Christmas Eve at Federal Way UMC

You are warmly invited to join us for our Candlelight Christmas Eve Service on

Wednesday , December 24 at 6:00 pm.

This is a gentle, meaningful service for all ages—filled with Scripture, song, candlelight, and the quiet wonder of Christ’s birth. Whether Christmas is joyful, complicated, or somewhere in between this year, you are welcome just as you are.

Looking ahead:

On Sunday, December 28, we’ll gather for a Hymn Sing, led by Rev. Brian Wood—a relaxed and joy-filled time to sing the songs that have shaped our faith and carry the Christmas story forward.

A note about the days ahead:

Following Christmas, our church office and staff will shift gears for a brief season of rest and recovery. We are grateful for your grace as we honor Sabbath rhythms before the new year begins.

We hope you’ll join us—bring a friend, a neighbor, or simply bring yourself.

Christ is born. Love is with us.

A word from our Bishop: Flooding in our region

Many in our wider community—and across the Greater Northwest—have been impacted by recent flooding. Our Bishop has shared a pastoral response, naming both the real suffering people are experiencing and our call as the Church to respond with prayer, generosity, and presence. In this season of Advent, we’re reminded that love grows when we show up for one another, especially in moments of crisis and uncertainty.

You can read the Bishop’s full message and learn more about how our conference is responding here:

👉 Bishop’s response to the flooding

https://gnw-email.brtapp.com/viewinsite/37e01b69c13f8fa80c78cdab1f67be9c?email=dj@revdj.com

Please continue to hold affected families, first responders, and relief workers in your prayers.

Last week’s service

Watch last Sunday’s sermon on YouTube here. (Feel free to share it with anyone who may be blessed by it.)

Children & Worship — Holiday Schedule

Please note that Children’s Sunday School will not be offered on Christmas Eve or on Sunday, December 28. However, children’s activities will be available during worship on both days to help our younger worshipers stay engaged. Families are always welcome, just as they are.

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.

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.

In Christ,

Pastor DJ

With love and hope,

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.