Upcoming Events
Mustard Seed Migration Grant
“The kingdom of God is a mustard seed in a crack in the sidewalk growing fast that breaks up the stone by reaching deep, spreading wide for the birds to nest. Oh, when you find that shade from the heat and haste, leave your striving and come to rest where the branches spread over broken bread; find heaven in a sparrow’s nest.” - “Oyster Shell” by the Porter’s Gate, feat. Paul Zach
Mustard Seed Migration Grant
a partnership with Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church
This spring, Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church approached Central with an idea to reach out to the migrant community here in Florence. Through our United Methodist Committee on Relief, we found the Mustard Seed Migration Grant, a $2,000 grant to help churches reach out to–and come alongside of–immigrants and refugees in their communities. The grant’s website states that “the goal of this program is to nurture a deeper understanding and care for the most vulnerable in our communities, assisting them without regard to their race, religion, or status. We also encourage participating congregations to think about what they might do on a long-term basis, how they might get involved in advocacy to address systemic injustices present in immigration policy or consider how they might more completely live into a new understanding of church as the kingdom of God, actively engaged in caring for the most vulnerable in the community.”
Through the month of September, Central will be holding a diaper drive for migrant families in our community who are struggling to provide for the basic needs of their children; and, for their part, Trinity EPC’s existing migrant ministry is using the $2,000 to provide additional support by purchasing other necessities. Through this partnership, we hope to show the city of Florence the power of the Holy Spirit to connect Christians of different faith traditions in the pursuit of the greatest commandment: to love God and love our neighbors.
If you have any questions or have a desire to provide additional help in this area, reach out to Pastor Rusty!
Children's Choir Kick-off Party
Children’s Choir Kick-off Party
Please join us for this exciting Choir Kick-Off event on Wednesday, September 3. We’ll start with a pizza dinner at 5:30 PM, followed by a joint choir practice at 6:00 PM. This will allow the Children’s Choirs to have an extra choir practice before they are scheduled to sing in the Sanctuary for Music Sunday on Sunday, September 21.
During this time, parents will have the opportunity to observe how the Children’s Choir practices on Wednesday evenings, as well as receive information about our upcoming fall events and guidance on our new Online Consent Form. We hope you can join us for this important and fun evening of fellowship!
UMYF Parents Night
This meeting is an opportunity to connect, share our plans for the upcoming year, complete all necessary forms, and work together to support the spiritual growth and well-being of our youth. Please ensure that at least one parent attends.
Septmeber 7, :400 PM
Youth Lounge
CareGivers Retreat: Creative Prayer Journaling
CareGivers Retreat: Creative Prayer Journaling
Caregiving can be rewarding but also exhausting—this retreat offers a chance to rest, recharge, and connect with others who share your journey. Join us for fellowship, a short program, and light refreshments.
📅 Wednesday, September 10
🕓 4:00–5:00 PM
📍 Moody Parlor
Stay afterward to enjoy Wednesday Night Dinner or pick up a meal to take home. To register for dinner, visit www.centralmethodist.net/events.
Wednesday Night Dinner - September 10, 2025
Join us on Wednesday, September 10, at 5:30 PM in the Davis CLC for the first Wednesday Night Dinner of the season! We’ll enjoy a delicious Southern-style supper together, followed by an uplifting concert from the Sensational Brown Brothers—featuring Central’s own Billy Brown.
The cost of the meal is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Registration is strongly encouraged and may be completed on Realm or by calling the church office.
Menu: BBQ Chicken, Macaroni & Cheese, Collard Greens, Green Beans, Coleslaw & Cornbread
Sensational Brown Brothers - Gospel Singers
Join us for an uplifting concert from the Sensational Brown Brothers—featuring Central’s own Billy Brown. The Brown Brothers have traveled from coast to coast sharing the good news of Jesus through gospel music, and in 2021, they were honored with induction into the African American Museum of Black Gospel Music in Nashville, Tennessee.
3rd Grade Bible Presentation
3rd Grade Bible Presentation
On Sunday, September 14, during the Sanctuary service, our 3rd graders will receive their very own Bibles—a special milestone in their Christian faith. We want to help them learn how to use this precious gift as a tool for living in God’s Word and growing closer to Him.
If you can’t attend that day, your child will receive his or her Bible at another convenient time.
Wednesday Night Dinner - September 17, 2025
Join us on Wednesday, September 17, at 5:30 PM in the Davis CLC for Wednesday Night Dinner!
The cost of the meal is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Registration is strongly encouraged and may be completed on Realm or by calling the church office.
Menu: TBA
Registration coming soon!
Wednesday Night Dinner - September 24, 2025
Join us on Wednesday, September 24, at 5:30 PM in the Davis CLC for Wednesday Night Dinner!
The cost of the meal is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Registration is strongly encouraged and may be completed on Realm or by calling the church office.
Menu: TBA
Registration coming soon!
Veterans Breakfast
Veterans Breakfast
All veterans and active-duty service members are invited to our next Veterans Breakfast on Thursday, September 18, at 8:00 AM in Spears Fellowship Hall. Following breakfast, we will welcome Jim Thomas from the Florence VA Clinic as our guest speaker.
There is no cost to attend, but we ask that you register through Realm or by contacting Adriane at areynolds@centralmethodist.net. Please help us spread the word by inviting other veterans, whether or not they are members of Central!
Red Cross Blood Drive - In Memory of Russ Barnes
Red Cross Blood Drive - In Memory of Russ Barnes
Thursday, September 18, 2025
1:30 - 6:30 PM
Davis Christian Life Center
Register using the sign-up sheets in The Well or The Commons or by clicking the following link. Click here — use the Sponsor Code CentralUnited to find out Blood Drive.
Russ Barnes was a devoted blood donor and a passionate advocate for Central UMC’s partnership with the Red Cross. Before being diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a form of blood cancer, he was a regular donor at our drives. Even after his diagnosis, Russ continued to support the ministry by sharing his story with the congregation and encouraging others to give. He often attended drives to thank donors personally, serving as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of this outreach. In honor of Russ’s unwavering commitment, Central UMC and the Red Cross have partnered to dedicate the September blood drive to his memory.
Soul Support: Fellowship for Women Who Have Lost a Spouse
Soul Support: Fellowship for Women Who Have Lost a Spouse
Join us for an evening of shopping and fellowship in downtown Florence! We’ll explore Barringer’s General Store—a unique shop filled with local art, jewelry, food, handbags, and more. Enjoy food samples and group discounts on purchases, and
then continue the evening with dinner at El Agave Mexican Restaurant.
📅 Thursday, September 18
🕔 5:00 PM
📍 Barringer’s General Store & El Agave
For more information, contact:
• Becky Crawford | (843) 621-1424 | beckyhcrawford@gmail.com
• Cherrie Dean | (843) 245-4028 | cdean22268@sc.rr.com
Music Sunday - For the Music of Creation
For the Music of Creation
a service celebrating the music ministry of Central UMC
Sunday, September 21
10:30 AM
Sanctuary
Happy Travelers
Come Travel with Us!
The Happy Travelers invite you to join us on Thursday, September 25, for a special trip to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C. This inspiring, 40,000-square-foot experience is set on 20 acres of beautiful grounds near Billy Graham’s childhood home. Inside the barn-shaped library, you’ll walk through exhibits that share his remarkable journey from a small-town farm boy to an international ambassador of God’s love.
There is no cost for the trip (other than your lunch), and everyone is welcome. Space is limited, so be sure to save your spot by registering on Realm or by emailing Adriane at areynolds@centralmethodist.net.
UMW BBQ Fundraiser (lunch)
21st Annual
Central United Methodist Church
UMW BBQ Fundraiser
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Lunch (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM)
Catered by Schoolhouse BBQ
Take out, drive-thru, or lunch delivery of 10 plates or more!
$14 per plate
(BBQ, Rice & Red Gravy, Sweet Potatoes, Slaw, and Bread)
All proceeds go to local missions.
Purchase tickets from the church office (843-662-3218) or any UMW member.
UMW BBQ Fundraiser (dinner)
21st Annual
Central United Methodist Church
UMW BBQ Fundraiser
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Dinner (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM)
Catered by Schoolhouse BBQ
Take out, drive-thru, or lunch delivery of 10 plates or more!
$14 per plate
(BBQ, Rice & Red Gravy, Sweet Potatoes, Slaw, and Bread)
$5 for a Child’s Hot Dog Plate
(dinner, dine-in only)
All proceeds go to local missions.
Purchase tickets from the church office (843-662-3218) or any UMW member.
BEDS Build Day
BEDS Build Day
Saturday, October 4
Join us for BEDS Build Day on Saturday, October 4, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM in the BEDS parking lot (268 W. Cheves St.) as we come together to build beds for children in Florence School District One who don’t have a bed of their own.
BEDS (Better Education Demands Sleep) is a ministry founded in 2015 by Central member Art Justice, who was inspired after learning about a similar effort in Pineville, NC. Since then, Art and a team of volunteers have built and delivered countless beds—all from donated materials—to children in need, helping ensure a better night’s rest and a brighter day at school.
No experience needed! Volunteers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. We’ll have trained team members to guide you, and if you happen to own a hand-held router or cordless drill, please bring it—along with your charger and bits.
Come build hope with us, one bed at a time!
What is Stephen Ministry?
What is Stephen Ministry?
Stephen Ministry provides one-on-one, Christ-centered care during times of crisis or challenge. If you’ve ever considered
receiving support, wondered about confidentiality or time commitments, or felt called to serve as a Stephen Minister or
Leader, this is a chance to learn more. Join us for an open discussion where you can ask questions or simply listen to others’
experiences.
📅 Wednesday, October 15
🕕 6:00–7:00 PM
📍 Spears Fellowship Hall
Trunk-or-Treat
Trunk-or-Treat
Sunday, October 19 | 4:30–6:00 PM
Join us for an evening of fall fun & fellowship, costumes, & candy!
We invite you to donate candy and host a trunk to help make this community event a sweet success!
SC Cognitive Connection Dementia Care Workshop
SC Cognitive Connection Dementia Care Workshop
Discover ways to better support dementia care in our community through this special morning workshop hosted by the United Methodist Church. Led by Toni Anderson (SC Department of Aging), Rev. Bryan Pigford, and Bishop Ken Carder, the program builds on Bishop Carder’s visit with us last fall. Join us—and invite others who would benefit—as we learn how to provide care, support, and education around dementia.
📅 Wednesday, October 22
🕤 9:30 AM–12:00 PM
Praise & Prayer Service
Join us on Sunday, August 24, starting at 5:00 PM in the Davis Christian Life Center, for an evening of praise and prayer as we come together from different backgrounds and faith traditions as we worship together in a blended service of contemporary worship music, hymns, and prayers for our community. All are welcome to attend this event, including families with children!
Youth Kickoff Party
On August 17, slide your way to Central’s Youth Kickoff Party! Grab your towel and friends and join us from 5:00 - 7:00 pm for waterslides and dinner. We’re going to have a blast!
Contact Julie Knight for more information!
Parking Lot Ministry
The Parking Lot Ministry is an ecumenical, community-driven outreach that provides hot meals to individuals who are homeless, unhoused, or experiencing food insecurity.
Volunteer Schedule:
Friday: Volunteers deliver food to the church and assist in assembling casseroles.
Saturday Morning:
• At 6:00 AM, a team arrives to bake the casseroles.
• At 6:30 AM, a second team begins preparing grits in the parking lot.
• Between 7:15 and 7:30 AM, additional volunteers arrive to serve meals until the food is gone.
We are still finalizing the regular schedule for this ministry. Still, we invite you to join us for our next serving opportunity on Saturday, August 16, in the HopeHealth parking lot at 7:15 AM.
Blessing of the Bookbags
This Sunday, students of all ages are invited to bring their bookbags to church for a special blessing. During the service, we’ll pray for a safe, joyful, and meaningful school year for students, teachers, and families.
New Young Adult Sunday School Class
Looking for a place to grow in faith and connect with others? Join Rev. Rusty Crimm this Sunday at 9:30 AM in Room 172 for Koinonia—a new class for young adults entering college or starting their careers. Come be part of a community where we explore faith together through conversation, study, and service.
Promotion Sunday
August 3 is the special date when all of the children and youth of Central move up in their Sunday School classes—they meet their teachers, see our wonderful classrooms, and spend time studying the Bible. Children in 5k-5th grade will meet in the Children’s Assembly Room upstairs at 9:30 am. Parents can drop kids off and then head to their own class, or relax in the Church Library. Youth will meet in the Youth Lounge at 9:30 am.
But Sunday School isn’t just for kids—it’s a great opportunity for adults too! These classes offer meaningful Christian education and the support that comes from being part of a small group. Check out our adult classes and be on the lookout for the new Young Adult class with Rev. Rusty Crimm coming this fall!
See you in Sunday School!
Summer Blood Drive
Summer is a time when blood supplies are typically at their lowest—just when the need is greatest. You can make a difference by donating at our Blood Drive on July 17, held in the Davis CLC from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Walk-ins are welcome, so feel free to stop by even if you’re unsure of your schedule. To reserve a time slot, sign up in The Commons or contact the Administration Office at 843-662-3218.
If you have any questions, please contact Kathryn Velicky
for more information. Thank you for giving the gift of life!
Mission Camp at Highland Park
Mission Camp at Highland Park
Monday, July 14 - Thursday, July 17
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Central/Highland Park Mission Camp for Kids! We’ll get together from July 14-17 for a new mission time each day. Come join us at Highland Park United Methodist starting at 9 am and ending at 12 pm. This camp is perfect for rising 1st to 6th graders! We will be visiting different mission sites in Florence, allowing your kids to serve our community while deepening their connection with God. The cost per child is only $15. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity - registration closes on July 1st!
Ice Cream Social
Join us for an afternoon of sweet treats and fellowship as we welcome our new Associate Pastor, Rev. Rusty Crimm, and his family to Central UMC!
Sunday, July 13
3:00-4:30 PM
The Commons
Farewell Reception for Brandie Love
Please join us as we bid farewell to Brandie Love and celebrate her next chapter!
Sunday, June 29
11:45 a.m.
The Commons
BBQ & Bluegrass
BBQ & Bluegrass
Wednesday, June 25
5:30 p.m.
Davis CLC
Music by Borrowed Time
Register on Realm or call the church office
Youth at Neptune Island Waterpark
June 11
Neptune Island Waterpark
RSVP to Julie by June 9
Farewell Reception for Rev. Dr. Ann Kovan
As she embarks on a new journey, let's gather to celebrate the wonderful memories and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
Drop in anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 pm in the Spears Fellowship Hall to help bid Ann farewell.
Happy Travelers Trip
Happy Travelers Trip
Thursday, May 22
4:00 – 11:00 p.m.
Theatre of the Republic
Conway, SC
Register on Realm or call the church office
Veterans Breakfast
Veterans Breakfast
Thursday, May 15
8:00 a.m.
Spears Fellowship Hall
Guest Speaker: Sammy Way, Founder of the Sumter Military Museum
Register on Realm or call the church office
Messy Games - UMYF - End of Year Party
Messy Games - UMYF - End of Year Party
May 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM | The Slice Home (1063 Gray Kat Lane)
Wear old shoes & clothes, bring a towel, friends are welcome. Dinner will be provided.
Confirmation Sunday
Confirmation Sunday
May 4, 2025 | 10:30 AM | Sanctuary
On Sunday, May 4, Central will celebrate the confirmation of twelve confirmands during a combined worship service at 10:30am in the sanctuary. Over the past seven months, the confirmands have participated in classes with our pastors, learning about foundational theological beliefs and the United Methodist faith. They have also spent time with their mentors and attended a retreat at Epworth by the Sea in Saint Simons, Georgia.
National Day of Prayer Vigil (Evening)
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Central’s Ingram Chapel
11:00 AM-1:00 PM | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM
Music, Guided Prayers, & Silent Prayers
National Day of Prayer Vigil (Morning)
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Central’s Ingram Chapel
11:00 AM-1:00 PM | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM
Music, Guided Prayers, & Silent Prayers
Mother's Day Flower Sale - Youth Fundraiser
Mother's Day Flower Sale
Youth Fundraiser
Roses are $6.00 each The roses will be available on Mother’s Day, May 11, in The Commons before and after the worship services.
The sale begins on April 27, 2025, and will end on May 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
All proceeds will go to youth travels and special events. Thank you so much for your support!
Use the link below to complete your purchase. You can also pay with a check or cash by dropping your payment off at the church office or placing it in an envelope in the offering plate.
Heritage Sunday
Heritage Sunday will be observed at Central on April 27, 2025. This celebration honors those who have faithfully ministered at Central UMC for fifty years or more. During worship, we will recognize new fifty-year members with a special pin ceremony. Following worship, all Heritage Members are invited to enjoy a brunch in Spears Fellowship Hall. We hope this special day brings back happy memories and helps create meaningful new ones!
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday
April 20, 2025 | 10:30 AM | Sanctuary & The Well
Easter is a celebration of new life, hope, and the incredible love of Jesus Christ! Just as the disciples discovered the empty tomb at sunrise, we invite you to experience the joy of the risen Lord with us at Central United Methodist Church. Whether you’re seeking a fresh start, a renewed faith, or simply a place to belong, you are welcome here. Join us on Sunday, April 20, as we worship, rejoice, and proclaim together: Christ is risen! Come and be part of this life-changing moment—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Good Friday
Good Friday
April 18, 2025 | 12:00 PM | Sanctuary
Good Friday is the day on which Jesus died for our sins. He was nailed to the cross and died on Friday afternoon. After His death, His body was laid in a tomb. This service will take place at 12:00 PM in the sanctuary.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday
April 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM | Sanctuary
Central’s Services during Holy Week are each carefully planned and coordinated with scripture and music. The Maundy Thursday Service is one of the most powerful and clarifying events of Jesus’ journey to the cross that you will experience. Moving and dramatic, it has been a significant moment in the lives of many, and we hope that you will come and be a part of this worship.
Easter Egg Hunt!
Easter Egg Hunt!
Sunday, April 13 | 3:00 PM | The Slice Home
Hop on over and join us for an egg-citing adventure! Sunday, April 13th at 3:00 PM at The Slice Home (1063 Gray Kat Lane)
Get ready for a fabulous afternoon packed with adorable animals, crafts, cookie decorating, and a fun Easter Egg Hunt! We will also be making Blessing Bags to help spread kindness to our community.
Our egg hunt kicks off SHARPLY at 3:15 PM, so be there by 3:00 PM so you don’t miss the eggs!
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday
Sunday, April 13 | 10:30 AM | The Well & Sanctuary
Palm Sunday begins Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He was greeted as the Messiah, entering the holy city of Jerusalem. Join us at Central UMC as we celebrate the start of Holy Week together!
Serve Day 2025: Be the Hands and Feet of Christ
Serve Day 2025: Be the Hands and Feet of Christ
April 12, 2025 | 8:30 AM | Meet at the Church
We will come together to serve our community in meaningful ways! There will be a variety of projects, including home repairs, ramp building, and alternative opportunities like stocking and sorting at the food pantry. There’s a place for everyone—no matter your age or skill level. This special day is dedicated to loving our neighbors and making a tangible difference. Join us as we put our faith into action!