Call for Contributors:

Stories from Central - The Jot & Tittle

We invite you to be a contributing part of Stories from Central: The Jot and Tittle, Central UMC’s every-other-month newsletter.

We are forming a Newsletter Team to assist with gathering, writing, and assembling each issue. If you enjoy storytelling, writing, photography, or behind-the-scenes tasks, we welcome your involvement. Opportunities to participate include:

• Writers & Content Contributors – Assist with writing articles, collecting stories, and highlighting the life and ministries of Central.
• Photographers – Share meaningful images that capture our church community in action.
• Assembly Volunteers – Help with printing, folding, and preparing newsletters for mailing.

Our first team issue will be September/October, followed by a November/December edition. We also welcome article submissions from anyone who wishes to contribute a ministry update, volunteer highlight, reflection on an event, or other meaningful content. *Please note that all submissions will be subject to editorial review for clarity, length, and alignment with the mission and values of Central UMC.

To volunteer or submit material, please contact Michelle Hausler at mhausler@centralumc.org, or fill out our online interest form.

Together, let us continue to tell the stories that connect, inspire, and reflect the heart of Central.

Serve at Haywood St.

Wednesday, August 13 @ 11:00am

Haywood St. Congregation hosts a free Welcome Table meal every Wednesday. On August 12, Central will provide volunteers to help serve. 

Contact Pastor Mary to sign-up or for more information.

A Big Day at Central!

Sunday, August 26

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

To avoid adding methane to our air, reduce your consumption of disposable paper products like paper towels, napkins, and cups. Substitute reusable cloths, washable cups and bottles.

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.