Awakened: An Advent–Christmas Journey at Westminster From Hope to Light to Revelation
- Dennis Peay
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
As the days grow shorter and the nights stretch long, the Church steps into one of the most beautiful journeys of the Christian year—a journey that leads us from the quiet expectancy of Advent, to the radiant joy of Christmas, and finally to the world-changing revelation of Epiphany.
These weeks are more than dates on a calendar. They are a pilgrimage of the heart.
They invite us to slow down…to breathe deeply…to listen again for God’s whisper…and to open ourselves to the Light that always finds us—even in the dark.
This year at Westminster, our theme is Awakened.
Awakened to hope.
Awakened to peace.
Awakened to joy.
Awakened to love.
Awakened to the Light of Christ who comes to make all things new.
Whether you’re deeply rooted in the rhythms of church life, returning after some time away, or exploring faith for the very first time—you are welcome here. This season belongs to you. God is already waiting to awaken something beautiful in you.
Advent: Awakened to Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love
Sundays at 10 AM — In the Sanctuary or Online Nov 30, Dec 7, 14, & 21
(Nursery available at all services)
Advent is the Church’s new year. We begin with longing, with watching, with waiting for Christ’s coming. Each Sunday, we light another candle on the Advent Wreath—a small flame that pushes back the darkness and reminds us that God’s promises always shine.
This year’s services will draw deeply from the ancient texts of the prophets, the psalms, and the gospels, weaving them together with beautiful music, multi-generational worship elements, and thoughtful liturgy shaped by our theme Awakened.
If you’ve been longing for a place to reconnect with God…If you’ve felt spiritually sleepy or weary…If you simply need to sit in a sacred space and breathe…
Come. You belong. And there is room for you.
Join us in person or worship with us online anytime at WestminsterKinston.com.
Written With Love — Advent Gatherings
Wednesdays, December 3 & 10 | 5:30–7:00 PM
These evenings are gentle, creative, and full of grace—an intergenerational gathering where we share a meal, engage in a hands-on activity, and reflect together on how God writes love into our everyday lives.
If you’re looking for connection, encouragement, or a simple way to pause during this busy month, Written With Love is a wonderful place to start.
Christmas Eve with Westminster
Tuesday, December 24 at 7 PM
(Nursery available)
On Christmas Eve, the sanctuary glows with candlelight as we celebrate the birth of the Light of the world. Carols, Scripture, children, families, soloists, and the beloved moment of Silent Night together… all forming one beautiful offering to Christ.
If you’re searching for peace, if you need to start fresh, if you haven’t been to church in a long time—or ever—this night is for you.
Come and experience the wonder of God-with-us.
Christmas Mission Giving
This season, we are practicing generosity in two meaningful ways:
1. Angel Tree Gifts
Bless a child in our community with the joy of a Christmas gift. Tags are available at church, and gifts should be returned by the posted deadline. Your compassion becomes hope embodied. Read more here: https://www.westminsterkinston.com/post/angel-tree-christmas-one-gift-a-relationship-transformed
2. Christmas Food Offering — Backpack Buddies of Lenoir County
We are joining together to provide food support for children and families who need extra help during the Christmas break. Read the full story and learn how to participate here:👉 https://www.westminsterkinston.com/post/christmas-food-offering-backpack-buddies
Your giving makes a real and immediate difference.
🎄 Ladies’ Ministry Christmas Luncheon
As we walk this Advent journey of awakening hope, peace, joy, and love, our Ladies’ Ministry invites you to a festive pause in the season. Join us for our Christmas Luncheon on Tuesday, December 23, at noon at the Kinston Country Club, a warm moment of fellowship in the heart of the holidays.
Enjoy your choice of a Ella Burger, Chicken Salad Plate, or the KCC Salad Bar — all included in the $20 meal price (entrée, drink, tax, and tip).
To reserve your place, simply contact Debbie Chused. We’d love to share this moment of Christmas joy with you
🎄 Men’s December Luncheons
Our Westminster men will continue their regular rhythm of fellowship with Men’s Luncheons on Wednesdays, December 3 and 17 at 11:30 AM. We’ll gather at Olympian on Vernon for good conversation, good food, and a steady place to connect during the busy season.
All men are welcome — come as you are and enjoy a relaxed time of community.
Epiphany: Awakened to Light
January brings us to Epiphany—the season when the Church celebrates how the Light of Christ shines into the whole world. We remember the Magi, the star, and the joy of discovery. We step into the new year with courage, seeking Christ’s direction and blessing for the path ahead.
It is a journey.
A discovery.
A continual awakening.
And this awakening begins now—in Advent, in Christmas, in your own heart today.
A Warm Invitation
If you’ve been longing to reconnect with your faith…If you’re looking for a church where people know your name…If you’re seeking a place for your children to grow in love…If you simply need hope…
We would be honored to welcome you.
Come worship with us.
Come celebrate with us.
Come be awakened again to the love of Christ.
Sundays at 10 AM (Nov 30, Dec 7, 14, 21)
Christmas Eve at 7 PM
Nursery available for all services.
Westminster United Methodist Church
Worship in person or online anytime at WestminsterKinston.com
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