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.
Anne of Green Gables
October 3rd - October 5th at 7:30 p.m.
October 5th - October 6th at 2:00 p.m.
in the Flo Summitt Theatre
Adapted from L.M. Montgomery’s beloved novel of the same name, Peter DeLaurier’s Anne of Green Gables follows the story of the feisty orphan, Anne Shirely. Adopted from an orphanage in Nova Scotia by Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, Anne Shirely’s acclimation to life in Avonlea isn’t exactly smooth sailing. The Cuthbert siblings wanted a quiet boy to help out around their farm, but instead they recieve Anne, a redheaded, freckle-faced, free spirit who turns their lives upside down with her quirky behaviour. Follow Anne as she navigates school, friendship, and life in Avonlea through this charming coming-of-age tale. Anne of Green Gables is sure to warm the hearts of audience members, both old and young.
STARRING:
Lilly Leann as Anne Shirley
Jennifer Baggett as Marilla Cuthbert
Jerry Draper as Matthew Cuthbert
Dana Cole as Rachel Lynde
Zella Stockham as Diana Barry
Lillian Clark as Ruby Gillis
Hannah Walker as Josie Pye
Gage Miller as Moody McPherson
Dandy Reynoso as Charlie Sloane
Casey Goccia as Gilbert Blythe
Sarah Lee as Mrs. Blewitt
Lindsey Knox as Miss Stacy
Melanie Goccia as Mrs. Barry
Alex Walker as Station Master
Phil Elkins as Mr. Spencer
Alex Walker as Mr. Phillips
Stage Manager - Sandy Whetmore
Stage Manager - Vange Carter
Producer - Jerry Draper
STARRING:
Lilly Leann as Anne Shirley
Jennifer Baggett as Marilla Cuthbert
Jerry Draper as Matthew Cuthbert
Dana Cole as Rachel Lynde
Zella Stockham as Diana Barry
Lillian Clark as Ruby Gillis
Hannah Walker as Josie Pye
Gage Miller as Moody McPherson
Dandy Reynoso as Charlie Sloane
Casey Goccia as Gilbert Blythe
Sarah Lee as Mrs. Blewitt
Lindsey Knox as Miss Stacy
Melanie Goccia as Mrs. Barry
Alex Walker as Station Master
Phil Elkins as Mr. Spencer
Alex Walker as Mr. Phillips
Stage Manager - Sandy Whetmore
Stage Manager - Vange Carter
Producer - Jerry Draper
Beyond Roundtable Events
September 30th at 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. (event is closed)
October 1st at 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (event is closed)
October 3rd at 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (event is closed)
October 6th at 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. (event is closed)
October 9th at 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
in the Oak Street Center
You are invited to choose a meal and and conversation to share and celebrate the amazing things God has in store for First-Centenary!
These important gatherings are for the purposes of fellowship, information, and awareness. They will provide an informal opportunity to learn more about what God has in store for the next steps in our mission and ministry, and how we plan to fully fund these next steps.
You will not want to miss attending one of these events! There are five options to choose from, so please choose the one that works best for you. A meal will be provided, and childcare is available upon request. Space is limited for each event so RSVP early to ensure your spot!
Please register by deadline before each event:
• September 30th event registration ends at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 27th. (event is closed)
• October 1st event registration ends at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 27th. (event is closed)
• October 3rd event registration ends at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, September 30th. (event is closed)
• October 6th event registration ends at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 3rd. (event is closed)
• October 9th event registration ends at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, October 7th.
These important gatherings are for the purposes of fellowship, information, and awareness. They will provide an informal opportunity to learn more about what God has in store for the next steps in our mission and ministry, and how we plan to fully fund these next steps.
You will not want to miss attending one of these events! There are five options to choose from, so please choose the one that works best for you. A meal will be provided, and childcare is available upon request. Space is limited for each event so RSVP early to ensure your spot!
Please register by deadline before each event:
• October 9th event registration ends at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, October 7th.
3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival
October 4th at 5:30 p.m. Meet at The Vine
Join the College Ministry on October 4th for the 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival! We'll meet at The Vine at 5:30 p.m. and carpool to Ross' Landing for the event. Admission is free, but be sure to bring money for food and vendors.
Date Night
October 4th at 6:00 p.m. in the Oak Street Center Room 101/102
Join the Marriage Enrichment Ministry for Date Night on October 4th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Oak Street Center. We explore Fair Play: "Bringing Awareness to the Invisible Workload in a Home" with our special guest speaker, Melissa Rector LaGraff.
Melissa Rector LaGraff is an applied social science researcher and a Certified Fair Play Method Facilitator. She received her PhD in Child and Family Studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Prior to her doctoral studies, she was a County Director and Family & Consumer Sciences Agent with University of Tennessee Extension. In addition to conducting program evaluation research, her research examines how parental work experiences influences parenting decisions and behaviors as well as how to improve family functioning through family policies and parenting education.
This workshop will introduce you to The Fair Play Method, a time- and anxiety-saving system that offers a completely new way to think about and divvy up domestic responsibilities. With 4 easy-to-follow rules, 100 household cards, and a series of conversation starters for you and your family, Fair Play helps you prioritize what's important to your family and who should take the lead on every chore, from laundry to homework to dinner.
The evening will include dinner from Acropolis Grill. The cost is $30 per couple, and free childcare is available with a reservation.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn practical ways to improve family dynamics while enjoying a special evening with your partner.
Melissa Rector LaGraff is an applied social science researcher and a Certified Fair Play Method Facilitator. She received her PhD in Child and Family Studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Prior to her doctoral studies, she was a County Director and Family & Consumer Sciences Agent with University of Tennessee Extension. In addition to conducting program evaluation research, her research examines how parental work experiences influences parenting decisions and behaviors as well as how to improve family functioning through family policies and parenting education.
This workshop will introduce you to The Fair Play Method, a time- and anxiety-saving system that offers a completely new way to think about and divvy up domestic responsibilities. With 4 easy-to-follow rules, 100 household cards, and a series of conversation starters for you and your family, Fair Play helps you prioritize what's important to your family and who should take the lead on every chore, from laundry to homework to dinner.
The evening will include dinner from Acropolis Grill. The cost is $30 per couple, and free childcare is available with a reservation.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn practical ways to improve family dynamics while enjoying a special evening with your partner.
Hiking Enterprise Park
October 5th at 10:00 a.m. Meet at The Vine
Chattanooga is known for its amazing trails! The College Ministry is headed to Enterprise Park with plenty of varying levels for different hikers. Save your spot and meet us for a couple hours in the forest. We will meet at 10:00 a.m. on October 5th at The Vine.
Forward Grief Group
Saturdays, Starting October 5th, 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.
Campus Worship Visit
October 8th at 7:00 p.m. at The House
The College Ministry is headed to The House at 650 McCallie Ave. on October 8th at 7:00 p.m. to visit our campus ministry friends! The House's focus is "bringing college students to a deeper love and understanding of Jesus Christ." Let's join them for service and fellowship. We'll meet there!
Women's Fall Retreat
October 11th - 13th Starting at 5:00 p.m. at Camp Lookout
Calling all Christian young adult Women! The College Ministry will be hosting a Fall Retreat, heading up to Camp Lookout & Cloudland Canyon in Georgia on October 11th-13th starting at 5:00 p.m. and leaving around 12:00p.m. We will stay in a heat/air cabin and spend time around a campfire, doing some service projects, and enjoying fellowship with one another while focusing on our relationship with Christ in the gorgeous fall weather in the mountains! Make sure to reserve your spot.
Cost is $30 and is all inclusive.
Legacy Luncheon
October 14th at 12:00 p.m. in The Vine
Join us for this celebratory afternoon!
If you are at least 70 years young, you are invited to be our guest for lunch. Join us on October 14th at 12:00 p.m. for a delicious meal and entertainment. There is no cost, however, we will be collecting canned goods for Mustard Tree Ministries. Don't miss this fun fellowship time!
RSVP by 4:00 p.m. on October 7th by either calling the church office at 423-756-2021 or emailing Rev. Michelle Hunter at mhunter@firstcentenary.com.
If you are at least 70 years young, you are invited to be our guest for lunch. Join us on October 14th at 12:00 p.m. for a delicious meal and entertainment. There is no cost, however, we will be collecting canned goods for Mustard Tree Ministries. Don't miss this fun fellowship time!
RSVP by 4:00 p.m. on October 7th by either calling the church office at 423-756-2021 or emailing Rev. Michelle Hunter at mhunter@firstcentenary.com.
Prime Time Wednesday
August 14th - October 23rd
Meal at 5:30 p.m.
Classes at 6:30 p.m.
Join us for Prime Time Wednesdays starting on August 14th and running through October 23rd! We will begin with a delicious meal at 5:30 p.m. and have our classes at 6:30 p.m. Our classes this season are led by Pastor Will Lauderback, Pastor Michelle Hunter, Pastor Barry Kidwell, Pastor Jason Gattis, Amy Gattis, and Mike Feely.
UTC Homecoming Pregame
October 26th at 12:00 p.m. Meet at The Vine
Mighty Mocs take on the VMI Keydets in the Homecoming 2024 football game! The College Ministry will be heading over from The Vine to UTC for tailgating and fun before the game around 12:00 p.m. Make sure to purchase your own ticket to the game, reserve your free bus spot, and cheer on the Mocs with us!
Centenary Sunday
October 27th During the 10:45 a.m. Worship Services
Join us for Centenary Sunday on October 27th during the 10:45 a.m. worship services! The children from The Centenary will be sharing what this program means to them through a special presentation. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our community as we also collect donations to benefit The Centenary's mission. Come celebrate with us and see the impact we’re making together!
Memorial Garden and Parlor Celebration
October 27th at 12:00 p.m. in the Parlor Room
Join us on Sunday, October 27th, at 12:00 p.m. in the Parlor for a special Memorial Garden and Parlor Celebration! We’re excited to showcase the newly improved Memorial Garden and Parlor Room. Enjoy light snacks and refreshments while exploring these beautifully enhanced spaces. The doors will be open for you to walk around and take in the updates. Everyone is welcome!
College Student Lunch
October 27th, 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!
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.
Youth Fall Retreat
November 15th - 17th
Join us November 15th-17th 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.
Cost: $125 (Scholarships are available!)
Mark your calendars and get ready for a meaningful adventure with friends, new experiences, and opportunities to grow in faith. Stay tuned for more details!
Cost: $125 (Scholarships are available!)
Mark your calendars and get ready for a meaningful adventure with friends, new experiences, and opportunities to grow in faith. Stay tuned for more details!
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 Conference Room
No Coffee with the Pastor on October 20th
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.
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
Tennessee River Rescue
October 5th at 9:00 a.m. at Lookout Creek
Join the Creation Care Circle for a River Clean-Up Day! Help care for the environment with us on October 5th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at our designated site, Lookout Creek, led by Reflection Riding. All ages are welcome to participate in this meaningful service!
To register with our group or get more information, contact Rev. Caroline Archer at carcher@firstcentenary.com.
Let's make a difference together!
To register with our group or get more information, contact Rev. Caroline Archer at carcher@firstcentenary.com.
Let's make a difference together!
Chattanooga Pride Festival
October 6th at 1:00 p.m. Meet at Ross' Landing
Attending Chattanooga Pride? Volunteer at our table and help give out snacks, waters, and more alongside our own David Harr giving Glitter Blessings to attendees. We will meet at Ross' Landing!
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.
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!