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, July 20

    Loving

    Mark 12:28-34

    Jesus asks, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” Loving God and loving neighbor is the most important commandment. How might we better love with the love of the Lord? 


    What Else Sunday, July 20? 

    • Hymn Sing - 8:45 am, worship center
    • Summer Sunday Funday Theme - Pleasing Patterns Day (think dots, stripes, florals, etc.)
    • Mission Offering Focus - FaithWorks Pantry (giving code: pantry)

    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 - Saturday, July 26, 10 am - 12 pm; 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 - Begin Sunday, July 6
    • Clean & Prep Potatoes for FaithWorks Pantry - Wednesday, July 16 & Saturday, July 19, 9 am - Micah Center gym kitchen
    • Spillin' the Tea Gatherings - Wednesdays, July 16 and July 23, 5 - 7 pm, outside east entrance
    • Hymn Sing - Sunday, July 20, 8:45 am
    • Solutions Group - Saturday, July 26, 10 am, fellowship hall
    • Learn More About Mosaic - Sunday, July 27, 10 am, 2nd floor chapel
    • Pet Blessing @ FaithWestwood - Wednesday, July 30, 5 - 7 pm, outside east entrance
    • 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
    • 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 31 (for Labor Day)
    • Hymn Sing - Sunday, September 7, 8:45 am (different week this month)
    • Outside the Walls - Save the Dates! Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28. Details to come.

  • New fw t-shirts available to order!

    Order Yours Today!

    The photo shows sales samples to see the colors.


    Five on the left -- adult sizes only.

    Four on the right -- all sizes available.


    Online Order link here!


    There's a quick turnaround!

    In order for the t-shirts to arrive in time for Church & Brunch on August 24 - and the Summer Fun Day Theme that day of FaithWestwood T-shirt Day -- the deadline to order your new shirts is Sunday, July 20, at midnight!


  • 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!

    July 13 - Wear Your Message Day (wear a shirt with a message)

    July 20 - Pleasing Patterns Day (think dots, stripes, floral)

    July 27 - Fun Hat Day (yes, hats are allowed!)

    August 3 - Fave Color Day (wear your favorite color)

    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, July 6, for the 4th of July holiday.

  • FaithWorks Pantry Potato Wash & Prep

    The Potatoes are Here! Can You Help?

    This year, the digging part is covered, but the FaithWorks Pantry Garden is looking for sorters, washers, and preppers to help bring in the potato harvest this year!


    Planned Days: NEW DATE ADDED!

    Wednesday, July 16 & Saturday, July 19 - 9 am

    The kitchen in the Micah Center Gym


    No sign up needed -- just come and help us wash some spuds!

  • Spillin' the tea Gatherings

    Wednesdays, July 16 & July 23, 5-7 pm
    East entrance, FaithWestwood

    Summer time is patio time!

    Come enjoy iced tea or water, light snacks, and fun fellowship outside our east entrance on Wednesday evenings this July!

    Bring your favorite chair, and maybe we'll get to wave at some neighbors too!

    Everyone's invited (neighbors too) - come anytime!

  • FaithWorks Pantry July & August dates

    Upcoming FaithWorks Pantry dates in July and August are:

    • Saturday, July 26 - 10 am - 12 pm
    • 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 items NOW for distribution at the July, and August pantry dates:


    For distribution in July: laundry detergent

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

     

  • Giving tree Mission Project - July

    For the Giving Tree Project in July, we are collecting new flip flops and shower shoes to share with patrons of our FaithWorks Pantry!

    All ages, all sizes!


    Drop off is located in the foyer or inside the west entrance.

  • Solutions Group for family caregivers

    Solutions Group for Family Caregivers

    Saturday, July 26, 10 am, fellowship hall


    A Solutions Group is an informational support group designed to help family caregivers manage the challenges of caring for (or being responsible for the care of) an ill or disabled loved one. Special focus is on (but not limited to) the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia, and chronic or acute illnesses related to aging.


    Sponsored by FaithWestwood’s Health and Wellness Ministry, the group meets every other month and is facilitated by Nancy Flaherty, MS, NHA, CDP a licensed social worker, a licensed nursing home administrator, and a certified dementia practitioner.


    For information, contact Director of Caring Ministries Vikki O’Hara at vikki.ohara@faithwestwood.com

  • Learn More about Mosaic!

    Discover the Possibilities & Learn More About Mosaic!

    Sunday, July 27, 10 am, in the 2nd floor chapel


    Come meet representatives from our new community partner and learn more about what they do for our community. 


    For more information, see your Monday FaithConnect and Pastor Cindi's Thursday email.

  • Pet blessing @ faithwestwood

    Bring your pets for a special blessing and celebration of the love and bond we share with our animal family (stuffed animals too!)


    Pet Blessing at FaithWestwood

    Wednesday, July 30, 5 - 7 pm

    East entrance, FaithWestwood


    Each pet will receive a personal blessing, a certificate, and a tag to attach to a collar, crate, or kennel. Free family photo opportunity available too!


    We bless all pets - stuffed animals too!


    (Pets must be leashed or crated and under their caretaker's control at all times.)


    Can't wait to see you and your beloved pets!

    (In case of inclement weather, we will move to the Micah Center gym inside.)

  • 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!


    Potluck sign up information coming soon!

    Information: Email info@faithwestwood.com

  • Save the date! Church & brunch August 24

    Church & Brunch, All at Once

    Sunday, August 24, 9 & 10:45 am

    fellowship hall


    Church & Brunch is a special worship service where the gathering spot is a little different, but the love and faith are all the same! It's become a tradition we look forward to every year.


    On August 24, we'll meet in fellowship hall at both 9 & 10:45 am to sing, pray, and worship (and to share a delicious breakfast meal too.)


    Details to come, but mark your calendars today!

  • How has scrip worked for you?

    All this month, we'll be 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 July & August:

    Weddings, back to school shopping, new college student needs, 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.

  • 2025 GRoW Catalog updated for march 2025!

    Updated for March 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.

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 Thursday, July 17.


    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 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!