Happenings @ FaithWestwood

Coming Soon @ FaithWestwood

  • Worship This Sunday

    Overview // The Win Over message series will focus on one of FaithWestwood’s core values -- to be invitational. So that we might “win” (welcome, invite, nurture) people for Christ, we will learn how to engage in one of the most important aspects of our discipleship, evangelism, and focus on the seven best practices to be invitational. 


    Coming Sunday, August 10

    Carrying

    Luke 9:23-27
    Jesus says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” How might we best carry these tasks as we commit ourselves to being true disciples of Jesus Christ? 

     What Else Sunday, August 10? 
    • Backpack Blessing - 9 & 10:45 am
    • TACO Sunday - 12 pm, after 10:45 worship, fellowship hall
    • Summer Sunday Funday Theme - Wear Your School Colors Day
    • Mission Offering Focus - Central Middle School Partnership (giving code: CMS)

    Resources:

    Win Over Series Summer Study Guide

    Message Descriptions

  • At a Glance

    All kinds of exciting things are happening at FaithWestwood! For a full calendar of upcoming events, visit faithwestwood.com/FWCalendar

    • Win Over Worship Series - Begins Sunday, July 6
    • Scrip Fundraiser - ongoing; in the foyer or online
    • FaithWorks Pantry Garden Work Days - Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 am - 12 noon, FaithWorks Pantry Garden
    • FaithWorks Pantry Upcoming Dates - Wednesday, August 13, 1-3 pm (seniors, by appointment); Thursday, August 14, 5 - 7 pm; Saturday, August 23, 10 am - 12 pm
    • Summer Sunday Fun-Days - July & August
    • Backpack Blessing - Sunday, August 10, 9 & 10:45 am, worship center
    • T.A.C.O. Sunday - Sunday, August 10, 12 noon (after 10:45 worship), fellowship hall
    • FaithSent Card Ministry - Wednesday, August 13, 6:30 pm, caring ministry room, 2nd floor
    • Hymn Sing - Sunday, August 17, 8:45 am
    • Church & Brunch, All at Once - Save the date! Sunday, August 24, 9 & 10:45 am, fellowship hall
    • No Sunday School - Sunday, August 24 (Church & Brunch)
    • Handbell Choir - First rehearsal, August 26, 7 pm
    • No Sunday School - Sunday, August 31 (for Labor Day)
    • GriefShare - Begins Wednesday, September 3, 5:30 pm, caring ministry room
    • 3rd Grade Bible - Sunday, September 7, both services. Details soon.
    • Confirmation Family Meeting - Sunday, September 7, 12 pm, student ministry flex room, 2nd floor. Details coming soon.
    • Hymn Sing - Sunday, September 7, 8:45 am (different week this month)
    • Alpha Begins - Monday, September 8, 6:30 - 8 pm, student ministry large group room
    • Outside the Walls - Save the Dates! Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28. 

  • Summer Sunday Fun days - July & august

    Summer Sunday Fun Days - Themed days in worship

    In July and August, let's have a little fun in worship!

    August 10 - Wear Your School Colors Day (show your school spirit)

    August 17 - Aloha Day (wear Hawaiian florals & patterns)

    August 24 - Church & Brunch - FW T-shirt Day (show your church spirit)


    Print this refrigerator reminder and get ready for Sunday fun this summer!

  • Summer Sunday School Fun!

    Summer brings exciting new activities to Sunday School!
    9 am - in worship with special activity bags
    10:45 am - Bible storytime with Ms. Leah in our new
    Micah Center Children's Library!


    Note: There will be NO Sunday School on Sunday, August 24 (for Church & Brunch) or Sunday, August 31 (for Labor Day).

  • Backpack blessing

    Backpack Blessing

    Sunday, August 10, 9 & 10:45 am, worship center


    Students of all ages are invited to bring your backpacks for a special blessing from Director of Family Ministry Leah Dinoso for the start of another great school year!

  • T.A.C.O. Sunday August 10

    T.A.C.O - Taking Awesome Care of Others

    Sunday, August 10, after 10:45 worship, fellowship hall


    What is T.A.C.O.?

    FaithWestwood gathers to enjoy tacos together then fill goodie bags with treats and supplies for the over 130 teachers and staff at our neighbor Central Middle School. 


    It's also a POTLUCK!

    This is also an intergenerational potluck event and a chance for all of FaithWestwood to share a meal in fellowship.


    What Will You Bring?

    The taco meat is arranged, but everyone will have an opportunity to contribute the extras – chips, cheese, sour cream, salsa, lettuce, etc. – and desserts too!

    Sign up here!


    Information: Email info@faithwestwood.com

  • The Giving Tree project - august

    It's Back to School Time, and FaithWestwood is Excited Jump In!

    For August, The Giving Tree Project is collecting NEW school supplies for our neighborhood school, Norris Elementary!


    As you shop this month, grab a few extra pencils, glue sticks, heavy duty folders, pencil pouches/boxes – and even some bigger items like backpacks & elementary size tennis shoes.


    Then, drop off your donations at the Giving Tree display in the foyer and thank you for supporting our neighborhood kids and teachers at Norris Elementary!

  • FaithWorks Pantry July & August dates

    Upcoming FaithWorks Pantry dates in July and August are:

    • Wednesday, August 13 (seniors, by appointment) - 1 - 3 pm (email info@faithwestwood.com for appointment)
    • Thursday, August 14 - 5 - 7 pm
    • Saturday, August 23 - 10 am - 12 pm

    For more information about FaithWorks Pantry, please visit faithwestwood.com/faithworks-pantry

    FaithWorks Pantry is an equal-opportunity provider.

    Non-discrimination Statement 


    Serve at the Pantry: Pick your task & your days -- as many or as few as you'd like. Two opportunities each month. Sign up at tinyurl.com/FWPantry


    FaithWestwood's FaithWorks Pantry are proud partners of Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue, Omaha's only dedicated food rescue service. To learn more about Saving Grace, please visit savinggracefoodrescue.org.


    • FaithWorks Pantry april dates

      Upcoming FaithWorks Pantry dates in April are:

      Saturday, April 26, 10 am - 12 pm

      Thursday, May 8, 5 - 7 pm

      Saturday, May 24, 10 am - 12 pm


      **NEW - Seniors only, by appointment only**

      Once a month, on the Wednesday before the Thursday pantry date

      This Month: Wednesday, May 7, 1-3 pm

      Call Brenda Bowers at the church office at 402-895-3394 to schedule.


      For more information about FaithWorks Pantry, please visit faithwestwood.com/faithworks-pantry


      FaithWorks Pantry is an equal-opportunity provider.

      Non-discrimination Statement 


      Would you like to serve at FaithWorks Pantry?
      Help in the Pantry: Pick your task & your days -- as many or as few as you'd like. Two opportunities each month.
      Sign up at tinyurl.com/FWPantry


      FaithWestwood's FaithWorks Pantry are proud partners of Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue, Omaha's only dedicated food rescue service. To learn more about Saving Grace, please visit savinggracefoodrescue.org.e, please visit

    • savinggracefoodrescue.org.

  • Faithworks pantry donation focus

    The FaithWorks Pantry is collecting the following special focus items NOW for distribution at the August and September pantry dates:

    For distribution in August: hygiene products (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, bar soap, dental care, etc.)

    For distribution in September: Four or More for FaithWorks Pantry

    Always: paper products such as paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, etc.


    • Faithworks pantry donation focus

      The FaithWorks Pantry is collecting the following items NOW for distribution at June & July pantry dates:


      For distribution in June: picnic supplies (ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, pickles, relish, napkins, paper plates)

      For distribution in July: laundry detergent

      For distribution in August: 4 or More for FaithWorks Pantry, paper products & hygiene (bar soap, dental care, etc.)


      Bring donated items to the designated bins in the foyer on Sundays or near the office during the week.

    Bring donated items to the designated bins in the foyer on Sundays or near the office during the week.

  • Faithsent card ministry - august 13

    The Next Meeting of FaithSent Card Ministry is

    Wednesday, August 13, 6:30 - 8 pm

    Caring Ministry Room, 2nd floor


    FaithSent makes handmade cards for those in our congregation

    who are ill, homebound, or needing encouragement.

    Everyone is welcome to jump in & create - no experience necessary!


    Information: Email to info@faithwestwood.com

  • pick up FW shirts starting August 11

    If you ordered new FaithWestwood gear a few weeks ago, pick up your order in the FW office after 10 am, Monday, August 11, and in the foyer on Sunday, August 17.

  • Church & brunch - August 24

    Church & Brunch, All at Once

    Sunday, August 24, 9 & 10:45 am

    fellowship hall


    Church & Brunch, All at Once is one of FaithWestwood's favorite events of the year!


    At Church & Brunch, FaithWestwood takes leave of the worship center and gathers in fellowship hall for a refreshing worship experience -- and a delicious breakfast meal to share on top! 


    We'll learn more about FaithGroups and talk about the exciting things coming up for FaithWestwood in the fall. And be sure to grab the latest edition of our GROW catalog while you're there!


    Church & Brunch is for EVERYONE - Online Community too!

    If you're part of our online worship community, we'd love to see you in person at Church & Brunch, 9 or 10:45 am!


    Please note that Church & Brunch will not be livestreamed. If you'd prefer, we will have a prerecorded message available online -- a bonus in the Win Over series!


    Looking forward to another great Church & Brunch on August 24!

  • handbell choir - new ringers welcome!

    New Ringers Welcome - Join the team who lets the music ring one Sunday a month at 9 am worship.

    No Experience Necessary!

    Teens & Adults

    First Rehearsal - Tuesday, August 26, 7 pm

    Play in Worship - Sunday, September 7, 9 am


    Information: Email Handbell Director Gene Torrens at info@faithwestwood.com

  • Griefshare begins september 3

    GriefShare Grief & Loss Support Group

    Begins Wednesday, September 3

    First Meeting: 5:30 - 8:00 pm

    (other meetings 5:30 - 7:30 pm)

    enter through the west entrance, FaithWestwood United Methodist Church, 4814 Oaks Lane, Omaha, NE, 68137


    A GriefShare group is a supportive place where people experiencing a loss – whether recent or in the past – can find understanding, clarity, and answers to the many questions that flood in during the journey through grief. 


    Each meeting features a video on a grief-related topic, supportive discussion, and tips and exercises from a participant handbook. 


    A light supper with water and ice is provided.


    For planning purposes, pre-registration is required.

    • Email Director of Caring Ministries Vikki O’Hara at vikki.ohara@faithwestood.com or call/text her at 402-650-9489 to let her know you’re coming.

    For more information, visit FaithWestwood's GriefShare page at https://www.griefshare.org/groups/269502

  • Alpha begins at faithwestwood - september 8

    FaithWestwood is Excited to Offer the Alpha Course!

    Monday evenings, beginning September 8

    6:30 - 8 pm, Student Ministry Large Group Room


    Alpha allows new Christians the opportunity to explore the basics of the Christian faith AND is a wonderful refresher course for "experienced" Christians too! 


    Each meeting of Alpha includes a meal, video lesson, and small group time.


    Ready to jump into Alpha? Let Us Know You'll Be There!

    Look for sign-up information in the foyer on Sundays or reach out today to Pastor Cindi at cindi.stewart@faithwestwood.com.


    The Alpha course and discussions are designed for adults and older students. Childcare is available upon request.

  • Interested in an introduction to the bible Class?

    The Bethel Series Introduction to the Bible study will be led

    by Ken Manning & Jan Snyder.


    We are currently gathering interest before setting a date and time.


    Please indicate your interest at the RED table in the foyer on Sundays or

    by email to Pastor Cindi at cindi.stewart@faithwestwood.com.

  • Save the Dates! Outside the Walls in September!

    Mark Your Calendars!

    Outside the Walls returns to FaithWestwood September 27 & 28!


    Outside the Walls is a great time each year when FaithWestwood steps out of the worship center to focus on projects that serve our community.


    In 2025, Outside the Walls will serve with projects on two days -- Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28. And on Sunday, the 28th, instead of our regular worship services, we'll meet in the sanctuary at 9 am for a short rally before we gather in our teams to serve.


    Sign Up for a Team Today at tinyurl.com/FWOTW2025


    To see a slideshow from OTW 2024 and see the community organizations we're partnering with in 2025, visit faithwestwood.com/outsidethewalls.

  • How is scrip working for you?

    This summer, we're highlighting some of the unique and helpful ways our church family members have utilized Scrip cards for their every day purchases, special event planning, budgeting, and gift-giving needs!


    Ideas for SCRIP in August & September:

    Back to school shopping, new college student needs, wedding presents, budget planning, vacation planning & travel, big purchases (appliances, etc) & MORE!


    What is Scrip?

    • Scrip is an on-going fundraiser for FaithWestwood. 
    • Church family purchase Scrip cards from their favorite merchants for everyday purchases and gift-giving needs. 
    • FaithWestwood earns a portion of each sale -- depending on the merchant, up to 20%! 
    • Then, you use the entire value of the cards for your everyday shopping and gift-giving needs. 
    • Choices include your favorite spots for general merchandise, pharmacy, gas, restaurants, coffee, home improvement, and more! 

    How Do We Purchase Scrip? In-person & Online!

    • Purchase physical cards between worship services on Sunday morning, at the GREEN table in the foyer. 
    • Or, purchase digital cards at raiseright.com and/or download the RaiseRight app to your mobile phone from the app store.
    • To get the unique enrollment code for FaithWestwood, check out your Monday FaithConnect email, Pastor Cindi's Thursday email, or email Brenda Bowers at brenda.bowers@faithwestwood.com

    If you have any questions or need assistance, visit the GREEN table between services on Sunday morningers, or email Brenda at brenda.bowers@faithwestwood.com.

  • What's coming in worship @ Faithwestwood

    So much to look forward in worship @ FaithWestwood!

    Watch for details as we head into the second half of 2025

    Win Over - July & August

    Revive - September

    Come to the Table - October & November

    Love Came Down - Advent & Christmas in December

  • FaithWorks Pantry Garden work days

    Help FaithWorks Garden Thrive!

    FaithWorks Garden Work Days

    Tuesdays & Thursdays

    9 am - 12 noon

    Come any time -- stay as long as you like


    Meet in the FaithWorks Pantry Garden just south of FaithWestwood.

    We will water, weed, and take care of other tasks. 

    Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, handtools, gloves, and kneeling pad.


    Questions: Email Nancy Vogel at info@faithwestwood.com.

  • Be a Gardening Angel

    FaithWestwood's Gardening Angels team support our value to be Invitational by helping our flowers and landscapes thrive and stay beautiful for our faith family and community!


    It's a great way to serve FaithWestwood as an individual, couple, or family!

    Members of the team are responsible for just one area of the landscape, periodically weeding, trimming, and picking up litter.


    And gardening is great for your health and well-being too.

    No experience necessary - we'll show you what to do.


    Information: Email Kathy Jeffers at info@faithwestwood.com.

  • NEW GRoW Catalog on its way

    Coming soon! The latest edition of the Grow Catalog is in the works.


    The Grow Catalog is filled with descriptions and contacts for of all the different ministries, missions, and groups going on at FaithWestood. Watch for the latest update coming soon!

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Ongoing @ FaithWestwood

  • Never-ending Yarn drive

    The talented and dedicated members of FaithWestwood's Blanketed with Prayer Ministry create thousands of prayer shawls, prayer blankets, baby afghans, hats, scarves, and other handcrafted items to distribute to the FaithWestwood family and throughout the entire community.

    • To see a flyer with information and a list of the MANY local non-profit, medical, and veterans organizations that receive these items, click or tap here.

    Blanketed with Prayer is for You to Share Too!

    • Racks with white gift bags containing prayer shawls, prayer blankets, and baby afghans in are located in the foyer and inside the west entrance of FaithWestwood. Please feel free to take these items at any time to be gifted to friends, neighbors, co-workers and family members who are welcoming a new baby or are facing an illness, hospitalization, grief, or other challenge. It's free, and as the shelves empty, Blanketed with Prayer will refill them.

    How Can I Help? The Never-Ending Yarn Drive

    • As you can imagine, Blanketed with Prayer uses a LOT of yarn, and the need never ends.
    • Check your closets, ask a friend, keep an eye out at thrift stores and garage sales.
    • New yarn is NOT necessary! Any color, any amount -- as long as it's yarn, it will be put to good use by Blanketed with Prayer. 
    • You can drop off scrap and leftover yarn any time of day in the labeled bin located inside the west entrance of FaithWestwood. 

    Volunteer Information

    For more information about Blanketed with Prayer and how you can participate in this ministry, contact Vikki O’Hara, Director of Caring Ministries, at vikki.ohara@faithwestwood.com 

  • the July - August 2025 Edition of the Upper Room is here!

    Pick up your free copy of The Upper Room devotional on Sunday morning in the foyer or during the week inside the west entrance of FaithWestwood.

  • Visit us on Facebook & Instagram

    Help FaithWestwood Spread the Word!


    Spreading the news about God's love and FaithWestwood can be as easy as clicking a button on your device! 


    Encourage those social media logarithms to reach out to more of our community by sharing, liking, and commenting on FaithWestwood's social media platforms! It really does make a difference!


    Facebook: /FaithWestwoodUMC

    Instagram: @faithwestwoodomaha

  • Tai chi for Balance

    Tai Chi for Balance

    Improve physical health // Connect with others // Gain Confidence


    When: Mondays & Thursdays,  11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

    Where: FaithWestwood UMC, 4814 Oaks Lane, Omaha, NE -- west entrance by large wooden cross

    Instructor: Paula Allen, experienced and certified Tai Chi instructor

    Cost: $3.00 per drop-in session (no charge on first day for new attendees)

    Information: Vikki O'Hara, M.Div. Director of Caring Ministries // vikki.ohara@faithwestwood.com 


    Scheduling Note: There will be NO Tai Chi on Monday, August 18 and Monday, August 25.


    Weather Policy: If Millard Public Schools close because of inclement weather, Tai Chi for Balance will be cancelled as well. If the FaithWestwood building closes due to weather, illness, or another unexpected reason, look for announcements on the FW website, by text or email, and on Facebook.

  • Four or more for Faithworks pantry

    Introducing Four (or More!) for FaithWorks Pantry!


    How it Works

    • Keep This List: The pantry has put together a list of the 48 items they use the most throughout the year.
    • Shop: When you shop for your groceries each month, add an item or two from this list -- with the goal of a minimum of four items per month.
    • Donate: Bring your donation to the canvas collection bin in the church foyer on Sunday mornings or drop them off by the FW offices during the week.

    If everyone at FaithWestwood participates in Four (or More!), we can significantly reduce our pantry's expenses and continue our commitment to serve the patrons twice a month.


    Thank you for your continued support of FaithWorks Pantry.

  • What is a Faithgroup?

    FaithGroups: Creating Small Caring Communities That Love and Serve Jesus Together


    Becoming a deep, daring, and daily disciple is a life-long journey. If you are looking for people to share your faith and life with, a FaithGroup is the place for you.

    Most groups meet weekly for a time of fellowship, study, and prayer. Some groups meet year-round, some are just starting up again after summer, and some are short-term groups based on a particular topic. 


    There are many FaithGroups looking for new participants. If you're interested in connecting with a FaithGroup, reach out to Pastor Cindi by email to cindi.stewart@faithwestwood.com.

  • Serve with FaithWorks Pantry!

    This is a great serving opportunity for small groups or individuals!


    No experience necessary -- just a warm heart for serving others. Different jobs available for all ages and abilities. 


    Sign up for as many or as few days as you'd like at tinyurl.com/FWPantry


    Details: Contact Pastor Cindi Stewart at cindi.stewart@faithwestwood.com

  • Serving Opportunities at FaithWestwood

    Looking for the perfect way to share your gifts and serve others?

    Check out the tab at the top of faithwestwood.com -- faithwestwood.com/serve


    And take a look at our Grow Catalog too!

  • FW Nametags Available to Order

    Order Your FW Name Tag

    First Sunday of every month in the foyer before and between worship services, 9 & 10:45 am


    Name tags are $10 a piece, cash or check, and you can choose a pin or magnet back.

  • Visit the FaithWestwood Library

    Looking for quiet place to read, study, or just unwind? FaithWestwood has a library located on the second floor, across from the office.


    Our library is open on Sunday mornings and throughout the week -- as long as there isn't a group having a scheduled meeting there. We have books on many subjects including devotionals, prayer, Christian life, heaven, parenting, and Christian fiction for adults, teens, and kids.


    To borrow books, please fill out the white card in the back of the book and drop it in the small box on the check-out cabinet. Children’s books do not need return cards. We ask that all books be returned within two to three weeks.


    Come relax in our library and enjoy reading!