Centennial Newsletter

We are many—one in Christ … a church that embraces diversity...

Centennial

United Methodist Church 5401 Freeport Boulevard

Sacramento, CA 95822

Phone: (916) 452-4477

Email: centennialumc@centennialumc.com

Website: www.centennialumc.com

Office Hours:

Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sunday Schedule

9:15 a.m. - FaithLink Discussion Group

10:30 a.m. - English Language Worship

1:00 p.m. - Fijian Language Worship

Staff

Pastor: Renae Extrum-Fernandez

Director of Music Ministries: Rick Schlosser

Hand Bell Director: Loretta Fransham

Preschool Director: Denise Tessman

Administrative Assistant: Maina Koroi

Office Manager: Barbara Wallace

Submission Deadline for inclusion in

the SEPTEMBER newsletter:

Monday, August 15

AUGUST 2016

In the heavens He has set a tent

for the sun, which comes out like a

bridegroom from his wedding

canopy, and like a strong man

runs its course with joy. Its rising

is from the end of the heavens,

and its circuit to the end of them;

and nothing is hid from its heat.

Psalm 19:5-6

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FIJIAN FELLOWSHIP

8/7 Communion Service Fellowship Host – Group 4 Leading Fijian worship – South Prayer group

8/14 Preachers Leading Worship: Sireli & Setita Rokoyawa Monthly Meeting

8/21 Exchange of Preachers – North Prayer Group hosting To South Hayward: Ifereimi Tawake & Pita Davis Preaching at Centennial: Florin UMC Special Offering – Family Offering

8/28 Preachers Leading Worship: Ratu Viliame Ramanakiwai & Lanieta Takiveikata Matasiga Class

8/31 Combined Fellowship – North Prayer group leading, Fireside Room.

PASTOR’S PERSPECTIVE AUGUST 2016

Pastor’s Perspective: August 2016

The question isn’t “What is your favorite hymn?” but rather, “What makes it your favorite hymn?” A much better question I think, because it calls us to reflect on our own relationships with God. Music has a way of speaking the thoughts of our hearts and when we recognize our own ‘heartsong’ it opens us to that great Presence that supports, comforts, guides and challenges us through our lives. Know what I mean? I think most of you do!

August begins our second month into my third year with you, Centennial. I come to this new beginning with great joy and anticipation for what God intends for us in this coming year. God’s purpose for our unique relationship of Pastor and Congregation is focused on that rich Hebrew verb: Yada = “To know intimately.” God wants us each to know a deeper walk with God. Christ wants us to know Him and to walk more closely with Him as His Body. Can you say that you find yourself living more deeply in relationship with God than you were two years ago? Can you say you are following Christ more closely and faithfully in His mission? What brings you to a closer walk with God?

Our Wesleyan heritage challenges us to ask those questions not once a year, but at least once a week in close connection with one another. I would like to offer you that opportunity. This fall, I will lead (not teach!) Disciple Fast Track. Do you think one can know and follow Jesus without knowing his relationship with God, His spiritual heritage, His message and His life story? Do you think Centennial can thrive in a new era without knowing our mission from God? Mr. Wesley believed that to grow in Christ we need something more than hearing 52 sermons a year (most of us don’t get that).

Disciple Fast Track is a 24-week experience of Christian discipleship formed through bible study together. This experience is transforming – your relationship with God in Christ will deepen! Designed for disciples with busy lives, this experience features 75-minute class meetings, reading assignments and weekly videos with bible scholars. I hope to begin the first session early in September. Each time I have led this experience, I have known the thrill of seeing others grow in their faith and I myself become even more deeply grounded and passionate in my faith. Join me on the Journey! Watch for details in worship and the next newsletter! Feel free to give me a call to ask questions.

Grateful to a Good God for our continued journey, Pastor Renae

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AUGUST

FELLOWSHIP HOUR

SCHEDULE

August 7 Fijian Language Ministry

August 14 United Methodist Women (UMW) & Prayer Shawl Ministry

August 21 Trustees & Finance

August 28 Tongan Language Ministry

When your group is scheduled to serve during the Fellowship Hour:

Please arrange to have the tables and chairs set up before and put back afterwards. (Feel free to ask others in the congregation for assistance if needed!)

Please empty all garbage cans into the Dumpster. (A key to the Dumpster is hanging above the first aid kit in the kitchen.)

Please close and lock the Dumpster. Please clean up any messes. Please check the restrooms before and after to

make sure there are enough paper supplies.

Want to help with Fellowship Hour? Please contact Mary Castro to get involved!

August

Bir thdays Carolyn Rokke 2 Temalesi Fakalawa 2 Adi Alani Tikoisuva 3 Unaisi Takiveikata 3 Gerlene Kwan 6 Tevita Koroi 7 Shirley Trimble 9 Tom Kimball 9 Jan Deter 10 Ruci Leweniqila 10 Luis Aguilar 11 Fran Eldredge 12 Mary Ann Chun 12 Akanesi Jackson 15 Samisoni Viriviri 15 Robert Oates 16 Eric Linden 17 Neomai Niu 17 Christine Ratekin 18 Matthew Monson 18 Jean Denton 19 Susan Johnson 19 Victoria Fonua 19 Bill Allison 22 Laraine McQuillen 22 Bennett Caisley 23 Diane Harleaux 23 John Tawake 23 Marian Seline 23 Vanessa Velasquez 24 William Naulivou 24 Jessica Hendrickson 25 Masella Ashe 25 Nancy Carlton 25 Nicole Oehmke 29 Atela Velasquez 30 Rosaline Hess 30 Christopher Young 31 Connor Gusman 31

Are we missing your birth-day? Please give us a call in the office and let us know!

Thank you notes

I wish to extend my thanks to everyone in my Church Family for all your prayers, lovely cards, caring and concern during this difficult time. A special thanks to Shirley for providing necessary transportation for me. I hope to be able to be back for fellowship and worship soon. “Thanks Ever So.” God bless you all.

Janice Schmidt

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Pentecost Circuit

Summer Prayer Calendar

The eight churches of the Pentecost Circuit, of which Centennial is a member, have set aside specific Sundays to pray for each other this summer. Please remember these churches and individuals in your prayers:

August 7 Riverside UMC, Rev. Ernest Kan

August 14 River Valley Christian Fellowship, Pastor Peter Katigbak

August 21 District Superintendent Rev. Schuyler Rhodes

August 28 Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr.

A LETTER FROM BISHOP WARNER H. BROWN, JR.

July 11, 2016

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you.” (Philippians 1:3-4)

I thank God for you, the people called United Methodists of the California-Nevada Annual Conference.

There are so many people to thank, we will not be able to thank you all individually. So please understand as Minnie and I use this method to say thank you to all of you.

As the Western Jurisdictional Conference is held over the next few days, we will learn who will lead you for the next quadrennium.

Most of my 43 years of active ministry have been spent with you in the California-Nevada Annual Conference. I am grateful for the many ways in which we have grown together, and encouraged each other through the years. It has been a privilege to be part of this Conference’s ministry which has literally spanned the globe.

I give thanks for serving on your conference staff as your Conference Council Director, District Superintendent for the Golden Gate District, and pastoring Taylor Memorial UMC in Oakland, and First UMC in Bakersfield, and the past eight years as your Bishop.

Your new Bishop’s term of office will begin September 1st. It is my prayer that you welcome and embrace them with the same hospitality with which you welcomed me and Minnie when we first arrived.

In retirement, Minnie and I look forward to residing in the Sacramento area. During my first year, I will follow the practice we encourage all retiring clergy to observe. I’m going to disengage from life within the Annual Conference for the next year, except at the request of your new Bishop.

Minnie and I thank God for each of you, and you will continually be in our thoughts and prayers. We are grateful for the love you have shown us over the years. We are especially moved by the appreciation and recognition you have shown us during this season of retirement. You have applauded us during our times of celebration, and comforted us in our moments of sorrow. We thank you for all that you have done and we thank God for you. May God continue to bless you and the mission and ministry of the California-Nevada Conference.

Grace and Peace, Warner H. Brown, Jr. Resident Bishop

Centennial UMC Website Upgrade

Coming in August or September Watch for it!

www.centennialumc.com

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God Has Raised Us Up!

You Are Cordially Invited to NOT Attend an UN-EVENT

Paul said in his letter to the Ephesians in Chapter 2, verse 6

“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,”

Josh Groban sang in the song “You Raise Me Up”

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up to walk on stormy seas; I am strong when I am on your shoulders; You raise me up to more than I can be.

God has raised us up in Christ. Now we are called to raise one another to sustain our ministry in Christ’s name.

We are supporting Centennial’s ministry by launching an “Unevent” fundraiser during this summer when people sometimes take a break or vacation. It may be a time for trips to far off lands or to visit relatives. But, it is also time to “raise each other up” with this extra mile giving. This giving will help us have the resources to have a robust ministry in the summer and fall.

What is an Unevent? It is a way for you to financially support Centennial but is much easier than an actual fundraiser event.

The un-event will NOT have a dinner. There will NOT be a silent auction. There will NOT be speakers, singers or dancers.

NO dressing up, NO need for babysitters.

NO volunteer hours to setup, clean up, plan or work the event. NO raffle tickets to buy or sell. NO auction items to solicit. NO committees to join. NO planning meetings to attend. NO food to make.

Now that you have saved a bundle of money and time on the UN-EVENT, you can help “raise up” Centennial.

Please consider a donation of $250, $100, $50, $20 or more. (Please write “Un–Event” on your check or donation envelope.) Please watch your mailbox for a “fancy” UnEvent invitation and reply card.

In September we will be tracking our progress to meet our goal of raising $10,000 for Centennial’s ministries.

Questions? Please call or email Ken Iritani.

Sponsored by Your Finance Committee,

Finance Committee Member and Co-Lay Leader, Ken Iritani

TAIZE WORSHIP THIS FALL?

Contact Pastor Renae or Rick Schlosser

to explore how you can help !

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THE PREEMINENCE OF (IDENTITY IN) CHRIST

How Things Can and Should Be

By Michael Cunningham

“Disunity in Christ” Chapter 10 Summary

Chapter 9 addressed the power of positive crosscultural interactions in overcoming and preventing divisions in the church. Chapter 10 is the concluding chapter of the book. It reinforces the key point identified through research and day-to-day ministry that the primary issue confronting the building of a unified inclusive body of Christ is that we see ourselves and others through the lens of our own cultural identity in our interactions with other cultural groups. Chapter 10 addresses how, in spite of the difficulties and challenges, our vision of a diverse, integrated and interdependent body of Christ can be realized, if we are willing to move outside of our cultural comfort zones and focus on our common identity as members of the body of Christ.

Changing the way we think about ourselves and adopting a new common identity can overcome our tendency to think of our cultural group and other cultural groups as us versus them, and instead, to think of ourselves as one large ingroup, i.e. the body of Christ. Research studies have shown that a common identity is extremely valuable in breaking down barriers in crosscultural situations. Here are a few of the positive things that happen when we adopt a common identity as the body of Christ.

When they become we, we naturally like them a whole lot more. When our common identity becomes more important to us than our smaller cultural identities, individuals and groups representing other cultures are treated like one of us and we no longer think of ourselves as us versus them, and we naturally like them.

We are more open to receiving helpful criticism from other cultural groups. When we adopt a common identity, we are more likely to see how other groups can help us and are more willing to receive constructive criticism from them. Defensiveness is no longer necessary.

Our diversity initiatives will finally begin to work. Diverse groups are more creative and generate more workable and effective ideas. However, this is only the case if all group members feel heard and appreciated. When we give our cultural identity a higher priority than our common group identity, minority group members are not truly invited to participate in the organization as valuable members. Instead they are seen as secondary or lesser members.

When they become we, we forgive more easily. Forgiveness is crucial to healthy crosscultural interaction. Before true relationship can begin both repentance and forgiveness for past and current wrongs must occur. A common identity stimulates forgiveness by helping victimized group members to distinguish between current members of a high status group and their guilty ancestors.

When they become we, we treat each other better. A common identity can overcome powerful social divisions and encourage individuals to help those that we otherwise would not have helped. We like them more, believe that we share more beliefs and values with them, remember more positive things about them, and are less inclined to blame them for negative events.

Adopting a common identity does not mean that we relinquish our cultural identities and ignore our cultural differences. Culturally diverse churches must be both diverse in composition as well as expression. The goal is not color or cultural blindness resulting in the assimilation of other cultural groups to the expression of the dominant group. The metaphor of the body of Christ compels us to support each group expressing its unique perspective and function in coordination with other groups and in submission to the head, Jesus Christ. We can maintain dual identities, identifying with our cultural group within the context of a common group. Research has shown that those who adopt a multicultural perspective in which group differences are both acknowledged and celebrated exhibit less racial bias than those who adopt a colorblind perspective.

To embrace our identities in this new, common family, the household of God, we must engage in the difficult process of being willing to move outside of our comfort zones, crossing boundaries and venturing into unknown territory to reconcile with others, and doing so in humility and love. Jesus has shown us how to do it.

This is number 11 of 11 articles summarizing the chapters in Disunity in Christ by Christena Cleveland (available in church library)

7

Trustees Corner

From Ralph Buell

I really hope the Fellowship Hall HVAC system is installed by the time you read this. I’m getting tired of telling everyone that only the cool people feel cool.

We’re installing new toilet paper dispensers in all the restrooms. They are intended to be easy to use and will hold keys and cell phones on a stainless steel tray. Can life get any more awesomer?!!?

UOP Methodist Student Visit Day

Come and visit the only United Methodist Related University in California.

Central United Methodist Church (Stockton) is hosting a UMC High School Student Day at the University of the Pacific and a fun-filled overnight retreat.

Saturday, September 10 at 10:30am to Sunday, September 11 at 12:30pm

Are you a Methodist high school student? Do you know a high school student looking to be challenged academically while also growing in faith?

Central UMC of Stockton is partnering with the Religious and Spiritual Life Department at Pacific to host a preview day and evening sleep over for all high school United Methodists. Join us for a fun-filled and educational day including a campus tour, Financial aid and Admission seminar, meet with current Pacific students, games, lunch on campus, and group devotional time to reflect on college faith journeys.

Youth are encouraged to stay over Saturday night to have dinner downtown and participate in an overnight retreat with several local youth groups. Bring your entire youth group to Visit Day!

Registration Cost: $10 More info at: www.umcvisituop.eventbrite.com

LECTIO DIVINA

No Meetings in August

Resuming in September

Tongan Luau

September 24 More Information Coming Soon!

8

In the event of war and acts of terrorism, the media depicts graphic scenes of devastation and destruction, with images of dead bodies, weeping survivors and heavily camouflaged military personnel. Parents often wonder if, when, and how to explain to their children. Their questions are likely to be tough to answer but as with all important discussions, being honest and keeping communication lines open is essential. Some concerns won’t get settled quickly, so be ready to revisit previous discussions as events unfold.

Parents’ questions Q. Can we just ignore the news and hope the children don’t see scary images? A. It’s tempting to protect children from unpleasant realities but ignoring the news, particular for school-age children, is not really an option. They will see the images in the media or hear about them from others. Letting children keep fear to themselves can be more damaging than frank discussions, so do not be afraid to use the words “dead” and “died.” Talking will help you identify specific fears and help your child to express their feelings. Q. Should we let our children watch television? A. Research has shown that watching media coverage, especially repeated viewing, can create stress for children even when they are not directly exposed to disaster. Television viewing for young children should be limited Parents need to watch with their children in order to deal with and share in their reactions and to correct misinformation. Q. How can we help our children deal with their worry and shock? A. Continue with established routines. Reassure them that they are safe and that you will not be leaving them. When appropriate, talk about things children might do, such as participating in charitable relief organizations.

Teach spiritual truths in response to children’s questions Q. Why? A. Events such as acts of terrorism or war provide opportunities for greater awareness of biblical truths. The simple but difficult answer to the reason why evil happens is that we do not know. But we know that we can trust God even when we do not understand why bad things happen. Terrorism and war is not a 21st century phenomenon and occurred throughout history including accounts in the Bible. Humanity is fallen, injustice is a reality. We are clearly called by God to seek to tackle injustice. Hang on to the truth that God does not want us to be afraid. Bible verses such as the following are useful to refer to. Psalm

46:1, Psalm 56:3, Psalm 73:23, John 14:27, Hebrews 13:6, 1 Peter 5:7, and Philippians 4:6-7. Q. Basic questions about life and death, God, good and evil may probably arise. Do your best to answer what you can, and for the rest, wonder aloud with your child. You can definitely provide a faith-filled response to your children’s fears or concerns. Reassure children that nothing can separate us from God’s love (Roman 8:38). The wonder of what Jesus’ resurrection means is worth reflecting on together.

What can we do as a family? 1. Light a candle to remember people you are thinking

about, and to remember that Christ is our light. 2. Pray together for Government leaders, faith leaders,

military personnel and their families (in all countries involved), victims and their families, doctors, nurses and others who are helping people, police officers, and families of the terrorists.

3. Share Bible verses together. For example: Psalm 46, Psalm 139:1-16, Proverbs 25:21-22, 1 Peter 5:7, Romans12:21.

4. School age children may wish to donate pocket money to disaster funds involved with school fundraising activities. Encourage your children to think about how you may help as a family.

5. Emphasize with your children that these acts of terrorism were caused by very specific individuals and Not a whole people and certainly not an entire religion. Now more than ever, if they have Muslim friends they need to affirm their friendship.

Adapted from Scripture Union: www scriptureunion.org

FAMILY INFORMATION

Talking With Children About War and Terrorism

By Brenda Cunningham

Pray for Those Who Serve

Remember Centennial’s military families and those on active duty! If you have loved ones who are serving in the military, please tell Pastor Renae so she can encourage Centennial to remember them in our prayers!

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UNITED METHODIST

WOMEN

No Meetings In August

The next UMW General Meeting will be Saturday, September 10.

The Next Northern Lights will be Monday, October 3.

Esther Friendship Circle: Not meeting in August. Contact Clover Lawton for more information.

Fijian Women’s Circle: Contact Mere Kuru for more information.

FELLOWSHIP AND

STUDY GROUPS

Fijian Prayer & Bible Study: Meets Tuesdays & Wednesdays at members’ homes and Wednesday, August 31 in the Fireside Room. Leaders: Virisila Batiratu and Sireli Rokoyawa.

Tongan Bible Study: Meets Fridays at 8:00pm in the Fireside Room. Leaders: Tangi and Ana Taumoefolau.

Men’s Small Group: Meets every other Tuesday at 7:00pm. Contact Ken Iritani or Mark Hanzlik for details.

PRAYER SHAWL

MINISTRY

3rd Wednesday of the month 10 am-12 noon in Room 7

Love to knit? Want to learn how? Want to be part of a caring ministry? Join this cheerful group of knitters on the 3rd Wednesday of the month to make prayer shawls.

Shawls….made for centuries, universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive, unconditionally loving God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace, mother, hug, shelter and beautify. Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles…

Friendship Encouragement Spiritual Growth Service Outreach

FaithLink

Connecting Faith and Life

A weekly subscription service and discussion group focusing on

contemporary social issues.

Sunday mornings at 9:15am In the Narthex

To receive the FaithLink materials via

email, contact the Centennial Office.

Centennial Book Group

The Little Way Of Ruthie Leming: A Southern Girl, a Small Town, and the Secret of a Good Life, by Rod Dreher, is our book selection for August. This biography, written by a journalist, chronicles his experiences after he visits his critically ill sister in their hometown. It is a story about home, family and community. Read the book, bring your sack lunch and join in the discussion. We will meet on Monday, August 8, at noon, at the home of Jane Rosenberger. We look forward to seeing you.

Men’s Small Group - August 9 & 23 Contact Mark Hanzlik

Or Ken Iritani For More Information

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Looking ahead to

September, October & Beyond

September 6: Lectio Divina, 7:00pm.

September 6 & 10: Family Promise - Contact Jane Hing or Carol Harris for more information.

September 10: UMW General Meeting. Topic and speaker to be announced.

September 10 & 11: UOP Methodist Student Visit Day, Stockton.

September 20: Lectio Divina, 3:30pm.

September 24: Tongan Luau - More information coming soon!

September 27: Union Gospel Mission (UGM) - Contact James & Jean Chew for more information.

October 2: World Communion Sunday: Provides scholarships for U.S. racial- and ethnic-minority students and international students, on both undergraduate and graduate levels.

November 27: United Methodist Student Day: Furnishes scholarships and loans for students attending United Methodist-related and other accredited colleges and universities.

February 7: Bridges District Revival.

May 7: Bridges District Conference.

The ACS 2016 Wrap Up Report Is Online

http://calnev-email.brtapp.com/viewemail/1523318

Western Jurisdictional Conference Information & Archived Sessions

Are Online http://westernjurisdictionumc.org

& http://livestream.com/dscumc

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Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2

TONGAN

YOUTH, 7:00pm

3

SPRC MTG

4 5

YOUTH MTG

7:00pm

TONGAN

CHOIR, 7:00pm

TONGAN

BIBLE STUDY,

8:00pm

6

FIJIAN CHOIR,

7:00pm

7

COMMUNION

SUNDAY

8 9

UMW EXEC

BOARD MTG,

2:00pm

TONGAN

YOUTH, 7:00pm

MEN’S SMALL

GROUP,

7:00pm

10 11 12

YOUTH MTG

7:00pm

TONGAN

CHOIR, 7:00pm

TONGAN

BIBLE STUDY,

8:00pm

13

FIJIAN CHOIR,

7:00pm

14 15 16

TONGAN

YOUTH, 7:00pm

17

PRAYER

SHAWLS,

10:00am

CHURCH

COUNCIL,

7:00pm

18

JINA, 4:00pm

19

YOUTH MTG

7:00pm

TONGAN

CHOIR, 7:00pm

TONGAN

BIBLE STUDY,

8:00pm

20

FIJIAN

MINISTRY

EVENT,

12:00pm

FIJIAN CHOIR,

7:00pm

21 22 23

TONGAN

YOUTH, 7:00pm

MEN’S SMALL

GROUP,

7:00pm

24 25 26

YOUTH MTG

7:00pm

TONGAN

CHOIR, 7:00pm

TONGAN

BIBLE STUDY,

8:00pm

27

FIJIAN CHOIR,

7:00pm

28 29 30

TONGAN

YOUTH, 7:00pm

WORSHIP

HUDDLE,

7:00pm

31

COMBINED

FIJIAN

PRAYER,

8:30pm

August 2016

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Centennial Newsletter (USPS# 348-000) is published monthly by

Centennial United Methodist Church, 5401 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento CA 95822. Periodical Postage Paid at Sacramento CA.

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Time Dated Material

August 2016 Newsletter

Volume 22 Issue No. 8

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Centennial United Methodist Church, 5401 Freeport Blvd Sac, CA 95822 - 916.452.4477 - www.centennialumc.com