Happenings @ FaithWestwood

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

Coming Soon @ FaithWestwood

  • Prepare the Way - Advent & Christmas Eve 2024

    We are now in the season of Advent - a special time of worship services and events as we prepare for and anticipate the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ.


    Coming Sunday, December 22, 9 & 10:45 am

    in person & online

    Prepare the Way: Love

    Luke 1:57-66 (& 67-80) 

    John the Baptist is born and named. As Zechariah’s tongue is set free, he praises the Lord “because he has come to his people and redeemed them.” God’s redemption comes to us because of His great love! In these days before Christmas Eve, how can we be inspired to prepare the way for love? 


    What Else This Sunday?

    Carol Sing - 8:45 am - sing carols together before 9 am worship

    Christmas Choir Sunday (2) 10:45 am - worship with music featuring FaithWestwood's Contemporary Christmas Choir


    What's Next During Advent @ FaithWestwood?

    Details & Holiday Schedule of Events: faithwestwood.com/Christmas2024

    PDF Printable Holiday Schedule

    General FW Calendar: faithwestwood.com/fwcalendar


    Resources:

    Prepare the Way Study Guide for Individuals & FaithGroups

    Message Descriptions for Prepare the Way Worship Series

  • What's Next @ FaithWestwood

    All kinds of exciting things are happening at FaithWestwood!


    Details & Complete Schedule of Events for Advent at FaithWestwood

    Printable PDF Advent Schedule

    • Scrip Fundraiser - ongoing; in the foyer or online
    • Poinsettia Orders - now through December 16
    • Midweek Meals - On holiday break beginning December 18. Will resume January 15.
    • Prepare the Way Advent Worship Series - December 1 - 29
    • The Zone Drive for CMS - now throught December 30
    • FW Holiday Office Hours - Open December 24, December 26 & January 2, 9 am - 12 noon. Closed December 25 & January 1.
    • Carol Sing - Sunday, December 22, 8:45 am
    • Christmas Choir Sunday w/Contemporary Christmas Choir - Sunday, December 22, 10:45 am
    • Christmas Eve Worship - Tuesday, December 24, 3 pm - family-focused; 5 & 7 pm - traditional
    • Little Drummer Band Debut Performance - Tuesday, December 24, 3pm worship
    • FaithWorks Pantry Upcoming Dates - Saturday, December 28, 10 am - 12 pm; Thursday, January 9, 5 - 7 pm; Saturday, January 25, 10 am - 12 pm
    • December 29 Worship - Sunday, December 29, ONE WORSHIP, 10 am, in person & online
    • Re-Imagine Worship Series - begins Sunday, January 5, 9 & 10:45 am
    • SAVE THE DATE: Chili Cookoff - Sunday, February 2, 12 noon, fellowship hall

  • 2025 Stewardship update

    FaithWestwood has cast a vision for this church to be Deep, Daring, and Daily disciples, especially in terms of the stewardship of our gifts.


    See this important new update about Stewardship 2025 here.


    While the update has many reasons to celebrate so far, we still have a long way to go to reach our ministry fund goal.


    If you have not done so, we hope you will return your Faith Commitment sheet by December 31. Copies of the Faith Commitment sheet are available at the purple table in the foyer on Sunday, a printable version can be downloaded here, or you may complete one online as well.


    If you have any questions, please reach out to Dan Boten, Rich Anderson, or Pastor Cindi Stewart.


    Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the missions and ministries of FaithWestwood!

  • Carol Sing December 22

    Carol Sing

    Sunday, December 22, 8:45 am, worship center


    Arrive early on December 22 - we'll sing carols together in the worship center before 9 am worship. 

  • Christmas Choir Sunday - December 22

    December 22, 10:45 am

    in person & online


    Come celebrate Advent & Christmas @ FaithWestwood with special music featuring our Contemporary Christmas Choir

  • Christmas Eve @ FaithWestwood

    You are Invited to Christmas Eve @ FaithWestwood!

    Tuesday, December 24


    Three Worship Services:

    • 3 pm - family-focused; featuring special message for children and the debut of The Little Drummer Band!
    • 5 pm - traditional
    • 7 pm - traditional
    • Communion & candlelight at all services. Glow sticks available for the kids!

  • Little Drummer Band Debut Performance december 24 3 pm

    Attention all kids preschool - 5th grade!


    The Little Drummer Band will make its debut on Christmas Eve, at the start of our 3 pm family-focused service, and YOU are invited to play! 


    Parents: 

    • You and your child are invited to a suggested (but not required) short practice on Sunday, December 22nd, after our 10:45 worship. Let Shane know you're coming at tinyurl.com/FWLittleDrummer24
    • On Christmas Eve, December 24, please arrive (if you can) at 2:30 pm so we can get set up. The performance is at the beginning of the 3 pm worship service.

    Hope to see you there!

  • Be the welcome on christmas eve

    Help Our Worshipers Feel at Home on Christmas Eve

    Ushers, greeters & candle distributers needed


    Attend one service, serve at another - 3 pm, 5 pm or 7 pm

    Many opportunities available! Families welcome.


    Sign up today at tinyurl.com/FWChristmasEve24

  • Ralph Book PreORders

    Ralph the Church Mouse is back in 2024 with his new adventure, Ralph the Church Mouse Searches for the Silent Night!


    Ralph and new new story will appear at our 3 pm family-focused Christmas Eve worship service on Tuesday, December 24.


    Preorder your copy now at tinyurl.com/FWRALPHBOOKS or visit the orange table in the foyer on Sunday. Ralph's 2023 book is also available.


    Suggested donation is $22 for each book. Visit the orange table in the foyer or give online or by text. The giving code for online or text giving is RALPH.

  • FW OFFIce holiday hours

    Schedule for the FW Office December 24 - January 2:

    Open - December 24, 9 am - 12 pm

    Closed - December 25 & January 1

    Open - December 26 & January 2, 9 am - 12 pm

  • FaithWorks Pantry December dates

    Upcoming FaithWorks Pantry dates in December & January are:

    Saturday, December 28, 10 am - 12 pm

    Thursday, January 9, 5 - 7 pm

    Saturday, January 25, 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

  • Sunday, December 29 ONE worship 10 am

    On Sunday, December 29, we'll gather for ONE WORSHIP at 10 am, in person & online.

    We'll read Luke 2:21-40 (& 41-52)  hear a *bonus* message from our Prepare the Way Advent worship series.


    Wear your festive attire - we'll have a hot cocoa bar too!

    (No Sunday School on this date.)

  • Help CMS restock the zone by December 30

    Now through December 30, the FaithWestwood Missions team is collecting clothing and hygiene items for our neighbors at Central Middle School to help them restock The Zone - their in-school resource where students can pick up needed items free of charge.


    This is a list of needed items. Please drop off donations in the foyer on Sundays or outside the FaithWestwood offices during the week.

  • Faithworks Pantry focus - December & 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:

    • For December Pantry Dates: Baking Supplies
    • 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.

  • Don't forget scrip for christmas

    SCRIP makes GREAT Christmas Presents!

    (and benefits FaithWestwood too!)


    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.

  • GRoW Catalog Available Now!

    If you missed the Faith Fair in October, visit the FaithWestwood office to pick up your copy of the new GROW catalog, filled with descriptions of the different ministries, missions, and groups. Or download a pdf copy here.

Ongoing @ FaithWestwood

  • the November - December 2024 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: Tai Chi for Balance will NOT meet on Thursday, November 28; Monday, December 23; Thursday, December 26; 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.

  • FW Mugs Available

    While Supplies Last!

    Visit the coffee bar on Sunday to pick up your new FaithWestwood insulated coffee mug (with handle)!
    $10, cash or check

  • 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!