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.

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.)

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

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.

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.