.
Date Night
September 26th at 6:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Join us for our next Date Night on September 26th from 6:00–9:00 p.m. in Oak Street Center Room 101/102! Couples can enjoy a relaxed evening together with dinner, childcare, and a great program provided. The cost is $30 per couple, and dinner will feature the always-popular Red Robin Burger Bar. Our speakers for the evening will be Kirk and Patsi Walker, who will share from their own experience and wisdom.
Kirk and Patsi Walker have been married for 46 years and during this time they have parented three children and now are enjoying being grandparents. The Walkers have been members at First Centenary for 44 years and have called Chattanooga home throughout their marriage. We hope you will join us on September 26th as we hear about how they managed raising children and kept their marriage alive. This duo is quite comical and they have rich truths to share about the challenges we all face during this stage of life. Have you ever wanted advice from someone who has been there and made it through? This is your chance!
Kirk and Patsi Walker have been married for 46 years and during this time they have parented three children and now are enjoying being grandparents. The Walkers have been members at First Centenary for 44 years and have called Chattanooga home throughout their marriage. We hope you will join us on September 26th as we hear about how they managed raising children and kept their marriage alive. This duo is quite comical and they have rich truths to share about the challenges we all face during this stage of life. Have you ever wanted advice from someone who has been there and made it through? This is your chance!
Camp Lookout
22nd Annual Golf Tournament
September 27th at 8:00 a.m. at The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay
Join us for a fun-filled day of golf supporting Camp Lookout’s life-changing ministry! Enjoy breakfast, lunch, beverages, and snacks, plus prizes for the top teams and contests like Closest to the Hole, Longest Drive, and Longest Putt.
Schedule:
• 7:00 a.m. – Registration, Breakfast, Range & Putting Green
• 8:00 a.m. – Shotgun Start
Format: Four-person select shot (best ball), Low Gross, no handicap.
Cost: $120/player (includes cart, greens fee, and range balls).
Mulligans: 2 for $10 (max 4 per person).
Sponsorships from $50–$500 are available and recognized on the course and in the program.
Schedule:
• 7:00 a.m. – Registration, Breakfast, Range & Putting Green
• 8:00 a.m. – Shotgun Start
Format: Four-person select shot (best ball), Low Gross, no handicap.
Cost: $120/player (includes cart, greens fee, and range balls).
Mulligans: 2 for $10 (max 4 per person).
Sponsorships from $50–$500 are available and recognized on the course and in the program.
Creation Care Field Trip
September 27th at 10:00 a.m. at Crabtree Farms Fall Plant Festival
Join us on Saturday, September 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a Creation Care field trip to the Crabtree Farms Fall Plant Festival! We’ll attend together as a group and enjoy this wonderful celebration of gardening, sustainability, and community.
If you’d like to carpool from the church, please let Caroline Archer know by September 20th by emailing carcher@firstcentenary.com.
If you’d like to carpool from the church, please let Caroline Archer know by September 20th by emailing carcher@firstcentenary.com.
College Student Lunch
September 28th, October 26th, November 30th, December 28th
after the 10:45 a.m. Worship Service Meet in The Vine Lobby
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!
Blessing of the Pets
October 5th at 2:00 p.m. at the Drive-Thru Outside the Welcome Center
Bring your furry (or feathered!) friends to our Blessing of the Pets on October 5th, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the drive-thru outside the Welcome Center. This special event is open to all pets, big or small, paws or claws, except snakes. Each pet will receive a blessing as we give thanks for the joy and companionship they bring to our lives.
Legacy Luncheon
October 13th at 12:00 p.m. in The Vine
If you are at least 70 years young, you are invited to be our guest for lunch. Join us on October 13th at 12:00 p.m. for a delicious meal and entertainment. There is no cost to attend. Don't miss this fun fellowship time!
RSVP by 12:00 p.m. on October 6th by either calling the church office at 423-756-2021 or emailing Rev. Michelle Hunter at mhunter@firstcentenary.com.
2025 Advent Devotional: Wonder
Submission Deadline: October 15th
With cooling temperatures and the approach of fall, Advent is just around the corner! We are looking for congregants in all ages and stages of life to share their wisdom, experience, enthusiasm, and inspiration in a 2025 Advent devotional. Participants can share a piece of art or music, a story, and/or their experiences or reflections for our Advent theme – Wonder. You’re invited to share stories about how God has jolted you out of your routine with something unexpected. Maybe you have a story about how experiencing something new and unfamiliar has given you insights into the kingdom of heaven. How do you see God in beautiful actions, nature, art, people? When has puzzling over the inexplicable brought you into deeper relationship with the Holy One?
If you would be willing to contribute a 150-word text to this special project, or would like more information, please contact Maria Crawford at mbcraw4d@gmail.com. Submissions are due no later than October 15th.
If you would be willing to contribute a 150-word text to this special project, or would like more information, please contact Maria Crawford at mbcraw4d@gmail.com. Submissions are due no later than October 15th.
Walk to End Alzheimer's
October 25th at Heritage Park
Registration at 8:00 a.m.
Walk at 9:00 a.m.
Help ABIDE Respite Ministry keep the momentum going in our church community! We’re forming an ABIDE Respite Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team, and we’d love for you to join us. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s raises funds to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s vital work in care, support, and research.
The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Chattanooga will take place at Heritage Park on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., and the walk will start at 9:00 a.m. Be part of the movement to end Alzheimer’s and sign up with our team at alz.org/chattanoogawalk.
For 24/7 Alzheimer’s care and support, call 800.272.3900.
For more information, contact Brandi Anderson at abide@firstcentenary.com.
Fall Festival
October 29th at 5:00 p.m.
Join us for our annual Fall Festival on Wednesday, October 29th from 5:00–7:30 p.m. This fun-filled evening will include inflatables, trunk-or-treat, games and activities, delicious food, and so much more! Bring your family, invite your friends, and come enjoy a night of fall fun together.
How You Can Help
We need volunteers to help make this event a success! Opportunities include:
• Running inflatables
• Decorating a trunk and passing out candy
• Cooking and serving
• Running activity booths
Candy Donations
We’re also collecting candy for trunk-or-treat! Donations can be dropped off in the Welcome Center or in the buckets outside each worship space.
How You Can Help
We need volunteers to help make this event a success! Opportunities include:
• Running inflatables
• Decorating a trunk and passing out candy
• Cooking and serving
• Running activity booths
Candy Donations
We’re also collecting candy for trunk-or-treat! Donations can be dropped off in the Welcome Center or in the buckets outside each worship space.
Adult Volunteers Needed For Scouting America Cub Scouts
Fridays at 4:00 p.m. at The Centenary
Calling All Grown Up Scouts!
The Scouting America Cub Scout troop at The Centenary will have its first meeting of the school year on Friday, September 12th. The troop is composed of girls and boys in 1st-5th Grade. We are looking for adult volunteers to work with the troop's leader and help with meetings on Fridays from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. here at The Centenary. The troop leader comes each week, prepared to implement a great activity.
Volunteers will work directly with boys and girls in 1st to 5th grade on projects and activities. Volunteers are not in charge of weekly programming or student discipline, both of which will be handled by Centenary staff and the Scouting America Den Leader.
Want to open a new world of adventure and service for these students? Contact Mary Grey Moses at mgmoses@firstcentenary.com or 423-654-0050.
Join a College 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.
ENGAGE
• ENGAGE the possibility of bringing healing and hope to the church, the community, and the world.
• ENGAGE the reward of serving in ways that have meaningful purpose.
• ENGAGE the chance to grow into all that God has created you to be, as together we grow in faith and love.
• ENGAGE is an easy way to match your interest to ministry opportunities in the church.
• ENGAGE the reward of serving in ways that have meaningful purpose.
• ENGAGE the chance to grow into all that God has created you to be, as together we grow in faith and love.
• ENGAGE is an easy way to match your interest to ministry opportunities in the church.
Support A College Student
We want our college students who are studying away from Chattanooga to know they are still loved and supported by their church family! To encourage them at the start of a new school year, we are sending gift cards as a reminder that they are in our prayers and hearts, no matter the distance.
If you have a college student in your family who is away from home, please fill out the form so we can send them this small gift of encouragement.
You can also help support by donating $5–$10 gift cards (to places like Starbucks, Taco Bell, Sonic, etc.). These will be combined into “treat bundles” and mailed out to our students. Gift cards can be dropped off in the Welcome Center.
If you have a college student in your family who is away from home, please fill out the form so we can send them this small gift of encouragement.
You can also help support by donating $5–$10 gift cards (to places like Starbucks, Taco Bell, Sonic, etc.). These will be combined into “treat bundles” and mailed out to our students. Gift cards can be dropped off in the Welcome Center.
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
We're excited to announce that First-Centenary is expanding our recycling efforts!
You can now recycle:
• Paper
• Aluminum
• #1 and #2 Plastics
Look for designated bins around the church and help us care for God's creation by disposing of these items responsibly.
You can now recycle:
• Paper
• Aluminum
• #1 and #2 Plastics
Look for designated bins around the church and help us care for God's creation by disposing of these items responsibly.
Volunteers Needed
We take sack lunches every week into College Hill Courts. It helps provide some food and hope in these tough times. We would like to expand this ministry into the East Lake Courts and are looking for someone to lead this group and volunteers to go with us.
If you are interested in, please contact Barry Kidwell at bkidwell@firstcentenary.com.
If you are interested in, please contact Barry Kidwell at bkidwell@firstcentenary.com.
Laundry Pods Needed
For the past few weeks, the Mustard Tree Ministries have been taking laundry pods to people in the College Hill Courts. We are met over and over again with gratitude and "Thank you Jesus's" over a baggie of 4 laundry pods. You can't buy laundry detergent with food stamps. Kathleen coupons and she is able to get three bags for $20, but 3 bags doesn't go far. If you would like to help families keep some clothes clean, we would truly appreciate any donations of laundry pods for the effort. Thanks again for the support in our endeavor to build bridges into the community.
Donations can be dropped off in the welcome center and labeled with Mustard Tree Ministries.
Donations can be dropped off in the welcome center and labeled with Mustard Tree Ministries.
Volunteer as a First Kids Sunday School Teacher
Do you have a heart for kids and a passion for sharing God's love? First Kids Children's Ministry is looking for volunteers to serve as Sunday School teachers to help guide and nurture the next generation in their faith journey! No prior teaching experience? No problem! We provide curriculum, resources, and support to make it easy and meaningful. Whether you can serve once a month or every week, your time and dedication will make a lasting impact.
Join us in creating a fun, faith-filled environment for our kids!
Join us in creating a fun, faith-filled environment for our kids!
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.
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.
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 firstkids@firstcentenary.com if you have any questions. Click below to apply!
The Centenary is hiring!
Want to... Make a positive difference in the life of a child? Encourage literacy? Gain valuable job experience leading a group of students? Use your creativity to encourage young minds? Help students grow into resilient and capable leaders of our city?
Since 1967 The Centenary has been providing academic support, physical education, life skills development, and avenues for spiritual expression to students from across Chattanooga.
Since 1967 The Centenary has been providing academic support, physical education, life skills development, and avenues for spiritual expression to students from across Chattanooga.