Photo Credit: anncapictures @ Pixabay
May
Church Calendar
Sunday, May 3rd - Friday, May 8th
Unicoi Community Revival
Sunday, May 10th
Mother's Day
Sunday, May 17th
Worship Service with Graduates, New Members & Confirmations
Fellowship Meal
Thursday, May 21st
UWIF to 2nd Harvest Food Bank
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Friday, May 22nd
Rescheduled from April
Young Adult Round Table Discussion
Light Meal Served
5:00 pm
Monday, May 25th
Memorial Day
Sunday, May 31st
Care Crew at Center for Aging
2:30 pm
Sunday, May 31 - Wednesday, June 3rd
Holston Annual Conference
Lake Junaluska
Sundays
Handbell Practice @ 8:45 am
Sunday School @ 9:45 am
Worship Service @ 10:55 am
Handbell Practice @ 8:45 am
Sunday School @ 9:45 am
Worship Service @ 10:55 am
Mondays
Lois Shults-Davis
Virtual Prayer Time @ 5:00 pm Facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis
Lois Shults-Davis
Virtual Prayer Time @ 5:00 pm Facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis
Tuesdays
Kiwanis @
12:00 pm
Kiwanis @
12:00 pm
Wednesdays
Online Devotions - Facebook @
9:00 am
Chancel Choir Practice @ 5:15 pm
Online Devotions - Facebook @
9:00 am
Chancel Choir Practice @ 5:15 pm
Thursdays
Centering Prayer Group @ 3:30 pm
Centering Prayer Group @ 3:30 pm
May birthdays & anniversaries can
be found on the printed calendar in
the monthly newsletter.
be found on the printed calendar in
the monthly newsletter.
The Round Table Discussion for Next Gen Voices
"Marginalized"
RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 22nd
May Activities
United Women in Faith Volunteer Day
Round Table Discussion for Next Gen Voices
The church's UWIF unit will be volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank on
Thursday, May 21st
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Church parking lot departure is at 11:50 am.
Let Kathy J. know if you will be going so adequate
transportation can be arranged.
Closed-toe shoes required.
First time volunteers must complete required
volunteer profile which is found on their home page.
Thursday, May 21st
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Church parking lot departure is at 11:50 am.
Let Kathy J. know if you will be going so adequate
transportation can be arranged.
Closed-toe shoes required.
First time volunteers must complete required
volunteer profile which is found on their home page.
"Marginalized"
Friday, May 22nd
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Friday night light meal & round table discussion for
young adults. This month's topic will be about marginalization:
Have you ever experienced it? Witnessed it?
Bring your experiences and recommendations to this initial
evening of group discussion and dining together.
ALL COMMUNITY YOUNG ADULTS ARE WELCOME!
Please watch our Facebook page for changes to this schedule.
centenary umc of erwin tn
Friday, May 22nd
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Friday night light meal & round table discussion for
young adults. This month's topic will be about marginalization:
Have you ever experienced it? Witnessed it?
Bring your experiences and recommendations to this initial
evening of group discussion and dining together.
ALL COMMUNITY YOUNG ADULTS ARE WELCOME!
Please watch our Facebook page for changes to this schedule.
centenary umc of erwin tn
Unicoi Community Revival
A Day of Recognition
Sunday, May 3rd - Friday, May 8th
Evening Services
Sunday, May 17th
10:55 am Worship Service
Recognizing Our Graduates, New Members
Confirmation Candidates
Photo credit: UCMA Facebook
Wednesday, 5/6
Unicoi Christian Church
Message by Todd McLaughlin
Thursday, 5/7
Unicoi Baptist Church
Message by Jim Snell
Friday, 5/8
Lighthouse Baptist Church
Message by Art Gibson
Unicoi Christian Church
Message by Todd McLaughlin
Thursday, 5/7
Unicoi Baptist Church
Message by Jim Snell
Friday, 5/8
Lighthouse Baptist Church
Message by Art Gibson
Photo Credit: 1st Broad UMC
Fellowship Meal to Follow
After Worship in the Fellowship Hall
Family & Friends Welcome!
Please bring to share:
Meats
Casseroles
Sides
Desserts
After Worship in the Fellowship Hall
Family & Friends Welcome!
Please bring to share:
Meats
Casseroles
Sides
Desserts
In Appreciation to IOCC Volunteers
While these amazing and dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly within the local community, they have also invested a tremendous amount
of time and labor to improving the conditions of both the interior and exterior of our Centenary House. It would be wonderful to thank these folks
who have donated their efforts to us and the United Methodist Church. Pastor Linda will collect the cards & letters and send in one large envelopes.
Seattle, Washington IOCC Family - The Barbers
Jen, Andy & Isaac
International Orthodox Christian Charities
of time and labor to improving the conditions of both the interior and exterior of our Centenary House. It would be wonderful to thank these folks
who have donated their efforts to us and the United Methodist Church. Pastor Linda will collect the cards & letters and send in one large envelopes.
Seattle, Washington IOCC Family - The Barbers
Jen, Andy & Isaac
International Orthodox Christian Charities
Summer Volunteer Occupants Cookie Program
Pastor Linda has suggested that the congregation restart the Monday cookie program. Additional volunteer groups are expected this summer.
When she has the schedule for occupancy, she will announce it so the cookies can be prepared weekly.
Thanks!
When she has the schedule for occupancy, she will announce it so the cookies can be prepared weekly.
Thanks!
Media
Wednesday Morning Devotions
Reverend Linda Rozar
Devotions and Sermons can also be found on our Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryofErwinTN
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryofErwinTN
Online Media Access Via Facebook
Facebook: CentenaryUMCofErwin,TN
Like us on Facebook!
Wednesday Morning Devotions
can be accessed through Centenary's Facebook page @ 9:00 am
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryUMCofErwin,TN
Pairs & Spares Sunday School Class
can be accessed through Lois Shults-Davis' Facebook page at 10:00 am
https://www.facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis/
Sunday Morning Worship Services
can be accessed through Centenary's Facebook page LIVE at 10:55 am.
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryofErwin,TN
can be accessed through Centenary's Facebook page @ 9:00 am
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryUMCofErwin,TN
Pairs & Spares Sunday School Class
can be accessed through Lois Shults-Davis' Facebook page at 10:00 am
https://www.facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis/
Sunday Morning Worship Services
can be accessed through Centenary's Facebook page LIVE at 10:55 am.
https://www.facebook.com/CentenaryofErwin,TN
Christian Education Opportunities
Sunday School Classes
After a 15 minute gathering time, Pairs & Spares Sunday School class begins at 10:00 am and will generally go LIVE on Facebook/Lois Shults-Davis just a few minutes after that.
Lois Davis is our very knowledgeable instructor and leads this class in lively discussion. We are always happy to meet new class visitors and share the joy and spirit of this class.
https://www.facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis/
The Golden Girls meet in a classroom off the entrance hall near the administration area. These ladies range in age and interests; participate in a weekly United Methodist curriculum;
and are actively involved in the United Women in Faith unit.
The Garland Library Adult Discussion folks are a diverse group of our more senior members, though any age is welcome to participate. Lots of knowledge and years of experience
to draw upon in these discussions.
Youth members and their friends are guided under the steady hands of Jessica and Alvin Casey in a cheery classroom at the end of the entrance hall. All ages welcome and
appropriately supervised. Assisting in Youth classes are Cynthia Sparks and Lee Hughes.
Lois Davis is our very knowledgeable instructor and leads this class in lively discussion. We are always happy to meet new class visitors and share the joy and spirit of this class.
https://www.facebook.com/lois.shultsdavis/
The Golden Girls meet in a classroom off the entrance hall near the administration area. These ladies range in age and interests; participate in a weekly United Methodist curriculum;
and are actively involved in the United Women in Faith unit.
The Garland Library Adult Discussion folks are a diverse group of our more senior members, though any age is welcome to participate. Lots of knowledge and years of experience
to draw upon in these discussions.
Youth members and their friends are guided under the steady hands of Jessica and Alvin Casey in a cheery classroom at the end of the entrance hall. All ages welcome and
appropriately supervised. Assisting in Youth classes are Cynthia Sparks and Lee Hughes.
Class stalwarts (and funny) - Rita & Marvin
Pairs & Spares can be counted on to fully participate in fun church-wide activities. Jack & Penny are displaying their head covers for Crazy Socks & Hat Day.
Class Instructor is Lois Shults-Davis
Knowledgeable - Experienced - Faithful
Knowledgeable - Experienced - Faithful
Second Quarter 2026 Christian Education
Linking Laity for Empowerment
Zoom Series
May's Topic
Date & Time to be Announced
Date & Time to be Announced
Praying with Scripture
Accessing the Read Together link should take you to the page at Holston.org where you can then access the daily passages @ Read Together Resource Page. Second quarter readings begin at Week 14. You can also sign up on the Holston.org page to have the daily passages emailed to you.
During this second quarter of 2026, you will continue to have the opportunity to enhance your spiritual practices of reading, reflecting, resting and responding to God's word. You are invited to slow down, read deeply and reflect on what you have read. Actively listen for God's voice. Intentionally open yourself to acts of mercy.
You'll find the Read Together list of passages by clicking on the Access 2026 link below.
You'll find the Read Together list of passages by clicking on the Access 2026 link below.
Photo Credit: Screenshot The Chosen 2017
Centering Prayer - A Spiritual Practice
Photo Credit: Kathleen Berry
Thursdays - Weekly @ 3:30 pm
Garland Classroom
Class Led By: Clyde Harrell
Assigned Reading: Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life by Brian D. Russell
The book can purchased on Amazon, at Cokesbury and at Barnes & Noble.
Class Format:
Having read the assigned chapter prior to class, there will be an approximate 30-minute discussion period. Ten to 15 minutes will then be devoted to silent prayer, followed by The Lord's Prayer.
Garland Classroom
Class Led By: Clyde Harrell
Assigned Reading: Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life by Brian D. Russell
The book can purchased on Amazon, at Cokesbury and at Barnes & Noble.
Class Format:
Having read the assigned chapter prior to class, there will be an approximate 30-minute discussion period. Ten to 15 minutes will then be devoted to silent prayer, followed by The Lord's Prayer.
Simple and silent, Centering Prayer allows you to rest in God's presence and allow God to direct the action in your life. As you quiet yourself in prayer, summon a symbolic word to represent your intent in your quiet time with God. Sit quietly and allow your thoughts to center on your chosen word, repeat the word if necessary to recenter. With repetition, you will most likely find this spiritual practice easier and more fulfilling over time.
Information on this page was published in the January edition of The Centenarian and is a summary of the published work of Clyde Harrell. Clyde, an Erwin native, holds a dual-major BA in Biblical and Theological Studies/Psychology from Carson-Newman University.
Church & Society
Responsible Consumerism
“Socially responsible consumerism is critical in life today. We urge individuals, families, and congregations to adopt life habits that reduce unnecessary waste, promote just and equitable compensation, promote sustainability, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.” (Social Principles of the UMC 2025-2028 pg. 30)
We are stewards of God’s Creation. If we consume more than we need, it in turn damages Creation. This practice becomes a breach of our stewardship – to take care of Creation. The same goes with money, even if it is our money. God gives us everything that we have, hence everything belongs to God. If we waste our money on items that we do not need or on items that we could buy a cheaper equivalent to, that is a waste. Wesley preached about it being a sin to waste money (e.g.) that if we bought clothes because they were in fashion, we wasted money instead of buying clothes simply because we need them. Those extra dollars we spent on what is in season could have been spent
ensuring the naked are clothed. By buying thrift store clothes, we stretch the dollar and are able to serve others.
Another element is that our hyperconsumerism can exploit poorer countries and the vulnerable. As corporations strive to keep operating costs down and profits high, we should strive to buy from brands that do not exploit others.
Another waste can look like buying things that are disposable. For example, disposable dinnerware, plastic water bottles, and plastic in general. Generally, if a product is made out of plastic, it is intended to be disposable. I have a table top fan that is on my desk-my dad’s parents bought it back in the 1940s or 50s; it still works perfectly! I used it in my college dorm and now I use it in my office. This is an example of how products used to be made to last. To reduce my waste, I strive to buy bar soap that replaces body wash, shampoo, and face wash which are all in plastic bottles! It is extremely hard to reduce
our waste in a world that is producing single-use products, but if we vote with our dollar a change can happen!
Overflowing Landfill
Photo Credit: vkingxl @ Pixabay
Abundant Choice
Photo Credit: gingerbreadca@Pixabay
An unsustainable lifestyle is another form of waste. Buying more than we can afford can hurt us quickly. It is a very easy trap to get ourselves into. We swipe our credit card and don’t think of the repercussions of it until later. I will easily buy takeout after a long day, for the simple fact that I am tired. While it is beneficial to eat out at times, we must be aware of our financial status. This even applies to our own church budget, does our church have wasteful expenditures? What about your own budget? With the rising costs of everyday goods and services, it is hard to have a balanced budget, so anywhere we can cut back is always good.
To be a responsible consumer we ought to buy within our means, purchase items that help our dollar to stretch, and buy sustainable items. Because the money we have is God’s. As Wesley preached, not spending money on the latest fashion and instead using that saved money to help those less fortunate is what we are called to do.
Article Written by J. Clyde Harrell
The "Unsung Heroes" of Worship
These talented folks continually communicate the joy of worship through music. Led by Robin Lafever, choir members diligently prepare their upcoming presentations mid-week and lead our musical worship on most Sunday mornings. In addition to weekly services, they also give the congregation meaningful programs at Christmas and Easter, and often participate in community musical presentations.
Adding talented new members is a joyful option - please contact Robin or a member of the administrative staff if you have an interest in joining the choir or handbells group.
Robin would LOVE to see aspiring choir members!
2025 Choir Members
Kathy J, Bob L, Penny J and Jennifer F
Music Director: Robin Lafever
Accompanist: Erin Sharp
Adding talented new members is a joyful option - please contact Robin or a member of the administrative staff if you have an interest in joining the choir or handbells group.
Robin would LOVE to see aspiring choir members!
2025 Choir Members
Kathy J, Bob L, Penny J and Jennifer F
Music Director: Robin Lafever
Accompanist: Erin Sharp
Photo credit: Kathy Alford
A Word From Pastor Linda Rozar
“1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Serve the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.” I completed the Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate last week. This education helped me look at our current activities and see ways to be more mindful of all age groups. One of the things that had been brought up to me on Christmas eve was how a late afternoon service was easier for some. After making some phone calls, there seems to be enough interest to begin having a weekly late afternoon service so be on the look out for that in late May to early June. The training also had me reconsider the young adult program that I have wanted to begin since before Hurricane Helene. While the main focus for the learning/discussion time will focus on the youth and young adults, there will be something for younger ages as well, and then all can join in the service projects and fun-time. I am also encouraging all of the members of the congregation to join us and experience what our youth/young adults in the community are concerned about and what they observe as needs and how to serve. I will be speaking with some of the other youth groups in the community and hopefully they will join us as well. The initial phase of these once-a-month events will be from May-August. We will come together as a congregation to assess how they went, what worked well and what did not work well, and possibly plan a continuation using the wisdom of the congregation during the learning/discussion time. The first event will be Friday, May 22nd from 5-7pm. The discussion time will be about marginalization, the service time will be in the garden, there will be a simple meal, and then a time for fun and games. The IOCC sent a team to Centenary House in April to work specifically on things that needed some updating or repair at the house. They did so tirelessly and even put in an extra day. You may have seen the shower/laundry trailer in the front yard of the house that will be such a blessing to the teams coming this spring and summer. I do not have a complete list of all that was done, but I do know that ceilings were repaired, some plumbing issues were fixed along with new hardware, the dishwasher was replaced, handrails were put up going both upstairs and down to the basement, walls were painted and I believe carpets were shampooed. I know there was more. Can we all please get some thank you cards put together? I can send them out in one manila envelope. The IOCC family that came from Seattle, WA was Jen, Andy, and their son Isaac Barber. Also, I am waiting on the calendar of mission teams from IOCC, but did get to speak with their director last week and it looks like the house will be full for most of the spring and summer. Can we resume Cookie Mondays? They serve in our community in so many places, may we also serve them with our hospitality? It is my great joy to serve alongside Centenary UMC, it is a greater joy to do so with gladness, and my greatest joy is that together we serve our Lord proclaiming the Gospel in Word and deed, while Loving Boldly, Serving Joyfully and Leading Courageously. To Him Be All The Glory! Blessings, Pastor Linda |
About Pastor Linda
Pastor Linda holds a Bachelor's Degree from Union University where she studied Religion. She began serving as a licensed local pastor with the United Methodist Church in 2002. Having met all educational and service requirements as well as completing all credentialing requirements, she became an Associate Member of the Holston Conference in 2021 and has faithfully served in Hamblen, Greene, Unicoi and Washington counties in upper east Tennessee. She is a motorcycle sidecar enthusiast, traveling with her husband, Lynn; a talented crafter; and endlessly leads efforts to alleviate hunger and homelessness in Unicoi County.
Age-Friendly Church
Photo Credit: MabelAmber @ Pixabay
Feeding the Homeless
Photo Credit: vladvalkonen @ Pixabay
