As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
~ Proverbs 27:17 ~
At Central, we offer a variety of small groups, Sunday School classes, support groups, and classes to help you receive the care you need, grow deeper in your faith and understanding of the Bible, serve together, and find community. These are places where life transformation happens and we want you to be a part of it!
Sunday School Classes
Sunday School Classes are held Sundays 8:45 – 9:45am
Here is a listing of current Sunday School Classes at Central UMC:

Sunday School
Discovery Class
Uses the Standard Bible Commentary curriculum, with class members taking turns teaching and everyone adding to a lively discussion.
Contact: Susan Snell
Location: Room 220 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Contact: Susan Snell
Location: Room 220 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Faith Discernment
Rev. Jim Kuse engages a diverse class to connect Scripture and Christian tradition with daily life.
Contact: Jim Kuse
Location: Room 219 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Contact: Jim Kuse
Location: Room 219 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Growing in Faith Through Service (GIFTS):
A lively and curious group that loves meaningful discussion! Our studies are chosen by the group and are usually a book with accompanying DVD material, and study sessions are lead by class members who volunteer. GIFTS also does service at Battery Park apartments and the Black Mountain Home for Children.
Contact: Carol Rychly or Mary Ann Wansong
Location: The Parlor (near the Sanctuary)
Contact: Carol Rychly or Mary Ann Wansong
Location: The Parlor (near the Sanctuary)
New Morning Class
A longstanding group that focuses on scripturally based books designed for group studies.
Contacts: Randy and Kris Booker, John Pierce, or Dianna Pierce.
Location: Room 205 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Contacts: Randy and Kris Booker, John Pierce, or Dianna Pierce.
Location: Room 205 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Inquirers Class
A large, vibrant class where members take turns leading a discussion/lecture format with lots of class participation.
Contact: Dale Gulick
Location: Room 206 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Contact: Dale Gulick
Location: Room 206 (Same level as the Fellowship Hall)
Serendipity Class
A caring group whose members volunteer to lead discussions on matters of faith or contemporary issues, complimented by Bible study sessions led by a seminary graduate class member.
Contact: Dave Couch or Patty Couch
Location: Conference Room (in the Offices)
Contact: Dave Couch or Patty Couch
Location: Conference Room (in the Offices)
Newcomers Class
Newcomer classes are held quarterly to help people learn more about Central UMC and our Methodist tradition. The class will meet at 9:00 am in the Welcome Center/Library. There will be coffee and pastries and this is a great way to meet our ministers, staff and other newcomers to our church. This class is open to newcomers to Central, new members, and longtime members of Central.
For more information, contact Pastor Mary Brown.
For more information, contact Pastor Mary Brown.
The NEST
A small women’s class focused on growing in faith and applying it to everyday life. Studies range from current Bible studies to a wide range of books written by Christian authors.
Contact: Lisa Pettus
Location: The Byrd (behind the Sanctuary)
Contact: Lisa Pettus
Location: The Byrd (behind the Sanctuary)
Children & Youth Classes
More information is available on the Children and Youth Ministry pages.
Children's Ministry
Youth Ministry
Children's Ministry
Youth Ministry
Journey Groups
What is a Journey Group?
A group of six to ten people sharing a Christ-centered discipleship journey. The group meets regularly to foster spiritual growth, a sense of belonging, and to equip themselves for life and ministry.
What are the core elements of Journey Groups?
Christ-Centered Study – Relationship Building – Prayer – Outreach & Service
Who should participate in Journey Groups?
All who desire to grow in faith and find strength for daily living.
Why do we need Journey Groups?
In the midst of busy lives, overcommitted schedules, and congested areas, it is too easy to feel alone.
What can we expect to get out of a Journey Group?
Discover God’s purpose for our lives
Belong to God and the body of Christ
Grow in Christ
Experience the joy of Christian fellowship
In essence we are “doing life” together with others on a faith journey.
A group of six to ten people sharing a Christ-centered discipleship journey. The group meets regularly to foster spiritual growth, a sense of belonging, and to equip themselves for life and ministry.
What are the core elements of Journey Groups?
Christ-Centered Study – Relationship Building – Prayer – Outreach & Service
Who should participate in Journey Groups?
All who desire to grow in faith and find strength for daily living.
Why do we need Journey Groups?
In the midst of busy lives, overcommitted schedules, and congested areas, it is too easy to feel alone.
What can we expect to get out of a Journey Group?
Discover God’s purpose for our lives
Belong to God and the body of Christ
Grow in Christ
Experience the joy of Christian fellowship
In essence we are “doing life” together with others on a faith journey.

Walk to Emmaus
The walk to Emmaus is an experience of Christian spiritual renewal and formation that begins with a three-day short course in Christianity. It is an opportunity to meet Jesus Christ in a new way as God’s grace and love is revealed to you through other believers.
