Happenings @ FaithWestwood

Check back here for the latest events and announcements from FaithWestwood. 

Coming Soon @ FaithWestwood

  • Coming This Sunday

    Coming Sunday, January 26 - 9 & 10:45 am

    in person & online

    Re>Imagine: Reimagine

    Micah 6:1-8

    The prophet Micah declares a truth bomb for God’s people about what the LORD requires of us! Think about our time spent here and now as Christians. What has God done for us? And what is God calling us to do in the future? 


     What Else This Sunday?

    • FW Vision Luncheon - following 10:45 worship service, fellowship hall. RSVP to info@faithwestwood.com by January 21.

    Resources:

    Re>Imagine Study Guide for Individuals & FaithGroups

    Message Descriptions for Re>Imagine Worship Series

  • What's Next @ FaithWestwood

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

    • Scrip Fundraiser - ongoing; in the foyer or online
    • Re-Imagine Worship Series - begins Sunday, January 5, 9 & 10:45 am
    • Sunday Football Dips Fundraiser - now thru Sunday, February 4; pick up dips Sunday, February 9
    • MidWeek Meals - Wednesdays, 5:15 - 6:30 pm, fellowship hall
    • Building/Office Closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Monday, January 20
    • FaithWorks Pantry Upcoming Dates - Saturday, January 25, 10 am - 12 pm; Thursday, February 13, 5 - 7 pm; Saturday, February 22, 10 am - 12 pm
    • FW Vision Luncheon - Sunday, January 26, after 10:45 worship, fellowship hall
    • Rejoicing Spirits Launch Party - Tuesday, January 28, 6 - 8 pm, offsite
    • Chili Cookoff - Sunday, February 2, 12 noon, fellowship hall
    • Soup-er Bowl/Jersey Sunday - Sunday, February 9, both services

  • Building/Office Closed - Martin Luther King, Jr. DaY

    In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the FW office and building will be closed on Monday, January 20, 2025.

  • FW Vision luncheon - RSVP by January 21

    FW Vision Luncheon

    Sunday, January 26, after 10:45 worship, fellowship hall


    Participants must RSVP to info@faithwestwood.com by January 21 so we know how much food to plan for.


    What is God calling FaithWestwood to reimagine for mission & ministry in 2025?   


    You are invited to a Vision Luncheon on Sunday, January 26, following the 10:45 am service, for lunch, strategic team presentations, and table conversations about strategic goals & opportunities. We'll also take a tour of the renovations under way in the new FaithWorks Pantry space on our lower level.



  • Sign up for Chili Cook off February 2

    Our Annual Chili Cook-Off & Fundraiser for FaithWorks Pantry

    Sunday, February 2, 12 noon

    fellowship hall


    Who will take home the title of Chili Champion? 

    It could be YOU! 

    Sign up to bring your famous recipe at tinyurl.com/FWChili25. 


    Or bring the extras like cheese, sour cream, desserts, etc., or help with the clean-up crew.


    Most importantly, this is a fundraiser for the FaithWorks Pantry! 

    Church family members & friends VOTE for their favorite chili with tickets ($1 = 1 ticket). Tickets may be purchased in the foyer on Sunday, January 26, and Sunday, February 2. All ticket proceeds support our FaithWorks Pantry.


    Can't wait to see you at the Chili Cook-off! 

  • Sunday FootBall Dips - Support Student Ministry Trips

    Order your Party Dips for the big NFL Championship Game!

    Each big 16oz. container is only $10

    Funds support student mission trips & camps

    Five Delicious Choices: Bean, Cheesy, Corn, Onion & Sassy Salsa


    Order In Person & Online Through February 4

    • Visit the students at the ORANGE table in the foyer on Sunday morning or visit tinyurl.com/FWFOOTBALLDIPS
    • Pay in person or online - all options listed in the order form above. For instructions to give online or by text, visit faithwestwood.com/about-us/give. The giving code for online/text giving is DIP (no 's').

    Pick Up Dips on February 9

    Pick up your dips on Sunday morning, February 9, in the foyer.


    Questions: Contact Director of Family Ministry Leah Dinoso at leah.dinoso@faithwestwood.com.

  • The giving Tree project

    The Giving Tree -- A New Mission Project for Everyone!

    Watch for a new theme every month -- donations will benefit our mission partners.


    January's Theme & Mission Partner

    • Donate new mittens, gloves, and socks for FaithWorks Pantry.

    Hang your donations on the Giving Trees located in the foyer downstairs and outside the Children's Ministry large room upstairs.


    Thank You for your generosity as we begin this new project for 2025!

  • Midweek meals Wednesdays

    MidWeek Meals

    Wednesdays, 5:15 - 6:30 pm, fellowship hall


    EVERYONE IS INVITED, EVERY WEEK

    $3 suggested donation per meal

    Multi-meal punch cards also available to use yourself or to donate.

    Menu for January 22: spaghetti with red sauce, garlic bread, cookies

    Full Menu for January/February

  • FaithWorks Pantry January dates

    Upcoming FaithWorks Pantry dates in January & February are:

    Saturday, January 25, 10 am - 12 noon

    Thursday, February 13, 5 - 7 pm

    Saturday, February 22, 10 am - 12 noon


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


    FaithWorks Pantry is an equal-opportunity provider. 

    USDA 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.

  • Faithworks Pantry focus - January & February

    Each month, our FaithWorks Pantry offers a special focus item to our pantry patrons in addition to the regular grocery selection.


    We are collecting these items for distribution in January & February:


    • Faithworks Pantry focus - January

      Each month, our FaithWorks Pantry offers a special focus item to our pantry patrons in addition to the regular grocery selection. 


      Right now, we are collecting these items for the following Pantry dates:

      • January: Detergent & Dish Soap
      • Always: reusable cloth shopping bags

      How We Can Help

      Drop off items in the foyer on Sundays or outside the church office during the week.

    • Right now, we are collecting these items for the following Pantry dates:We are collecting these focus items for the following distribution dates at the pantry:
    • January: Detergent & Dish Soap
    • February: 4 or More for FWPantry
    • Always: reusable cloth shopping bags

    How We Can Help

    Drop off items in the foyer on Sundays or outside the church office during the week.

  • 2025 GRoW Catalog Available Now!

    Updated for 2025! Get your updated copy of the GROW catalog, a document filled with descriptions and contacts for of all the different ministries, missions, and groups going on at FaithWestood. Download your copy here.

  • Rejoicing Spirits - New Neighborhood connection

    FaithWestwood has been invited into a new community partnership with St. Paul's Lutheran Church (ELCA), located near our church. 

    There is an initiative to establish new Rejoicing Spirits worship services in the Omaha metro coming this spring. The services would be held at 11 am at St. Paul's on one Thursday each month. FaithWestwood volunteers would collaborate with set up, hospitality, and other aspects of this service.

    Rejoicing Spirits is an inclusive Christian worship service that offers meaningful worship and fellowship for people with disabilities, their families, friends, and other supportive community members. Individuals are free to be themselves in a "shush-free" environment while actively participating as contributing members of an inclusive faith community.


    If you are interested in participating or volunteering with the Rejoicing Spirits services, please speak with Pastor Cindi. cindi.stewart@faithwestwood.com

    For information about the Launch Party on January 28, 6 - 8 pm, please visit
    https://nebraskasynod.org/event/ejoicing-spirits-launch-party/

    To learn more about Rejoicing Spirits, please visit
    https://www.rejoicingspirits.org/about-us

  • Soup-er Jersey Sunday February 9

    Soup-er Jersey Sunday

    Sunday, February 9, both services


    Wear your favorite sports team jersey or FW t-shirt for this fun FaithWestwood tradition!


    In addition, we'll be collecting cans of soup for FaithWorks Pantry in celebration of the BIG Football Championship Game later that day.

  • Scrip Fundraiser going on now

    What is Scrip?

    Scrip is an on-going fundraiser that allows church family with FaithWestwood to purchase Scrip cards 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?

    • Between worship services on Sunday morning, at the GREEN table in the foyer. 
    • Check out raiseright.com online 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

    List of Available Cards at the foyer table


    If you have any questions or need assistance, email Brenda at brenda.bowers@faithwestwood.com.

Ongoing @ FaithWestwood

  • the January-February 2025 issue 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: Monday, December 30; and Thursday, January 2.


    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

  • 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.

  • 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 

  • 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 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!