March 1, 2026
This Week's Opportunities for Connection
Easter Lily Orders - Due THIS Tuesday, March 3
If you would like to order a lily or make a donation to the Worship/Altar Guild Fund this Easter in honor or memory of loved ones, please complete an online order or a paper order form (available in Central Hall and the Narthex on Sunday).
If you prefer to mail a check, please contact the office at 704-289-3186, so we know to expect it.
Lilies are $15 each.
Orders are due by Tuesday, March 3.
If you prefer to mail a check, please contact the office at 704-289-3186, so we know to expect it.
Lilies are $15 each.
Orders are due by Tuesday, March 3.
World Day of Prayer - Friday, March 6
Please join UWF and the Stephen Ministers Friday March 6 from 11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. for World Day of Prayer. You are invited to explore the labyrinth in the Pathfinders Classroom before and after the 12:15 P.M. service in the Chapel. Light refreshments will be served in Hospitality.
Schedule:
11:30 A.M. - 12:15 P.M.: labyrinth walk and quiet prayer in the Chapel
12:15 P.M. - 12:45 P.M.: World Day of Prayer service in the Chapel
12:45 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.: labyrinth walk and quiet prayer in the Chapel
Schedule:
11:30 A.M. - 12:15 P.M.: labyrinth walk and quiet prayer in the Chapel
12:15 P.M. - 12:45 P.M.: World Day of Prayer service in the Chapel
12:45 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.: labyrinth walk and quiet prayer in the Chapel
March Shareback - Baby Bottle Campaign for the HELP Pregnancy Center
March's Shareback is the Baby Bottle Campaign to support the HELP Pregnancy Center.
Empty baby bottles will be available after services and at the Shareback table for you to take home and fill with your loose change. Filled bottles can be returned to church before and after services, beginning Sunday, March 8 or returned to the office during office hours, Monday - Thursday.
"The Baby Bottle Campaign offers a simple way to create a meaningful impact. This ongoing fundraising initiative allows us to offer valuable, life-affirming support to women navigating unplanned pregnancies. Whether you choose to participate virtually or with physical donation bottles, your involvement truly matters. In fact, this fundraiser contributes a large part of our annual budget, demonstrating that even small contributions can lead to substantial positive changes. Your involvement can make a world of difference."
Empty baby bottles will be available after services and at the Shareback table for you to take home and fill with your loose change. Filled bottles can be returned to church before and after services, beginning Sunday, March 8 or returned to the office during office hours, Monday - Thursday.
"The Baby Bottle Campaign offers a simple way to create a meaningful impact. This ongoing fundraising initiative allows us to offer valuable, life-affirming support to women navigating unplanned pregnancies. Whether you choose to participate virtually or with physical donation bottles, your involvement truly matters. In fact, this fundraiser contributes a large part of our annual budget, demonstrating that even small contributions can lead to substantial positive changes. Your involvement can make a world of difference."
Ongoing Opportunities for Connection
Lent at Central
Lent invites us to slow our pace and pay attention to our hearts. It’s a season of reflection, prayer, and drawing closer to Christ as we prepare for Easter. We invite you to share this journey with us.
Lenten Sundays at Central: February 22 – March 22.
9:00am Modern Worship in Central Hall and 11:00am Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary
Inhale faith, exhale fear, and know that you are loved by God, and You Belong at Central! You are welcome here.
Lenten Sundays at Central: February 22 – March 22.
9:00am Modern Worship in Central Hall and 11:00am Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary
Inhale faith, exhale fear, and know that you are loved by God, and You Belong at Central! You are welcome here.
Central's Festival Choir
Central's Festival Choir is preparing for Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, and Easter!
Ready to take a step of faith? If singing is one of your gifts, this is truly a meaningful way to be a part of worship during this season! Singing together helps us bring to life the richly beautiful story of these services!! This will be a moving spiritual experience for all involved!
The Festival Choir is open to anyone who enjoys singing. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 6:45–7:45 PM and begin this week!
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” (1 Peter 4:10)
If you’re interested, we’d love to have you!
Ready to take a step of faith? If singing is one of your gifts, this is truly a meaningful way to be a part of worship during this season! Singing together helps us bring to life the richly beautiful story of these services!! This will be a moving spiritual experience for all involved!
The Festival Choir is open to anyone who enjoys singing. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 6:45–7:45 PM and begin this week!
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” (1 Peter 4:10)
If you’re interested, we’d love to have you!
Future Opportunities for Connection
Mobile Blood Drive - Sunday, March 8
Mobile Blood Drive- Sunday, March 8
Central will host a Blood Drive on Sunday, January 11 from 9:30 AM–1:30 PM. The Big Red Bus will be parked in the lower lot near Barden Street. Your donation can save lives—please consider giving! See Irene Ward with any questions.
Central will host a Blood Drive on Sunday, January 11 from 9:30 AM–1:30 PM. The Big Red Bus will be parked in the lower lot near Barden Street. Your donation can save lives—please consider giving! See Irene Ward with any questions.
Bingo Party for Adults with Special Needs - March 14
Mark your calendars for a Bingo Party for Adults with Special Needs, sponsored by CUMC's Sonshine Class. This event will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 P.M. in the Family Life Center. Please contact the office with any questions!
Palm Sunday - March 29
Palm Sunday begins with celebration as we remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. We join the ancient welcome of the King, waving palm branches and lifting our voices, shouting Hosanna in the Highest!
This triumphant day marks the beginning of Holy Week, a journey that carries us from rejoicing to the sacrifice on the cross, and ultimately to resurrection joy.
Join us for this beautiful and powerful morning of worship on Sunday, March 29, at 10:00 A.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring the palm procession and special music from our Festival Choir, 801Praise!, Casavant organ, violin, trumpet, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 9:50 A.M.
This triumphant day marks the beginning of Holy Week, a journey that carries us from rejoicing to the sacrifice on the cross, and ultimately to resurrection joy.
Join us for this beautiful and powerful morning of worship on Sunday, March 29, at 10:00 A.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring the palm procession and special music from our Festival Choir, 801Praise!, Casavant organ, violin, trumpet, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 9:50 A.M.
Central Children's Palm Leaf Processional - March 29
Children, get ready to celebrate!
On Palm Sunday, we remember the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem and the people waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna!”
We want YOU to be part of the celebration!
All children are invited to join our Palm Processional as we wave palm branches, sing, and celebrate Jesus together. Come ready to smile, wave your palms high, and sing All Glory Laud and Honor.
On Palm Sunday, we remember the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem and the people waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna!”
We want YOU to be part of the celebration!
All children are invited to join our Palm Processional as we wave palm branches, sing, and celebrate Jesus together. Come ready to smile, wave your palms high, and sing All Glory Laud and Honor.
Maundy Thursday - April 2
Maundy Thursday invites us to the table where Jesus gathered with his disciples for the Last Supper.
On one of the most moving nights of the Christian year, we remember Christ’s command to love one another and receive Holy Communion as we reflect on the depth of his grace and the weight of the sacrifice before Him.
This sacred service leads us quietly toward the cross and the unfolding story of redemption.
Join us for this reverent evening of worship on Thursday, April 2, at 7:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring the Central Ringers, our Festival Choir, and Casavant organ. Gathering Music will begin at 6:50 P.M.
On one of the most moving nights of the Christian year, we remember Christ’s command to love one another and receive Holy Communion as we reflect on the depth of his grace and the weight of the sacrifice before Him.
This sacred service leads us quietly toward the cross and the unfolding story of redemption.
Join us for this reverent evening of worship on Thursday, April 2, at 7:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring the Central Ringers, our Festival Choir, and Casavant organ. Gathering Music will begin at 6:50 P.M.
Good Friday - April 3
Good Friday draws us into the deepest moments of the Christian story. It is a night set apart for reflection, reverence, and wonder, all focused on the love revealed on the cross.
In the ancient service of Tenebrae, we will move prayerfully through the unfolding of Christ’s passion as scripture and music are woven together in solemn beauty. With each reading and musical response, a candle is extinguished, and the sanctuary slowly darkens, inviting us to enter the weight and mystery of this sacred night.
Soul-stirring anthems offered by the choir and sacred hymns sung with the congregation give voice to the story as it is told. They lead us step by step toward the cross. The service concludes with the cherished stripping of the altar, leaving the sanctuary in silence and stillness as we depart in quiet reflection, as our suffering Savior has died.
You are invited to experience this profound and soul-stirring evening of worship on
Friday, April 3 at 7:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring our Festival Choir, Casavant organ, piano, violin, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 6:50 P.M.
In the ancient service of Tenebrae, we will move prayerfully through the unfolding of Christ’s passion as scripture and music are woven together in solemn beauty. With each reading and musical response, a candle is extinguished, and the sanctuary slowly darkens, inviting us to enter the weight and mystery of this sacred night.
Soul-stirring anthems offered by the choir and sacred hymns sung with the congregation give voice to the story as it is told. They lead us step by step toward the cross. The service concludes with the cherished stripping of the altar, leaving the sanctuary in silence and stillness as we depart in quiet reflection, as our suffering Savior has died.
You are invited to experience this profound and soul-stirring evening of worship on
Friday, April 3 at 7:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary. Featuring our Festival Choir, Casavant organ, piano, violin, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 6:50 P.M.
Central Children's Easter Celebration - Saturday, April 4
You’re Invited to Our Easter Celebration!
All children are invited to join us for a joyful Easter Celebration!
Saturday, April 4th
⏰ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
We’ll begin with a special Easter story and a fun activity together before heading outside for our exciting Easter Egg Hunt in the garden!
Please use the church office entrance when you arrive.
We can’t wait to celebrate the joy of Easter with you!
If you have any questions, please call or text
Erica – 704-290-4607
Come ready for fun, friends, and celebration! ?✨
All children are invited to join us for a joyful Easter Celebration!
Saturday, April 4th
⏰ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
We’ll begin with a special Easter story and a fun activity together before heading outside for our exciting Easter Egg Hunt in the garden!
Please use the church office entrance when you arrive.
We can’t wait to celebrate the joy of Easter with you!
If you have any questions, please call or text
Erica – 704-290-4607
Come ready for fun, friends, and celebration! ?✨
Easter Sunday - April 5
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
On Easter, we gather in a radiant celebration of the resurrection, the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and love that reigns forevermore! This is a day of victory and joy, when the church lifts its song and proclaims the good news that Christ lives and hope is alive for all.
Join us on Sunday, April 5, at 10:00 A.M. in the Sanctuary for a glorious service of worship as we celebrate the risen Lord and share in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, giving thanks for the promise of new life made known through Christ. Featuring Festival Choir, 801Praise!, Central Ringers, Casavant organ, piano, violin, trumpet, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 9:50 A.M.
On Easter, we gather in a radiant celebration of the resurrection, the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and love that reigns forevermore! This is a day of victory and joy, when the church lifts its song and proclaims the good news that Christ lives and hope is alive for all.
Join us on Sunday, April 5, at 10:00 A.M. in the Sanctuary for a glorious service of worship as we celebrate the risen Lord and share in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, giving thanks for the promise of new life made known through Christ. Featuring Festival Choir, 801Praise!, Central Ringers, Casavant organ, piano, violin, trumpet, and timpani. Gathering Music will begin at 9:50 A.M.
District and Conference Offerings & Events
Board of Ordained Ministry
Dr. Bill will attend the Board of Ordained Ministry on March 10-12.
Metro District Lay Servant Training
Please see the link below for Lay Servant training offerings from the Metro District on March 28 and 29. The last day for online registration is March 15.
Peace Conference 2026
Please see the link below for details and registration information for the 2026 WNCC Peace Conference.
Other Church Announcements
Central T-Shirt Sale
Show Your Support to Central – Purchase Your T-Shirt Today! We are selling our remaining inventory. You can order online or in person during a worship service. If you have questions, please speak to Erica Kirby.
Get your hands on a high-quality Comfort Colors Central UMC t-shirt. Shirts are available in two vibrant colors: Grape and Red! All shirts also feature Central’s new vision statement on the back.
Don’t miss out! Order yours today and represent Central in style!
Get your hands on a high-quality Comfort Colors Central UMC t-shirt. Shirts are available in two vibrant colors: Grape and Red! All shirts also feature Central’s new vision statement on the back.
Don’t miss out! Order yours today and represent Central in style!
We Are Hiring - Director of Music Ministries
We welcome those who are called to provide leadership of a music ministry team and serve with a church whose calling is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
App Logins & Notifications
Do you have the Central App? Are your notifications on? Are you logged in? We're going to help you get started!
To turn notifications on:
Open your Central App
Click the person icon at the top right
Scroll to App Settings
Click on Notifications
Ensure that General is toggled on and lights up green
You are good to go! Now you won't miss any communication from the church!
To Log In:
Tap the person icon at the top right
Tap Login or Sign Up
Tap Create an Account (in gray above the email box, on the right)
Enter your first and last name, email, and create a password
The app should remember your password so you won’t need to log in every time
If you choose not to create an account or skip the password, you may miss out on important features like event registration and personalized updates.
To turn notifications on:
Open your Central App
Click the person icon at the top right
Scroll to App Settings
Click on Notifications
Ensure that General is toggled on and lights up green
You are good to go! Now you won't miss any communication from the church!
To Log In:
Tap the person icon at the top right
Tap Login or Sign Up
Tap Create an Account (in gray above the email box, on the right)
Enter your first and last name, email, and create a password
The app should remember your password so you won’t need to log in every time
If you choose not to create an account or skip the password, you may miss out on important features like event registration and personalized updates.