I’m with the DJ | December 3rd

Daniel del Rosario December 3, 2025

Dear Federal Way UMC friends,

Grace and peace to you as we continue our Advent journey together.

Advent has officially begun, and what a beautiful start we’ve had. If you missed last Sunday’s service or would like to revisit it, you can always watch it on our YouTube page. Watch last Sunday’s sermon on YouTube here. (Feel free to share it with anyone who may be blessed by it.)

Last weekend many of you picked up our Advent devotionals from Illustrated Ministry—so many, in fact, that we are printing more! Additional copies will be available this Sunday, along with Advent calendars for households of all ages.

A Word of Thanks to Our Sunday School Volunteers

I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to every person who is volunteering in our Children’s Sunday School ministry. Your willingness to teach, welcome students, and create a safe, joyful learning environment is a true gift to our church.

We now have curriculum selected and prepared through the end of April 2026, and our Office Administrator, Marissa, will print and assemble lessons three weeks in advance so volunteers can review materials early, gather supplies, and feel well-prepared. Your ministry shapes the faith of our students in lasting and meaningful ways—thank you for saying yes.

Longest Night Service – Saturday, December 21 at 4:00pm

On December 21—the winter solstice and the longest night of the year—we will gather for a reflective service specifically crafted for those who carry grief, stress, or complicated emotions during the holidays.

This gentle liturgy offers quiet, music, prayer, and the assurance that God meets us in the places where shadows feel longest.

If you or someone you love needs a calm, healing space this season, please join us.

Sabbatical Update (January 12 – April 5)

Thanks to the support of our Church Board, I will be taking a sabbatical beginning after worship on January 12 and returning to worship on Easter Sunday, April 5. United Methodist pastors are encouraged by the Book of Discipline to take time for renewal every seven years of full-time ministry. I am feeling well, and this time will be used for rest, reflection, and renewal.

Pastor Caleb Cortés will serve as Pastor-in-Charge during this period, preaching for about two-thirds of the Sundays while I am away. Our tradition of strong lay worship leadership continues, and a team of retired pastors and lay volunteers will help support pastoral care needs as they arise.

Below is the full FAQ for those who would like more detail.

Sabbatical FAQ

Why is Pastor DJ taking a sabbatical?

According to the United Methodist Book of Discipline, clergy who have served seven years of full-time ministry are encouraged to take sabbatical leave for rest, spiritual renewal, continued learning, and reflection. This is a normal and healthy rhythm in Methodist life.

How long will the sabbatical be?

January 12 (after worship) through April 5. Pastor DJ will return to worship on Easter Sunday.

Is Pastor DJ okay?

Yes. I am feeling healthy and grateful. This is not medical leave. This time is for rest and reflection after several full years of ministry, including our church’s major outreach efforts, facility upgrades, ongoing community partnerships, and the long journey through illness and recovery.

Who will lead the church while Pastor DJ is away?

Pastor Caleb Cortés will serve as Pastor-in-Charge.

He will preach for roughly two-thirds of the Sundays and coordinate worship with our staff and volunteers.

Who will preach the remaining Sundays?

Guest preachers from our conference and trusted clergy colleagues will join us.

What about pastoral care?

A combination of our dedicated laity and several retired pastors will be available for pastoral care needs.

Will church ministries continue?

Yes. All ongoing ministries will continue as scheduled, including Abundant Grace, Sunday School, community partnerships, and seasonal activities.

How can we support the sabbatical?

Pray for renewal, for our staff and volunteers, and for Pastor Caleb as he leads the congregation. Continue your faithful giving and participation—your presence strengthens our community.

Will Pastor DJ be available for meetings or calls during this time?

No. A sabbatical is a period of stepping away from normal duties. Communication will resume upon return.

When will Pastor DJ preach next?

I will not preach on April 5, but will return to worship and leadership that Sunday. Preaching will resume later in April.

Looking Ahead to Sunday’s Sermon: Peace Grows

This Sunday we explore how peace grows—not instantly or perfectly, but slowly, vulnerably, and through ordinary people. Luke 2:14 and Luke 10:1–6 show us that peace begins with the overlooked and is carried by everyday disciples.

Here are three preparation questions to guide your reflection this week:

1. Where in your life is peace trying to grow—slowly, quietly, or in unexpected places?

2. Who might be the “shepherds” in your world today—people God chooses first, even if others overlook them?

3. What simple act of presence, courage, or kindness could you offer this week to help peace take root?

Thank you, friends, for being a church where peace truly grows—through compassion, generosity, and everyday faithfulness. I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday.

In Christ,

Pastor DJ

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | November 26th

Daniel del Rosario November 26, 2025

Hello good church folk,

I hope this week of giving thanks has brought you moments of rest, gratitude, and connection. For many in our community, this season also holds the layered stories of Indigenous Peoples whose land we inhabit. As we move toward Advent, may we honor those stories with humility, respect, and a commitment to justice and neighbor-love.

As part of this week of gratitude, I invite you to read this thoughtful article:

“5 Ways You Can Honor Indigenous People on Thanksgiving”

It offers simple, meaningful ways to deepen our gratitude by honoring the wisdom, resilience, and ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities.

If you’d like to learn more about the broader fight for Indigenous rights, I also recommend this powerful TED Talk by Tara Houska:

“The Standing Rock Resistance and Our Fight for Indigenous Rights”

Prepare for Advent This Weekend

This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent, the four-week season when Christians around the world prepare their hearts for the coming of Christ.

Advent is a season of hope, waiting, and holy expectation. Through Scripture, prayer, worship, and community, we make room for God’s light to break into our lives again—as it did in Bethlehem, and as it still does today.

We’ll launch our new Advent sermon series from Illustrated Ministries, inviting us to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover hope in a complex and hurried world.

Our Illustrated Ministries Advent Devotional will be available to pick up starting this weekend. It’s a great resource for households, small groups, and personal prayer.

If you missed worship last week—or would like to revisit the message—you can watch the sermon on our YouTube channel. Watch last Sunday’s sermon on YouTube here. (Feel free to share it with anyone who may be blessed by it.)

Pastor Caleb Featured on Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth’s Podcast

I’m excited to share that our own Pastor Caleb Encinas Cortés was a guest on Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth’s new podcast, Going the MILE: Stories of Calling and Ministry in the Greater Northwest.

In this episode, Bishop Cedrick sits down with Caleb to explore how his call to ministry has been shaped by community affirmation, grassroots organizing, and a deep commitment to care for our neighbors. Caleb shares stories that move from preaching his first sermon at eighteen to showing up in Olympia alongside immigrant coalitions—always guided by the conviction that faith must take action and defend the dignity of vulnerable communities.

Episode 10 – Rev. Caleb Encinas Cortés: Connection, Courage, and Community

Upcoming Services

Each week of Advent, we will explore themes of wonder, courage, and God’s unexpected presence breaking into ordinary life. I hope you’ll join us—and invite someone you love—as we journey toward Christmas together.As we journey through this holy season, here are a few important dates to keep on your calendar:

🌙 Longest Night Service

December 21st at 4:00pm

A gentle, contemplative service for anyone carrying grief, stress, or heaviness during the holidays.

✨ Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

December 24th at 6:00pm

A beautiful service of carols, Scripture, and candlelight as we celebrate the birth of Christ.

Join Us for Worship

I’m looking forward to being in worship with you this Sunday as we light the first Advent candle and step into this season of hope together.

Grace and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Lead Pastor, Federal Way UMC

Looking Ahead

In the new year, I’ll begin a 12-week sabbatical following worship on January 11th, returning to celebrate Easter Sunday with you all. During that time, Pastor Caleb Encinas Cortes will serve as Pastor in Charge and our main preacher, supported by guest preachers who will help continue our focus on community engagement, antiracism, and creation care as we grow in our work as a Resiliency Hub.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | November 20th

Daniel del Rosario November 20, 2025

Church,

I hope you’re having a gentle and hope-filled week.

This Sunday, I will be guest preaching at Auburn First UMC, just down the road from our church. It’s a gift to support our neighbors, and I would be grateful for your prayers as I prepare and as we worship together. Pastor Caleb will be preaching here at Federal Way UMC, and I know you’ll surround him with your usual kindness and encouragement.

I’m also happy to share that our Advent Devotional from Illustrated Ministries will be available for you to pick up starting this weekend. It’s a beautiful resource filled with reflection, creativity, and opportunities for families and individuals to prepare their hearts for the season ahead.

And a quick reminder: our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service will be held on Tuesday, December 24th at 6:00 p.m. We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful and hope-filled celebration.

Thank you for the ways you continue to walk in faith and reach out in love. I’m grateful for you.

Looking Ahead

And mark your calendars — our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service will be held at 6:00 p.m. this year. It will be about an hour long, filled with music, candlelight, and the joy of Christ’s coming light among us.

As we remember the saints and serve our neighbors this weekend, may we be reminded that God’s grace continues to move among us—through memory, community, and love.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | November 12th

Daniel del Rosario November 12, 2025

Dear Church,

Grace and peace to you this week.

If you missed worship on Sunday, we were blessed to welcome Rev. Josh Hosler, Lead Pastor of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church on 312th, as our guest preacher. His message was thoughtful, grounding, and deeply encouraging. If you would like to watch his sermon, you can find it on our YouTube channel here:

Watch last Sunday’s sermon on YouTube here.

I hope you’ll join us this Sunday as we continue to journey through the rich themes of hope, mercy, and restoration. I’ll be preaching from two powerful texts: Isaiah 9:1–7 and John 8:1–11. These passages remind us that even in the shadows of fear or failure, God’s light breaks through with compassion and possibility. My prayer is that our time in worship will offer you both comfort and courage for the week ahead.

Whether you join us in person or online, I look forward to being together in worship.

Looking Ahead

As we remember the saints and serve our neighbors this weekend, may we be reminded that God’s grace continues to move among us—through memory, community, and love.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | October 29th

Daniel del Rosario October 29, 2025

All Saints’ Sunday, Abundant Grace, and Our All Church Conference

Dear Church,

This weekend is full of meaningful opportunities to worship, serve, and celebrate together at Federal Way United Methodist Church!

All Saints’ Sunday Worship – This Sunday at 10:00 a.m.

Join us for a special All Saints’ Day service as we remember and give thanks for the lives of those who have gone before us.

If you would like a loved one’s name read aloud during worship, please email me or the church office by tomorrow, or let us know on Sunday morning. To help us honor each person correctly, please include a phonetic spelling of their name (for example, “Nguyen — n’WEN,” “Aaliyah — ah-LEE-yah”).

We will toll a bell for each name read aloud. There will also be a time for anyone present to share additional names during worship, followed by one final bell toll encompassing them all.

We’ll also celebrate Holy Communion, remembering that in Christ, we are united with the saints who have gone before us and those yet to come.

All Church Conference – Sunday at 12:00 p.m.

After worship, we’ll gather in the sanctuary for our All Church Conference with Presiding Elder Rev. Katie Klosterman. This is a time to celebrate the ministry we’ve shared this year, review our goals, and look ahead with faith and hope. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Abundant Grace Free Market & Holiday Fair – This Saturday

Join us this Saturday at 9:00 a.m. as we host our monthly Abundant Grace Free Market, offering free clothing, household goods, and more to our neighbors.

At the same time, our Annual Holiday Fair will take place in the sanctuary—come find handmade gifts, crafts, and festive treats while supporting local ministries!

Looking Ahead

As we remember the saints and serve our neighbors this weekend, may we be reminded that God’s grace continues to move among us—through memory, community, and love.

If you missed last week’s message from Exodus 5 you can watch it anytime on our YouTube channel here:

👉 Watch last week’s sermon

I look forward to worshiping together as we keep walking in faith and reaching out in love.

In Loving Memory of Jack Kalina

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Jack Kalina’s passing. Jack was a beloved member of our church family whose warmth, humor, and kindness touched many lives. We give thanks for his life and for the ways his faith and friendship enriched our community.

A Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for Jack’s life will be held at Federal Way United Methodist Church on Friday, November 7th at 3:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend as we remember and give thanks for Jack Kalina.

Please hold Jack’s family and friends in your prayers during this tender time.

This Sunday is the last day for Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this joyful season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some fun along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Directory Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

If you’d like to make a donation toward printing costs, extra gifts will go toward our sanctuary renewal efforts—updating monitors, cameras, and technology so we can continue sharing God’s love in person and online.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | October 22nd

Daniel del Rosario October 22, 2025

I hope you’re having a good week! This Sunday, we continue our “Together” worship series with a message from Exodus 5:1–9, where Moses and Aaron first stand before Pharaoh and declare God’s call: “Let my people go.” We’ll reflect on how courage and faith grow even when we face resistance or uncertainty.

If you missed last week’s message from Exodus 4:1–17, you can watch it anytime on our YouTube channel here:

👉 Watch last week’s sermon

I look forward to worshiping together as we keep walking in faith and reaching out in love.

Rock the Knock announcement

Hey church family,

It's Marissa in the office! I just wanted to remind everyone that Rock the Knock/Trunk or Treat is this Thursday, 10/23 from 6:30-7:30pm. We are still looking for people to host doors and hand out candy. This is a very fun event and we hope to see you there. We will also have our bouncy house up and running. I will be at the church at 5:30 setting up so feel free to come anytime after that to set up your doors. Below is a link to sign up for a door or bring a snack!

www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0549A4AB2CABFFC52-59454513-rock

Feel free to email me at office@fwumc.org with any questions.

Please also let your friends and family know about this free event!

Hope to see you there!

Marissa Thompson

Office Administrator

Federal Way UMC

In Loving Memory of Jack Kalina

Dear friends,

A Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for Jack’s life will be held at Federal Way United Methodist Church on Thursday, November 7th at 3:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend as we remember, give thanks, and entrust Jack into God’s eternal care.

Please hold Jack’s family and friends in your prayers during this tender time.

With peace and hope,

Pastor DJ

Federal Way United Methodist Church

📸 Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this joyful season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some fun along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Directory Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

🙏 Looking Ahead

All-Church Conference – Sunday, November 2 at Noon (Sanctuary)

Rev. Katie Klosterman will preside as we gather to review the business of the church and look toward the year ahead. This is an important time of discernment and accountability in our shared ministry, and all are welcome to attend.

A Word About Sabbatical

I am grateful to share that the Church Board has approved my sabbatical leave, which will begin on January 12, 2026, and conclude on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026. This sacred time of rest, renewal, and reflection will allow me to return refreshed for the next chapter of ministry with you. During this season, Pastor Caleb will serve as Pastor-in-Charge, supported by our staff and guest preachers. More details will be shared in the months ahead.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | October 15th

Daniel del Rosario October 15, 2025

Dear Church,

Last weekend’s Blessing of the Pets was such a joyful reminder of the creativity and care woven into God’s creation. From wagging tails to gentle barks (and even a pictures of beloved pets), it was beautiful to see how deeply our community cherishes all of God’s creatures. Thank you to everyone who came, brought your pets, or joined in spirit—your presence made it a celebration of love and laughter.

This Sunday, we continue our “Together” worship series with a message from Exodus 4:1–17. When God calls Moses, he responds with hesitation and doubt: “What if they don’t believe me?” Yet God meets Moses’ fear not with a pep talk, but with a question that transforms everything—“What’s in your hand?”

Reflection Question:

What ordinary things might God be ready to use through you? What’s already in your hands that could become a sign of hope and possibility?

Worship this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (in-person and online)

You can always watch last week’s message or share it with friends here: Watch on YouTube

Sacred Stained Glass Stories

As part of this season, we’re inviting you to share photos and short stories of sacred stained-glass windows that have been meaningful in your life. These will help us reflect together on how beauty and light have shaped our faith.

📸 Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this joyful season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some fun along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Directory Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

🙏 Looking Ahead

All-Church Conference – Sunday, November 2 at Noon (Sanctuary)

A Word About Sabbatical

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

With gratitude and peace,

Rev. DJ del Rosario

Federal Way United Methodist Church

Walking in Faith, Reaching Out in Love

I’m with the DJ | October 8th

Daniel del Rosario October 8, 2025

🌄 This Sunday in Worship

We continue our “Together” worship series through the Book of Exodus. This week, we’ll reflect on what happens when God calls ordinary people into extraordinary moments of faith. When the familiar becomes sacred, and when God’s voice stirs us to step forward into something new.

Join us as we explore what it means to listen for God’s call—together.

You can always watch last week’s message or share it with friends here: Watch on YouTube

Sacred Stained Glass Stories

Together in Faith: Photos, Recipes, Pets, and a Journey Through Exodus

I’m excited for this season of generosity, connection, and renewal at Federal Way United Methodist Church. May we step forward in courage and hope, trusting that God is guiding us as we walk together in faith and reach out in love.

📸 Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this joyful season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some fun along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Directory Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

🙏 Looking Ahead

All-Church Conference – Sunday, November 2 at Noon (Sanctuary)

A Word About Sabbatical

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

In Christ,

Pastor DJ

I’m with the DJ | October 2nd

Daniel del Rosario October 2, 2025

This Sunday at FWUMC: World Communion, Directory Photos, and New Series

Dear Church Family,

This Sunday we join with Christians around the globe in celebrating World Communion Sunday. In the United Methodist tradition, this is a day to remember that the Lord’s table stretches across cultures, languages, and continents. To honor this, we invite you to bring a cloth or textile that represents your family’s history or culture to lay near our communion table as a sign of God’s beautiful diversity.

We also begin a brand-new worship series called “Together.” Over the coming weeks, we’ll walk through the book of Exodus, reflecting on where God has led us this past year and dreaming boldly about our present-future as a faith community. Together, we’ll ask what it means to create a place where heaven and earth meet.

➡️ Missed last week’s sermon? You can watch it here: FWUMC YouTube Sermon

➡️ Here’s the Rev. Jesse Jackson clip from Sesame Street that I referenced: Watch on YouTube

October Highlights

• Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

Each Sunday in October, immediately after worship until noon, we’ll be taking updated photos for our church directory—no sign-up needed. Alongside this, we’re collecting your favorite recipes to include in a church family cookbook. Bring a recipe card to share and help us capture the flavor of our community!

• Sacred Stained Glass Stories

• Blessing of the Animals – October 12th

Bring your pets, large or small, for a blessing following worship. It’s one of our favorite traditions as we celebrate the goodness of all God’s creatures.

Looking Ahead

• All-Church Conference – Coming in November

I’m excited for this season of generosity, connection, and renewal at FWUMC. May we step forward in courage and hope, trusting that God is guiding us as we walk together in faith and reach out in love.

Grace and peace,

Pastor DJ

Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some joy along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

If you’d like to make a donation toward printing costs, extra gifts will go toward our sanctuary renewal efforts (monitors, cameras, and technology updates).

A Word About Sabbatical

Mark Your Calendars

Come ready to celebrate, receive your commitment card, update your directory photo, and share your favorite recipe. Together, we are walking in faith and reaching out in love.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

Starting October 6!

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

In Christ,

Pastor DJ

I’m with the DJ | September 24

Daniel del Rosario September 24, 2025

A Season of Generosity, Connection, and Renewal

Dear Friends,

This October, we begin our “Together” Generosity Campaign at Federal Way United Methodist Church. For five Sundays—October 5 through November 2—we’ll root ourselves in Scripture as we reflect on how God’s people have always created spaces where heaven and earth meet through willing, joyful, and generous hearts.

Together, we’ll invite every household to prayerfully consider a 2026 commitment card. These cards help our Church Board faithfully plan our budget so that we can continue to support staff, meet responsibilities, and dream boldly about the future. Whether you are making a first-time commitment or renewing your pledge, know that your generosity sustains ministry here in Federal Way and around the world.

This Sunday in Worship

We will conclude our Vision Boldly worship series with Nehemiah 4:1–14, focusing on courageous leadership. Nehemiah reminds us that courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to lead faithfully when challenges arise.

As we prepare for Sunday, here are some questions for reflection:

• Where have you witnessed courageous leadership in your life or community?

• What fears keep you from stepping into the leadership God may be calling you to?

• How might our church embody courage as we move into this new season of generosity and connection?

Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some joy along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

If you’d like to make a donation toward printing costs, extra gifts will go toward our sanctuary renewal efforts (monitors, cameras, and technology updates).

Celebrating Our Ministry Together

Because of your generosity in 2025, our church continues to make a real impact:

• Hosting Abundant Grace Free Market each first Saturday (serving 120–150 people monthly).

• Partnering with Fusion Adventure Camp to serve families experiencing homelessness.

• Supporting two Jamaa Letu orphanages in the Congo.

• Strengthening discipleship through Sunday School, Bible studies, and new small groups.

• Installing 73 solar panels and battery storage thanks to an $872,402 grant.

• Partnering with Meredith Hill Elementary to feed families through Food4Families.

• Renovating Holy Grounds Café and forming a Sanctuary Renewal Team.

We are also in a rare and wonderful season with two full-time pastors—made possible through your faithful giving and the partnership of our United Methodist connection.

A Word About Sabbatical

Mark Your Calendars

Launch Sunday is October 5! Come ready to celebrate, receive your commitment card, update your directory photo, and share your favorite recipe. Together, we are walking in faith and reaching out in love.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

Starting October 6!

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.

🛒 Abundant Grace Free Market

• Donation Day: Sign up here

• Shopping Day: Sign up here

Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we continue to Vision Boldly together.

In Christ,

Pastor DJ

I’m with the DJ | September 17.

Daniel del Rosario September 17, 2025

This Sunday we continue our Vision Boldly worship series. Together, we’re exploring how God calls us—like Nehemiah and the people of old—to see beyond what is broken and imagine what can be rebuilt in faith, hope, and courage.

📖 Scripture for this week: Nehemiah 2:17-3:1

Take a few moments to read and reflect on how God stirs hearts to pray and act for the sake of community.

🕙 Join us for worship at 10am in person or online. Invite a friend or neighbor—you never know how God might use your invitation as part of their story of hope.

➡️ If you missed last week’s message, you can catch up here: Watch last Sunday’s service

Announcements

📢 United Methodist + La Resistencia Solidarity Day

This Saturday, September 20, from 1–3pm at the Northwest Detention Center.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to care for our immigrant neighbors. As United Methodists, we vehemently oppose mass deportation plans and stand in solidarity with vulnerable migrant neighbors. If you can’t attend, please consider giving to La Resistencia here to support their important work.

If you would like to help Pastor Caleb pass out water and provide hospitality, please email him. Let’s show up together in solidarity!

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

Starting October 6!

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.