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.
Prime Time Wednesday
Meal at 5:30 p.m. in The Vine
Classes at 6:30 p.m.
Each Wednesday, join us in The Vine for a hot meal starting at 5:30 p.m., followed by activities and small groups for children, youth, 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 this vibrant community!
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!
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!
The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society's Production of a Christmas Carol: A Comedy
December 6th at 7:30 p.m.
December 7th at 2:00 p.m.
December 8th at 2:00 p.m.
December 12th at 7:30 p.m.
December 13th at 7:30 p.m.
December 14th at 2:00 p.m.
December 15th at 2:00 p.m.
in the Flo Summitt Theatre
In a festive mood, the ladies of the Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society mount another assault on the classics with their stage version of A Christmas Carol. They enthusiastically portray a dizzy array of characters from the Dickensian favorite (and a few which aren't), engineer some novel audience participation while bravely contending with an intrusive PA system and a real Farndale first rap their vocal cords and feet around two original, show stopping songs.This is another one column text block.
Starring:
Jenny Bacon as Mrs. Reece
Jo Schendel as Thelma
Thom Ray as Gordon
Emily Adkins as Felicity
Brenda Binder as Mercedes
Director - Evie Durant
Stage Manager - Kyle Dagnan
Lights/Sound - Cristy Clark
Starring:
Jenny Bacon as Mrs. Reece
Jo Schendel as Thelma
Thom Ray as Gordon
Emily Adkins as Felicity
Brenda Binder as Mercedes
Director - Evie Durant
Stage Manager - Kyle Dagnan
Lights/Sound - Cristy Clark
Confirmation Parent Meeting
December 8th after the 10:45 a.m. Worship Service in the Pit
If you have an 8th grader (or older) interested in Confirmation next year, join us for an informative meeting on December 8th after the 10:45 a.m. worship service. We’ll gather in The Pit, located in the Student Center, to go over everything parents need to know about Confirmation, including the schedule, expectations, and ways to support your child on this important faith journey.
We look forward to seeing you there as we prepare for this meaningful milestone!
Devotional Hike
December 8th at 1:30 p.m. at Stringers Ridge (Spears Ave. Trailhead)
Take time to connect with God and nature at our next Devotional Hike on December 8th with the Creation Care Ministry! We’ll meet at 1:30 p.m. at Stringers Ridge - Spears Ave. Trailhead for a reflective hike in the beauty of creation.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy beforehand if you’d like, and come ready for an afternoon of fellowship and inspiration as we explore the wonders of the outdoors together. All are welcome!
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.
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!
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!
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 7:00 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. and 10:45 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!
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
Will not meet in December and will resume back in the new year!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
The Centenary is hiring!
Want to... Make a positive difference in the life of a child? Encourage literacy? Gain valuable job experience leading groups of students? Use your creativity to encourage young minds? Apply to join our team and 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.