Happy Friday, Friends of Central!


Something new is blooming in our church...

and it's just for our little ones!


Pastor Mary and a special little guest have a special surprise to share - watch this quick preview to see the exciting change! You'll want to see it for yourself this Sunday at 10AM for worship at Central UMC!


We hope to see you there

 


Check out our latest ministry updates!

 

Central has a Congregational Health group of Registered Nurses who would like to provide care to our faith community.


We’d like to hear from you the types of things our nursing volunteers could offer that would be helpful to you! Please complete the survey here.

A Big Day at Central!

Sunday, August 24


Join us for a special day of welcome, celebration, and preparation:


Welcome Breakfast for Maggie Christy @ 8:45 AM

Come meet and greet Maggie Christy, our new Director of Children and Youth Discipleship, during a breakfast in her honor during the Sunday School hour.


Promotion Sunday - During Worship

We’ll celebrate all children and youth moving into new age groups and classes. Families are especially encouraged to attend as we bless our young people and the adults who guide them.


Leadership Central @ 11:15 AM – 3:30 PM

All committee and ministry leaders are invited to this important mini-retreat to connect, plan, and set direction for the coming year.


Lunch provided!

 

Upper Room Cost Change


The cost of the Upper Room has risen. The new cost going forward, will be $2.00 for regular print and $3.00 for large print


Recovering from a Medical Event? Maybe Recovery Care Resources Can Be of Help!


Recovery Care Resources is a unique care ministry that Central provides for our church members and community! RCR is designed for those returning home from a hospital or rehab stay or recovering from a medical event but do not have easy access to support from family, friend, or neighbors. RCR offers assistance in connecting with appropriate community resources. Contact Pastor Lisa for more details especially if this situation may apply to you. RCR wants your recovery to go smoothly and well!


Pastoral Care Ministry

Taking care of our church family is important to our pastoral staff. It is important to let them know if you are homebound, facing surgery, other medical procedures or treatment so that phone calls, visits, and Communion can be arranged.

 
 

Old Testament 101

Wednesdays, September 3 - December 17 @ 5:30pm

Ever wished you knew the Bible better? This fall, Rev. Mary Brown and Rick Kuenning will co-lead a 12-week in-person group study titled Old Testament 101.


Whether you're new to the Bible or simply looking to deepen your understanding, this accessible overview will help you become more confident in reading and interpreting the Old Testament. 


Each week, participants will explore key themes, historical context, and how these ancient scriptures continue to speak into our lives today. Participants should plan to spend approximately 30 minutes per day reading and preparing for discussion.


Choir members are welcome to participate and may step out after the first hour if needed.


Space is limited to 35 participants. Cost: $15 (scholarships available)


To register, please contact Jan Griffin.


Children and Youth Fall Kickoff

Sunday, September 7

Youth Choir & Kids Club - 11:15AM

Children's Choir - 11:45AM


🍂 Celebrate the start of Fall Programming! We’re launching the new ministry year with a full day of connection, celebration, and community! Join us for Fall Kickoff Sunday and help us welcome a new season of children and youth discipleship at Central.


After Worship, join us for our Table 2 Table all-church meal provided by Equal Plates Project.


Suggested donation: $10 per person. Kids 4 and under eat free. Max family cost: $30. Everyone is welcome—whether you can cover the meal or not. Plus, Kona Ice will be on site for a sweet treat!


🎶 Program Kickoff Times:

Youth Choir & Kids Club – 11:15 AM

Children’s Choir – 11:45 AM


🌭 Youth Group and Cookout with Maggie Christy |

SUN, SEP 7 5:00 PM

All middle and high school students-and their families-are invited to Haw Creek for an evening of youth group fun, food, and fellowship as we kick off the year and welcome our new Director of Children & Youth Discipleship, Maggie!

Central Creation Care: Eco-Tip


Zero-waste economy and circular economy are two concepts that share the ideas of sustainability, reducing harmful gases, and alleviating climate change. But these two ideas are carried out quite differently. Read up on these ideas that could help protect creation from harm.

 

Updates from

United Women in Faith


Eve Circle Meeting

Tuesday, September 2 - 10:00AM


Eve Circle will resume monthly meetings on Sept. 2 (10:00 am, first Tues.) in the Parlor at Central.


The program will be provided by members who volunteer to report on a book read from the 2025 UWF list. Summer service projects included providing meals at Haywood Street Congregation and collecting supplies for Homeward Bound for those moving into housing.


Contact skleduc@prodigy.net if you are interested or have questions.


Deborah Circle Gathering

Tuesday, September 9 - 10:00AM


Deborah Circle will meet at the home of a member on Monday, September 9 at 10:00 AM.


We’ll enjoy fellowship after our summer break and plan our programs and service projects for the year, with a special focus on addressing food swamps and food deserts in our area—especially in the aftermath of the hurricane.


All are welcome! For more information, contact Susan Snell at ssnell123@bellsouth.net.

 

Hosted by: Central UMC Asheville United Women in Faith & Church & Society Committee

📅 Saturday, September 13, 2025

🕘 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM

(Film screening and facilitated discussion from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM)

📍 Central United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall


Join us for a powerful morning of learning and reflection as we screen Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools, a feature-length documentary that explores the educational, judicial, and societal disparities facing Black girls in the United States.

Inspired by the groundbreaking book by Dr. Monique W. Morris, this film sheds light on how deeply entrenched biases and misperceptions of Black girlhood often lead to excessive punitive discipline—disrupting their education and lives in lasting ways.


Following the screening, we will hold a facilitated discussion to reflect on the film, examine local realities, and consider how we as individuals and a faith community can respond with justice, compassion, and action.

🎥 Watch the preview here: https://youtu.be/nWPayvrHkEM

This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome.

✏️ More details and RSVP information coming soon.


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E-newsletter #611