NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST • JULY 26, 2026 • 11:00AM
THE COMMUNITY GATHERS
Welcome to worship at Centenary! We are a church for everyone. As you prepare for worship, we invite you to greet your neighbor and share the love of Christ. Please silence all mobile communication devices.
PRELUDE
The Mystery of Faith — Margaret Vardell Sandresky
GREETING
INTROIT
You Satisfy the Hungry Heart — Robert E. Kreutz, arr. John Ferguson You satisfy the hungry heart with gift of finest wheat; come give to us, O saving Lord, the bread of life to eat.
†CALL TO WORSHIP
Come, all you whose souls thirst for the living God!
We come in search of help and hope. As the deer pants for streams of water, so our souls long for you, O God!
Through each day, the Lord pours his unfailing love upon us; Through each night, we sing his songs, praising the God who gives us life!
Come and find refuge in God our rock.
Let us worship the living God!
†HYMN OF PROCESSION
#160 Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart — MARION
†AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
We are not alone, we live in God’s world.
We believe in God: who has created and is creating, who has come in Jesus, the Word made flesh, to reconcile and make new, who works in us and others by the Spirit. We trust in God. We are called to be the church: to celebrate God’s presence, to love and serve others, to seek justice and resist evil, to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen, our judge and our hope. In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us. We are not alone. Thanks be to God. Amen.
† GLORIA PATRI
#71 Glory Be to the Father — GREATOREX
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
BAPTISM
BAPTISMAL RESPONSE
Do you as Christ’s body, the church, reaffirm both your rejection of sin and your commitment to Christ? We do.
Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life and include this family, now before you, in your care?
We give thanks for all that God has already given you and welcome you in Christian love. With God’s help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround Andy and Bobby with a community of love and forgiveness, that they may grow in their service to others. We will pray for them, that they may be true disciples who walk in the way that leads to life.
HYMN #191 Jesus Loves Me — JESUS LOVES ME
(Following the baptismal parade, children, kindergartners through third grade, are invited to exit the Sanctuary for Children’s Worship. Children will return to reserved pews in the Sanctuary at the close of worship.)
CANTICLE
You Satisfy the Hungry Heart — Robert E. Kreutz, arr. John Ferguson As when the shepherd calls his sheep, they know and heed his voice; so when you call your family, Lord, we follow and rejoice. With joyful lips we sing to you our praise and gratitude, that you should count us worthy, Lord, to share this heavenly food. You give yourself to us, O Lord; then selfless let us be, to serve each other in your name in truth and charity. The mystery of your presence, Lord, no mortal tongue can tell: whom all the world cannot contain comes in our hearts to dwell. (The congregation is invited to sing.)
WE HEAR THE WORD PROCLAIMED
SCRIPTURE — Psalm 42
This is the word of God for the people of God. Thanks be to God.
SERMON — “A Faith Pieced Together”
WE RENEW OUR COMMITMENT
OFFERTORY
My Shepherd Will Supply My Need — arr. Mack Wilberg My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his Name; in pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream. He brings my wandering spirit back, when I forsake his ways, and leads me for his mercy’s sake, in paths of truth and grace. When I walk through the shades of death, thy presence is my stay; one word of thy supporting breath drives all my fears away. Thy hand, in sight of all my foes, doth still my table spread; my cup with blessings overflows, thine oil anoints my head. The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days; O may thy house be mine abode and all my work be praise! There would I find a settled rest while others go and come, no more a stranger, nor a guest; but like a child at home.
†DOXOLOGY
#94 Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow — LASST UNS ERFREUEN Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below: Alleluia! Alleluia! Praise God, the source of all our gifts! Praise Jesus Christ, whose power uplifts! Praise the Spirit, Holy Spirit! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
†PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
WE GO AS GOD’S PEOPLE INTO THE WORLD
†HYMN #368 My Hope Is Built — THE SOLID ROCK
†BENEDICTION
†BENEDICTION RESPONSE
A Clare Benediction — John Rutter
May the Lord show his mercy upon you; may the light of his presence be your guide: may he guard you and uphold you; may his spirit be ever be your side. When you sleep, may his angels watch over you; when you wake, may he fill you with his grace: may you love him and serve him all your days, then in heaven may you see his face.
†POSTLUDE
Toccata ‘Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart’ — Albert L. Travis
Thank you for joining us in worship today.
SERMON NOTES
PARTICIPANTS IN WORSHIP
PREACHING
Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene
Senior Minister
LITURGIST
Reverend Dianne Lawhorn
Associate Minister of Outreach & Adult Formation
MUSIC
Jonathan Emmons, Director of Music & Arts
Tate Addis, Organist & Associate Conductor
The Chancel Choir
CRUCIFER Louise Johnson
TORCHBEARERS
Vida Kennedy Scott Johnson
FLOWERS
The Chancel flowers are given in loving memory of Susan Womble Abernethy, Francis Tucker Kimball, James Barry Smith, and Rev. Richard R. Hanner Jr. by Mr. and Mrs. Judson Davis and family and the Smith family.
WELCOME!
The congregation and staff of Centenary welcome you to today’s worship.
It is our honor to have you with us! Our ministers, staff, welcome team and ushers are happy to assist you with any questions you may have. We hope our worship will inspire, comfort and challenge you as we hear God’s message proclaimed through preaching, music, prayer and liturgy.
SUNDAY MORNINGS AT CENTENARY
• Worship • 9:00AM • Memorial Auditorium
• Worship • 11:00AM • Sanctuary
• Sunday School for all Ages • 9:45AM or 10:00AM (Based on Classes & Ministry Area)
• Nursery is available for infants through pre-kindergarteners during both worship services and Sunday school on the first floor of the East Building.
MEMBERSHIP
We are eager to share Centenary’s story with you. If you are interested in learning about church membership, please contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck (336-724-6311 ext. 1357/ ohelsabeck@centenary-ws.org) to schedule a time to meet.
WATCH
Each Sunday morning, our 11:00AM worship service is broadcast on the Internet through our Live Stream. Visit www.centenary-ws.org. Once there, click on the Live Stream link at the top of the home page.
HEARING LOOP
Our Sanctuary is fitted with a Hearing Loop system. Please switch your hearing device to T-coil. If you need a listening device, please contact one of our ushers. Be sure to sit in the pews located on the floor of the Nave.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTENARY
There is always something happening at Centenary and we invite you to join us. To learn more about Centenary ministries and events, visit our website at www.centenary-ws.org. You may also contact our receptionist who will guide you to the appropriate ministry area.
STAY CONNECTED
Reception Desk • 336-724-6311
CENTENARY LEADERSHIP CONNECTIONS
336.724.6311 + Extension (for the Minister on Call • Option 2)
Reverend Lara “Willis” Greene ext. 1362 Senior Minister wgreene@centenary-ws.org
Mary Ann Wexler ext. 1346 Executive Director mwexler@centenary-ws.org
Jonathan Emmons ext. 1339 Director of Music & Arts jemmons@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Oliver Helsabeck ext. 1357
Associate Minister for Congregational Care ohelsabeck@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Dianne Lawhorn ext. 1361
Associate Minister of Outreach & Adult Formation dlawhorn@centenary-ws.org
Reverend Kate May ext. 1331
Associate Minister with Children kmay@centenary-ws.org
ANNOUNCEMENTS • JULY 26, 2026
Learn more and register for events at www.centenary-ws.org/church-event or scan our QR code.
CELEBRATION
Today we celebrate the baptisms of Andrew Bradley Dillon and Robert David Dillon, sons of Alexander and Emilee Dillon.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Shining Light on Mental Health
Peer Connector Ministry
SUMMER CAMP MAIL
Headed to Summer Camp? Let’s Stay Connected!
Do you have an elementary-aged child or youth heading off to summer camp this year? Let us know where they’ll be and how long they’ll be away! We’d love to brighten their day with a note or card from their church family while they’re at camp. Please send us their camp mailing address and dates of attendance:
• Elementary Children: Contact Rev. Kate May
• Youth: Contact Tammy Pollock
A little mail from home—and from your church family—can make a big difference. Help us share some encouragement and camp-time smiles!
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Backpack Blessing & Open House
Sunday • August 9 • 5:30PM-7:00PM
As the new school year approaches students of all ages along with their whole family are invited for an evening to check out their new Sunday school room, enjoy a pizza dinner, play games, and have their backpack blessed. Enter through the 5th Street East Building entrance and join us in the Community Room. RSVP to help us plan by using the QR code above. Questions? Contact Kate May.
Summer Sunday School
On Sunday’s through August 9, rising 1st - rising 6th graders are invited to gather in the community room at 10 am! We’ll enjoy playground Sunday school and kitchen Sunday school (July).
Fall Children’s Ministry Events
Kindergarten Worship Readiness
Tammy Pollock ext. 1337 Director of Youth Ministries tpollock@centenary-ws.org
Stacy Holley ext. 1359 Executive Assistant sholley@centenary-ws.org
John Markle ext. 1347 Director of Operations jmarkle@centenary-ws.org
Doug Peninger ext. 1368 Director of Communication dpeninger@centenary-ws.org
John Rogers ext. 1356 Director of Information Technology jrogers@centenary-ws.org
August 9 • 10 am
Backpack Blessing & Open House
Sunday • August 9 • 5:30-7 pm
Promotion Sunday & Parent Open House
Sunday • August 16
Bible Sunday
Sunday • September 20
4th & 5th Grade District Retreat
September 25-26
Mark your calendars and more info coming soon
If you experience a crisis of mental health, it’s important to know you are not alone. Our Peer Connector Ministry establishes a confidential connection between you and someone with similar experiences. Peer Connectors serve as supportive friends and listening ears, can provide prayerful, emotional support, and can help to direct you to additional support or resources. Send a confidential message to Rev. Oliver Helsabeck, and he will connect you with a Peer Connector.
GriefShare
Centenary is exploring offering a GriefShare support group this September for those grieving the loss of a loved one. This Christcentered program provides encouragement, practical support, and hope through videos, discussion, and personal reflection. If you may be interested, please contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck. Expressing interest does not commit you to attend; it simply helps determine whether there is sufficient interest to offer the program this fall.
Refresh
Wednesdays • Noon-12:45PM • Sanctuary
The Refresh Prayer Ministry invites you to be refreshed in a mid-week service of worship, reflection, and prayer in a sacred space. Parking is available in the Fifth Street parking lot; enter from the Fifth Street entrance to the Sanctuary. For more information, contact Rev. Oliver Helsabeck or Becky Tate.
MISSIONS
Blood Drive
Tuesday • August 4 • 12:30PM-5:00PM
Community Room
Centenary is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive. If you would like to sign up to donate blood, you may do so by scanning the QR code or visiting our website. If you cannot give blood but would like to volunteer, please contact Holly Gilliam.
Fall Mission Opportunity
There’s more work to do! As we go about our daily lives, there are people in Western NC who are still struggling with the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Centenary is planning to help the week of October 25. We will be heading north to Ashe County to work on homes. If you would like to be a part of this team, mark your calendar and look for future info and sign-ups. If you can only come for a few days, that’s ok as well. All levels of skill can be used so don’t be afraid to sign up to share Christ’s love through our caring actions. Questions? Contact Rev. Dianne Lawhorn.
MUSIC & ARTS
Register for Children’s Creative Arts Experience 2026/2027
Did your kids love CMA Camp? Keep the creativity, joy, and friendship going all year long with the Creative Arts Experience! We invite children ages 2 through 5th grade to join us when CAE resumes on September 2! CAE’s multi-faceted model engages children with various levels of musical and artistic interests, all while cultivating worship leadership opportunities for Centenary’s youngest! Register via the Announcements QR Code. Email Virginia Sheffield (vsheffield@centenaryws.org) with any questions.
YOUTH MINISTRY
What’s Faith Got to Do With It?
Summer Sunday School • 10:00AM-10:50AM
Weekly-August 9 • Youth Commons
Did you know, even during the summer months, we continue to have our fantastic Youth Sunday school hour? Join us as we share brunch and welcome some incredible guest speakers who will share with us “What’s Faith Got to Do With It?” Come listen as our guests share their hearts about who they are, what they do, how they got to where they are, and how they live out their faith in the jobs and lives they have.
Mission Mondays
August 3 • Project Times Vary
For August, we will complete our half-day group mission opportunities by working with Imprints Cares. Meet us at the church for morning prayer before we set out by bus for the day’s service project. After a morning of work, we’ll stop on our way back to church for lunch, fellowship, and devotional reflection. You are welcome to sign up for one project or sign up for them all! Scan the QR Code above, or head on over to Realm for all the details! If you have any questions, please contact Kevin Garrity.
Waffle Wednesdays
Weekly-August 5 • 5:00PM-6:30PM Youth Commons
Join us mid-week for a summer-long film & Bible study series as we explore Christian themes in The Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of The Rings Bring your appetite for thought-provoking exploration, and of course, an appetite for a waffle-bar and other breakfast-for-dinner foods!
Youth Save the Date
• August 14: 6th Grade Promotion Pool Party
• August 16: Youth Sunday School Open House & Fall Kick-Off
• August 23: First Love Thy Neighbor
• August 30: Class Dinners
Germany • May 17-29, 2027
Join tour guides Rev. Lara “Willis” Greene and husband, Dr. David Greene, on a 12-Day tour through Germany as you encounter a story of courage, faith and conviction that still speaks today. Along the way, we’ll wrestle with one of history’s most urgent questions: how a deeply Christian nation became the setting for profound moral tragedy. For more information, contact Stacy Holley.
