Centenary Focused on Reaching Out to the Community

In  main hallway of Centenary United Methodist Church sits a small, cozy room echoing a stream of conversation punctuated every so often by a bit of laughter.  In this room is gathered a group of people who serve as the driving forces behind many of Centenary United Methodist Church’s outreach programs.

These individuals, and the groups they oversee, said they have formulated a calendar of events focused not only on spreading their message in the community but on providing resources for men, women, children and seniors alike. The church, located at 1413 Belmont Avenue in Youngstown, boasts a wealth of programs centered on reaching out into the city.

Rev. Solomon Hill, pastor of Centenary United Methodist since 2005, said the North Side Church is looking to begin its next phase of reaching out to make local residents aware of what they have to offer.  Hill noted that it is important to remember that a church is not simply a building, but the people.

“We want to reach out and see what needs done, and then find ways to help provide solutions to those needs,” said Hill.  “We’ve had some folks come in here, some for the first time and the appeal and the warmth of the people they felt here, our hope is that these people will draw them back in.”

He added that he feels the diversity of the church adds to the welcoming environment.

“That’s what is unique about our membership, we have all kinds of people, it’s open to everybody and that’s important,” said Hill.

One program Centenary offers that is also open to everybody is the Centenary Neighborhood Technology Initiative (CNTI), which provides computer and technology training at Centenary’s very own computer lab.

“Our mission is to reach out and help out in all ways we can,” said Cathlene Harvey, the program’s coordinator. “We’ve brought in a real diverse group – everything from judges to school administrators – it’s really turning out to be useful.”

Another event the group hopes will be of great use to the community is a Health Awareness Day scheduled for Friday, June 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at the church. Anna Biggins, chairperson of senior ministries, said the day will provide tools on how to live a healthy life. It will include blood pressure screenings and information on eating healthy among many other activities.

These events are just a few among the many that are offered through the United Methodist Women’s Ministry, Men’s Ministry and Children’s Ministry as a way of bringing people to the church. 

One creative tool the church uses to encourage first-time visitors to return is a small elephant created entirely of towels twisted together. The elephant has a tag encouraging people to return. The concept was created by Mary Hill, who with the help of Paula Wiley, makes a number to give to each new visitor to the church’s 9 a.m. contemporary service.

The church has also collaborated with groups such as Know Your Neighbor Block Watch and the Mahoning Valley Organizing Collaborative to provide outreach programs such as neighborhood feedings and clothing drives.

John Mills, president of United Methodist Men, said the neighborhood has shown a positive response to the church and its programs.

“You can sense the good will, people look out after this church,” Mills said.

To learn more about Centenary United Methodist Church, visit their web site at www.centenaryumcyoungstown.org.