WHO WE ARE
A FRESH APPROACH TO CHURCH
Centenary was established in 1884 and was a thriving congregation for many years. By 2005, the worshipping congregation had dwindled to around 30 members. The remaining community worked with Rev. Tim Bagwell to create radical hospitality as the foundation of their rebirth.
“All are Welcome Here. Really.”
Through this commitment to a fresh expression of church, the community embraced diversity in all forms: race/ethnicity, age, disability, income, gender, and sexual orientation. Centenary is an openhearted, justice-seeking, everybody-loving, theologically progressive community. We believe we are beloved: just as we are today, and as we are becoming.
A diverse history
Centenary celebrated its 125th Anniversary in 2009 with the creation of the mosaic cross that now hangs in the sanctuary. It is comprised of fragments contributed by community members representing the beauty created when we gather in diversity, free to acknowledge the broken places in our lives, and come together for healing within community.
We believe that in community at its best, the privileged and the poor learn from and support one another. We believe in gift-based ministry and as such, we take a team approach to everything we do, recognizing that everyone has something to teach us. Many of our staff work part-time within their area of professional expertise and spiritual gifts, with the goal of identifying and utilizing members of the community within the areas about which they are passionate.
Building our future
Today under the winsome leadership of Rev. Sara Pugh Montgomery, Centenary is thriving - attracting more and more families with children and expanding programs related to inclusion, education and social justice. At Centenary, differences are embraced. Questions are encouraged rather than feared. Honesty is valued.
Each week at the close of the worship service, you will hear Pastor Sara offer this blessing:
“You are a beloved child of God worthy of love and respect, and God will use you to change the world.”
We Build Community
We seek to build community both within and outside the walls of the church. If you, your church, or your organization shares a common vision, we would love to partner with you.
