Friends we hope you will join us this Sunday at 10AM for church at Central UMC. Check out the sermon preview from Pastor Mary to learn what's in store for worship this weekend, in-person or online.


 We hope to see you there!


Check out our latest ministry updates!

 

Children's Musical!

Sunday, April 26th at 11:30 AM in the Sanctuary


Central's Children's Choir and Friends will present their spring musical "Oh, Jonah!" by Allen Pote and Carole McCann, Sunday, April 26 at 11:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. "Light bites" snacks and lemonade will be set up in the church parlor between the end of worship and the musical. Everyone staying for the musical is invited to relax, fellowship and have a quick snack. All are invited to the musical! 


"Oh, Jonah!" is meant to be a whale of a good time for both performers and the audience as the story of the prophet Jonah is brought to life with music, mime, and merry-making! It's more than just a story about a whale swallowing a human. It's a story about us.


It's a tale involving responsibility, repentance, listening for the word of God in our lives, accepting people who are different from us, and believing that there is mercy and compassion for all who turn toward God -- serious thoughts, but told with a sense of humor and frolicking fun! 

Shop for a Cause - Eve Circle

Sunday, April 19th & 26th, 2026 | After worship


On April 19 and 26, the Eve Circle will sell handcrafted paper bead jewelry made by women in Uganda after worship, just outside the Parlor. Proceeds support the Zoe Program for orphan empowerment and scholarships for girls in Moheto, Kenya. Cash or check accepted. Shop, find something beautiful, and help change a life.

Youth Money Wall Fundraiser for Wilderness Trail

Sundays in April


Help send our youth to Wilderness Trail this summer by participating in our Money Wall fundraiser each Sunday in April!


It’s easy: choose a numbered envelope from the display, place that amount in cash or a check inside, and return it. The number on the envelope is the amount you give.

Choose envelope #5 and give $5. Choose envelope #75 and give $75. Every envelope helps support our youth as they prepare for a week of backpacking, faith, friendship, and discovering God in creation.



Thank you for supporting our students and making this incredible experience possible!

Social Principles Class Update


Thank you to all who participated in the Social Principles classes. The three main topics chosen by participants for further action are: Immigration Justice; African American Outreach; and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Opportunities for further involvement are currently being developed and will be presented soon. 

Condolences and Upcoming Funerals


We regret to inform you that we have lost two members of our church family this week. Leonard Slaughter died April 15, and Charlie David died April 16.


Charlie David’s service will be held at Givens on Monday, April 20th at 1 pm. 


Leonard Slaughter’s service will be held here at Central UMC on Friday, April 24 at 1 pm followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.

 

It is hard to admit out loud that we are having trouble handling our life issues by ourselves. But...”asking for help is the bravest thing you can do.” ~C. Mackesy

Consider a confidential care relationship with a Stephen Minister. Contact Pastor Lisa today for more information.

 

The Prayer Shawl Care Ministry wants to help lift your spirits when life challenges bring you 

down. A handmade shawl created with prayers over every stitch can comfort you and 

be a reminder of God’s never-ending love for you. Contact Pastor Lisa if you would like to receive a shawl or have one delivered to someone going through a difficult time. 

 

Eve Circle Meeting

Tuesday, May 5 @ 10:00AM


On May 5, Maggie Christy will share with Eve Circle the path that led her to work with all ages of youth at Central. Meeting will be in the parlor at 10:00 am.


Visitors are always welcome! if interested or have questions Contact dlballandy45@gmail.com or sandracwells@gmail.com.

 

Mother's Day Remembrance

All Donations Must Be Received by May 1st


The Anna Circle will be placing red and white carnations in the Chancel urns on Mother’s Day in May. We invite you to remember and/or honor your mother, grandmother, mothers of your grandchildren, special aunt, or any woman who has provided nurturing in your life’s journey. A donation of $10 for each name remembered or honored will be used in support of local missions. A list of names will be provided online and with the bulletin on Mother’s Day. 


All checks should be made out to “CUMC-Anna Circle”, marked for “Mother’s Day” in memo line. Use attached envelope for offering plate or mail donation to Central UMC, 27 Church St. Asheville, NC 28801. Attn: Anna Circle 


Get your form here.


ALL donations must be received by May 1st. For questions, please contact Mary Ann Wansong, 828-275-9551. Thank you for your support of local missions.

ABCCM Crisis Downtown Ongoing Needs


There is a never-ending list of things needed by ABCCM Crisis downtown. The people who keep up with the needs are greatly appreciated.


Things needed this week are toilet paper and dish soap. The dish soap will be broken down into small units. Toilet paper is given out in single rolls.


There is still a need for dry cat food. If you get a 7.5-pound bag it will be broken down into several smaller bags.


The kitchen needs peanut butter. This is a staple that is often given with food orders.


Please leave donated items in the large wooden tub in Fellowship Hall. It will be picked up each Sunday morning and delivered on Monday.


Thank you.

Family Life Council Meeting

Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 @ 11:15AM in Youth Arena


Anyone involved in Family Life at Central United Methodist Church is invited to this open meeting. Grab lunch from Table 2 Table and join us to share ideas and dream together about Family Life Ministries at Central.

Vacation Bible School

June 15 - 19, 2026



Join us for a fun and faith-filled week of Vacation Bible School at Central United Methodist Church Monday, June 15 through Friday, June 19, from 9:00 a.m.–12:00 noon each day.


Children ages 3 through rising 5th grade are invited to step into Bible times and experience God’s Word coming to life through music, crafts, games, and storytelling. It will be a week full of fun, friendship, and faith!



Students in grades 6–12 and adults are invited to volunteer and help make the week special.


There is no fee, and snacks are provided.

To register your children, email mchristy@CentralUMC.org, visit https://centralumc.org/Events.

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E-newsletter #646